Wading in Waist-High Water: The Lyrics of Fleet Foxes

‘There is something quite moving about seeing the lyrics of these fifty-six songs collected and assembled this way. You can see the evolution of the minds and hearts at work behind the lyrics’ Brandon Taylor, from the Introduction

Since the release of their breakout debut in 2008, Fleet Foxes and their frontman, singer-songwriter Robin Pecknold, have enjoyed international critical and commercial acclaim. Drawing comparisons to Simon & Garfunkel; Crosby, Stills & Nash; and the music of Brian Wilson, Grammy-nominated Fleet Foxes have reshaped the American indie-folk sound, crafting songs that are acoustically and melodically driven, steeped in gospel-like harmonies, and propelled by resonant and timeless lyrics.

Wading in Waist-High Water: The Lyrics of Fleet Foxes contains Robin Pecknold’s complete lyrics from 56 songs, capturing the poetic and inventive storytelling that is a hallmark of the band’s music. These richly layered lyrics explore the complexity, darkness, and beauty of physical and emotional landscapes, both pastoral and modern. Alongside the lyrics, Pecknold includes hand-written notes and candid observations on creative processes, inspirations, and motivations.

With an introduction by celebrated author Brandon Taylor, Wading in Waist-High Water: The Lyrics of Fleet Foxes is a moving and intimate look at the art of songwriting, the joy of music-making, and what it means to produce meaningful and memorable sound.

‘Demonstrate[s] Pecknold’s evolution as a lyricist and songwriter, someone who could write stirring couplets while commanding extended metaphors and maintaining a degree of writerly distance.’ Pitchfork

‘Stories that strike to the core of nature and human existence, and a dedication to art that emotionally lifts you off this planet.’ NME

‘Distills the music down to its emotional core.’ Buzzfeed

‘Serves as a footnoted guide to the band’s catalog.’ Vulture

‘A perfect gift for Fleet Foxes fans or lovers of the craft of indie folk songwriting.’ Consequence of Sound