Wolf Parade is a Canadian indie rock band that has been active since 2003. Known for their unique sound and storytelling lyrics, the band has amassed a loyal following over the years. Their music has been described as a mix of post-punk, art-rock, and indie pop, with influences ranging from David Bowie to Joy Division.
With five studio albums under their belt, Wolf Parade has produced a plethora of standout tracks. In this article, we’ll be counting down their top 10 best songs of all time. From their early days with “I’ll Believe in Anything” to their latest release, “Against the Day,” these songs showcase the band’s evolution and range. So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to their music, join us as we explore the best of Wolf Parade.
1. This Heart’s on Fire
“This Heart’s on Fire” is a powerful and energetic track by Wolf Parade, and it’s widely considered to be one of their most iconic songs. Released in 2005, the song features a driving rhythm section, soaring guitar lines, and a memorable chorus that’s guaranteed to get stuck in your head. The lyrics are full of vivid imagery and passionate declarations, with singer Spencer Krug proclaiming, “This heart’s on fire, this heart’s on fire, this heart’s on fire, with love!” The song’s upbeat tempo and anthemic feel make it a favorite among fans, and it’s often performed as a crowd sing-along at the band’s live shows. “This Heart’s on Fire” remains a timeless classic in the indie rock canon, and it’s a must-listen for anyone looking to experience the best of Wolf Parade’s music.
2. Cloud Shadow on the Mountain
“Cloud Shadow on the Mountain” is a haunting and atmospheric track by Wolf Parade, and it’s a standout from their 2010 album “Expo 86.” The song features an intricate interplay between guitar and keyboard, creating a mesmerizing sonic landscape that’s both ethereal and ominous. The lyrics are enigmatic and dreamlike, with singer Dan Boeckner singing lines like “I saw you walking in the misty rain, you were holding hands with someone who looked the same.” As the song builds to its climax, the instrumentation grows more intense, creating a sense of tension and release. “Cloud Shadow on the Mountain” is a masterclass in mood and atmosphere, and it’s a testament to Wolf Parade’s ability to create immersive sonic worlds.
3. Dear Sons and Daughters of Hungry Ghosts
“Dear Sons and Daughters of Hungry Ghosts” is a lively and infectious track by Wolf Parade, and it’s a fan favorite from their 2005 debut album, “Apologies to the Queen Mary.” The song features a propulsive rhythm section, jangly guitar riffs, and a catchy chorus that’s impossible not to sing along to. The lyrics are both poetic and enigmatic, with singer Spencer Krug crooning lines like “The weight of the sun, I’m calling everyone” and “The ghosts of the riverbed are calling out our names.” The song’s energy and optimism make it a standout in Wolf Parade’s discography, and it’s often cited as one of their most memorable tracks. “Dear Sons and Daughters of Hungry Ghosts” is a must-listen for anyone looking to experience the infectious joy of Wolf Parade’s music.
4. It’s a Curse
“It’s a Curse” is a brooding and introspective track by Wolf Parade, and it’s a standout from their 2005 debut album, “Apologies to the Queen Mary.” The song features a driving beat, angular guitar riffs, and haunting keyboard lines, creating a moody and atmospheric sonic landscape. The lyrics are introspective and self-critical, with singer Dan Boeckner singing lines like “I’m a wicked messenger, I never learned how to make a sound” and “I’ve got no insight left, I’m in the dark and I’m dead.” As the song builds to its climax, the instrumentation grows more intense, creating a sense of catharsis and release. “It’s a Curse” is a powerful and evocative track, and it’s a testament to Wolf Parade’s ability to create deeply emotional music.
5. Kissing the Beehive
“Kissing the Beehive” is a sprawling and epic track by Wolf Parade, and it’s a standout from their 2008 album, “At Mount Zoomer.” The song features a complex arrangement, with shifting time signatures, intricate guitar work, and a sweeping string section. The lyrics are enigmatic and surreal, with singer Spencer Krug singing lines like “I’ll never see my face in the murder pages” and “I woke up in a dragon’s lair, with a smell of charred flesh in the air.” As the song progresses, it builds to a cathartic climax, with the instrumentation growing more intense and frenetic. “Kissing the Beehive” is a tour de force of songwriting and musicianship, and it’s a testament to Wolf Parade’s ability to create grandiose and ambitious music.
6. The Grey Estates
“The Grey Estates” is a moody and atmospheric track by Wolf Parade, and it’s a standout from their 2006 EP, “Wolf Parade.” The song features a driving beat, angular guitar riffs, and haunting keyboard lines, creating a tense and foreboding sonic landscape. The lyrics are cryptic and introspective, with singer Spencer Krug singing lines like “I feel like a ghost, I’m living in a movie of my own design” and “I’m trapped in the grey estates, and there’s no one left to save.” As the song builds to its climax, the instrumentation grows more intense, creating a sense of urgency and desperation. “The Grey Estates” is a powerful and haunting track, and it’s a testament to Wolf Parade’s ability to create deeply emotional music.
7. California Dreamer
“California Dreamer” is a dreamy and introspective track by Wolf Parade, and it’s a standout from their 2017 album, “Cry Cry Cry.” The song features a laid-back groove, shimmering guitar riffs, and ethereal vocal harmonies, creating a serene and contemplative sonic landscape. The lyrics are poetic and introspective, with singer Spencer Krug singing lines like “California dreamer, what did you find? Were you looking for a way out or a way to unwind?” As the song progresses, it builds to a soaring chorus, with the instrumentation growing more lush and expansive. “California Dreamer” is a testament to Wolf Parade’s ability to create beautiful and evocative music, and it’s a must-listen for anyone looking to experience the band’s more introspective side.
8. Grounds for Divorce
“Grounds for Divorce” is a lively and energetic track by Wolf Parade, and it’s a standout from their 2010 album, “Expo 86.” The song features a driving beat, jangly guitar riffs, and a catchy chorus that’s impossible not to sing along to. The lyrics are enigmatic and playful, with singer Dan Boeckner singing lines like “I’ll be the money, you’ll be the crime” and “You’re a trainwreck, but I wouldn’t love you if you changed.” As the song progresses, it builds to a frenetic climax, with the instrumentation growing more intense and explosive. “Grounds for Divorce” is a testament to Wolf Parade’s ability to create infectious and memorable music, and it’s a must-listen for anyone looking to experience the band’s more upbeat side.
9. You are a Runner and I Am My Father’s Son
“You are a Runner and I Am My Father’s Son” is a haunting and introspective track by Wolf Parade, and it’s a standout from their 2005 debut album, “Apologies to the Queen Mary.” The song features a moody and atmospheric arrangement, with swirling keyboards, intricate guitar work, and a driving beat. The lyrics are poetic and enigmatic, with singer Spencer Krug singing lines like “You are a runner with a stolen voice, and you are a symbol of all you’ve been through” and “I am my father’s son, his shadow weighs a ton.” As the song progresses, it builds to a cathartic climax, with the instrumentation growing more intense and frenzied. “You are a Runner and I Am My Father’s Son” is a powerful and emotional track, and it’s a testament to Wolf Parade’s ability to create deeply resonant music.
10. What Did My Lover Say? (It Always Had to Go This Way)
“What Did My Lover Say? (It Always Had to Go This Way)” is an explosive and anthemic track by Wolf Parade, and it’s a standout from their 2010 album, “Expo 86.” The song features a driving rhythm section, scorching guitar riffs, and a soaring chorus that’s guaranteed to get your blood pumping. The lyrics are enigmatic and confrontational, with singer Spencer Krug singing lines like “What did my lover say? She said you’re gonna rot in there, rot in there and play” and “It always had to go this way, I always knew I’d see you again someday.” As the song builds to its climax, the instrumentation grows more intense and chaotic, creating a sense of exhilaration and release. “What Did My Lover Say?” is a testament to Wolf Parade’s ability to create bold and powerful music, and it’s a must-listen for anyone looking to experience the band’s more explosive side.
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
