The Decemberists are a folk rock band that has captured the hearts of many with their storytelling and unique sound. Since their formation in 2000, they have released eight studio albums and have become known for their evocative lyrics and unconventional instrumentation. From indie hits to chart-topping classics, the band has amassed a large fan base and has left an indelible mark on the music scene.
In this article, we will be exploring the top 10 best songs by The Decemberists of all time. We will delve into the stories behind the songs, the musical arrangements, and the reasons why they have stood the test of time. Whether you are a long-time fan of the band or a newcomer to their music, this article is sure to provide insight into some of their most popular and beloved songs. Join us as we take a journey through the musical world of The Decemberists and explore their top hits.
10. The Sporting Life
“The Sporting Life” is a compelling and haunting song by The Decemberists, featured on their album “Picaresque”. The track tells the story of a jockey who is disillusioned with his life and has become addicted to drugs, eventually leading to his downfall. The band’s signature use of literary imagery and storytelling is on full display in this track, with frontman Colin Meloy’s evocative lyrics painting a vivid picture of the jockey’s tragic life. The music itself is a mixture of haunting guitar riffs, pounding drums, and soaring vocal harmonies, perfectly capturing the sense of desperation and melancholy that permeates the song. “The Sporting Life” is a standout track in The Decemberists’ discography, showcasing the band’s ability to create rich and complex narratives within their music. It’s a song that will stay with you long after the final notes have faded away.
9. Sixteen Military Wives
“Sixteen Military Wives” is an energetic and politically charged song by The Decemberists, featured on their album “Picaresque”. The track is a biting commentary on the Bush administration and their handling of the Iraq War, with the band using catchy melodies and clever lyrics to deliver their message. The song tells the story of sixteen military wives who are left behind by their husbands, who have been deployed to fight in the war. The band’s use of horns and strings adds to the song’s upbeat and catchy sound, creating a sense of urgency that matches the urgency of the lyrics. “Sixteen Military Wives” is a standout track in The Decemberists’ discography, showcasing the band’s ability to infuse their music with political commentary while still creating something that is both catchy and enjoyable to listen to. It’s a song that is both thought-provoking and fun, and one that is sure to stick in your head long after the music has stopped.
8. Billy Liar
“Billy Liar” is a whimsical and melancholic song by The Decemberists, featured on their album “Her Majesty The Decemberists”. The track tells the story of Billy Liar, a dreamer who constantly invents new stories to escape his mundane life. The band’s use of intricate guitar riffs and delicate harmonies adds to the song’s wistful and dreamy sound, perfectly capturing the sense of longing and melancholy that permeates the lyrics. Frontman Colin Meloy’s distinctive voice is on full display in this track, his tender delivery adding a sense of vulnerability to the character of Billy Liar. “Billy Liar” is a standout track in The Decemberists’ discography, showcasing the band’s ability to create complex and compelling characters within their music. It’s a song that invites the listener to escape into a world of imagination and dreams, and one that will resonate with anyone who has ever longed for something more in life.
7. Apology Song
“Apology Song” is a heartfelt and emotional track by The Decemberists, featured on their album “Her Majesty The Decemberists”. The song is a stripped-down acoustic ballad that tells the story of a narrator who has hurt someone they care about and is seeking forgiveness. Frontman Colin Meloy’s tender vocals and gentle guitar strumming add to the song’s intimate and personal sound, creating a sense of vulnerability that is palpable. The lyrics are simple yet powerful, with the narrator expressing their remorse and the hope that their apology will be accepted. “Apology Song” is a standout track in The Decemberists’ discography, showcasing the band’s ability to create deeply emotional and personal music. It’s a song that speaks to the universal experience of making mistakes and seeking forgiveness, and one that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever had to apologize for something they’ve done.
6. The Perfect Crime Number 2
“The Perfect Crime Number 2” is a dark and brooding song by The Decemberists, featured on their album “The Crane Wife”. The track tells the story of a man who is plotting a murder, and the intricate planning that goes into the perfect crime. The band’s use of haunting guitar riffs and driving drums adds to the song’s ominous and foreboding sound, creating a sense of tension that matches the subject matter. Frontman Colin Meloy’s vocals are both menacing and captivating, perfectly conveying the character’s descent into madness. “The Perfect Crime Number 2” is a standout track in The Decemberists’ discography, showcasing the band’s ability to create complex and compelling narratives within their music. It’s a song that explores the darker side of human nature and the lengths that people will go to achieve their goals, and one that is sure to leave a lasting impression on the listener.
5. Here I Dreamt I Was An Architect
“Here I Dreamt I Was an Architect” is a dreamy and nostalgic song by The Decemberists, featured on their album “Castaways and Cutouts”. The track tells the story of a narrator who is reminiscing about a past relationship and the dreams they once shared. The band’s use of delicate guitar riffs and gentle harmonies adds to the song’s whimsical and nostalgic sound, perfectly capturing the sense of longing and wistfulness that permeates the lyrics. Frontman Colin Meloy’s distinctive voice is at its best in this track, his tender delivery adding a sense of vulnerability to the narrator’s memories. “Here I Dreamt I Was an Architect” is a standout track in The Decemberists’ discography, showcasing the band’s ability to create music that is both intimate and universal. It’s a song that speaks to the universal experience of longing for something that is out of reach, and one that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever looked back on a past relationship with a mix of nostalgia and regret.
4. Once In My Life
“Once In My Life” is a hopeful and uplifting song by The Decemberists, featured on their album “I’ll Be Your Girl”. The track is a triumphant anthem that celebrates the power of perseverance and the strength of the human spirit. The band’s use of driving drums and soaring vocals adds to the song’s powerful and anthemic sound, creating a sense of momentum that matches the lyrics. Frontman Colin Meloy’s vocals are both impassioned and inspiring, perfectly conveying the message of hope and resilience that runs throughout the song. “Once In My Life” is a standout track in The Decemberists’ discography, showcasing the band’s ability to create music that is both uplifting and deeply emotional. It’s a song that speaks to the universal experience of overcoming adversity and finding strength in the face of hardship, and one that is sure to leave the listener feeling inspired and empowered.
3. The Engine Driver
“The Engine Driver” is a poignant and evocative song by The Decemberists, featured on their album “Picaresque”. The track tells the story of an engine driver who is reflecting on his life and the choices he has made. The band’s use of intricate guitar riffs and delicate harmonies adds to the song’s wistful and reflective sound, perfectly capturing the sense of nostalgia and regret that permeates the lyrics. Frontman Colin Meloy’s distinctive voice is on full display in this track, his tender delivery adding a sense of vulnerability to the character of the engine driver. “The Engine Driver” is a standout track in The Decemberists’ discography, showcasing the band’s ability to create complex and compelling characters within their music. It’s a song that invites the listener to reflect on their own choices and the paths they have taken in life, and one that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever looked back on their past with a mix of nostalgia and regret.
2. Down By The River
“Down By The Water” is a haunting and mesmerizing song by The Decemberists, featured on their album “The King is Dead”. The track tells the story of a drowning victim, and the haunting sound of the music perfectly matches the dark subject matter. The band’s use of eerie guitar riffs and the mournful harmonica adds to the song’s ominous and foreboding sound, creating a sense of tension that matches the lyrics. Frontman Colin Meloy’s vocals are both ethereal and captivating, perfectly conveying the sense of loss and longing that permeates the lyrics. “Down By The Water” is a standout track in The Decemberists’ discography, showcasing the band’s ability to create music that is both powerful and deeply emotional. It’s a song that speaks to the universal experience of loss and the overwhelming grief that can come with it, and one that is sure to leave the listener feeling moved and introspective.
1. O Valencia
“O Valencia” is an energetic and catchy song by The Decemberists, featured on their album “The Crane Wife”. The track tells the story of two lovers who are caught up in a whirlwind of danger and intrigue, with the band’s use of intricate guitar riffs and driving drums adding to the song’s sense of urgency and momentum. Frontman Colin Meloy’s vocals are both powerful and emotive, perfectly conveying the sense of danger and passion that permeates the lyrics. The song’s infectious melody and catchy chorus make it a standout track in The Decemberists’ discography, showcasing the band’s ability to create music that is both catchy and meaningful. “O Valencia” is a song that speaks to the universal experience of being swept up in a passionate and dangerous love affair, and one that is sure to leave the listener feeling energized and exhilarated.
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.
