39 Facts About The Decemberists

The Origins of The Decemberists

The Decemberists, an indie rock band from Portland, Oregon, have captivated audiences with their unique sound and storytelling. Here are some intriguing facts about this eclectic group.

1. The band formed in 2000, led by singer and songwriter Colin Meloy.
2. Their name, The Decemberists, is inspired by the Decembrist revolt in Russia in 1825.
3. Colin Meloy was previously in a band called Tarkio before starting The Decemberists.
4. The original lineup included Colin Meloy, Chris Funk, Jenny Conlee, Nate Query, and Ezra Holbrook.
5. Their first EP, "5 Songs," was self-released in 2001.

Musical Style and Influences

The Decemberists are known for their distinctive blend of folk, rock, and indie music. Their lyrics often tell elaborate stories, drawing from various historical and literary sources.

6. Their music is heavily influenced by British folk rock bands like Fairport Convention and Steeleye Span.
7. Colin Meloy has cited Morrissey and The Smiths as significant influences on his songwriting.
8. The band's lyrics often reference historical events, folklore, and literature.
9. They are known for using a wide range of instruments, including the accordion, upright bass, and bouzouki.
10. The Decemberists' sound has been described as "baroque pop" due to its elaborate arrangements and classical influences.

Albums and Notable Songs

The Decemberists have released several critically acclaimed albums, each showcasing their evolving sound and storytelling prowess.

11. Their debut album, "Castaways and Cutouts," was released in 2002.
12. "Her Majesty the Decemberists," their second album, came out in 2003.
13. "Picaresque," released in 2005, includes fan favorites like "The Mariner's Revenge Song."
14. "The Crane Wife," their major-label debut, was released in 2006 and received widespread acclaim.
15. "The Hazards of Love," a rock opera, was released in 2009 and tells a continuous story throughout the album.

Unique Performances and Tours

The Decemberists are known for their theatrical live performances, often incorporating elaborate stage setups and audience participation.

16. They have performed at major festivals like Coachella, Bonnaroo, and Lollapalooza.
17. Their 2007 tour featured a stage set designed to look like a Victorian-era theater.
18. During live shows, they often encourage the audience to participate in sing-alongs and other interactive elements.
19. In 2011, they performed on "The Colbert Report," where they played a game of "Guitar Shred-Off" with Stephen Colbert.
20. The band has also performed with symphony orchestras, adding a classical element to their live shows.

Collaborations and Side Projects

Members of The Decemberists have been involved in various side projects and collaborations, showcasing their versatility as musicians.

21. Colin Meloy has released several solo albums, including a collection of Morrissey covers.
22. Jenny Conlee has played with other bands like Black Prairie and Casey Neill & The Norway Rats.
23. Chris Funk has produced albums for other artists and worked as a session musician.
24. Nate Query has collaborated with artists like Laura Veirs and Michael Hurley.
25. The band contributed a song, "One Engine," to the soundtrack of the film "The Hunger Games."

Awards and Recognition

The Decemberists have received numerous accolades for their music, solidifying their place in the indie rock scene.

26. Their album "The King Is Dead" debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart in 2011.
27. They have been nominated for several Grammy Awards, including Best Rock Performance.
28. "The Crane Wife" was named one of the best albums of 2006 by multiple publications.
29. In 2011, they won the Libera Award for Best Live Act.
30. Rolling Stone included "The Hazards of Love" in its list of the 50 Best Albums of 2009.

Fun and Lesser-Known Facts

Beyond their music, The Decemberists have some quirky and lesser-known facts that fans might find interesting.

31. Colin Meloy is an avid birdwatcher and has written a children's book series called "Wildwood Chronicles."
32. The band's name was almost "The December Brides" before they settled on The Decemberists.
33. They once performed a 24-minute song called "The Tain," based on an Irish myth.
34. The Decemberists have a tradition of playing a cover song at the end of their concerts.
35. They have a song called "The Perfect Crime #2," but there is no "The Perfect Crime #1."

Impact and Legacy

The Decemberists have left a lasting impact on the indie music scene, influencing countless artists and continuing to captivate audiences with their storytelling.

36. Their unique blend of music and narrative has inspired bands like Fleet Foxes and The Lumineers.
37. They have a dedicated fan base known as "The Decemberists Army."
38. The band's music has been featured in TV shows like "Parks and Recreation" and "Mad Men."
39. Despite lineup changes over the years, The Decemberists continue to tour and release new music, maintaining their status as one of indie rock's most beloved bands.

The Decemberists' Legacy

The Decemberists have carved out a unique spot in the music world. Their blend of folk, rock, and literary storytelling sets them apart. From their early days in Portland to headlining major festivals, they've consistently pushed boundaries. Albums like "Picaresque" and "The Crane Wife" showcase their knack for weaving intricate tales with catchy tunes.

Their dedication to craftsmanship and authenticity resonates with fans. Whether it's a sea shanty or a historical ballad, each song feels like a journey. The band's lineup changes haven't slowed them down; instead, they've evolved, keeping their sound fresh.

For those new to The Decemberists or longtime fans, their music offers a rich tapestry of stories and melodies. Dive into their discography, and you'll find a treasure trove of musical gems. The Decemberists' legacy is one of creativity, passion, and timeless music.