Having released two of the most inventive and musically extravagant records of the noughties - "Funeral" and "Neon Bible" - Canadian ensemble Arcade Fire create a concept and sound that represents their personal upbringing (in the suburbs) for their third outing "The Suburbs". Frontman Win Butler's vocal lines are smoother than before and are given weight by a looming sense of darkness, while co-vocalist Regine gives balance to Arcade Fire's music with an added feeling of wonder running through her work. As with their earlier material, violins, harpsichords and xylophones, among other instruments, accompany guitars and drums to add depth to a superb indie rock sound.
STAFF COMMENTS
Andy says: A less euphoric, less quirky record, but I think that was definitely required. They still rock but there's more control. As ever, this just overflows with melody, and song for song I'd say this is a much better album than "Neon Bible". They're as poetic and emotive as Bruce at his best, but with a load of really smart post-punk/ alt rock influences instead of classic rock'n'roll ones. A proper, beautiful band. A splendid LP. You're gonna love it.
TRACK LISTING
1. The Suburbs
2. Ready To Start
3. Modern Man
4. Rococo
5. Empty Room
6. City With No Children
7. Half Light I
8. Half Light II (No Celebration)
9. Suburban War
10. Month Of May
11. Wasted Hours
12. Deep Blue
13. We Used To Wait
14. Sprawl I (Flatland)
15. Sprawl II (Mountains Beyond Mountains)
16. The Suburbs (Continued)
