He has fronted numerous bands such as The Unicorns, Th' Corn Gangg, Islands, Reefer, and Human Highway.

[1] Nature, in particular whales, are a subject of interest;[2] his lyrics include references to rivers, swans and frogs.

[6][7] His production technique involves dark personification over enjoyable music, though he is "usually wary of composing dance tracks.

"[13][14] The project, called Mister Heavenly, also involves drummer Joe Plummer of Modest Mouse and The Black Heart Procession and has had actor Michael Cera playing bass on the tour.

[16] Thorburn was featured on the 2012 El-P album Cancer 4 Cure, singing the chorus of the track "Stay Down".