Taking equal inspiration from Nick Drake, Elliott Smith, and Pink Floyd, Mason Brothers are a contemporary roots band whose music bridges the gap between 1970s British folk and 21st century Americana. The band made their official debut with 2008's The Sun, The Moon & The Sea, a stark album that focused on the band's strengths: nimble guitar fingerpicking, subtle arrangements, and understated, softly sung melodies. By the time Ghost Season rolled around in 2011, Mason Brothers had expanded their sound considerably, adding louder dynamics and a touch of Pink Floyd's spacey rock & roll to the mix. They continued writing new songs, added a pianist to the lineup, and began preparing for a third release in 2012. ~ Andrew Leahey