'Allelujah! Don't Bend! Ascend!

Where they were

Released in 2012, 'Allelujah! Don't Bend! Ascend!' marked Godspeed You! Black Emperor's return after a nearly decade-long hiatus following their last studio album, 'Yanqui U.X.O.' in 2002. This album was pivotal as it reestablished the band's presence in the post-rock scene while showcasing their evolution in sound and thematic exploration.

Why it matters

'Allelujah! Don't Bend! Ascend!' received critical acclaim, debuting at number 12 on the Billboard 200 chart, making it the band's highest-charting album to date. Its blend of political commentary and profound sonic experimentation resonated widely, influencing not just fans but also contemporary post-rock artists seeking to explore similar thematic depths.

Essential tracks

• "Mladic" — Clocking in at nearly twenty minutes, 'Mladic' exemplifies the band's ability to build tension through gradual crescendos and layered instrumentation, encapsulating their signature style.
• "We Drift Like Worried Fire" — 'We Drift Like Worried Fire' features haunting strings and evocative soundscapes that reflect themes of anxiety and existential contemplation, embodying the album's overarching mood.
• "Their Helicopters’ Sing" — This track offers a contrasting brevity yet maintains a dense atmosphere, showcasing how Godspeed balances minimalist moments within their expansive compositions.