I do love my Indie music
A review, by the venerable music enthusiast, Crush:
Death Cab for Cutie's (DCFC) new album, Narrow Stairs, is due for release next week. Even though this isn't technically indie music anymore (the band signed a major contract a few years ago), DCFC has its roots firmly planted in the indie arena.
I wasn't a fan of this band until recently. They've drifted on and off of my personal music radar screen over the past few years, as they've grown in popularity, but always escaped my interest. Yet, I can't get enough of their latest single, I Will Possess Your Heart. This is a song you'll either love or hate, in part due to the 4 minute plus instrumental "intro". In my opinion, the intro is what makes this song so unique and likeable. There are haunting keyboard chords pounding feverishly, between a stiff and memorable bass line. It builds to an emotive crescendo once the lyrics do finally kick in. There aren't many lyrics to begin with. What few words are included, seem simple and sophomoric on paper. Combine them, though, with the musical indulgence of each of the band's musicians, and you have a modern day masterpiece, albeit not one made for radio play or mass appeal. (Was indie music ever destined or desired for radio waves?)
There's also plenty of echo and reverb that offset the melodic tones, giving it an edginess that almost feels misplaced in this song....almost. They clash with the enunciating velvet voice of Ben Gibbard, the band's singer and keyboardist, but somehow it all works. In a few words, I'd characterize it as hardcore emo-indie. And, its good.
The video aint too bad either. You can feel the song's "author" stalking the subject femme fatale. (Does anyone recognize the actress? She looks familiar, but I can't place her.) The video goes a long way to justify the 4 minute intro. You can feel her angst and confusion; his frustration and hope. He's in her head, but he wants more. He wants to possess her heart, her being. She feels him, as she journeys in far reaching corners of the world. She is depicted in day and night; cold climes and warm; north, south, east and west....traveling the world alone, and yet she's not necessarily lonely. He's with her in spirit, but is she happy that he accompanies her in this way or is she attempting to run from his grip? Is she sullen or determined? Is she content in her solitude? Depressed or merely contemplative? That's up to your interpretation, and may be dictated by the station of your own personal love life, I'd guess.
The first time I heard this, I wasn't sure if I liked it or not. It took a second and third listen to know I did. You don't have to be an indie music fan to appreciate this, but even if you are, you won't necessarily like it! Its unique and eclectic and catchy and maybe even a little annoying, depending on your mood. It is emotive, if nothing else. I like it. Hope you do as well. My guess is that the musicians in my hood will enjoy it. The music enthusiasts that might not have ever "played" music, may not... Meh. Just a hunch. Its a good 8 minute distraction from your workday or a great lead-in to your music-filled weekend...Enjoy!
the album is to be officially released on Tuesday, May 13
Comments
I don't know, Carol. If you're right, that's a great eye you've got. I see a resemblance for sure, but I'm not convinced. (I'm sure if I felt compelled enough, a few minutes of internet research could turn up the answer.. )
By the way, if Ben and Jenny are dating, it only proves that women love a musically inclined guy. She's an 8 or a 9. He's a 3 for chrissakes... ;-)
Maybe this will tell you how poor my eye is. The first time I watched it, the girl looked like a tired, un-made up version of Mila Jovovich (sp?). I think it was the 3 quarter profile shots that looked that way to me.
Anyway, I saw Ben Gibbard in Seattle about a year ago and Jenny Lewis was one of his special guest artists who sang with him. They didn't seem like an item at the time, but I wouldn't really expect them to make-out on stage either.
Regarding your last 2 sentences....where, oh where, do I start? Women love musically inclined guys yes (unless we've been music majors, in which case the music really does have to be just an inclination and not a job), but women love guys with all kinds of talent and/or passion and honor. Being good with kids, for example. Being so irritatingly analytical that you always feel safe with their decisions. Being a member of the Armed Forces or a mountaineer.....again evoking that feeling of safety (albeit a more physical kind of safety). Men just don't operate as smartly, basing most of their romantic decisions on the fancy shell, hoping there will something inside, as opposed to selecting the core, and being willing to settle for a less fancy shell.
Look around. It's not just musicians who date women more attractive than they. It's a pattern that doesn't discriminate by trade or occupation.
And I don't think Ben is really an exterior 3. He just geeks himself up so much with his silly glasses and haircut, that he detracts from his nice looks.
Sorry if I sounded grumpy. I'm not at all grumpy. I'm just a bitter 39 year old. :-)
Whoa! My last sentence was purely tongue in cheek. I think you know me better than that...
Without knowing either of them personally, its entirely possible that he is too good for her! (despite being genetically challenged) <---again, tongue in cheek