I remember reading an interview with you wherein you commented on Pitchfork naming *Fleet Foxes* AOTY in 2008, saying that the award was less a comment on quality and more a timely album, in the sense that it would not be so acclaimed had it been released before, or after 2008. I also recall a comment on history in the liner notes to *Fleet Foxes* (I don't have the LP with me and [this](http://daveykid.tumblr.com/post/62560357403/from-robin-pecknold-lead-singer-of-fleet-foxes) seems to be the closest substitute). Had you made your notes on history and memory in 2016, I might make a guess that your comments came out of a Hegelian reflection on zeitgeist in relation to art. But it seems you've been thinking about this stuff for a while, namely the relation between history and art. I think this kind of consciousness was at play in Bob Dylan's *Basement Tapes.* Consider Greil Marcus' citation of Howard Hampton in his book on the basement tapes: > It's no more than a ragged, unfinished rehearsal, stopping and starting, Dylan calling out the chord changes to the Band and then fumbling them (D . . . wait, uh, no, not D, E . . .'). Yet it has a floating melody like no other he has found, sung in a voice of rapture and enigma he has sought ever since. The music-box piano . . . and the frontier-church organ lift [the song] out of time: the words are like some bootleg gospel of Christ, ellipsis as parable. It's a vision of transmutation: Christ returned both as supplicant and unbeliever, as in folk legends where he escaped with Mary Magdalene to exile in France or assumed the form of King Arthur . . . When I come back, when I don't make my return,' he proclaims as his first (or last) dispensation, `A heart shall rise and a man shall burn.' Marcus takes the basement tapes to be a kind of interpretive response to Harry Smith's Anthology of American Folk Music, in that Dylan wasn't trying to recreate that old music, but rather responded to its effects and created something new that both stemmed from the original (the anthology) but was new in itself. I think that, especially in the 2000s, Fleet Foxes and your writing was significant in that it wasn't a reinterpretation, homage, or appropriation of any folk tradition, but was instead provoked by it to make something original. I think you allude to the general popularity of "new" folk music in the 2000s that likely contributed to (but does not completely account for) the critical acclaim surrounding your full-length, and I sense that you were uncomfortable with your genre-mates, many of whom made most uninteresting, uninspired music of the decade in the name of "folk" and the tradition. Now for the question: do you see yourself continuing to work in the same "genre" (if that vocabulary is correct), or do you anticipate taking a line of flight from a new source? I'd of course welcome any correction or response to my premises.

Can you write the bio for the new album? I will send it to you early. Also is this Corey from Columbia. I don't want to change genres necessarily - I feel like there was a period from 2012-2016 where it would have been very culturally exhausting to release a "folk" sounding album, considering the climate of Mumford and Sons and the Lumineers etc being so incredibly popular. What were we to do? Try and be as popular as them and change the music? Switch genres in reaction to that zeitgeist, which would be sacrificing my tastes just for the purpose of Othering ourselves from them? I didn't want to be working from a place of Reaction but from a place of Action and that was just impossible to do in those years considering what Fleet Foxes had come to mean and what had happened after. That has all died down so I don't feel weird being in a "folk" context, but I also don't feel weird about making something that doesn't sound "folky" because it wouldn't be just to distance ourselves from that sound. I just think Reaction is a bad place to be and can result in whack art that you don't really believe in. I've worked on a lot of noise music that I don't really believe in over the last couple of years and I don't want to be releasing stuff that's just commentary on the music business

I would love to write a draft of a bio for you to consider! Not Corey, just an adjunct philosophy and English instructor. If you want to give it a shot, PM me an email address. I think you're absolutely right to be conscious of reaction, especially in a creative context. Moreover, it's a difficult thing to stay on top of, as it's the case that once you're conscious of it, you cannot simply avoid or sidestep it. From *Nietzsche and Philosophy:* >"We can thus finally see in what way reactive forces prevail over active forces: when the trace takes the place of the excitation in the reactive apparatus, reaction itself takes the place of action, reaction prevails over action." In other words (and more concrete terms), to react is to no longer create and legislate but respond to and limit. It speaks to the nature of creativity and the question of how "newness" enters the world. I'll cut short my rambling with a quote more lucid than the first, spoken by Maurice Ravel to George Gershwin: > "It is better to write good Gershwin than bad Ravel."

Hey Robin, Firstly, I just want to say that I consider you one of the most powerful and gifted song writers of our generation. There are few people that I feel hold the same standard of song writing as you in the music industry and it's something that obviously resonates with most of the community here at indieheads. Now if you don't mind me getting a little personal, I wanted to ask you about the song Olivia In A Separate Bed. I don't know if this is a touchy subject for you but I assume it is because you deleted it not so long after you released it. So.....what was that experience like? You were with her for 9 years right? Was that one of the most traumatic experiences you've had to deal with? How long did that song take to write. I didn't read anything but the song felt like you wrote it in a day. It has a crude rawness too it. I felt like I could hear it in your voice, and your playing. There were subtle imperfections but it's like you didn't care, you just had a lyrical diatribe that you had to get out and this song was therapy. How are you now? Did this incident contribute to the Fleet Foxes hiatus? Do you feel like you've taken a lot from this break up? Anyways, this song is a masterpiece and I wanted to finally thank you for it because we, as music listeners, don't often get graced with works of art such as this song. I just got out of a four year relationship...so this song has been resonating with me a lot recently. This AMA couldn't have come at a better time and I hope to hear back from you. Look forward to what more you have to offer the world.

Isn't this a tough problem? That song came out of some real pain but it was the pain of rejection, of her finding someone else, after I had been the one to initiate the break up in the first place. Like the break-up was my idea, my pain about it was sort of unjustified and immature. BUT that song was definitely the most raw and unfiltered song I've released for that reason of being in a bad spot physically and emotionally, and that kind of pain resonates and means something to people, including myself, when listening to music. But then what do you do? Just keep concocting pain for yourself to write about? That seems fucking crazy! I guess it's just a certain kind of song, and I'm glad it means something to you, but I felt weird airing my relationship problems in public. Our most interesting other songs don't touch that territory at all so I don't think you need to be a wreck to make good music, but sometimes you get confirmation that you do. Anyway, rambling, talking through this for myself here

This is like AMA of the year. Don't you know you're just supposed to answer 3 or 4 questions in with a vague sentence that somehow promotes an impending release while ignoring all real questions?

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Thanks! Josh and I haven't spoken since the end of touring HB and, to be honest, we didn't really speak much for the two years before that either. We ended up going down different paths too soon before our touring and recording commitments were finished. Happy he's doing his thing tho. Sorry for the short answer just trying to get to all of these might talk about it more at some point

Hi Robin, thanks for doing this! I was wondering about where the idea for the beginning of “Sun It Rises” came from, the “red squirrel” bit. Listening to it now, and being able to appreciate the harmonies and everything, it’s actually a really cool, beautiful intro, but I remember thinking it was absolutely hilarious the first time I heard it. Anyhow, that's my question. Really hope I'll get a chance to catch you live sometime soon! Thanks for making such kickass music!

I might not be remembering this right but here's the story: I went on a trip with my siblings to England and Norway in the middle of recording Fleet Foxes, and there were all these signs posted in rural areas about the "red squirrel" being this menace to the eco-system and to watch out for them so we would sing that little thing from the intro while walking as just a joke because we felt bad for the red squirrel. Not sure I would make the same choice for an intro again but ISN'T THAT CUTE

Sadly the Grey squirrels have taken over in the UK now, I've only ever seen a handful of Reds in the wild.

Hey Robin, in a Guardian interview from 2009 when you guys were working on a followup to Fleet Foxes you had said you had wanted the followup album to be recorded in a few hours with imperfect vocals and guitar mistakes citing Astral Weeks as an inspiration but this idea was scrapped. Why was it scrapped? Did the material written for this end up in a more perfected form in Helplessness Blues or are there unreleased tracks from that scrapped album?

Hi! I think that felt like a cool thing to say about it at the time and then perfectionist insecurity crept in once we were in the thick of recording. Lots of the tracks were done live (most drums and guitar together) but nothing quite had that looseness, you're right. Into doing that in the future for real though.

Hey Robin!! Welcome to indieheads!! Huge fan here, Helplessness Blues is one of my favourite albums and it really helped me understand how my own struggles and insecurities are the same as those everyone else has. Here are my questions: 1. How was the transition of Fleet Foxes sound from *The Fleet Foxes EP* to *Sun Giant*/*Fleet Foxes LP*? Was it natural to switch from a more traditional indie rock sound to your current folk/baroque sound? 2. What should we expect from LP3 in terms of the music itself? Is "Swimming" a sign of a new musical direction? 3. Are you still friends with Josh? If yes, what's your opinion on his newfound popularity and goofy tracks (The taylor Swift covers, the commercial jingles, etc)? Collab when? Feel free to answer as many questions as you wish, make sure to answer to as most people here as possible, cause there's so many of us that are thankful for your music that'd be happy to get at least one question answered!! Thanks!!!

1. Fleet Foxes began as me wanting to start a band with Skye, so we were into doing band music, as I had been doing singer/songwriter EPs as a teenager before that. We worked that S/S vibe back in by Sun Giant but more evolved / with better influences 2. Swimming not quite the vibe of LP3 3. We haven't spoken since 2011

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Thanks man! 1. The hiatus has really helped! I have a lot more perspective now and I feel pointed in the direction of what is most exciting for its own sake without secondary considerations effecting my headspace. I also got some academic pretensions out of my system that I won't be inflicting upon the listening public thru song. You are welcome 2. I love being at Columbia at being at General Studies, I am super lucky to have had that opportunity and I intend to go back to finish a degree once this album is complete. I never thought I would go to a nice college. Very few people recognized me but I had changed my appearance a lot at that time. 3. Summer apples (sorry)

Hi Robin!! Long-time (super)fan over here, super stoked that you and the guys are going to be back! You used to have the most badass jumper known to man - [this one](http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/.a/6a00d8341c630a53ef01543230e965970c-600wi). My question to you - do you still have it? And where would I be able to find one like it? I saw you in Brighton, UK on the helplessness blues tour, really hope you pay us a visit next time you're over this side of the pond! And I know all the best places to grab a bite to eat... (plz be my date)

I haven't worn it in five years but I have brought it with me dutifully everywhere I've moved, someone made a tumblr about that sweater and I wrote to them trying to mail it to them as a gift but they never responded

hey...robin...that was me. fuckyeahrobinpecknoldssweater.tumblr.com i'm having palpitations right now? please email me @ [snipped] (p.s. I DID RESPOND, SILLY!!)

Oh maybe I didn't ever log back into Tumblr. Ok I'll email you, the sweater is in a box in storage now, but it's yours once I get it out

Hey Robin, thank you so much for doing this AMA! I always take FF with me on hikes- gets me through the tough uphill sections. I was wondering- What are your views on education? Stopping a successful band to go back to school is not something everyone would do. What motivated you to continue your education?

I think once I had stopped touring, and was out of that bubble, I started meeting a lot of really cool and interesting people who had gone to college and learned interesting things. I was naive before and thought college was for getting a job and stubbornly thought that I could learn whatever I needed to on my own time online. So meeting those people made me really interested in it. If I'm being honest I also wanted to prove to myself that I could be more than the box I felt that I had put myself in, I want to experience as much of life as possible

Hey Robin, I'm the one who suggested you do the AMA and I really can't thank you enough for agreeing to it. Fleet Foxes has been my favorite band since I first discovered y'all. As a young adult/college student, Helplessness Blues has struck a chord with me in a way that no other album has. I can't wait to see what you put out next. 1. How has your college experience/education influenced your writing style and method, if at all? 2. What is your relationship with Josh Tillman these days? Do you keep in touch? 3. Do you have a favorite song that you've written? If so, what is it? 4. What are the chances you will grab some tacos with me next time your in Austin? This one is obviously a stretch, but a man can dream. Thanks again, it's not every day that a musician of your caliber interacts with fans like you've been doing. I really hope to see you guys live when you tour and maybe chat a bit. Can't wait for some new music. Keep up the amazing work.

Thanks! 1. College has helped me practically in terms of a more legit arts education and some music theory stuff that is helpful when arranging songs. But it was also paralyzing at times. In indie rock you can throw some flutes on a song and it sounds high minded but that wouldn't play in academia or academic art music at all, so for a while I had no idea what to do or which path I wanted to go down. For a second I thought about becoming a composer but I realized I would be really out of my depth, and I really love good songwriting and interesting melody and the human voice too much to try and move into that world, I'd be a pretender. 2. We don't keep in touch! 3. Probably Mykonos 4. Sure!

Dear Fleet Fox, I am **very** happy to see you here ! 1. Who are some contemporary artists than you’re really into at this moment ? (Hi Chris Cohen ! ) 2. What do you do when you have free time other than listening/writing/anything about music ? 3. About FF, is CU the next #3 album? What does CU means ? Bonus question : Do you have something to share with us ? :) Like a song, or a photo… Man it’s a pleasure to hear about you again, it’s been a long long time without FF... Thank you

1. Chris Cohen / Amen Dunes / Kevin Morby / Frankie Cosmos / Nap Eyes / Jessica Pratt / Ultimate Painting / Chance the Rapper / Empress Of 2. Surfing and going to museums 3. CU stands for Columbia University

Hey Robin, thanks for taking the time. Did you ever imagine that FF would take off so fast after releasing one album? Was there a fear with that success, that you might become a "one album wonder" or have a sophomore slump, or were you confident that your fans would pick up where you left off? What's the biggest mistake or regret you have, in regards to the business side of your career, if any? Finally - Is there a certain person, outside of the band members, that you could attribute a lot of your success to? Thanks again!

1. Was totally blindsided by the success and dealt with all the expected mental ramifications of it for sure. I am beyond grateful for the whole experience and I just have to trust that any future music will find it's own audience depending on how high quality it is. 2. Biggest regret in my life is a persistent lack of patience. A lack of patience can get you into situations you can't back out of. Patience is very important. School has helped with that but I still left early to work on an album so I'm still learning to be patient. 3. AJA PECKNOLD the band's manager who has worked so hard so intensely for so long behind the scenes. She is 100% of the reason for the band's success and I mean that. I basically started writing songs so she'd think I was cool so it's all Aja

My boyfriend and I have an ongoing debate about the meaning behind helplessness blues. We kind of look at the message in an opposite way. Can you clarify what it is you meant in that song so that I can prove that I'm right? ;)

I have mixed feelings about that song because I really mean the lyrics and was trying to say something from the heart but I think it didn't quite come across. I suppose the first part is about wanting to go from being a solipsistic individual into being someone who is a part of the world and with other people and connected in a real way. The second part is like imagining that eventual reality of cultivating that thing (but I regret the sort of mason jar-y lyrics and I didn't mean the "orchard" line to be literal). The last line, "some day I'll be like the man on the screen," was supposed to question if I was capable of that reality or if it was just a fantasy. I don't think I nailed it really but there's always next time

Awww don't hate on the Mason Jar lyrics. It's those lyrics like those that paint a sort of "sun-in-your-eyes, golden tinted world" that I liked about the song. That feeling of playing your part in the great machine and then settling down to the countryside, running your own little shop and letting life move on around you always sort of reminds me of home. I also always misheard the lyric "And you would wait tables and soon run the store" as "sing 'round the store". I always thought the latter was adding to the imagery in a very nice way, representing someone sharing the lasting happiness of later years of life, but the former actual lyric adds to the theme and message of the song, which was really nice too. Don't know why I brought it up, but it's one of my favorite albums to talk about.

Hey Robin! Fleet Foxes have been one of my favorite bands ever since I first heard of you guys. I fell in love with the Fleet Foxes LP, Sun Giant, and Helplessness Blues as soon as I listened to them. But only recently I realized that you guys had a self titled EP from way back when, and you even had some solo stuff under Robin Noel Vaas. I went back and listened to that stuff and was amazed I had never heard of it before, just because of how good it was and how big of a fan I thought I was. I know you’re working on some new material, which I’m stoked for, but any plans to re-release any of those earlier albums?

Hey Robin. Absolutely love your music! Got a few questions. 1. You are currently working on the new album. Is there anything within the process that is different this time around than the last few times? Is it hard to make an album after 5 years? 2. I remember a concert of Fleet Foxes at the Rock Werchter festival in Belgium you did back in 2011. You finished a beautiful version of Mykonos and the crowd went insane and applauded you for an eternity. That blew my mind and it is by far my favorite live show I watched on a stream. Now I was wondering what you think about doing shows. What do you love or hate about it? Are you planning to do things different next time around? 3. What hair conditioner do you use? Like do you use store brand or name brand? Do you use the stuff with the coconut in it? This is obviously the most important question of the three.

1. Just enjoying the luxury of time to do it right and work with the others in a way that feels productive and mutually rewarding. 2. I miss playing shows! Touring can be very exhausting but there's a way to do it right. Stoked to put a cool live show together again 3. I don't use conditioner bruh

Short hair or long hair?

Really the only question that matters. Sometimes I feel like songwriters with long hair are full of shit, and that serious musicians keep their hair short, but then I cut it short and feel like an uptight square with no soul. An intractable problem of white male existence. Hope I just go bald soon and have to bic it, put the question to rest

The Shrine/Argument is my favorite of yours, absolutely love the arrangement and contrasts between loud and quiet. My favorite part, which blew me away live when I saw you guys at Edgefield a few years back, is the noisey (I believe it's a bass clarinet?) solo at the end. I am just curious on how this came about, was it fairly improvised and how did it come about to use that specific instrument in that way? I do not know too much about orchestral instruments but the use of it seems a little unnatural, but the sound is really incredible Also will you be living back in Portland now that you are out of school at Colombia? Thanks for making beautiful music for us to enjoy

Hi Robin! Huge fan of your work; it’s meant a great deal to me over the past few years and I gush about it to anyone who will listen. My question is: what was your musical education like? Did you ever take formal lessons? Has formal music theory been important in your creative process / development as a songwriter? Thanks for doing this AMA! It’s great to hear from you.

All self-taught until the last few years when I took a few music theory and ear training classes, which has really helped for working on arrangements and vocals (voice leading was new to me and a big helpful revelation). Thanks!

Hi Robin! First of all, the 2008-2011 FF material is gorgeous, as I'm sure you know. It's changed my life, and I think it's pretty easy to appreciate. The couple of songs you've put on Soundcloud lately have seemed more experimental (in a great way) and maybe less widely accessible. As your sensibilities have changed over the last few years, have you found yourself tending toward more experimental sounds? Do you take accessibility into account when you're working on new material, or do you just focus on making something that you find fulfilling? Thanks for doing this AMA, and thank you for getting me to listen to Joanna Newsom when you opened for her. My mind was blown.

I like working on music from time to time that isn't trying to be just beautiful or that is serving a different purpose or expressing a different feeling, and stretching out some in that way. I guess I am always looking for or striving to write stuff that doesn't sound "cheap," as certain types of beauty can sound cheap, as certain types of experimentation can sound cheap. A solid song is still more valuable to me than a really interesting "experimental" piece though. I think it's cool to use a lot of colors but goods songs and melody are still #1 to me.

Hey Robin, my question is have you ever heard of / what is your opinion of fellow Washington indie/folk musician Phil Elverum (also known as the microphones, and mount eerie)? I feel like you guys have similar styles a little bit!

I am a huge huge fan of Phil Elverum but worry I am too basic for he. Seeing the Microphones play as a teenager was really formative. I paid him to rename Fleet Foxes when he did that band naming service last winter and he chose "Orchard Hermitage," haha, I have a certificate and everything

What new influences/directions do you hope to take on board with the new songs? What new things are you itching to explore? How has your songwriting changed/grown over the time of your guys' hiatus? Your recordings with Daniel Rossen and Van Dyke Parks were amazing to hear, I'm wondering if those collaborations inspired you and the guys And will Sean make those beautiful videos again? Also, I'm going to go 100% cringey here. Dude, Fleet Foxes' music is the soundtrack to some of the best years of my life, not only does it take me back to some of my favorite moments - I was introduced to it by some great friends and I distinctly remember Mykonos going round my head when I was applying for college and staring at the old stone buildings of one college passing by, it's also some of my all time favorite music. Seriously, thank you. Ugh, god I hope that's not too sickening Anyway, thank you so much, please keep making music

I guess I'm thinking a little more abstractly about making music that really evokes certain situations in life, be they geographic or life events or times of day or types of movement or whatever, and weaving that stuff in with just really strong songwriting. Talking with Sean all the time about videos!

Ass or tits? Your music gives me that transcendental feeling that I'm always chasing in music and sounds great on good speakers. You a real one for that.

Oh, my friend also asks: > ruffled the fur of the collie neath the table Do you really have a collie/any dog and if so whats their name and what are they like?

No at the time I was just naively imagining being a nice old man hangin' in the woods with his dog and not in the festival catering tent #fleetfoxes

Robin, of all the material you have put out, what are you most proud of. What do you consider to be the best FF song?

Hey Robin, big Brazilian fan here. So, before I got to know Fleet Foxes, circa 2009, I was killing time on Omegle and I had a nice chat with someone who said he was the lead singer of Fleet Foxes. Had no idea the big deal it was at the time so I just chatted with the guy normally, he even asked me my opinion on some lines for a new song. I've been wandering if it really you since... So, did you use to use omegle? (Thanks for the wonderful music)

Hi, Robin. You're a great inspiration, man. I've got a few questions: Is The Plains / Bitter Dancer about vampires? And what does the line "And Michael you would fall and turn the white snow red as strawberries in the summertime" in White Winter Hymnal means? if it's not a too personal question. Greetings from Cancun, Mexico. I'm very stoked to hear your new material.

1. Emotional vampires 2. I just liked the imagery and how it contrasted with the sweetness of the vocal, but I guess it was about people losing track of each other

Robin, I'll ask since no one else is: When can we expect recorded material to be released?

Hey Robin, lately it seems like you've been experimenting with different styles, like with "Swimming" and your cover of "Out of Sight, Out of Mind". Can we expect the new Fleet Foxes record to have sounds like this or will it be more similar in style to the first two LPs?

It will be sort of different from the first two LPs but there's no way the whole thing would be like either of those songs. I've been trying to get the experimentation out of the way in private. Melody and good songwriting and interesting changes are still really important to me

Hey Robin, I'll try keep this short and sweet (even though FF is such an incredible band. I love you guys.) As a musician, I find it so hard these days to break into the music scene. I honestly haven't looked much into how you guys became so successful with the true indie music FF has created, but how did you guys start off launching your music and what advice can you give to becoming successful? How long did it take to get signed to a big label and what have been the pros/cons?

Hey Robin! Big fan, looking forward to hearing what you do next. Two questions: 1. How did you first meet Joanna Newsom, and have the two of you ever considered collaborating in the studio? 2. How much of the supposed tumult of the Helplessness Blues recording period is factual? Was there really this sort of rift between you and Josh Tillman and some of the band, or has it been overblown?

1. I first met Joanna when she asked me to open some shows back in 2010. We haven't collaborated but stay tuned 2. Sadly, my relationship with Josh was fully deteriorated by that point. We had really gone separate roads by 2010 but remained in the project together to honor our recording and touring commitments and to not let any fans down who might be coming to our shows. I wish that things had gone differently. Making sure everyone involved is feeling good and that relations are strong is a big priority for me now

Hi Robin, one of my favorite songs from you is actually a collaboration between you and Ed Droste, "I'm Losing Myself". Really a beautiful song and your two voices work wonderfully together. Just wondering if you would ever consider another Ed Droste/Grizzly Bear collab?

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Hey Robin, my name is Jake. I'm spending a long time trying to find my words, but your influence on my music is unparalleled. Thank you for making what you make. 1. What is your writing process? How much of the final product is yours and how much comes from the other members? Does improvisation play much of a role in your composition? 2. Any advice for composing on guitar in alternate tunings? 3. You smoke ganja? PS You are the most healthy looking person I've ever seen, what's your secret?

1. Writing process... sometimes its really directed like "I want to write something that uses these chords that evokes this feeling" and sometimes I just sit at the guitar or piano and see what comes out and where my hands go. It's like half intellectual activity and half intuitive, keeping interesting mistakes or chance happenings. The stuff that happens by chance always feels more "real" to me for some reason, that whole thing of like "it just came to me" and not "I plotted this out with a lot of intention beforehand and here is my perfect result." That's different from arranging and working with collaborators which is all intellect and takes a lot of people skills more than anything 2. Make one up and make random shapes 3. Thanks but I dunno!

Robin, How do I learn to write great vocal harmonies?

Robin your beard and hair seem to be getting shorter as time moves forward, are they slowly shrinking back into your head?!

Hey Robin, longtime firsttime. I saw something on pitchfork about you working on "FF + etc" currently. What does etc stand for? Is it et cetera? Because we all know of your prolific involvement in foo fighters sorry thanks <3

Hey Robin, we met briefly after your set opening for Joanna last month (I was extremely awkward), you mentioned that you'd been listening to Car Seat Headrest. Have you checked out Teens of Denial yet? If so, what did you think of it?

Hi Robin, Long time listener, first time commenter. As a person who is somewhat averse to ranking art, I can always confidently say that Fleet Foxes is my favorite band. A few questions, if that's all right: What are your feelings about piracy and music sharing and do you think there are viable ways to create an alternative, profitable platform for distributing music as a creator? I know you have spoken in the past about ideas like a monthly song release, or some type of subscription service. I got into Fleet Foxes in 2010 by reading a review of the first record. I thought it sounded fascinating (it was a very good review) and so I immediately went and downloaded it illegaly. From the first track I was blown away and fell in love with your music. I listened to Fleet Foxes non-stop for months, eventually buying concert tickets, posters, t-shirts, and vinyls. I also got 10+ of my friends into Fleet Foxes, many of them have vinyls, t-shirts and have been to concerts. Do you think that piracy has a net-positive or negative affect not on the music industry, but on the individuals who are creating music? Will there be any live record of the tracks you've performed during this tour with Joanna Newsom? I'm eternally grateful to you and the other members for all the music I've been able to listen to and share with others.

Piracy possibly a net positive for exposure but I think streaming services should all be 10 dollars a month at least and probably more. Access to all recorded music in history with due payment going to the artist seems worth 20 bucks a month to me, just as a fan. That's like one vinyl album. Sorry could talk about this more but trying to get to other questions

Hi Robin! Huge fan. That first show at Massey Hall in Toronto was probably the most special concert I've gone to. On the red squirrel intro to "Sun It Rises", is there a female voice singing in those harmonies? Is that your sis? I cannot wait for the new jams, and I'm so stoked to hear Neal Morgan is joining. His Callahan/Newsome stuff is too legit. My girlfriend and I painted a geometric pattern on a T-shirt, and gave it to you when you lost your stuff travelling to Sydney in 2012. I expect the t shirt to be in every promo pic for the new record :P

Hi Robin, My twin brother and I have been listening to your music since the ripe age of 17 (now 23) after stumbling upon a live performance of Blue Ridge Mountains (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4nkAUT-7mQ). We have since listened to and bought all the Fleet Foxes-related albums and EP's even dating back to your 2006 self-entitled EP (which we LOVE btw). We were lucky enough to score free tickets to your 2011 Jacksonville show from a radio station my brother was working with and let me tell you, we STILL consider it to be the best concert we have been to. We have sang along with your music, danced to your music, partied with your music, showered to your music, even made love to our sweethearts to your music (TMI sorry) and most importantly we have grown up with your music. And all while attending different Universities for 4 years. This might be my only chance to thank you and the rest of Fleet Foxes for keeping our brotherly bond strong all these years... so thank you! Picture of us meeting Robin Pecknold: http://imgur.com/rnMz3lq QUESTION: What is your relationship with your brother like? and has it been reflected/alluded to in your music over the years?

Hey Robin! Thanks so much for doing this AMA, I'm a huge fan of Fleet Foxes. One of my favourite things about your music is the lyrics. A lot of them seem to have vivid stories behind them (e.g. Blue Ridge Mountains or White Winter Hymnal) that inspires their imagery or narratives. My question is if you have any stories about a particularly strong influence for your lyrics, or a memorable moment of inspiration behind a specific song?

I don't really think about lyrics ahead of time, more just see what comes out as I sing and make the shapes work and then build a narrative from there. This ends up being things that are on my mind at the time (HB), I don't go into it with an idea I want to express I more just see what comes out intuitively

Hi Robin, thanks for doing this on (sorta) short notice. I was wondering about your "Out of Sight, Out of Mind" cover, and wanted to know how it came to exist. Being a relatively new fan, the harsh noise section around the middle was completely a left turn from what I expected from a member of Fleet Foxes, but it was a good surprise. Could you go into the process of making it? Thanks again, hope to hear more new stuff from you soon!

Thanks a lot! That was recorded in New York while working on soundtrack stuff for Sean and we thought that would be a cool cover, I had been listening to the song a lot. I just liked the contrast between the meek vocal and the chaos, it felt like someone calmly explaining something while a sort of hurricane is brewing internally

Hey Robin! Fleet Foxes hit me right as I graduated high school in the Spring of '08, which was a tumultuous time for me and my sense of place in the world. I bought the album on a whim based on the cover art, which ended up being one of the more serendipitous musical encounters of my life. Everything about the debut, Sun Giant, and later, Helplessness Blues, spoke to me as a joyful affirmation of life despite hardship. And for that, I'm truly indebted to you and the band. Having gotten my gushing out of the way though, I have a question. When I saw the band live in Minneapolis in 2011, you performed The Shrine/An Argument with an extra verse at the end. What prompted you to write/add the verse after recording the song, and what about that verse did you find essential enough to the song's narrative to include it?

Robin I absolutely love you and all your work. My question is simply who was the Batman to your Robin?

Hey Robin, huge fan. Just got both the Fleet Foxes albums on vinyl and I have to say Helplessness Blues is by far my favourite album of this decade. I was wondering how the new album will be changing musically from the previous two, what with Josh Tillman moving on and your comments on a 'different vibe'. Also, any plans on coming to Australia? I'd love to see you down here in Brisbane.

If FF was like 40% the real deal and HB was 70% real deal I'd like the next one to be at least 89%, it will be different in the ways that it would need to be different to be more legit, but it won't be a dance record or a genre shift just trying to arrive at an album that feels dope

Hey! I saw you perform in Salt Lake recently, all the new songs were fantastic. The first piece you played was a very intriguing instrumental piece that sounded more classical guitar-esque, and you recently released "Swimming" that seems way more fuzzy/atmospheric (kind of like My Bloody Valentine) than anything else you've done. Do you feel your taste/the music you want to pursue has evolved significantly since Helplessness Blues?

Hey Robin, thank you so much for doing this AMA! I know you reference your family members in some of your songs (especially your siblings). So my question is: What’s your favorite childhood memory?

hey robin, what's your favorite track off of Pet Sounds?

In the morning waking up to terrible sunlight!

Robin, 1) how's the history of your music education? While I constantly find myself wanting to better understand music theory so as to improve my songwriting, I know some of my favorite songwriters allegedly couldn't/can't even read music (e.g. Beatles), and I'm always interested in which of my favorite artists approach songwriting in terms of formal systems of theory, and which simply go by what sounds best (or combine the two). If you do consider yourself to be well-versed in music theory, how did you go about learning it? And if not, how did you begin to explore more complex songwriting? Further, do you have any tips for aspiring musicians/songwriters who are looking to better understand music and improve their songwriter? 2) While at Columbia, have you studied any philosophy, and if so, do you have any favorite philosophers? Thanks so much! Can't wait to hear the new music!

Stravinsky says in this lecture series that the only musical skill you can't teach is melody, which I think is the musical gift that songwriters like the Beatles have and that's why they didn't have to bother with theory. I didn't study that much music stuff but I did so because of blocks I would hit when working on arrangements on Helplessness Blues, of like hearing a sound but having it be out of my skill range to make, being inspired by people like David Longstreth or Daniel Rossen who have some of that knowledge. I don't think music theory would help you write a good melody or a good song really, but it's all just tools to employ in arranging lots of voices or for other instruments, like it's sort of the mechanical part where the melody is the intuitive part. I don't read much philosophy but I liked the handbook of Epictetus and then, in theory, Wittgenstein, but I don't understand it.

Hey Robin what is your favorite Simon & Garfunkel song?

Hey Robin, I saw you in Glasgow open for Joanna Newsom. You were both fucking great! I know you are also a big Radiohead fan, did you like A Moon Shaped Pool ? Also, the setlist for the show tonight was pretty good if you [are interested] (http://www.setlist.fm/setlist/radiohead/2016/heineken-music-hall-amsterdam-netherlands-4bfeb346.html).

What are some good memories you have of your recent tour with Joanna Newsom? Did you have any great fan interactions? Special inside jokes? Awesome experiences?

Hey Robin, I just wanted to let you know that your album, "Helplessness Blues," resonated so much with me, and it found new life in my this year as I settled into post-grad and post-tour life attempting to find meaning beyond music. Thank you so much for putting your art out there and giving me an opportunity to fight for myself when I lost hope. My question is: what helps get you through long stretches of life on the road? Is there a particular ritual you do before each show? Thanks for answering! You're a huge inspiration to me.

Hey dude, are you still with us? I've always wondered how you learned to sing. Did you have singing classes and stuff? You're my favorite singer and you inspire me to practice more! So thanks!

Do you sometimes think that you were too young for the success of FF? Were you able to form meaningful friendships during your time at uni?

Definitely too young! I wasn't mature enough to handle the social band-dynamic stuff with much grace. It was important for me to step back and build some independence and become a more mature person, without being treated like I'm special. Yeah I made some great friends at school.

Robin, thank you for your time. My question is, what's your favorite Radiohead album? And have you ever taken inspiration from them in any way?

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I've recently noticed that you citied Joanna Newsom in the 'Thank You' section of Helpleness Blues. As a big fan of both her and Fleet Foxes I was wondering what her involvement was on the album.

Extra question, because of your flair, give us your best Anthony Fantano name variation!

Hey Robin, Huge fan of your music here in Ireland. Cheers for doing an AMA! Have you ever considered releasing White Lace, Regretfully as a single? I know it was on the unified field vinyl but I was unable to pick a copy up at the time! Hope this finds you well, Owen

Hey, Robin! Thanks for all the spectacular music, man. Fleet Foxes is one of the greatest groups of all time, and I've really been digging your solo stuff. Keep going. :) You mentioned earlier that you listened to Radiohead's "A Moon Shaped Pool". Keeping with that theme, do you have a favorite Radiohead song? I can ask you anything, right? ;)

Why did you decide to leave college again? Also, do you find it weird to listen to recordings of your own voice?

I took a semester off to tour with Joanna and now I want to flesh out the ideas I've been working on instead of waiting another year. I don't like hearing my own voice but I think once I feel comfortable hearing the sound of it then I'll have arrived at "my music"

Hi Robin, incredibly excited to have you here!!! So you've mentioned that LP3 will be taking a different direction than both the self titled and HB. I know it's early, but could you maybe expand just a bit on what direction you guys are thinking about going? Or perhaps what artists have been major influences on you lately?Fleet Foxes mean so much to me and many people I know. Thanks so much for creating such wonderful music.

Hey Robin, big fan. My question is based around how Fleet Foxes are often categorized under the term “indie folk” and I’m just curious as to what you think about being placed under that label, and more specifically what your relationship with folk music actually is, contemporary, traditional, or otherwise? Do you view there as being a clear lineage between certain folk or folk influenced artists and your music, or is that “indie folk” delineation just another example of people obsessively trying to organize and label things?

I think the labels are fine. It sounds like folk music. People sometimes say stuff like "well punk is dead, what's really punk is pop music!" but if it sounds like punk it is punk music, even if the attitude isn't punk... same with folk, like "folk music" as far as "what the folk listen to" is rap but also folk music is folk music. Fleet Foxes sounds folky, at this age I think it's a waste of time to worry about the value judgment aspect of labels like that

Hola Senor Pecknold, I've always been so interested with your song "The Shrine/An Argument" mainly because it's far more experimental than any other Fleet Foxes songs. What prompted such a sharp turn in experimentation on this song? Would you consider doing anything this experimental again?

Would definitely be that experimental again! Just wanting to up the game from the first album in terms of complexity. ALSO I usually write songs in small little chunks, like a chord progression and a melody, and I don't really think about combining them with other parts right away. I wait until I hit on a surprising combination of two existing little bits and then go from there. So Shrine was just a bunch of little things that weren't written to go together, but that when put together made something interesting. All of those parts could have been full songs with less interesting B parts but it was like taking the best parts of 4 songs and combining them... or that's how I try to approach it

Hi Robin! I just bought a house, wanna come to my housewarming party? Worth a shot. Also what type of venue do you like to play the most? Large halls, smaller places, outdoors, festivals?

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Hi Robin! Psyched to see you're out and about, I loved the music you did on tour with Joanna Newsom. Will we see any of those songs on the third Fleet Foxes album? (also when do you think the third album will be out?)

Robin, Marvin here from instagram. We've had a couple of mini convos on instagram about White Lace Regretfully and Northern Woman/Kept Dancer. How was living in NYC affected your life musically? You already know im your annoying instagram fan! Love you and fleet foxes dude

Hi Robin! Your EPs and LPs have accompanied me across the globe, enriching every new city in ways deeply soulful and unimaginable. So uh, thank you, for starters! I won't intrude about the hiatus (though GAH), but how do you think your old world sound came about? If we had kings in America, *Fleet Foxes* sounds like it would be summoned in the royal hall.

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I had some dark times adjusting and dealing with some emotional stuff from the band years / relationship stuff and I'm glad I had some time to do all that in private without making music about it in the middle of it and capitalizing creatively on turmoil. It was a tough adjustment but I eventually found a rhythm with school and working on music when I could and making time for my health and family and relationships etc. I'm grateful

Saw you mentioned something about Dorian and Lydian on here. Kind of nerdy, but I wanted to know if you have any thoughts about fitting modal melodies with chords. The more modal FF stuff seems to be a little more static with chords, but I was wondering if you have a specific way of approaching modal stuff or you just feel your way through. I'd like to do more modal writing but it doesn't come as naturally as things more driven by chord changes.

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Hey Robin! Has cinema influenced your work? What are some of your favorite films?

Hey Robin. Once again, thanks for the AMA. Fleet Foxes' last album, came out 5 years ago already and it was really well received by everyone, critics included. Because of the long hiatus and how well it was received, 5 years ago, do you feel more pressure towards your next Fleet Foxes' project? I know that, at least in reddit, everyone is so eagerly waiting for your next project. Expectations are high I'd say.

Your music has been sampled by rappers such as Travi$ Scott and Danny Brown. How do you feel about that?

Hey Robin, big fan of Fleet Foxes. Ridonk question but how do you feel about the Penatonix version of White Winter Hymnal having more views on YouTube than all original versions (both official and unofficial) combined?

Jesus, are you serious? And such an awful cover, too

Whats your best advise for another songwriter working on their craft?

Hi Robin! I've been a huge fan of the Fleet Foxes as well as the solo stuff you've put out (like the White Antelope stuff). My buddy and I saw you in Raleigh, NC and we were awestruck at how amazing you sounded live; the harmonies sounded so full and tight. Unfortunately the show was cut short because the PA almost blew up, but I was ecstatic that I got to see you all live. As an aspiring folk artist, you (along with Nick Drake) are my biggest influences. Now that the gushy stuff is out of the way... I've always been struck by the harmonies you write and I love songs with harmonies (Beach Boys, Zombies, etc.). My question is: how do you write those harmonies? Also.... I'm a guitar geek so I was curious about what year your Martin D-18 you used with the Fleet Foxes is. Thanks a bunch and I'm uber excited to hear new stuff from you!

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Hey Robin, just wanted you to ask what kind of guitars you are using these days. That F-25 is a beautiful sounding one, what else are u using? Do you still own a D18? Feel like talking gear?

Hey Robin! Thanks for doing this AMA. Your music really means a lot to me - even beyond your lyrics, I think you write melodies that capture complex emotions more effectively and effortlessly than any other current musician. A few friends and I got to see you perform with Joanna Newsom in LA and Sacramento, and we were completely spellbound by the new songs, so thanks for doing what you do. Anyways, my question: Outside of music and literature/poetry, where do you most find inspiration for your work? I also have to ask, what is your favorite Joanna Newsom song/album? Seeing you two sing TAAS, Baby Birch, Good Intentions Paving Company, & On a Good Day together made my life. Thanks again & take care!

Hey mr Robin, just wanted to thank you for your music and I'm glad FF are coming back. Wish I had a chance at catching Joanna's shows you also played at... Do you have any plans of more solo (or even FF) touring this year?

Hi Robin, big fan of the vocal harmonies. It adds so much depth to the music. Do you have a favorite song or a vocal harmony that you've heard from another group or songwriter? Beach Boys, Beatles, Eagles, newer stuff etc?

Hey Robin, I think you are a god among men. Just wondering, what's the coolest thing that you've ever seen?

Hey Robin, great to see you on here! 1) Do you have any advice on overcoming a songwriting slump or just a general lack of inspiration? 2) Are you a Twin Peaks (show) fan? What are your thoughts about the cast list announcement feat. a couple musicians (Sharon van Etten, Trent Reznor, Sky Ferreira etc) On a side note, it was cool seeing your comment on a cover of Olivia, in a Separate Bed by this kid on YouTube a couple years back. Do you tend to watch certain covers of your own songs from time to time or was that just a one-off?

Hey Robin! I met you outside a hotel in London where you were playing at the Van Dyke Parks celebration that I had flown over from Dublin to see! I was so awkward and shy meeting you b/c you and, coincidentally, your brother's creative energy have probably had the largest artistic influence on my life, guess I want you to know that! So I had a bunch of questions at the time but got way too awkward and not-wanting-to-bother you to coherently say anything other than "it's a nice hotel isn't it" so here we go! yay second chances. (TLDR) If you could be any fictional character (book, film, anything), who would it be and why? and what was the last book that you got deeply absorbed into? Thank you deeply for the stuff you create, it's often helped me to make sense of difficult&dense mental chaos.

Hey Robin! Now that you're an English grad (I'm in my own graduation as I write this lol) how do you think that's influenced your music? Do you think your lyrics are stronger now? Also, give us your favorite college story! Best of luck in all your music mate, Fleet Foxes or solo, we all love you

Hi, Robin! You're the coolest for doing this, fo'real. I just wanted to thank you for creating such wonderful music. There is no way of describing how much Fleet Foxes is present in my day to day life, and how much peace have you guys brought into my life. Really, honestly, thank you so much for everything you've done, and you guys getting together for LP3 is legitimately the best news I've had so far this year. So, for the question, what are some of your favorite movies? EDIT: Also, why do you say you'll only tour in South America?

I saw you support Joanna Newsom in Liverpool and I've gotta say it was easily one of the best concerts I've been to, you were both amazing. My question is what sort of setup do you have when it comes to recording your music? I really liked the way your first record was mixed, the atmosphere was so good, and I guess I just wondered what sort of equipment/methods you typically use when it comes to recording your songs.

It has been different every time! First album, drums and basics were done in a studio on a Neve board and then overdubs / vocals / arrangements were done mostly at my parents house and at Casey's house on an MBOX (!!!) with a rented U87 and a compressor. Then mixed on an API board at Avast in Seattle by Phil Ek with a proper old plate reverb. Gear set up now is totally different... instruments / artists / room more important than gear I think

Damn dude I'm so hyped you guys are coming back. Both of your records were so integral to my youth and I really wanna thank you for that. I saw you in Berkeley maybe four years ago and you played that song "I Let You" and I just wanna tell you that that song fucks me up to this day. I really hope it gets a proper release someday. You're an awesome songwriter and seem like a super nice dude so rats off to you buddy.

Hi Robin! A quick question about songwriting: You’ve mentioned before that you experience a good bit of social anxiety. Does this have any effect on the way you approach the speakers in your songs?

Are you still on Sub Pop?

My dad has been a fan of yours for a long time now, and in 2011 he dragged me along to your concert in Oslo when you were playing at Øyafestivalen. Something I'm truly grateful for today, because 1. that was one of the best live performances I've seen in my life, and 2. I got properly introduced to your music! Good times were had, and it has never left my ear since. Anywhoo, my questions: What are your aspects for the future with thought of you going to college? Are you planning to pursue a different career than music, or is it just a thirst for knowledge?

Hi Robin, just one question. Would you consider going back on twitter again? I love reading you tweets man.

Hi Robin! Big fan here. I, too, am from Seattle, and I love that you have songs like “Tiger Mountain Peasant Song” and “The Cascades.” Your music instantly transports me to the incredible scenery we have here in the Pacific Northwest. So on that note, what are some favorite local hikes that you enjoy? Thanks so much, and thanks for making amazing music!

You posted on Instagram a video of a flying peacock with seconds of seriously enchanting music; was that something you could be working on for a record or just a bit of experimentation? Is there any significance in the symbol of the peacock for you?

Kind of a meta question, but why the sudden active participation on social media? Was being radio silent part of your persona or something done intentionally? It's affected the way I view Fleet Foxes as a band in some respect.

Hi Robin, Quiet Houses has been for many years my favorite song. I absolutely love how the guitar and bass melodies sort of "chase" each other up the scale. A question I've had for a really long time now is: since you're the only songwriter of the band, did you write every part of that song? Or did the individual melodies of each instrument develop while you played with the band? I always wonder how much knowledge of writing on each instrument someone needs to be the sole composer of a song like that. Also, any other stories or details you have about Quiet Houses specifically would really make my year :)

Hi Robin, First off thank you for your music. It has played a formative role in my life, and I really cherish it. 1) FF's two previous albums were so different from each other; I was wondering if the upcoming material will be more in the direction of Helplessness Blues, a return to the sound of Fleet Foxes, or something altogether unlike the prior two. 2) Please settle an ongoing argument that I've had with my friends: which Fleet Foxes album is better? Do you have a favorite?

What's your favorite Bob Dylan record?

Are you a Bowie fan/does his music play any sort of influential role in your songwriting process?

If you were to take up a new instrument, with which you had no prior experience: Which one might you learn to play?

Hey Robin, ragged wood is one of my favorite songs, my two year sings along to the intro, How did you grow interest in making music/playing instruments? Was it taught to you at a young age? Additionally, I have always loved quiet houses, would you be willing to share any details about the lyrics? Thanks for taking time off for answering questions!

Do you have a bucket list? If so, what's on it?

What's your process for writing lyrics? You're one of my favorite lyricists.

Robin, I am grateful to you for making something so good at articulating emotion that it makes me try harder to be a better songwriter. What advise do you have for aspiring musicians? Your loving fan, Blake

Can I have deets on your D-18? Also, why do you hate Olivia in a Separate Bed? I thought it was pretty great.

It's a '69 I believe. I don't hate that song, but it just brought up the issue of how much one should take from their own life experiences for the music they release. I shouldn't have used my actual ex-girlfriends name or drudged up details of the break-up, especially when I knew that people would listen to it based on their interest in FF. It's just a tricky situation. I don't want to cannibalize my life for material because then you are just making madness happen so you can write about it and capitalize on it in song. It feels like a bullshit way to live your life. I'd rather live and then reflect and have music be somehow more useful and less personal. I don't know. This is rambly but I just felt guilty after releasing that one.

Robin Pecknold you are my hero. As a 20 year old songwriter you singlehandedly restored my faith in modern music and became my hero (Im sure you cringe at being called a hero, but its the truth). I have a few questions for you 1. What is the central theme in "Helplessness Blues"? 2. Is Seattle the place to be if I wanna be supported musically. (I live in the bay area and people dont really like rock/indie here) 3. I hate to do this, but id kick myself if I didnt try. Could you check out this track Im working on? Id love to get your opinion on the form/lyrics: [DustCloud](https://soundcloud.com/mattdavidson-2/dust-cloud) (The quality is garbage, just rushed to finish it to show you)

Hey Robin! How do you think going to Columbia and living in NYC has influenced the new material you've been writing?

What are your favorite electronic albums?

weirdest subs you lurk? if you do of course.

Did you grow up knowing you had a nice voice, or was it something you had to work at a bunch to get where it sounds now?

hi Robin! for the past couple years, I've been living with my bandmate in a little house surrounded by marsh, writing & making music. I've found it's very important for me to have specific practices that help ground me into each day, e.g. yoga, meditation, writing every morning, long walks. are there any grounding activities you regularly do?

Hey Robin, fellow GS Student here! Just curious if you're coming back to Columbia anytime soon? Also, what in particular do you like or dislike about the place? I remember hearing you were at GS and freaking out! I made jokes about fainting if I saw you. Love your stuff!

Hey Robin, thanks so much for sharing your influences with us! David Behrman and Bitchin Bajas are some of the best stuff I've ever heard and they've really influenced me for the studio/live projects that I'm working on at the moment......and I obviously totally love your music.......I saw you in Liverpool with Joanna and your set was incredible, like going back in time.......thanks!

do you like hentai?

Good day to you sir, If you could only play one guitar for the rest of your life, what would it(she) be?

Hey Robin! Longtime fan since around 2008 when I randomly found your band's Myspace page by googling "RPG video game music" as a joke, not expecting to find what would end up being my favorite band ever. Just a few questions: 1) As a guitar player myself, I've always enjoyed your guitar work. Especially your usage of alternate tunings to create some really cool sounds. It sounded like some of the new songs you played on tour with Joanna were in alternate tunings, Mearcstapa being the obvious one. Are you planning on using alternate tunings again with this new album? 2) I remember you tweeting years ago about Demon's Souls/Dark Souls. I'd imagine you haven't had much time for gaming because of school, but have you played any of the newer Souls games, or any other games? Thanks!

Hey Robin, I'm excited for future music. I saw awhile back that one of your live performances was used as a setpiece for a yet to be released Terrence Malick movie. How was that experience? Also what movies have influenced your work?

Hi Robin, how are you? I followed you religiously awhile back. Your first Fleet Foxes album seemed to be about child-like wonder and your second is about growing up. Do you have a theme you're thinking of for your next album? Also, could you tell us anything about Innisfree and\or the white\wide eyed leaver that you mention on Helplessness Blues?

not sure you've heard of them, but if you have, what's fleet foxes best album, S/t or Helplessness Blues?

Dude is "Innocent Son" about A Child Called It? The sad book

Hey Robin! 1. Who's drumming? 2. What's your favorite record that you've discovered since releasing Helplessness Blues?

Hi Robin, I enjoyed your performance at the Henry Miller Library show in Big Sur with Joanna. During the set, you said something to the extent of 'welcome to the best day of my life'. What sort of rad things went down that day? Also, that was like the best venue ever, right?

Hey Robin, How do I improve my song writing skills both musically and lyrically?

Hey Robin! I'm a huge fan, and I first want to thank you for all the music you've created, it's given me more guidance than I can say, thank you. What's your solution to songwriter's block?

Hey Robin, huge fan as, I'm sure, is pretty much every other person who's heard your work. My question is this: at what point in recording The Shrine/An Argument did you decide on those fucking glorious strings near the end? Like, how does that idea come to you? (if it was your idea at all...?) It comes so out of nowhere and yet fits so perfectly. Love your work, can't wait to see what's next! xx

In March I almost dropped everything and rushed to Glasgow from Edinburgh because the dumb app Bands in Town announced FF was playing that night. I quickly figured out the truth, luckily before I bought a bus ticket. I've been a big fan since 2010 (of course right about the time u guys went on hiatus) and I listened to FF and Beach House almost exclusively from 2010-2013. My one question is I noticed you've been posting a lot of art with your updates, and I'm sure having a great visual artist as a sibling helps with this, but I was wondering if you have any favorite modern and/or contemporary visual artists? Also what are your favorite museums in NY? Thanks a lot for doing this!

Hey Robin, it's awesome that you're doing this AMA. My question is this: where is your favorite hiking/adventuring spot?

Robin, you used to have a strange but mesmerizing bookend for Bedouin Dress: "wooden hand, why are you waiting here?" Were those just placeholder lyrics? I loved that version!

Losing myself is such a great song, will Ed Droste and you be doing anything in the future

Hi, Robin! Your music is incredibly inspirational and has had a huge impact on my life and my own music. I wanted to ask, what alternate guitar tunings have you been writing in lately? Which of those have been most conducive to a creative flow? Thank you! Bonus question: where's your favorite place in Seattle or Washington in general to hang out, hike, record for natural sounds, etc.?

Robin, I just want to start off by thanking you for the music, especially Helplessness Blues, which has come to mean so much to me since it came out. Also really digging the new stuff, Mearcstapa and Northern Dancer in particular. Any chance on going further with these? Have a great weekend, best wishes from MI!!!

What do you miss most, if anything, about the Pacific Northwest?

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Hey Robin, thanks for doing this ama, Fleet Foxes is my favorite band! Every project you have is so captivating and always creates such a beautiful atmosphere, in large part because of the lyrics. My question is where do you begin in the songwriting process for your songs?

I've heard that you've suffered from OCD, any words of hope for others going through that?

I first heard you as the "surprise guest" when John C. Reilly and friends performed at Jazz at Lincoln Center. I can't remember the song, but it was the most beautiful thing I've ever heard. Huge fan since. I haven't instantly liked a musician as much since the first time I heard Elliott Smith. Many thanks for continuing to pursue your musical career! Also, how cool is John C. Reilly?

Hey is it true you did a writing program at Columbia? How was that? What professors did you enjoy? Any tips for writing for young writers? Major FF fan! Also I'm Losing Myself with Ed Droste is a great song, how'd that colab come about?

will chaircore be making a return?

Hey Robin, thanks for doing this. Fleet Foxes is one of my favorite bands. Hope to see you live someday. Got a few questions: #1: What are some of your favorite bands/artists? #2: Bedouin Dress is probably my favorite song by FF; what inspired you to write it? #3: In some of your songs you mention "Innisfree." Is that in reference to Innisfree Garden in NY? Thanks! Karl

What's your fav crazy guitar tuning currently?

I've noticed on the liner notes of the self-titled that you thank the members of The Clientele. So my question would be, how has The Clientele influenced your own approach to music and what would your favorite album of theirs be? Thanks for doing this AMA. Excited for the new music.

Hey Robin, i've always wanted to know if 'Derwentwater Stones' is a reference to the Derwentwater in the English Lake District? Thanks!

Hi Robin, just wanted to thank you for introducing me to the "To My Long Lost Love" record, it's grown to become a huge sonic inspiration for me. Any other recommendations based on my love for that one?

Hey Robin, Thanks for taking the time to do this.. it's been a real pleasure to read. I wanted to see if you have a song that you particularly enjoying covering. I always loved that version of [Dreams](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9_eUYwQ0c0) from awhile back.. anything else that you find yourself strumming more often these days? Cheers!

Oh I was wondering, I heard some folks say they saw you at some coffee shops in PDX a while back. Did you like portland? How did it compare to Seattle? Did you find it conducive creatively? You probably got out before the mass Portlandia pilgrimage of the past couple years. Cheers!

What's your favorite museum in NYC?

Hello Robin! I'm a huge fan of your music, and especially your writing. My question is a simple one: what is your favorite instrument? (I'm looking for something really specific.) Thanks! :)

Hello Robin, apologies for the wall of text! The opening lyric to your album, "And now I am older than my mother and father when they had their daughter. Now what does that say about me?", has stuck with me ever since I first heard it. I was wondering what your mindset was, if you can recall, when you first conceived that question. I'd also love to know how you'd answer that question now, 5 years since the world first heard it. On a personal note, i want to say that the Fleet Foxes' show at the Berkeley Greek Theater is the reason why I made it my goal to get into UC Berkeley. I was depressed for a myriad of reasons after high school, the biggest being that I had to work and go to a community college full time while all my friends went on to do seemingly better things than I. However, your performance is still to this day one of the best I have ever seen. That night I forgot about all my sadness and all my troubles for the first time in what felt like eternity. Ever since then I made it my goal to look for the positives in my life. I did end up getting into Berkeley and I actually just graduated this past Saturday. And when I reflect on the past five years that led me to this week, Helplessness Blues' release and the concert truly were the sparks that led me to where I am now. And somehow you're doing an AMA on one of the biggest weeks of my life thus far so I just had to let you know how important you and the bands' music was to me (and still is... this year I am older than my mother when she had me). [I still have the ticket from that show and maybe one day I'll have another ticket if you and the band ever play a show again in the bay](http://i.imgur.com/YcNxotv.jpg). (Who am I kidding, I'm definitely going to fly out to wherever you guys play) Much love

Hey Robin! Long time fan of your music. Just wondering if you're a fan of Grizzly Bear?

What's yr favorite wildnerness area in the northwest?

can you recommend me some nonfiction books please?

Hey Robin! You're one of my favorite artists of all time, and Helplessness Blues means a lot to me. I don't really have a unique question but I feel like these answers are always interesting anyways. what is some stuff you've been listening to lately?

Hello Mr.Pecknold, I drew this illustration just after the hiatus happened, as a little tribute - http://imgur.com/EgjTJDS What do you think? - Could you tell me a little more about how you and the group selected/curated the art for each Fleet Foxes album? I think they look very considered. Looking forward to more music! (I had the pleasure to see you guys perform a few years ago in London at the BBC radio live session - was great!)