Fiercely independent band Carbon Leaf, known for the radio hits "Life Less Ordinary" and "The Boxer," will return to The Ark on Sunday.

Carbon Leaf last performed here almost exactly a year ago, but this time they have a new album - “Ghost Dragon Attacks Castle” - about to be released.

The five-man group arrangement of guitar, bass, drums, and mandolin is rounded out with more exotic instruments, like bouzouki, fiddle, accordion and penny whistle, all tied together with group harmonies and lead singer Barry Privett's straightforward voice.

Blending folk, Celtic, bluegrass, Americana, rock and pop traditions into their own sound, Carbon Leaf has built a loyal fan base through steady releases and energetic live shows over the past 20 years. Although they did have a major label deal with Vanguard, they ended that relationship in 2010, preferring the freedom independent status can bring.

Last year, in an interview with AnnArbor.com, singer Barry Privett said he and the band always look forward to performing here.

“There are different areas of the country that appreciate hearing something different and new, not just stuff they already know,” he said, clearly including in Ann Arbor in that category. “It helps us in the process more if we know people are interested in hearing something that’s hot off the press.”

Carbon Leaf will play at The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Sunday, Sept. 8 at 7:30 p.m. (doors open at 7) Tickets are $25. Details at www.theark.org or 761-1800.