Death Cab For Cutie - Codes And Keys

• Gatefold
• Lyrics included

• Album Rating: 4.5/5 (Excellent)
• Sound Quality: 5/5 (Perfect)
• Packaging: 4.5/5 (Excellent)

For Death Cab's seventh studio album, Codes And Keys, lyricist Ben Gibbard took a different approach to his songwriting than in past efforts. This is an upbeat, life-affirming album through and through.

Musically, the album takes on a much more experimental form than we've seen from Gibbard and co. in the past. The production is phenomenal, intertwining Death Cab's excellent musicianship with new and exciting soundscapes that enhance the listening experience tenfold. For examples of this, look no further the opening track, "Home Is A Fire". The first single from the album, "You Are A Tourist", is almost over the top in its positive, upbeat energy. That said, it is not over the top, but somehow manages to balance itself perfectly within the album.

The vinyl is absolutely delicious. It is candy to the ears. Atlantic Records certainly did not waste the amazing production value of this album on cheap plastic; it's pressed on 180 gram vinyl that brings out all the sounds and musicianship wonderfully.

The packaging is excellently done as well. The two vinyl records are housed in a thick gatefold sleeve and come with lyrics on a separate sheet of paper.

If you're a fan of Death Cab For Cutie and the awesome power of vinyl, I urge you to pick up this record! Buy it here (Amazon): Codes & Keys