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Death Cab For Cutie

Something About Airplanes 10th Anniversary

Barsuk | 2008 | Reissue

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It hard to believe it’s been so long since Death Cab For Cutie released their first LP, Something About Airplanes, but this year marks the album’s ten-year anniversary. The occasion will be marked with a new re-release of the album, along with a special unreleased seven-song bonus disc of one of their first live performances from the legendary Crocodile Café in Seattle. Aside from some excellent live tracks, the album gives an insight into “the little independent band that could” and why they made it so big.

The early songs feature a raw version of Benjamin Gibbard’s unique vocals with Death Cab’s characteristic variation of instruments. In listening to Something About Airplanes, one is struck by the band’s ability to emote in their songs despite their somewhat jejune, flat sound. That’s not to say the music itself is lackluster. Quite the contrary, the songs are packed with a dark and despondent sensibility. The poetic tales of rejection and aborted affection in the lyrics marry well with the music and set the album apart.

The live bonus disc features classic cuts from the album such as “Your Bruise” and “Pictures in an Exhibition,” as well as other tracks like “State Street Residential.” The live recording is surprisingly good considering it’s the third show ever from the band, and the liner notes from Sean Nelson (of Harvey Danger) give a first person account of how it all began. The set also includes an interesting cover of The Smiths’ “Sweet and Tender Hooligan” (with Sean Nelson adding vocals) and a great version of “President of What.” The re-issue package is a must-have for any dedicated Death Cab fan and will be on many upcoming holiday wishlists.

Tim Needles