11 Arcade Fire Songs to Listen to | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Entertainment

11 Arcade Fire Songs to Listen to

While we wait for another Arcade Fire album, here are some of their best songs.

65
11 Arcade Fire Songs to Listen to
Stereogum

It's been three whole years since the last time we've heard from the Montreal-based band Arcade Fire. Three cold, long years without any new music, but if history has been any indicator- we could be seeing new music very soon. Since Funeral, Arcade Fire albums have been released every three years, suggesting that another album could potentially be in the works.

Aside from the speculation on my part, new songs have been debuted during an impromptu show in Paris (though nothing official,sadly), and several members of the band have said in interviews that a new album is just over the horizon. All of those bits of information can be found here.

Arcade Fire has become one of my favorite bands in recent history. They remind me of a suburban choir of angels reciting their views of the world we've created. (How's that for an exaggeration?) What I'm saying is that their larger than life sound is ultimately what has drawn me, and many others, to their music.

Though the new album has not yet arrived, the band has an entire selection of music for us to listen to while we wait. Here are 11 Arcade Fire songs to listen to so that we may ease over the next few months.

1. Sprawl II (Mountains Beyond Mountains)

Everyone needs more happy songs in their life. Sprawl II has an addicting beat and killer synth to make this a song that is impossible to sit still to. Regine's lyrical and vocal work only complement the song, letting us know that its okay to unwind and be yourself.


2. Keep The Car Running

Ever find that the music in a song is sometimes more catchy than the lyrics them self? Keep The Car Running is a prime example of that, keeping the listener paying attention to every little detail. The mandolin, the strings, the pizzicato, it all shows Arcade Fire's ability to pick up any instrument and roll with it.

3. No Cars Go

No Cars Go is a prime example of that larger than life feel I was referring to earlier. The long strokes from the strings and accordion mixed with the rapid fire drum beats feels like an orchestra gone off the rails. Throw in the choir like vocals from the band and you get goosebumps. Its very simple math really.


4. Porno

This song is a hidden gem for me. It shows Arcade Fire's ability to produce a meaning in a song that is laced with creativity. I couldn't name many songs with the same theme, and the fact that Arcade Fire has managed to deliver it with such emotion only improves the song.


5. The Suburbs

Arcade Fire is known for including an element of nostalgia in their songs. The Suburbs is completely covered in this feeling and it makes the song that much better. This piece definitely brings me back to the days of my childhood, playing with the neighborhood kids at the park. Its not a sad feeling, but then again, its also not a happy one.


6. Suburban War

Definitely the sad companion to The Suburbs, Suburban War explores the darker side of growing up. The somber melody is perfect for reflection alongside the very reflective lyrics. As we grow up, people grow apart and change. It was never our fault or anyone else's, but we still watched it happen. The fact that Arcade Fire was able to capture that in a song is nothing short of beautiful.


7. Neighborhood #1 (Tunnels)

Probably my favorite Arcade Fire song of all time, Neighborhood #1 feels like magic for the ears. Every note, every line comes across as dramatic even when the song slows down. Arcade Fire's baroque sound really comes to life in this piece as it compliments the still life of whatever resides in your surroundings or imagination.


8. Half Light II (No Celebration)

If there was ever a song I wanted to be played during shots of nature, it would be this one. Half Light II gives the sensation of flying over the landscape with drawn out notes and a catchy beat. The lyrics also deliver a bitter sweet feel to the song, showcasing a sense of loss. Somehow it is appropriate when talking about nature.


9. Intervention

When I first heard this song, the image of an old church popped into my head, with Sunday morning worshipers singing their hearts out. When I heard the song was actually recorded in a church, it all made sense to me. The organ is dominant in this song with every other element of the song dancing around it.


10. Reflektor

This song was my first exposure to the band, and it is very evident why it had me coming back for more. The entirety of this song feels like one large celebration. The drums and saxophone, mixed with an electrifying guitar riff really give this song a modern disco feel. It reminds me of Mardi Gras or Carnival, where everyone is all dressed up and on the street having a good time.


11. Wake Up

Before I die, I have to see this song preformed live. It is simply too perfect for the occasion. Every time I see a video of this song preformed in concert, it gives me chills. I can only imagine what it must feel like to witness this in the flesh. The vocals feel like they were meant to be heard by the world because there is so much heart in this song. Along side the instrumentals, it seems to get louder as it bursts into the last few minutes of the song, of which I can only describe as fireworks.


Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

17592
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

7522
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

5512
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

4785
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments