Death Cab For Cutie - Plans

I first heard about Death Cab For Cutie a year ago through the side project known as The Postal Service. I absolutely loved The Postal Service album so I tried out DCFC’s "The Photo Album”, and while I liked it, I didn’t love it and my exploration kid of stalled. But with the immense buzz surrounding this release, I decided to give it a listen and see what I might be missing. The first track (“Marching Bands Of Manhattan”) jumps up and grabbed me softly and immediately. The lyrics and melody struck a chord with me, and I was done from there. “Soul Meets Body” is the albums first single and video and is getting a decent amount of play through both media channels. It’s catchy and driven while still remaining timid, and it works on every level. The album is stellar from start to finish, but a few tracks stuck their heads above the crowd for me. “I Will Follow You Into The Dark” is a haunting, simple and sweet love song that breaks the band down to their bare essence. With just a guitar and a voice, the band removes any doubt that might exist about their skill and craftsmanship. After a trinity of up-tempo tunes, the band finishes off this release with what might be the strongest three tracks on the disc. “What Sarah Said” is an absolute masterpiece with a piano intro that lets you know straight from the start that you are in for something special. “What Sarah Said” is a truly heartfelt and solemn redefinition of what it means to love and to be loved. “Brothers On A Hotel Bed” and “Stable Song” continue with the more laid back mood and round out what is a near flawless record. This album just narrowly missed my top ten list for the year, and even listening to it now, I think I may have misjudged. Without a doubt Plans is a must-buy for the year and a great album from the first beat to the last. A lot of buzz and a lot or pressure can often times result in a sub-par record, but Death Cab For Cutie come out shining and playing from the mountain high. This is simply a great release. [www.deathcabforcutie.com]