Singer-songwriter José González has been making hearts swoon ever since his solo debut, Veneer, in 2003. Now, González is lending his unmistakably soft voice to Swedish band Junip. Their debut album, entitled Fields, represents a shift in style for González, although it is still sure to satisfy his most hardcore fans.

The band has had an already storied past, despite having only three releases to their name. Formed in 1998 by González and two friends, they released a limited seven-inch single two years later; a full-length album, shopped around to various labels, failed to see the light of day. Junip went on hiatus while González embarked on a solo career, then reformed in 2005 to record the Black Refuge EP. Another five-year hiatus later, during which time González’s music grew even more popular from appearing on shows like The O.C. and Friday Night Lights, the trio has now put together their official debut album, 12 years after their formation.

Fields, in a word, breathes. The music, noticeably influenced by both Krautrock and jazz fusion, sounds breezy and effortless, while at the same time remaining both incredibly tight and focused. González’s soft crooning, noticeably more intense here than on his solo efforts, juxtaposes nicely with the music. Early single “Rope & Summit” is easily the highlight of the album, but there are plenty of gems to be found here. Lead track “In Every Direction” starts things off with some pretty guitar plucking from González before launching into a thick, synth-led slow jam. Songs like “Without You” and “Howl” tend to focus on building a dreamy kind of atmosphere, and while the rest of the album is no exception, these two are perhaps the most sonically interesting on the album. The latter song in particular is superb, with González half-singing half-whispering his way through the grooves. His willingness to try new things like this is what ultimately makes Fields a success; rather than stifling his creative freedom, working in the confines of a trio has actually helped González to sound more alive and refreshed than he has in years.

Now that they’re embarking on a world tour, one can safely say that Junip will be here to stay this time around. While it might be a while before their songs start showing up on teen soap operas, fans of González will no doubt find a place in their heart for Junip.