Death Cab For Cutie - Narrow Stairs

- Released: May 2008
- Format: standard album (CD or download)

- Songwriting: 7
- Performance: 8
- Recording: 7
- First Impression: 5
- Staying Power: 7

"Narrow Stairs" tries to be more progressive and open minded than previous releases, and succeeds apart from a couple of missteps.  Fans who expect something that builds upon previous releases such as "Plans" or "Transatlanticism" will be disappointed.  Admittedly this is not an easily accessible album, and in fact there is not much in the way of radio-friendly pop at all.  However, repeated listening will reveal some very clever arrangements and subtle details.

Suggested sample track: "Bixby Canyon Bridge"

Recommendation: if you can't think outside of the box of verse-verse-chorus-verse, then stay away from "Narrow Stairs".  If you want something a little different, then try listening (and re-listening) to a few tracks.