Animal Collective is an American experimental pop band formed in Baltimore, Maryland. The group consists of David Portner (Avey Tare), Noah Lennox (Panda Bear), Brian Weitz (Geologist), and Josh Dibb (Deakin). Their music blends a wide range of styles, including psychedelia, freak folk, noise, and electronica, incorporating elements such as loops, drones, sampling, vocal harmonies, and sound collage. The band is known for its distinctive approach to experimental rock and pop music. The members began collaborating during their school years and later founded the independent label Paw Tracks in 1999. Their debut album, "Spirit They're Gone Spirit They've Vanished," was released in 2000.