22 years in, it’s got to be pretty tempting just to start phoning it in. Cash the cheques, do anniversary tours and trust fall into the gentle hands of nostalgia. But, Death Cab for Cutie – still the greatest fucking indie rock band of our generation, you can fight me on that – will do no such thing. Their somewhat unexpected EP called The Blue is here, and boy is it a treat.
Ever since the departure of longtime band member/producer Chris Walla, Death Cab have found themselves both looking ahead and looking backwards. This is usually only possible if you’re an owl, but they’ve managed somehow – this EP is a great example of that.
The Blue EP harkens back to their Plans and Narrow Stairs eras, whilst picking up where Thank You For Today left off; quite literally, as two of the songs are from the cutting room floor. Even though the band split their time recording these five songs between three different studios, they co-exist seamlessly however.
There are some unexpected elements, such as the hard-hitting, almost post-rock bridge on opener ‘To The Ground’, as well as some achingly familiar ones, like the solemn melodies of ‘Man in Blue’. The whole thing constantly moves between the unknown and the comfortable in a sort of push-and-pull. Really, it keeps the band fresh while still feeling at home with listeners.
But don’t get me wrong, these five songs are glorious. They show the band branching out into some unfamiliar waters, all while maintaining the sonic brilliance that has captivated listeners for two decades. I only wish it was longer.
Haiku Review
Death Cab For Cutie
Tease us with five killer songs:
Long live the damn kings.
Listen to Death Cab For Cutie on Spotify and Apple Music.
