DECEMBERISTS

The Decemberists: Colin Meloy (vocals, guitar, percussion); Chris Funk (pedal steel guitar, Theremin); Jenny Conlee (accordion, piano, Fender Rhodes, organ); Nate Query (upright & bowed bass); Ezra Holbrook (drums, percussion, background vocals).

With CASTAWAYS AND CUTOUTS, their 2002 debut, the Decemberists established themselves as one of the most noteworthy indie pop acts on the scene. Like Neutral Milk Hotel and Belle and Sebastian, the Decemberists specialize in wistful, melancholic pop with heavy folk influences, strong melodies, intimate atmospheres, and highly evocative lyrics. Led by Colin Meloy's distinctive voice and unique instrumentation that includes accordion, organ, and upright bass, the Decemberists successfully pull off the feat of merging an emotive, bedroom-troubador aesthetic with a sharp and endearing pop sensibility.

The minor-key opener "Leslie Anne Levine" announces the band's m.o.: this is moody, sensitive music that spins yarns of the downtrodden and outcast. Shifting, multi-part epics like "Odalisque" offer a counterpoint to streamlined rock-influenced tunes like "July, July!," and it doesn't get any better than "Here I Dreamt I Was An Architect," featuring Meloy's beautiful, image-rich lyrics and a melody that melts in the mind. From its admirable songcraft to its haunting arrangements, CASTAWAYS AND CUTOUTS holds up to repeated listenings, and adds up to one of the best indie pop debuts of the era.

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