Portland’s indie rock luminaries, The Decemberists, have always been a beacon of narrative depth and musical innovation. Formed in 2000 when lead vocalist Colin Meloy moved from Montana to Oregon, the band has undergone a remarkable evolution, marked by literary lyrics, eclectic instrumentation, and captivating live performances.
Meloy's journey began with the dissolution of his previous band, Tarkio. In Portland, he met bassist Nate Query, who introduced him to keyboardist Jenny Conlee. Alongside guitarist Chris Funk and a rotating roster of drummers, including John Moen, the group crafted a distinct sound that melded folk-pop with baroque elements, as showcased in their debut album Castaways and Cutouts (2002). This record set the stage for their signature style: narrative-driven songs infused with historical and fantastical themes.
Over the next few years, The Decemberists released a series of critically acclaimed albums. Her Majesty The Decemberists (2003) expanded their sound with horns and strings, while the EP The Tain (2004) ventured into progressive rock territory with its single, multi-movement composition. Picaresque (2005) continued their storytelling tradition with tales of spies, runaways, and seafarers, punctuated by theatrical live performances.
Their major-label debut, The Crane Wife (2006), proved that artistic integrity could coexist with commercial success. It combined elegant ballads and sprawling progressive-rock jams, securing the band’s place in indie rock’s upper echelon. Subsequent albums, including the rock opera The Hazards of Love (2009) and the chart-topping The King Is Dead (2011), showcased their versatility and narrative prowess.
Following a brief hiatus, The Decemberists returned with What a Terrible World, What a Beautiful World (2015) and the folk-rock project Offa Rex in collaboration with Olivia Chaney. Their last release, I’ll Be Your Girl (2018), experimented with synth-pop, reflecting their ongoing willingness to explore new musical landscapes.
Now, after a six-year gap, The Decemberists are back with As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again, a double album that synthesizes their diverse influences into a cohesive whole. The album features guest appearances from James Mercer (The Shins) and Mike Mills (R.E.M.), adding new dimensions to their sound. From the Byrds-like jangle of "Burial Ground" to the epic 19-minute closer "Joan in the Garden," inspired by Joan of Arc’s visions, the album is a testament to their enduring creativity.
To support the release, The Decemberists are embarking on an extensive 2024 tour, bringing their eclectic sound and theatrical stage presence to audiences across North America and Europe. Highlights include sold-out shows at Seattle’s Woodland Park Zoo Amphitheater and London’s All Points East festival. Fans can expect a setlist spanning their entire career, from early favorites to the new album’s standout tracks.
Tour Dates:
July 24, 2024: Sandy Amphitheater, Sandy, UT
July 26, 2024: KettleHouse Amphitheater, Missoula, MT
July 27, 2024: Spokane Pavilion, Spokane, WA
July 29, 2024: Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Vancouver, BC
July 31 & August 1, 2024: Woodland Park Zoo Amphitheater, Seattle, WA (Sold Out)
August 2, 2024: Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham, WA
August 3, 2024: McMenamins Edgefield, Troutdale, OR (Sold Out)
August 25, 2024: All Points East, London, UK
As The Decemberists continue to evolve, their commitment to storytelling and musical exploration remains unwavering. As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again is not just an album; it's a reaffirmation of their place in the pantheon of indie rock, a reminder that some bands are timeless, capable of capturing the imagination of both old fans and new generations alike.
Yorumlar