Horse Feathers, Hollow Wood

Sometimes you need to give what you love a break or risk burning out. That’s what Justin Ringle, frontman of Portland-based indie folk quintet Horse Feathers, realized before recording the band’s latest album So It Is With Us, which came out last week. Having become disillusioned after touring behind the band’s fourth album Cynic’s New Year, Ringle put down his guitar, unsure when he would pick it up again. After months of reflection and a fresh perspective, Ringle, originally from Lewiston, Idaho, chose to come back to writing and playing. His new attitude is evident on So It Is With Us; there’s a sense of joy and vibrancy to both the music and lyrics, even on the more somber tunes, marking a rejuvenated Horse Feathers.