The Suburbs
by Arcade Fire

Struck a real nerve back in the day, so recognizable on many levels. A treasure!

K

From SomethingSpecial 07/01/2025 12:12 | #309830

Considered by many to be Arcade Fire's definitive statement, it is easy to see why, as every song unearths an underlying beauty that puts the listener in a trance-like state, with gorgeous soundscapes, songwriting, instrumentation, and vocals that will forever stand the test of time. As with many concept albums, there isn't a specific highlight to be found. Instead, all songs shine and stand out on this 2010 masterpiece.

Album of the year at the 2011 Grammys

An interesting journey both in the story of the album and as the listener taken on that journey

Solid

Another musical masterpiece from Arcade Fire that gives us so much content to explore and enjoy. Lyrically, this album is phenomenal with a clear theme running through the whole release that binds the record together. This makes for a very cohesive listen for us and when it is paired with this more pop style they are going for it makes for a very effective fusion. The guitars are brilliant on this record as well and lead the music in style on every track. The simple but effective song structure lays the foundation and then the group build on top of that each adding their own nuances and styles. This makes the album personal and more easily comprehensible to us making it their most accessible release. The way they blend one song to the next is staggering as well and they never break stride right up until the end. However, this is a bloated release and I do think the record over stays its welcome. Songs like Wasted Hours and Month Of May are skippable in my opinion and are only decent songs. There is quite a dip in form in the middle of the record which is rectified by the conclusion of the record but it still drags it down. Overall, a phenomenal release by Arcade Fire but I do think it has a few issues on here which keeps it away from being their greatest release.

One of the greatest alternative rock albums of the 21st century. Unbelievable lyrically and thematically and shows the power of greatly written guitar music that is presented in a way that has a unique quality that Arcade Fire can be proud of.

From arturguerra 03/31/2022 18:31 | #283655

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I live in the suburbs, so maybe this album should offend me. I can’t stay mad at Arcade Fire for long though.

One of the best bands at writing songs that send a clear message without being trite or obvious. Plus the backing power of a pseudo-symphony. Mountains Beyond Mountains is in the pantheon of great songs.

This record has a theme, lyrically and musically, and it’s superbly done.