Mimicking Birds - Layers Of Us (2018)

In the misty forests of the Pacific Northwest, Mimicking Birds craft a pastoral brand of atmospheric, acoustic-guitar-based indie rock in the realm of Fleet Foxes, Jose Gonzalez, and Sufjan Stevens. Originally the personal project of nature-loving frontman Nate Lacy, the band expanded after signing to Isaac Brock's Glacial Pace Recordings in 2008, welcoming drummer Aaron Hanson and guitarist Tim Skellenger to the fold (later, Skellenger's place would be filled by guitarists Matthan Minster and then Ian Luxton). Later, bassist/keyboardist Adam Trachsel joined to round out the group. An official self-titled debut arrived in 2010, followed by relentless touring, including multiple stints with Brock's Modest Mouse. Sophomore effort Eons was released in 2014, with a cover of The Snowman theme "Walking in the Air" arriving a year later. Influenced by their travels and touring, their third LP, 2018's Layers of Us, featured more energy and production flourish than prior releases, heard on singles like "Sunlight Daze." ~ Neil Z. Yeung