Horse Feathers w/ Ryan and Halli of River Whyless at Stanczyks

HORSE FEATHERS

Horse Feathers is an indie folk project led by Justin Ringle, whose restrained songwriting and intricate arrangements have made the band a distinctive presence in the genre for two decades. Originally formed around Ringle’s intimate blend of guitar, banjo, and vocals, Horse Feathers gradually expanded its sound across albums including House With No Home, Thistled Spring, Cynic’s New Year, and Appreciation, embracing richer arrangements while maintaining a careful sense of space and emotional precision.

RYAN AND HALLI OR RIVER WHYLESS

River Whyless is an Asheville, North Carolina band whose music blends folk, indie rock, and a spirit of experimentation that defies easy categorization. Featuring Halli Anderson, Daniel Shearin, Ryan O’Keefe, and Alex McWalters, the band has built a reputation for thoughtful songwriting, lush harmonies, and inventive arrangements through performances at festivals including Newport Folk and Bonnaroo, as well as NPR’s Tiny Desk.

Their latest album, Monflora, finds River Whyless balancing tradition with experimentation, bringing together four distinct voices in a sound that feels both familiar and unexpected. The record marks a return to the band’s roots while pushing their music into more raw and unfiltered territory.

In 2026, Horse Feathers celebrates the 20th anniversary of its debut album, Words Are Dead, with a deluxe remastered reissue from Kill Rock Stars. Ringle is joined by an ensemble of musicians from River Whyless and Blind Pilot to faithfully recreate the album’s delicate dynamics and thoughtful arrangements, revisiting the record that established the foundation for Horse Feathers’ evolving sound.