Artist Fruit Bats

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Fruit Bats

Despite their contemporary know-how, Fruit Bats conjure up nostalgic mid-century folk. Originally formed as a side project by singer Eric Johnson (then of I, Rowboat), the band hit its stride with 2001’s Echolocation and has since followed a meandering trajectory of pure Americana on its three follow-ups. The recently released The Ruminant Band sees Johnson taking a more egalitarian approach with his songwriting, giving more breathing room to his bandmates’ varying styles. Johnson may be doubly busy these days with his other band, The Shins, but Fruit Bats’ maturing sound indicates that two bands are better than one.

Updated 09/02/2009