The Walkmen’s ‘Bows + Arrows’ remains the perfect non-Christmas Christmas album

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As a gamer who’s seen more game overs than I can count, I’ve always been skeptical of bands trying their hand at Christmas albums. They either sound like a jingle bell mess or an attempt to cash in on the holiday spirit. But then came The Walkmen with their 2004 gem, “Bows + Arrows”.

The idea of a concept album can be intriguing and lord knows it’s been approached from every single angle (thank you Beck, Flaming Lips and Tom Waits, who recently turned 75). However, perhaps the single most popular—and most cliched—concept idea is naturally the perfunctory Christmas album. I’m not throwing shade on the crooners of old, no no. I’m referring to modern bands trying their hand at either A.) covering the classics, or B.) attempting to write an entirely new holiday jam. When I see a sleek tinsel-covered CD featuring a dozen or so glib carol covers by some relatively new band, my eyes can’t roll far enough back into my skull, Sufjan Stevens excluded.

That being said, The Walkmen’s 2004 album Bows + Arrows is a sneaky little thing.

Back in an old December, I remember grabbing a CD from Barnes & Noble, the classic jewel case included. Flipping it over, curiosity struck me hard. It was my initial encounter with The Walkmen, and that monochrome image of neatly-dressed, clean-shaven chaps huddled together left me puzzled. Were they New York’s choirboys or Mormons who somehow scored a record deal? A quick scan of the song titles only added to my confusion as three out of ten seemed to have a wintry theme.

The title ‘No Christmas While I’m Talking’ paints a stark and bitter picture, reminiscent of a valley dotted with explosive cymbal bursts clashing against Hamilton Leithauser’s unique vibrato, only to retreat back into the depths. Lyrics-wise, it’s a poignant lament that transforms into a sharp command directed at an ex-lover. Far from being the cheerful holiday tunes we usually hear.

The Walkmen encounter The North Pole

As you progress through the album titled “The North Pole”, the first track, titled “The North Pole”, features a lively tempo similar to sleigh bells, which is maintained by guitar and occasional organ interludes, with lyrics suggesting a train ride uptown amidst snowy scenery. However, for me, the most striking song is the wistful, end-of-the-year/world anthem “New Year’s Eve”, characterized by a bouncy piano melody reminiscent of tunes that might be played in a local bar.

Ever since I came across The Walkmen, I’ve delved deeply into their entire discography from start to finish. Although their first album, “Everyone Who Pretended to Like Me Is Gone,” is outstanding, I find myself frequently revisiting “Bows + Arrows“. Is it due to its New York-influenced vibe? To some extent, yes. However, the reason I’m drawn to it isn’t because they were showcased on the TV series The O.C.; not in the least.

Each tune on the “Bows + Arrows” album mirrors my mental picture of the holiday season in Manhattan, regardless of the title or lyrics. It’s a unique atmosphere that balances elements of detachment, disillusionment, intoxication, and optimism. Remarkably, this album maintains a Christmas-like vibe, all while grounding itself in the post-rock revival sound of the 2000s – a blend seldom achieved by their fellow artists.

Just like how Die Hard becomes a regular watch during December, so does the movie Bows + Arrows. This isn’t due to any planned scheduling, but rather its randomness brings joy.

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2024-12-14 16:01