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The Arcade Fire - Funeral [2004]

The Arcade Fire are one of the most popular bands I know without backing from a major label. Their latest album Funeral (2004) was mostly made popular via the popular music website Pitchfork. I was lucky to catch this band at a live show early on, and purchased a copy of their demo EP (2003) on CD. I own Funeral on 12″ vinyl.

Hailing from Montreal, Quebec, the band has a very unique laid back indie rock sound that is accompanied by a variety of instruments including the violin, cello, harp, xylophone, accordion, rickenbacker and upright bass. This unique sounds makes it hard to compare to any current bands, but The Decemberists and The Unicorns certainly come to mind.

Funeral strikes me as themed album about growing up, moving out of your parent’s house, falling in love, and typical life events. Some of the lyrics are in French, but it all flows really well together and this is certainly one of the best albums from 2004.

My Rating: 5 out of 5

Website: arcadefire.com