More Death Cab, Less Cutie

After three records exploring the sentimental and the romantic, Death Cab for Cutie's finally getting back to its gritty Seattle-punk roots-or, at least, their influences.

Narrow Stairs, the cover of which looks more Radiohead than Transatlanticism, feels darker and less flowery than 2005's Plans. And it's supposed to feel that way.

"It's pretty weird and pretty spectacular; lots of blood," says Chris Walla, guitarist, who also produced the album. "It's creepy and heavy. We've got a ten minute long Can (legendary Krautrock band) jam, and had you suggested that possibility to me in 1998, I'd have eaten your puppy's brain with a spoon."

This marks a huge departure for a band primarily know within the emo scene, with lyrics predominantly focused on love and the lack thereof, sometimes exhibited by one's prospective partners. This almost feels like a band growing up.

"It's totally a curve ball," he continues. "I think it's going to be a really polarizing record."

We shall see when Narrow Stairs hits record store shelves tomorrow.