About this album

Sound: "A lush tapestry of intertwining melodies and introspective lyrics that capture a sense of longing and nostalgia."

Where they were

When Wolf Parade released Expo 86 in January 2010, they were on the heels of their critically acclaimed debut, Apologies to the Queen Mary. This album marked their return after a brief hiatus and showcased a more mature sound, solidifying their place in indie rock after establishing themselves as key players in the early 2000s Canadian music scene.

Why it matters

Expo 86 received positive reviews from critics, with outlets like Pitchfork praising its blend of adventurous sounds and lyrical depth. The album debuted at number 61 on the Billboard 200, indicating strong commercial performance for the band's follow-up release.

Essential tracks

  • "What Did My Lover Say? (It Always Had to Go This Way)" — This track encapsulates the album's emotional core, blending haunting melodies with reflective lyrics that explore themes of love and loss.
  • "Little Golden Age" — With its upbeat tempo and infectious hooks, this song captures the spirit of youthful optimism while juxtaposing it with underlying melancholy.
  • "Cave-o-Sapien" — The closing track masterfully combines layered instrumentals and evocative lyrics, creating an atmospheric experience that lingers long after listening.

Release Date

January 1, 2010

Artist Origin

Canada

Tracklist

  1. 1 Cloud Shadow on the Mountain 4:21
  2. 2 Palm Road 4:41
  3. 3 What Did My Lover Say? (It Always Had to Go This Way) 5:42
  4. 4 Little Golden Age 5:00
  5. 5 In the Direction of the Moon 5:46
  6. 6 Ghost Pressure 5:16
  7. 7 Pobody's Nerfect 5:49
  8. 8 Two Men in New Tuxedos 3:09
  9. 9 Oh You, Old Thing 5:46
  10. 10 Yulia 3:46
  11. 11 Cave-o-Sapien 6:18