Death Cab for Cutie - Narrow Stairs
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With 2003’s Transatlanticism and 2005’s Plans, Death Cab for Cutie created something remarkable; near perfection. Literally every song on these albums is phenomenal, cementing the group as one of the top acts in modern pop/rock. Naturally, the follow-up, Narrow Stairs, has some heavy expectations to satisfy and, while it doesn’t meet the mark, it’s a very good album on its own, showcasing some surprising sounds and techniques.Once again taking the helm as producer is guitarist Chris Walla, who called the album “really weird” and “a total curveball.” He added “…it's gonna be a really polarizing record.” Indeed Narrow Stairs does split the listener into judging from two perspectives: the record on its own and how it compares to previous outings. On its own, it’s a solid release from the Washington-based visionaries. However, it lacks the extremely strong melodies and lush accompaniment of their last releases. “Bixby Canyon Bridge” opens the LP softly and gradually builds to a heavy conclusion. It’s a nostalgic piece stating that “you just can't see your dream.” “I Will Possess Your Heart” is the album’s single, told from the perspective of a stalker. For about four and a half minutes, the track is just a jam. It’s a bit slow on the way and once it reaches the vocals, it doesn’t really get any more interesting. The most intriguing part is the bridge (which ends just as it enters our memory). “No Sunlight” is an upbeat song with depressing lyrics (this juxtaposition is common on Narrow Stairs). “Cait…” has a great chord progression as singer/songwriter Ben Gibbard talks about a misguided girl. It is classic Death Cab. The music on “You Can Do Better than Me” is straight out of Brian Wilson’s masterpiece Pet Sounds. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate an influence. “Grapevine Fires” is easily the best track on this album. Its simple but sad story of loss showcases Gibbard’s talent for creating emotionally grabbing melodies, and hitting the replay button a few times is a must. It also has some hypnotic vocal harmony. “Your New Twin Sized Bed” is a personal story of a friend who has lost hope in relationships. “Long Division” uses the metaphor of mathematics to represent the story of two lovers. “Pity and Fear” is yet another song about hopelessness. Finally, “The Ice is Getting Thinner” has Gibbard saying goodbye to someone he hoped to love. Narrow Stairs is full of poignant words surrounded by well suited music. However, this album does still disappoint in some spots.The main flaw with Narrow Stairs is that it sounds like a step back for the band. Sonically, it seems to predate Transatlanticism and Plans. The melodies are more basic and less intriguing than they should be. The production is too sparse in some places, leading to blandness where there could be...
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