Death Cab for Cutie Share Pointed New Single “Arrow in the Wall”

Photo by Jimmy Fontaine

Today, Death Cab for Cutie unleashed a single titled “An Arrow in the Wall.” The track was produced by John Congleton and arrives as a two-sided 12-inch vinyl record featuring the original track and a mesmerizing remixed rendition by the acclaimed band Chvrches. Both versions of the track are also readily available for streaming.

Frontman Ben Gibbard provided insight into the song’s thematic depth, stating, “‘An Arrow in the Wall’ delves into the warning signs that surround us in the 21st century, hinting at the deteriorating state of society at large.” Gibbard’s lyrical interpretation highlights the urgent need for vigilance amid societal challenges; he went on to add, “The arrow lodged in the wall might have missed this time, but it would be naive to assume the next one won’t also.”

Gibbard also expressed admiration towards Chvrches’ ethereal remix and spoke on the admiration between the bands and their creative collaboration. “We have been good friends with Chvrches since touring together in 2019,” he shared. “They took our maudlin little dance track and turned it into a major key club banger.”

“An Arrow in the Wall” also serves as a precursor to the musical journey for Death Cab for Cutie: The band are set to embark on a co-headlining tour with the Postal Service, commemorating the 20th anniversary of two landmark albums: Death Cab for Cutie’s Transatlanticism and the Postal Service’s Give Up.

Scheduled to kick off on Sept. 5 in Washington, D.C., the tour itinerary includes highly anticipated performances, including two sold-out nights at New York City’s iconic Madison Square Garden and a series of three captivating shows at Los Angeles’ Hollywood Bowl. Both bands will also headline Riot Fest in Chicago in September.

Reflecting on the significance of the upcoming tour, Gibbard–who leads both ensembles– emphasized the profound impact of the year 2003 on his creative journey. “I know for a fact I will never have a year again like 2003,” he declared. “The Postal Service record came out, Transatlanticism came out. These two records will be on my tombstone, and I’m totally fine with that. I’ve never had a more creatively inspired year.”

Listen to “An Arrow in the Wall” and the remix by Chvrches below.