Band of Horses is an alternative rock band formed in Seattle by Ben Bridwell and Mat Brooke after the dissolution of their previous band Carissa’s Wierd. Initially called Horses, the band released a five-song demo before adopting the name Band of Horses and releasing a self-titled EP. While opening for Iron & Wine, the band attracted the attention of Sub Pop Records, who released their debut album, which made an impact internationally.
All members besides Bridwell, including founding member Brooke, left the band before the release of their second album, which became a top 40 success aided by singles such as “Is There A Ghost” and “No One’s Gonna Love You.” When their contract with Sub Pop expired, the band signed with Columbia Records and also worked with Fat Possum Records in the US while retaining the right to release music through Bridwell’s own label, Brown Records. The band temporarily expanded to six members, including fellow ex-Carissa’s Wierd member Robin Peringer.
