What makes Connect Sets by The Decemberists notable?

This EP helped to maintain momentum for The Decemberists during a pivotal time, garnering positive reviews from critics and fans alike. Its standout track 'O Valencia!' received significant airplay and contributed to the band's growing reputation for blending literary themes with catchy melodies, setting the stage for the success of 'The Crane Wife'. By the time 'Connect Sets' was released in January 2006, The Decemberists were emerging from their breakthrough album 'Picaresque', which had solidified their presence in the indie rock scene. This EP served as a transitional piece leading into their next full-length album, 'The Crane Wife', which would further elevate their narrative-driven approach to songwriting.

How many songs are on Connect Sets?

Connect Sets has 4 tracks, running approximately 24 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

Connect Sets

The Decemberists · 2006

24 min · 4 tracks · art rock

A whimsical blend of storytelling and melodic intricacies that showcase the band's literary influences and folk roots.

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Top tracks — play these first

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O Valencia! — This track combines upbeat instrumentation with poignant lyrics about love and loss, encapsulating the band's signature blend of whimsy and melancholy.
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The Perfect Crime #2 — With its intricate arrangement and storytelling lyrics, this song exemplifies The Decemberists' ability to create vivid narratives within their music.
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The Crane Wife 1 & 2 — This epic composition showcases the band's theatrical flair and thematic depth, serving as a precursor to their later acclaimed work.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

51 /100

Foothills

Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong storytelling and varied arrangements, maintaining interest across its brief runtime.

What we noticed

The first track, 'O Valencia!', features a prominent use of dual vocals that intertwine throughout the verses, creating a rich harmonic texture.
The EP closes with a cover of 'Please Daddy (Don't Get Drunk This Christmas)', which shifts the mood to a more somber and reflective tone compared to the preceding tracks.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.