Zookeeper

Zookeeper is an indie rock group from Austin, United States, active from 2006 to the present. The project is led by Chris Simpson, who previously fronts the late-1990s bands Mineral and The Gloria Record. After Mineral disbands shortly after signing to a major label, and after The Gloria Record goes on indefinite hiatus while recording a fourth album, Simpson steps away from music for two years before resuming songwriting in Austin.

Formation and sound

The project grows out of Simpson’s return to acoustic songwriting and performance, which he has first pursued as a teenager in Denver. During this period he begins working with a piano and revisiting older records, which helps shape a new body of songs. Zookeeper develops as an informal gathering of old and new collaborators, and the music is recorded live in an Austin studio. The recordings include loose, impromptu performances with tambourines, horns, honky-tonk keys, and a mix of lyrical seriousness and whimsy.

Releases and collaborators

Zookeeper releases an EP and the debut album Becoming All Things on Belle City Pop!. The project records more than 40 songs over several months and in several studios. Its supporting musicians include former Mineral and The Gloria Record members, along with indie-folk artist Alex Dupree, Sad Accordions, and Zykos. The music is described as drawing on Simpson’s earlier work while returning to his roots.

Later name change

Chris Simpson later changes the name of his solo project to Mountain Time.