A Different Path Up Some Narrow Stairs

Death Cab For Cutie - Narrow Stairs (2008)

After a lukewarm response to Plans (2006) - even though it gained popular success - Ben Gibbard decided to realign Death Cab for Cutie back towards the lo-fi sound of yesteryear with the release of Narrow Stairs.

Over production is kept to a minimum - and you're far less likely to hear this record being played in Starbucks. While Plans felt like a few gems (Crooked Teeth, I Will Follow You Into The Dark) amongst a sea of filler, this album is far less skippable. It has teeth.

After about 3 minutes of the opening track - Bixby Canyon Bridge - it's clear that Death Cab have surrendered the mainstream shackles. And yep, even distorted guitars! Very un-Plans. The follow up is the epic first single from the album, I Will Possess Your Heart. It's as menacing as it sounds with a funky bassline that guides you through the 5 minute intro. Perhaps slightly repetitive (you may prefer the Radio Edit), but superb nonetheless.

No Sunlight is reminiscent of The Sound Of Settling, with its upbeat tempo and jumpy vocals. Cath, however, is my favourite track on the album. Exceptional drumming and lyrically brilliant, it's a track that you find yourself listening to over and over.

The drifty Grapevine Fires is relaxing as it is upsetting (if your life has been affected by forest fires, that is) although Long Division proves Death Cab's scope. Who else could write a song about mathematics and still get the entire crowd singing along? Hmm. I'm struggling. They don't need no education.

The album peters out slightly, but it's still a great record. Don't miss it.

Rating: 8/10
MP3: Cath... From Narrow Stairs