Califone are an American experimental rock band formed in Chicago in the late 1990s. The band was founded by Tim Rutili, who had previously been a member of the influential indie rock band Red Red Meat. Califone’s music is known for its eclectic and atmospheric sound, blending elements of folk, blues, Americana, and electronic music with experimental and avant-garde approaches.

The band’s sound is often characterized by its use of unconventional instruments and recording techniques, creating a rich, textured sonic landscape that can range from rustic and earthy to abstract and surreal. Califone's lyrics tend to be impressionistic, often evoking a sense of nostalgia, decay, and fragmented memories.

Their debut full-length album, Roomsound (2001), was widely praised for its haunting, rootsy sound and marked the beginning of a critically acclaimed discography. Subsequent albums like Quicksand/Cradlesnakes (2003), Heron King Blues (2004), and Roots & Crowns (2006) further established Califone as a unique voice in the indie music scene, known for their ability to merge traditional American music forms with modern, experimental sensibilities.

Califone's music is often seen as cinematic and immersive, drawing listeners into a world where the past and present collide in a collage of sound, making them a standout act in the realm of experimental and indie music.