Released: 2007

Genres: Indie Rock, Art Rock, Chamber Pop, Post-Punk Revival

The Musiquarium’s Neon Bible Review Score: 5/5

Following up the landmark indie rock album Funeral was no easy task, but Arcade Fire managed to release a sophomore album that was (nearly) just as incredible, all while avoiding retreading the same ground. With recording taking place in a church and making use of its pipe organs, Neon Bible definitely has a distinct sound from its predecessor, but is just as rich and emotional.

In contrast to Funeral‘s uplifting opener, which evoked a sense of hope and romance, Black Mirror opens up Neon Bible with despair, with the band’s bleakest, most anxious song yet — so bleak, that it went on to be used as the name of the dystopian television series of the same name. Contrasting to that, you’ve got the title track, which is a subtle acoustic piece with the gentleness of the hum of neon lights, and Intervention, which is accompanied by church organ that soars high into the heavens.

Ocean of Sound is one of the band’s most beautiful and grandiose pieces, with an absolutely cinematic climax. The Well and the Lighthouse sees a return of the post-punk elements found throughout Funeral. No Cars Go is a remake (and improvement) of a song from the band’s 2004 self titled EP. My Body Is a Cage is a powerful, heart-wrenching, and devastating closer, with Win Butler singing from the deepest depths of his soul.

Neon Bible is as perfect a follow-up as anyone could have hoped for from the influential Canadian indie rock band.

For credit breakdowns and historic release details, view Arcade Fire on Discogs.

Back to the 2007 Album Guide or the Arcade Fire Reviews page.

Written by Brett Nippard