Review
'Reflektor' isn't just Arcade Fire playing it safe - it's a bold leap into new sonic territory. This double album, released in 2013, is a wild ride through art rock and dance-rock, with influences ranging from Haitian rara music to Kierkegaard's philosophical musings. The band teamed up with LCD Soundsystem's James Murphy for production, and boy does it show. You can hear it in tracks like 'We Exist' with its foreboding bass line and crunchy sound, or the title track 'Reflektor' that's got an 80s synth bounce that'll make you want to hit the dance floor.
But don't think it's all just about the beats. Win Butler's lyrics dive deep into themes of isolation, death, and connection, drawing heavily from the Orpheus myth. 'Afterlife' is a prime example, playing over clips from the film 'Black Orpheus'. And let's talk about 'Supersymmetry' - it's a freaking beautiful metaphor borrowed from physics to explore love and the afterlife. The production is rich and layered, blending vintage punk and 80s elements with Arcade Fire's signature orchestral and electronic sounds.
Critics ate this shit up, praising its ambition and fresh sound. You can hear echoes of Bowie and U2 in there, but make no mistake - this is pure Arcade Fire, evolving and pushing boundaries. It's a testament to their ability to stay relevant and innovative while still maintaining their emotional core. 'Reflektor' isn't just an album, it's a fucking journey. - Chase
