Cloud Cult’s philosophical lyrics and indie-chamber-rock sound has been lauded by critics as "insane genius" (Pitchfork) and "an invocation of the lifeforce" (New York Times). Hailed as one of the Top 10 Green Bands by Rolling Stone, Cloud Cult has a history of bucking the mainstream music industry in favor of independently releasing music via their environmentally-conscious record label Earthology Records.
Cloud Cult began as Craig Minowa's solo studio project after the unexpected loss of his son and has grown with an evolving lineup of string, brass, and rock musicians. Known for incorporating “meaning of life” song concepts into film and live painting in their concerts, Cloud Cult has been dubbed by Wall Street Journal as pioneers of multimedia artistry.
Despite major label offers, Cloud Cult has remained staunchly independent in order to maintain full ownership of their art. With a shoestring budget, the band has a long history of topping the college radio charts (including eight songs landing in The Current's Hall of Fame for longest time in the Top 10).