The Suburbs
by Arcade Fire
  • Record Label: Merge
  • Release Date: Aug 3, 2010
User Score
8.8

Universal acclaim- based on 792 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 732 out of 792
  2. Mixed: 28 out of 792
  3. Negative: 32 out of 792
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  1. NYCMark
    Aug 13, 2010
    10
    "The Suburbs" is a masterpiece, possibly the greatest album so far of the 21st century. It's like a Martin Scorsese movie in the sense that there isn't a wasted second. Every detail has been meticulously crafted, from every musical note to every lyric. This album is as close to perfection as it gets. But it's so deep and nuanced and passionate and heartfelt that it takes time to peel"The Suburbs" is a masterpiece, possibly the greatest album so far of the 21st century. It's like a Martin Scorsese movie in the sense that there isn't a wasted second. Every detail has been meticulously crafted, from every musical note to every lyric. This album is as close to perfection as it gets. But it's so deep and nuanced and passionate and heartfelt that it takes time to peel off every layer to realize just how unbelievably substantive this album is. Arcade Fire comes as close to matching Bruce Springsteen during his heyday as we're ever likely to get.… Expand
  2. kango
    Aug 13, 2010
    9
    Arcade Fire's third album is a little different to their previous two. On first listen, it appears that the crescendos and walls of sound we've come to expect have mostly been faded out to be replaced by more space and an unhurried saunter through the places the Butler's grew up in. None of this is bad; the band as tight and melodies as gorgeous as ever. Two tracks highlight the band'sArcade Fire's third album is a little different to their previous two. On first listen, it appears that the crescendos and walls of sound we've come to expect have mostly been faded out to be replaced by more space and an unhurried saunter through the places the Butler's grew up in. None of this is bad; the band as tight and melodies as gorgeous as ever. Two tracks highlight the band's fondness for new sounds. The first, Sprawl II (Mountains Beyond Mountains) goes into electro territory, Regine's vocals perfectly complimenting the mirrorball soundtrack. The second, Month Of May takes things in the direction of straight ahead punk rock but is no less stirring than when the church organs are ramped up to 11. These are sounds I hope we will be hearing more of in the future. For now though, this is a very modern blend of folk rock and synth pop which should open the door to wider popularity. Best of the homely gems for my money is City With No Children. It quickly achieves lift-off the same way as Rebellion or No Cars Go do on previous albums. And then back down to earth... but never for long. It's this pattern of peaks and troughs that run throughout the album; a collection of stunningly played songs put together with some thought. One reason to press an album on to plastic, and then play it from beginning to end.… Expand
  3. Rodolfo
    Aug 11, 2010
    10
    A complete work of art, an entire concept album that works. Incredible. Amazing. Sprawl II is the dance hit of the decade (once it's remixed to be harder).
  4. keibro
    Aug 11, 2010
    10
    Three extraordinary albums in a row. This band does not repeat itself. With each album Arcade Fire breathes new life into contemporary music. I think this album is as every bit good as the previous two . . . and that's saying something.
  5. bernlin2000
    Aug 26, 2010
    10
    I've listened to all three Arcade Fire albums extensively and I can safely say The Suburbs is my favorite: it nails its theme of the contrast between the suburb's "dead shopping malls" and the deep, nostalgic memories of carefree childhood. In the end, you only have the memories of the places you actually lived, not where you wanted to be. The way in which the album weaves these two ideasI've listened to all three Arcade Fire albums extensively and I can safely say The Suburbs is my favorite: it nails its theme of the contrast between the suburb's "dead shopping malls" and the deep, nostalgic memories of carefree childhood. In the end, you only have the memories of the places you actually lived, not where you wanted to be. The way in which the album weaves these two ideas is very compelling and it presents a powerful picture of living in the suburbs as a child. I haven't been able to listen to anything else the last few days, the whole album is riveting and continues to draw me in.… Expand
  6. MarlaSinger
    Sep 6, 2010
    10
    I've often wondered what song I'd want to be listening to if I were on an airplane that was going to crash. I now know that song would be "We Used to Wait" from this, Arcade Fire's finest album to date "The Suburbs". But what I'm not afraid of is dying, what I'm afraid of is dying before the crescendo of the song hits.
  7. mickaneso
    May 21, 2011
    9
    Win Butlers vocal performances may come into question at time (and don't get me wrong, I think his voice is brilliant) but there is no doubting his ability to write relatable and touching lyrics. Not as rawly artist as Funeral but solid song writing still remains. A few songs could probably be axed from this album because personally there are some songs that (whilst I enjoy) aren't at theWin Butlers vocal performances may come into question at time (and don't get me wrong, I think his voice is brilliant) but there is no doubting his ability to write relatable and touching lyrics. Not as rawly artist as Funeral but solid song writing still remains. A few songs could probably be axed from this album because personally there are some songs that (whilst I enjoy) aren't at the level of other tracks around them. Don't feel the need to compare this to Funeral or Neon Bible because what Arcade Fire have done yet again is create a stand alone album that has it's unique sound and concept. An absolute must listen to anyone who enjoys modern indie/alternative music.… Expand
  8. Juliakay337
    Mar 19, 2012
    10
    My absolute favourite album of all time. I don't even know if I have words to express how much I love it. Every song has such depth and emotion in it, the music glorious and wonderful and heartbreaking and incredible. I will never tire of listening to this album. Ever. This is perfection.
  9. aabender002
    Aug 11, 2010
    8
    Arcade Fire are definitely maturing and expanding their sound, and those who say that they can never top 'Funeral' might want to give their subsequent albums a more careful listen.
  10. sucitivel
    Aug 11, 2010
    9
    This is an excellent release from a band that continues to build a strong core repertoire of songs. Clearly a departure from darker subject material of previous album releases, and a little more folk sounding as well. Really dig the brief foray into the 80's synth-pop sound a la Sprawl II and wish there was a bit more of it!
  11. opennoise
    Aug 11, 2010
    10
    Neon Bible did a curious thing to Arcade Fire. It made them popular. Sure, it wasnâ
  12. koblesky
    Aug 12, 2010
    10
    I cannot stop listening to this. I thought after a lot of listening for a week that I was getting tired of it, but I found myself coming back to it and finding new things to appreciate about the songs. For me they all are get better over time. It is different than their other records, but still them. It is serious, but not heavy. The various influences are obvious to hear, but only inI cannot stop listening to this. I thought after a lot of listening for a week that I was getting tired of it, but I found myself coming back to it and finding new things to appreciate about the songs. For me they all are get better over time. It is different than their other records, but still them. It is serious, but not heavy. The various influences are obvious to hear, but only in an additive way that makes the music better. There is a lot of variety, but it is all Arcade Fire. If you are looking for the rhythmic intensity and highs of their past two, you will find it - and a lot more. It's kind of hard to describe what makes it so good. I think in the end that is one of the keys to it being really good.… Expand
  13. Beats
    Aug 16, 2010
    10
    After seeing them on the Daily Show, i was amazed by what i heard. Anyone in their right minds would love this album. In any means, a pure masterpiece.
  14. Chonquist
    Aug 12, 2010
    10
    This is honesty the best album i have ever heard, it has some soft songs and some more rock songs that hit the ball out of the park, no one will be disappointed with this album.
  15. BKM
    Aug 12, 2010
    9
    Great album. One of the year's best. It seems somewhat conventional at first listen, but I was immediately compelled to go back and revisit it in its entirety. It is a deeply felt album about the uneasy passage from youth to adulthood and the fears and anxieties that go along with the transition. It also flat out rocks. What more can you ask for?
  16. JUIKER
    Aug 13, 2010
    9
    This might be the best Arcade Fire album yet. That's everything you need to know. 16 songs long, this album is sure to have at least ten songs worth soaking in for a long time to come.
  17. Jarvie
    Aug 14, 2010
    9
    One morning a few years ago as a journalist with a part-time gig as a music reviewer, Funeral arrived on my desk. I knew little about Arcade Fire, save some glowing, perhaps over-enthusiastic reviews I'd read on the internet. The release of Funeral coincided with the worst year of my life; my marriage had failed, I hardly ever saw my kids. There was no joy anywhere. I half suspectedOne morning a few years ago as a journalist with a part-time gig as a music reviewer, Funeral arrived on my desk. I knew little about Arcade Fire, save some glowing, perhaps over-enthusiastic reviews I'd read on the internet. The release of Funeral coincided with the worst year of my life; my marriage had failed, I hardly ever saw my kids. There was no joy anywhere. I half suspected one of my peers had given me the cd to review as a joke.
    A cliche perhaps, but Funeral became the soundtrack to my life. I recall saying in a newspaper column that the album was the best album of the new millennium from the most promising band I'd heard in years. It changed my life in ways no record had before, save perhaps The Soft Bulletin.
    I can admire Neon Bible. A masterpiece of restrained power. I'd liken it to Arcade Fire's The Bends. But it didn't move me.
    Being a traditionalist, I'd waited for The Suburbs to arrive in my local store on vinyl rather than picking up the cd on release day. For three days now, I've played nothing else. I've cried. I've felt tingles up my spine. I've searched the internet for airfares to the next live show.
    In short, thank you Arcade Fire. The world is a better place thanks to you.    … Expand
  18. tl250
    Aug 19, 2010
    10
    I was not totally convinced when I first heard this album but it has grown on me tremendously and it has been the only music I have listened to for weeks! This album comprehensively confirms Arcade Fire as one of the best bands of the 21st century (if they were not due that accolade already)
  19. Superstar
    Aug 19, 2010
    10
    This album further cements Arcade Fire as the most important and best band of the millenium. There are many standout tracks on the album but listening to it in its entirety is the way to go because the whole exceeds the sum of its parts. Great work!!
  20. jp8
    Aug 21, 2010
    10
    MorganK you make me laugh. Your comparisons and analogies are hilariously wannabe amateur critic. You clearly listened to it with a preset agenda, a pencil and paper ready to jot down what band the songs sound most sound like on first impression. Your suggestions as to which direction that they should have taken the album.... please..... hey i would have loved it if they made it sound likeMorganK you make me laugh. Your comparisons and analogies are hilariously wannabe amateur critic. You clearly listened to it with a preset agenda, a pencil and paper ready to jot down what band the songs sound most sound like on first impression. Your suggestions as to which direction that they should have taken the album.... please..... hey i would have loved it if they made it sound like a cross between ok computer, merriweather post pavilion and veckatimest but damn them... they didn't. Instead they sounded like arcade fire. Not funeral. Not neon bible. An arcade fire album. A really good one.… Expand
  21. KISTEFM
    Aug 31, 2010
    10
    Sin duda alguna una obra maestra. Consultado al director de la revista: " Ushi in the park", el Sr. Loben de Pi coincide en que la soledad del Deheso, conlleva a vivir en suburbios.

    Para mi, un ten points!
  22. ColinArcadeFire
    Sep 19, 2010
    9
    In response to the guy who made the ridiculous comment about "Funeral having 5 or 6 good songs, Neon Bible having 3, and this one having 0." First of all, if you really think Funeral and Neon Bible only had that many good songs, you are an idiot. Also, you have no right to review Arcade Fire if you are going to do so by judging their songs. They aren't a single band, it's an album band.In response to the guy who made the ridiculous comment about "Funeral having 5 or 6 good songs, Neon Bible having 3, and this one having 0." First of all, if you really think Funeral and Neon Bible only had that many good songs, you are an idiot. Also, you have no right to review Arcade Fire if you are going to do so by judging their songs. They aren't a single band, it's an album band. Good Album, up there with Neon Bible, not quite Funeral.… Expand
  23. Falling_Hammer
    Sep 14, 2010
    10
    A true masterpiece from a great band. When I first heard it a was amazed how something could sound so perfect, so pure, so original. For me it is not the best. The best album they made is Neon Bible, but this album is not far from the previous. An album where every song speaks for itself, but then again it doesn't. When such great songs are merged into one album that album can easilyA true masterpiece from a great band. When I first heard it a was amazed how something could sound so perfect, so pure, so original. For me it is not the best. The best album they made is Neon Bible, but this album is not far from the previous. An album where every song speaks for itself, but then again it doesn't. When such great songs are merged into one album that album can easily become one of the best albums of the 21 century.… Expand
  24. Nate
    Sep 6, 2010
    10
    A masterpiece, a staggering work of genius. Arcade Fire capture the ennui of the 21st Century more than any other artist, yet uplift the listener, giving more and more with each rotation. An album that gives, and continues giving and a band to devote your life to.
  25. ConnJack
    Sep 17, 2011
    10
    The third album from Arcade Fire is a unforgettable masterpiece, the record delivers incredible tracks like the title track, "Ready to Start" and "Rococo". The band created this terrific sound that makes this album shine. It makes it more enjoyable for fans to listen to; In other terms, this album is incredible and is a must listen for any Arcade Fire fan or music lovers alike.
  26. j30
    Nov 8, 2011
    9
    The Suburbs feels like a mixture between their first two studio records and the result is....near flawless.
  27. WarriorFight
    Dec 11, 2012
    10
    This may be my favorite album ever. Easily one of the best of the decade, The Suburbs delivers a powerful punch, not just in sound, but in lyrics. Hidden deep in the corners of each song lays teaming an amount of meaning rarely seen in modern albums. If one relayed this into movie-terms, it would have the greatest actors, the greatest director, and the greatest story. This is truly anThis may be my favorite album ever. Easily one of the best of the decade, The Suburbs delivers a powerful punch, not just in sound, but in lyrics. Hidden deep in the corners of each song lays teaming an amount of meaning rarely seen in modern albums. If one relayed this into movie-terms, it would have the greatest actors, the greatest director, and the greatest story. This is truly an album that won't leave you feeling like you wasted an hour, more like you experienced a time of pure fantasy. This album is almost too good for the time it's in. If you haveb't heard it, you must, because your ears will thank you, and when your grand-kids will ask you if you liked Arcade Fire, you can say at least you've heard them. Arcade Fire has made it 3 for 3, and here's hoping they'll hit 4 for 4 next year.… Expand
  28. mmiller113
    Aug 11, 2010
    10
    There are great albums and there are masterpieces. The only difference between the two is that a masterpiece, while being equally solid from top to bottom, possesses an ethereal quality about it, as if the album is alive and has its own distinct personality. The Suburbs is a masterpiece for that very reason. Every track is solid on its own merit, but it's when the album is taken as a wholeThere are great albums and there are masterpieces. The only difference between the two is that a masterpiece, while being equally solid from top to bottom, possesses an ethereal quality about it, as if the album is alive and has its own distinct personality. The Suburbs is a masterpiece for that very reason. Every track is solid on its own merit, but it's when the album is taken as a whole that it comes to life. There is no standout track; set aside an hour and absorb it in its entirety.… Expand
  29. whit
    Aug 13, 2010
    8
    I only had a passing knowledge of Arcade Fire until very recently. I saw them perform 2 songs on The Daily Show and decided to purchase this album. Only been listening for a few days now, but I'm impressed.
  30. mightymax
    Aug 14, 2010
    10
    Album of the year. Builds on the first two albums to find a slightly more accessible sound than Neon Bible. In that respect it reminds me of how "Dear Science" fits into TVOTR's catalogue, or "In Rainbows".
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Awards & Rankings

11
#11 Best Album of 2010
8
#8 Most Discussed Album of 2010
15
#15 Most Shared Album of 2010

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
87

Universal acclaim - based on 43 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 40 out of 43
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 43
  3. Negative: 0 out of 43
  1. Expert Witness (MSN Music)
    Jan 5, 2011
    91
    With beats this straight and stolid, you'd better keep the anthems coming, and they do, almost.
    Read full review
  2. AllMusic
    80
    It's serious without being preachy, cynical without dissolving into apathy, and whimsical enough to keep both sentiments in line, and of all of their records, it may be the one that ages so well.
    Read full review
  3. Dusted Magazine
    90
    The Suburbs is a really good record, but it's clear that indie rock is not in Kansas anymore.
    Read full review
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