Okkervil River began as a mutual project of Will Sheff (vocals, guitar), and Seth Warren (guitar).
They met and collaborated together when both were still in high school in Meriden, NH. After relocating to Austin, TX in the late 90's, the duo decided to re-assemble the band with the addition of Zachary Thomas (vocals, bass), Jonathan Meiburg (vocals, banjo), and drummer Mark Pedini.
In 1998, the group self-released their first disc, the "Bedroom" (EP), followed a year later with their debut album "Stars Too Small to Use".