Codes and Keys is the latest from the Washington natives Death Cab for Cutie.
One thing I like about Death Cab for Cutie is their ability to tinker with their sound in subtle ways but remain consistent. Ben Gibbard's unmistakeable vocals makes it difficult for Death Cab to lose their character and fairy tale inspiring charm.
"It can never bring you down," Gibbard utters in Stay Young, Go Dancing. Taken out of context but holds true when talking about Codes and Keys.
Initial toughts:
- me likey
- I need a lounge chair and cushion
What they've done different is use more computer generated sounds and drums for some tracks. Lots of atmospheric backgrounds and much more production than their previous albums. It makes for a fuller sound but lacks some of the organic indie sounds that made Death Cab what they are today. But hey, everyone needs to evolve. The only thing bothering me about it is a slight resemblance to what The Postal Service has done.
The single You Are a Tourist features an epic guitar riff that does put "a burning in your heart." It is rightfully THE single off this album. Seems like it was written to be just that. I don't know if that's a good thing.
The title track Codes and Keys comes up as number two on the listing and introduces the album how it should be after the more intro sounding Home is a Fire.
It's apparent that thought was put into the shaping of this album. The mainly instrumental Unobstructed Views lands on track six of the 11 song release, making for a well crafted interlude. This is an album not just some songs that were put together. An album flows and captivates with the proper breaks and pump ups. It's a journey into the sound, and this album does a great job of that.
As just songs the album is a little melancholy. At times monotonous but not painful. Also, nothing over the top. Just simple easy listening solid music.
Stay Young, Go Dancing is the perfect song to close off on. Upbeat, elaborate and smooth. It sums up the album and leaves you hanging at the end. I don't like conclusions because it leaves the listener satisfied. In music you should never be satisfied. You should always want more.
Dig it (not just dig but recommend)
Choice: Codes and Keys, You Are a Tourist, Monday Morning, St. Peters Cathedral, Stay Young, Go Dancing
Bogus: Home Is a Fire (only because it's not really a song as much as it is an intro)
