In 2006, the Decemberists unveiled their Capitol Records debut, THE CRANE WIFE, after three albums for the indie label Kill Rock Stars. Happily, the revered Portland, Oregon-based crew, captained by singer/guitarist Colin Meloy, made the journey into major waters with their quirky, days-of-old sound firmly intact, as revealed on the wistful acoustic "The Crane Wife 3" and the more upbeat "O Valencia!" which stands out as one of the Decemberists' catchiest songs. The group also indulges in the more dramatic, narrative aspect of its aesthetic on two extended tracks that each pass the 10-minute mark, proving without a doubt that any potential corporate allegiance is far outweighed by the fascinating siren call of Meloy's own muse.