Okkervil River is an indie rock band from Austin, Texas. Formed in 1998, the band's name comes from a short story by Russian author, Tatyana Tolstaya. They self-released their first album, Stars Too Small to Use which led them to the South by Southwest music festival.

Okkervil River began as a mutual project of Will Robison Sheff (vocals, guitar), and Seth Warren (guitar). They met and collaborated together when both were still in high school in Meriden, NH. After relocating to Austin, TX in the late 90’s, the duo decided to re-assemble the band with the addition of Zachary Thomas (vocals, bass), Jonathan Meiburg (vocals, banjo), and drummer Mark Pedini . In 1998, the group self-released their first disc, the “Bedroom” (EP), followed a year later with t