Death Cab's indie rocks 'trans'forms listeners

Death Cab For Cutie has an uncanny knack for writing (and I hate to use this word) cute, perfect little indie pop songs. Through four albums, they never stray too far from their formula, but expand enough each time to keep the music fresh. Transatlanticism is another solid release of clever, true-to-life lyrics and jangly, catchy hooks. The songs shift from the upbeat, almost arena-rock anthem "The New Year" to the sparse, dreamy "Lightness" to the electronic-influenced pop of "Title and Registration." \nOddly enough, the band places an eight-minute epic smack in the middle, but instead of bogging it down, it serves as Transatlanticism's finest moment. The track begins with vocalist Ben Gibbard singing over a piano, then builds slowly with guitar and bass and reaches its climax with Gibbard repeating the line "I need you so much closer," which doesn't come off sappy or corny, but rather endearing. \nGibbard is truly what separates Death Cab For Cutie from being just a good band to a great one. His voice is naked, honest, charming and absolutely stunning at times, enough to send a chill down your spine. He truly is something special and worth hearing, ranking alongside heavyweights like Elliott Smith and Conor Oberst.