About this album

Sound: "A rich tapestry of Southwestern sounds blending indie folk, mariachi influences, and eclectic instrumentation."

Where they were

By the time 'Feast of Wire' was released in February 2003, Calexico had already gained attention with their previous albums, establishing themselves as pioneers of Americana-infused music. This album followed their critically acclaimed 'Hot Rail' and showcased a maturation in their sound, incorporating more diverse musical elements and collaborations.

Why it matters

'Feast of Wire' received critical acclaim and solidified Calexico's place in the indie music scene, debuting at number 14 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart. The album's unique blend of genres influenced a wave of artists exploring similar sounds, contributing to the resurgence of interest in Americana and roots music during the early 2000s.

Essential tracks

  • "Quattro (World Drifts In)" — This track captures the essence of the album with its haunting melodies and lush instrumentation, illustrating Calexico's ability to merge various cultural influences seamlessly.
  • "Black Heart" — With its evocative lyrics and stirring arrangement, 'Black Heart' stands out as a reflective piece that showcases the band's lyrical depth and emotional resonance.
  • "Güero Canelo" — 'Güero Canelo' exemplifies the playful spirit of the album through its upbeat tempo and lively brass arrangements, representing the band’s connection to their Southwestern roots.

Release Date

February 10, 2003

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Sunken Waltz 2:27
  2. 2 Quattro (World Drifts In) 4:37
  3. 3 Stucco 0:20
  4. 4 Black Heart 4:48
  5. 5 Pepita 2:36
  6. 6 Not Even Stevie Nicks… 2:43
  7. 7 Close Behind 2:51
  8. 8 Woven Birds 3:46
  9. 9 The Book and the Canal 1:44
  10. 10 Attack El Robot! Attack! 3:17
  11. 11 Across the Wire 3:26
  12. 12 Dub Latina 2:19
  13. 13 Güero Canelo 2:57
  14. 14 Whipping the Horse’s Eyes 1:24
  15. 15 Crumble 3:54
  16. 16 No Doze 4:21