Cloud Cult is an experimental chamber rock band from the Midwest who has maintained a decade and a half career by remaining completely independent. They’ve sold more than 100,000 albums via their own label, Earthology Records, which was created by lead singer/songwriter Craig Minowa in the late 90’s out of what he called “necessity,” due to the fact that there simply weren’t options for environmentally friendly CD manufacturing in the industry at that time. Cloud Cult was at the forefront of the “green” movement, helping co-develop the now wildly popular recycled paperboard CD cases while also creating models for zero net greenhouse gas production for touring bands.

In addition to becoming known for their eco-friendly practices, Cloud Cult has also become known for its philosophical lyrics, as Minowa has used many of the songs to search for answers to spiritual questions after the unexpected loss of his two-year-old son in 2002. Another aspect of the band that has brought them some attention (most notably from The Wall Street Journal) is the fact that their live show features two live painters whose art is auctioned off at the end of the night. Along with the live painters, Cloud Cult’s live shows feature a full band complete with violin, cello, trumpet, trombone and French horn.

Love is the band’s 9th full-length studio album and is the follow-up to 2010’s Light Chasers. Cloud Cult will support the release with a North American tour in March thru May 2013, including performances at this year’s SXSW Festival. Along with the new album, the feature-length documentary on Cloud Cult “No One Said It Would Be Easy” will debut in early 2013 on Netflix, iTunes and Amazon. A full-length biography about Cloud Cult’s journey as a band by author Mark Allister is slated for release in late 2013.