What is the best The Decemberists album to start with?

The best album to start with is "The Crane Wife" (2006). It's the most representative of what makes The Decemberists worth hearing.

What are the best The Decemberists albums?

The essential The Decemberists albums include "5 Songs" (2001), "Castaways and Cutouts" (2002), "Her Majesty the Decemberists" (2003), "Billy Liar" (2004) and "The Tain" (2004).

How many albums does The Decemberists have?

The Decemberists has 27 releases in their discography, including 10 albums and 9 EPs.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0

The Decemberists

Q: Who is The Decemberists for?

If you're into art rock, The Decemberists is worth your time. The Decemberists create a rich tapestry of sound that pulsates with intricate melodies and dynamic shifts, immersing listeners in a cinematic narrative journey marked by lush instrumentation and thoughtful storytelling.

The Decemberists create a rich tapestry of sound that pulsates with intricate melodies and dynamic shifts, immersing listeners in a cinematic narrative journey marked by lush instrumentation and thoughtful storytelling.

art rock

United States Est. 2000

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Start here

The album

The Crane Wife album by The Decemberists

The Crane Wife (2006)

This album showcases The Decemberists' narrative style and rich instrumentation, providing a cohesive listening experience for new listeners.

The song

“Sixteen Military Wives” from Picaresque

This track features an engaging hook and encapsulates the band's unique blend of storytelling and melodic craftsmanship, serving as a strong introduction.

See the full guide

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

1

"The Crane Wife 3" — from The Crane Wife (2006)

establishes the sonic palette early
2

"The Hazards of Love 1 (The Prettiest Whistles Won’t Wrestle the Thistles Undone)" — from The Hazards of Love (2009)

establishes the sonic palette early
3

"Don't Carry It All" — from The King Is Dead (2011)

establishes the sonic palette early
4

"The Infanta" — from Picaresque (2005)

establishes the sonic palette early
5

"E. Watson" — from Long Live the King (2011)

establishes the sonic palette early
6

"Oceanside" — from 5 Songs (2001)

establishes the sonic palette early

About The Decemberists

The Decemberists stand as a vital voice in contemporary music, carving out a space where storytelling and theatricality intertwine to create an immersive experience.

Their ability to conjure vivid narratives has shifted the landscape of indie rock, inviting listeners to engage not only with sound but with tales that resonate on an emotional level.

Their ability to conjure vivid narratives has shifted the landscape of indie rock, inviting listeners to engage not only with sound but with tales that resonate on an emotional level. By embracing literary themes and historical references, they challenge the boundaries of songwriting and elevate the listener's journey beyond mere entertainment. Their approach is marked by a commitment to meticulous craftsmanship, often layering rich instrumentation with varying dynamics that reflect the intricacies of their stories. This innovative use of orchestration—melding folk elements with art rock—creates a textured backdrop that feels both intimate and grandiose, allowing each song to breathe and expand in unexpected directions. The Decemberists' performances often embody this spirit, transforming concerts into theatrical experiences that captivate audiences and foster a sense of community. Lyrically, they often explore themes of love, loss, and adventure, weaving intricate narratives that balance sincerity with a playful sense of irony. Their storytelling approach tends toward the impressionistic, painting scenes that evoke emotions without relying on straightforward confessions, making each song feel like a chapter in a larger tale. Whether through whimsical characters or poignant historical moments, their lyrics encourage listeners to reflect deeply while simultaneously enjoying the sonic experience.

10 studio albums· 27 total releases· 2 decades· United States