ARTIST

Death Cab for Cutie

Bellingham, Washington indie pop quartet Death Cab for Cutie began in 1997 as the solo project of singer/guitarist Ben Gibbard, who previously recorded under the name All-Time Quarterback. The underground success of the cassette "You Can Play These Songs' Chords" inspired Gibbard to recruit a full-time band, including guitarist/organist Christopher Walla (who recorded the early DCFC sessions as well), bassist Nick Harmer, and drummer Nathan Good.

In the summer of 1998, Death Cab for Cutie issued their debut LP "Something About Airplanes" to much acclaim from indie circles. Just prior to completion of the 2000 follow-up "We Have the Facts and We're Voting Yes," Good left the group and was replaced by drummer Michael Schorr. In fall 2000, the band released the "Forbidden Love" EP. A solid selection of new cuts were found on "The Photo Album" the next year.

In 2003, Eureka Farm's Jason McGerr joined the group, and the band's stunning fourth album "Transatlanticism" appeared in October. While touring in support of that album in spring 2004, Death Cab For Cutie recorded seven brand new tracks. "The John Byrd" E.P., which was named for the band's touring sound engineer, was issued on Barsuk in March 2005.

Written by Jason Ankeny, All Music Guide