A versatile experimental rock ensemble from Chicago, Califone make music that finds common ground between acoustic and electronic sounds, as well as bridging the gap between an organic, melodic approach and purposeful dissonance that's challenging and intelligent. Early works such as 2001's Roomsound and 2003's Quicksand/Cradlesnakes saw them embracing folk and blues disciplines as well as the avant-garde, experimental electronics, and minimalism. Califone are a group who can engage listeners with their humanity while gently, decisively exploring the outer limits of their work's conventions, as they did on 2006's Roots and Crowns, widely hailed as a career high point. 2020's Echo Mine found them still in inspired form after a long layoff from recording, and 2023's Villagers paid homage to 1970s soft rock while holding on to their adventurous spirit.