22 Songs That Prove The New Pornographers Are The Best Pop Band In The World Today

Here’s a look back on the supergroup’s outstanding body of work, from their 2000 debut up through their new album, Brill Bruisers . There’s never been a better time to become a fan.









"Letter From an Occupant" (2000)






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Before "Letter From an Occupant," Carl Newman was an obscure songwriter who'd fronted two bands that were generally ignored outside of the Canadian indie scene, and Neko Case was a modestly successful alt-country singer. After it, Newman immediately established himself as a genius of power pop, and Case ascended to badass rock-goddess status. They complete each other here — Newman's song is so energetic and bold that it boasts two different choruses, and Case's brassy, powerhouse vocals separated the band from the demure amateurism that characterized a lot of indie music at the time.














The earliest incarnation of The New Pornographers was basically a party band, and their first major tour typically inspired a lot of drunken dancing. "Slow Descent Into Alcoholism" captures the spirit of this era – jaunty and cheerful, but with a slight edge of debauchery.














"Mass Romantic" is one of those songs that just barrels through your speakers, and you have no choice but to get carried along with its momentum. It's a showcase for Case's voice mostly, but Newman takes the lead at the climax, singing "this boy's life among the electrical lights" as though he's willing himself into rock stardom.







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