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The Decemberists

The Decemberists

art rock

United States Est. 2000

"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."

Quick Start

A good place to start with The Decemberists is…

The Crane Wife

The Crane Wife

2006
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Career Arc

The Decemberists's discography from 2001 to 2018

2001 2009 2018
5 Songs (2001) Castaways and Cutouts (2002) Her Majesty the Decemberi... (2003) The Tain (2004) Billy Liar (2004) Picaresque (2005) Sixteen Military Wives (2005) The Crane Wife (2006) Picaresqueties (2006) Connect Sets (2006) Always the Bridesmaid, Vo... (2008) Always the Bridesmaid, Vo... (2008) Always the Bridesmaid, Vo... (2008) The Hazards of Love (2009) The King Is Dead (2011) ITunes Session (2011) Long Live the King (2011) We All Raise Our Voices t... (2012) What a Terrible World, Wh... (2015) Florasongs (2015)
The Decemberists stand as a vital voice in contemporary music, carving out a space where storytelling and theatricality intertwine to create an immersive experience.
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. By embracing literary themes and historical references, they challenge the boundaries of songwriting and elevate the listener's journey beyond mere entertainment.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.

Full discography

The Decemberists's albums in order, from earliest releases to latest.

22 releases • 12 albums • 5 EPS • 2001–2018
Type:

EPs ()

ITunes Session album by The Decemberists

ITunes Session

2011

Long Live the King album by The Decemberists

Long Live the King

2011

Picaresqueties album by The Decemberists

Picaresqueties

2006

Connect Sets album by The Decemberists

Connect Sets

2006

5 Songs album by The Decemberists

5 Songs

2001

Singles ()

Always the Bridesmaid, Volume III: Record Year for Rainfall album by The Decemberists

Always the Bridesmaid, Volume III: Record Year for Rainfall

2008

Always the Bridesmaid, Volume II: Days of Elaine album by The Decemberists

Always the Bridesmaid, Volume II: Days of Elaine

2008

Always the Bridesmaid, Volume I: Valerie Plame album by The Decemberists

Always the Bridesmaid, Volume I: Valerie Plame

2008

Sixteen Military Wives album by The Decemberists

Sixteen Military Wives

2005

Billy Liar album by The Decemberists

Billy Liar

2004

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Timeline

How their sound evolved over time

Frequently Asked Questions

What does The Decemberists sound like?

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. Rooted in art rock. Start with The Crane Wife.

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.

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.

How many albums does The Decemberists have?

The Decemberists has 22 releases in their discography, including 12 albums and 5 EPs.

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