In early 2005, he embarked on his first solo tour in support of the self-released six-song EP, 'Colin Meloy Sings Morrissey,' which consists of six Morrissey covers. Prior to being in The Decemberists, Meloy was the lead singer and songwriter of Happy Cactus and Tarkio, both indie/folk bands from Montana. He then moved to Portland, where he met future bandmates Jenny Conlee and Nate Query. He first attended the University of Oregon before transferring to the University of Montana, where he majored in creative writing. His sister is Maile Meloy, an author often published in The New Yorker. As of 2005, Meloy has written a 100-page book on The Replacements' fourth album, 'Let It Be,' released as part of the 33⅓ series. In addition to his vocal duties, he plays acoustic guitar, 12-string acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bouzouki, and percussion.

Prior to being in The Decemberists, Meloy was the Colin Patrick Henry Meloy is the lead singer and songwriter for the Portland, Oregon folk-rock band The Decemberists.

Colin Patrick Henry Meloy is the lead singer and songwriter for the Portland, Oregon folk-rock band The Decemberists.

Wildwood meloy