The best Decemberists albums
17 records, ordered by how much they reward a first listen — not by chart position.
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The Crane Wife
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1
Her Majesty the Decemberists
2003
Whimsical storytelling intertwines with lush melodies and intricate arrangements, creating a distinctly theatrical soundscape.
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2
Florasongs
2015
A whimsical blend of folk-inflected melodies and intricate storytelling, evoking vivid imagery through lush arrangements.
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3
ITunes Session
2011
A vibrant collection of live renditions that blend theatrical storytelling with lush instrumentation and infectious melodies.
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4
I’ll Be Your Girl
2018
A vibrant blend of art rock and pop elements, layered with poignant lyrics and eclectic instrumentation that explores contemporary themes.
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5
The Queen of Hearts
2017
Folksy melodies intertwine with intricate storytelling, creating a rich tapestry of sound that reflects both nostalgia and contemporary themes.
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6
What a Terrible World, What a Beautiful World
2015
A tapestry of whimsical narratives and lyrical introspection woven into lush melodies and intricate arrangements.
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7
We All Raise Our Voices to the Air
2012
A tapestry of intricate storytelling woven through folk-infused melodies and spirited instrumentation, capturing the essence of human experience.
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8
Picaresqueties
2006
A whimsical blend of narrative storytelling and eclectic instrumentation creates a vibrant tapestry of sound that defies genre boundaries.
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9
The Tain
2004
An expansive narrative unfolds through intricate instrumentation and vivid storytelling, blending folk influences with art rock's theatricality.
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10
The Crane Wife
2006
A vivid tapestry of storytelling, blending folk-inspired melodies with theatrical art rock arrangements that evoke deep emotional landscapes.
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11
Connect Sets
2006
A whimsical blend of storytelling and melodic intricacies that showcase the band's literary influences and folk roots.
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12
Castaways and Cutouts
2002
A whimsical blend of folk-inspired melodies and narrative-driven lyrics that evoke a sense of nostalgia and yearning.
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13
5 Songs
2001
A whimsical blend of folk-infused art rock, marked by intricate storytelling and emotive melodies.
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14
Long Live the King
2011
An eclectic mix of art rock sounds, blending intricate storytelling with melodic experimentation and a touch of whimsy.
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15
Picaresque
2005
A whimsical tapestry of folk-inspired narratives interwoven with theatrical instrumentation and eclectic melodies.
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16
The King Is Dead
2011
A rich tapestry of folk-inspired melodies layered with introspective lyrics and dynamic instrumentation that evoke a sense of nostalgia.
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17
The Hazards of Love
2009
A theatrical rock opera weaving intricate narratives and lush instrumentation with a blend of folk and art rock elements.