Great Lakes is an American indie folk-pop band known for crafting melodic, introspective songs that blend folk harmonies with a hint of psychedelia. The band emerged from the vibrant Athens, Georgia music scene in the late 1990s, originally conceived by Ben Crum and lyricist Dan Donahue. With the inclusion of Jamey Huggins and other members of the Elephant Six Collective, the ensemble quickly distinguished itself with lush, layered sounds and thoughtful songwriting. Over time, Great Lakes has evolved considerably, both in terms of members and musical direction.

Their eponymous debut album "Great Lakes" set the stage for a career that has spanned over two decades. Their progression as artists is evident throughout their discography, from the early folk-psych leanings to the more polished and contemplative approach in albums like "Diamond Times" and "The Distance Between." The release of "Ways of Escape" marked a turn towards a more personal and stripped-down sound, which continued to evolve with "Wild Vision." Their latest releases, including "Dreaming Too Close to the Edge" and the critically acclaimed "Contenders," showcase the band's maturity, both in terms of complex emotional landscapes and sonic depth, solidifying Great Lakes' standing as a distinctive voice within the indie music realm.