Funeral
by Arcade Fire
User Score
8.9

Universal acclaim- based on 1057 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 969 out of 1057
  2. Mixed: 25 out of 1057
  3. Negative: 63 out of 1057

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  1. EthanH
    Apr 19, 2007
    9
    Those guitars make a wonderful spider web that catch you while you are happily waiting for the big dramatic voiced spider to devour you and make a mind numbing and gorgeous journey inside the beast's stomach.
  2. TedH
    Dec 27, 2006
    9
    an excellent album each song leads into the next however some of it is repetative, the songs are very similar but very good
  3. chrisfree
    Sep 14, 2010
    9
    It has been a while since I have heard a record that is truly different. The music in the background is magical at times, and the unique sounds of the singer is sometimes awesome as he is obviously not what everyone calls idol material, but at times it can actually get annoying as you are trying to correct the notes he is trying to reach, but good on the whole. This changing sounds andIt has been a while since I have heard a record that is truly different. The music in the background is magical at times, and the unique sounds of the singer is sometimes awesome as he is obviously not what everyone calls idol material, but at times it can actually get annoying as you are trying to correct the notes he is trying to reach, but good on the whole. This changing sounds and speeds keeps you guessing, and keeps you listening to the album. The lyrics are deep and in these times of shallow lyrics spit out by some artist is great, as you can identify with it. In finishing I do not expect everyone to like this music, its not for the masses but it is great if you are in that niche market. Rather listen to it first then buy it. My favourites are power out, haiti, wake up and laika. Enjoy!… Expand
  4. jeanjean
    Oct 13, 2010
    9
    marvelous. marvelous and sad feelings, near of the nostalgia. Feelings... well that's it, that's what make a song a good song, a good album one and why i loved it even tough it make me a little sad and i can't listen to it non-stop.
    a 10 on 10
  5. asylumspadez
    Nov 14, 2011
    9
    Will end up being one of the best albums you have ever heard. Its rare when a band comes out with an original sound and it completely blows your mind, Arcade Fire does that with Funeral. The only bad part about this album is that the vocal quality isnt always the best on some tracks - Other then that its a masterpiece.
  6. mAXX_
    Apr 21, 2011
    9
    The debut record from The Arcade Fire is a roller coaster ride of emotion, meaning and depth. Heartily written lyrics combined with beautiful melodies and wondrous vocals makes an awesome blend of power, spirit and feel. Despite the title of the album, death, grief and sadness do not solely make up Funeral and tracks such as Wake Up make you feel like you've got wings. It's raw from theThe debut record from The Arcade Fire is a roller coaster ride of emotion, meaning and depth. Heartily written lyrics combined with beautiful melodies and wondrous vocals makes an awesome blend of power, spirit and feel. Despite the title of the album, death, grief and sadness do not solely make up Funeral and tracks such as Wake Up make you feel like you've got wings. It's raw from the hearts of The Arcade Fire and it would strike a blow close to home in many, many listeners. Best tracks: Neighbourhood 3 (Power Out), Wake Up, Rebellion (Lies)… Expand
  7. le_one
    Jun 8, 2013
    9
    It's somehow magical and has great lyrics. It's got a little bit overrated. Because, although it features lots of qualities, it's not entirely entertaining. It may get boring sometimes. That's the difference between "Funeral" and '"Neon Bible". The follow-up is more diverse and provocative. It's stronger. More powerful. "The Suburbs", most of the times, doesn't suffer of this boredomIt's somehow magical and has great lyrics. It's got a little bit overrated. Because, although it features lots of qualities, it's not entirely entertaining. It may get boring sometimes. That's the difference between "Funeral" and '"Neon Bible". The follow-up is more diverse and provocative. It's stronger. More powerful. "The Suburbs", most of the times, doesn't suffer of this boredom because it's got an interesting "story" to make us travel. But hey, "Funeral" is a great way album too. Really: great.

    Picks: "Rebellion (Lies)"; "Wake Up"; "Neighborhood #3 (Power Out)"; "In the Backseat".    … Expand
  8. Ricko
    Oct 19, 2017
    9
    This has to be classed as one of the greatest albums of all time. For a debut album, it has unbelievable scope and depth not to mention maturity. While it has the freshness and urgency of a debut, the different layers of instruments going on, the production and general song writing are of a band who sound like they are completely comfortable with each other. Love this album and it's oneThis has to be classed as one of the greatest albums of all time. For a debut album, it has unbelievable scope and depth not to mention maturity. While it has the freshness and urgency of a debut, the different layers of instruments going on, the production and general song writing are of a band who sound like they are completely comfortable with each other. Love this album and it's one that everyone should listen to at some point in their lives. Too many highlights to mention.… Expand
  9. spadenx
    Nov 29, 2011
    9
    While the album is nearly perfectly. The vocal quality does suffer on a few tracks and makes the lyrics of the song nearly non-understandable. However the album is just so good that you can over look this, Its simply a master piece.
  10. brockcheese
    Feb 4, 2015
    9
    This is one of the greatest albums of all time. It explores childhood, love, death, and the crisis in Haiti. The 7 part band at times sounds more like an orchestra than a rock band.
  11. flynn4red
    Aug 24, 2013
    9
    A stunning record, a brave new sound, with rich lyrical imagery and a hefty punch of an impact. The only downside is the occasional point where Butler's vocals get a little to anguished.
  12. Andremax
    Aug 20, 2018
    9
    Punk's energy and post-punk's sophistication at the same time which exhale beauty. Beautiful, intense and charming
  13. SteveBackMeta
    Nov 14, 2013
    9
    A modern masterpiece and one of the crowning achievements of indie rock and baroque pop. "Neighbourhood #1 (Tunnels)" is a heartbreaking tale of separation played to a soundtrack of sensitive piano and chiming guitars. "Power Out" is an invigorating tale, "Wake Up" is a rousing stadium anthem on childhood, "Haiti" blends in Regine's foreign heritage with the English language perfectly, andA modern masterpiece and one of the crowning achievements of indie rock and baroque pop. "Neighbourhood #1 (Tunnels)" is a heartbreaking tale of separation played to a soundtrack of sensitive piano and chiming guitars. "Power Out" is an invigorating tale, "Wake Up" is a rousing stadium anthem on childhood, "Haiti" blends in Regine's foreign heritage with the English language perfectly, and "Rebellion (Lies)" is probably one of the singles of the decade. A must-own.… Expand
  14. jpotz
    Nov 5, 2013
    9
    While slightly overrated, Arcade Fire's debut full-length is a modern classic, forming a sound that many indie bands are still trying to recreate. It's the kind of album that appeals to hipsters, old people, and mainstream radio all at once, a very rare accomplishment in rock music.
  15. Tombenelli
    Apr 9, 2014
    9
    Damn! What a great album. This really made a breakout in the music scene. After ''Funeral'' had come out, nothing was the same. All the album is built in order to reach ''Rebellion (lies)'', the masterpiece, THE song. Goosebumps. These are Arcade Fire. Great great album.
  16. TheKillerFries
    Mar 22, 2017
    9
    A beautifully melancholic album. Just as it brings you down, it picks you back up again. Plenty of variety and a lot of memorable moments; easily one of the best albums in its genre.
  17. TheNeedleDrops
    Jun 29, 2017
    9
    Not sure who I dislike more. The Fans saying this is the best band in the world (they are good but not especially influential or different.) or the people rating this low just because it's over-rated.
  18. JoshE
    Jan 8, 2005
    8
    A rambling and reckless album... the beauty and pain burst restlessly from the seems. The songs barrel along like a freight train going to fast around a turn, ready to spill its contents out onto the hillside as it careens off of the tracks. Wow, a little dramatic, but Funeral is quite a ride. The dramtic highs are exilarating, lows are aching, and it's very difficult to let go. Pop A rambling and reckless album... the beauty and pain burst restlessly from the seems. The songs barrel along like a freight train going to fast around a turn, ready to spill its contents out onto the hillside as it careens off of the tracks. Wow, a little dramatic, but Funeral is quite a ride. The dramtic highs are exilarating, lows are aching, and it's very difficult to let go. Pop music can be a clunky, retarded beast, and in the hands of the music industry's chosen purveyors, it tends to be, but The Arcade Fire show how beautiful, intelligent, and truly emotional a simple song can be... And that's the hardest thing of all. This is an excellent album and definitely one of the best of 2004.… Expand
  19. du&sku
    Sep 24, 2004
    8
    Very, very good; it doesn't quite have the revolutionary feeling of Interpol's Turn on the Bright Lights, and isn't as subtly affecting as Broken Social Scene's You Forget It In People. However, musically it lends a quiet soul to the formula that hasn't really been heard before, which certainly sets them apart from the rest of the groups out there. Lyrically, it Very, very good; it doesn't quite have the revolutionary feeling of Interpol's Turn on the Bright Lights, and isn't as subtly affecting as Broken Social Scene's You Forget It In People. However, musically it lends a quiet soul to the formula that hasn't really been heard before, which certainly sets them apart from the rest of the groups out there. Lyrically, it tends to get awfully silly, with too many eyelid, vampire, and dying in the snow metaphors, though that isn't really a weakness. The bigger problem is that it hasn't been quite a grower; its first listen was far and away the best. Still, though, it makes the perfect christmas present of a record.… Expand
  20. BenS
    Nov 21, 2005
    8
    Rarely are albums so thrilling, original and intense, love it
  21. JonE
    Mar 17, 2005
    8
    v good
  22. DanielS
    Jan 2, 2006
    8
    Quite a find. Their approach may at first seem overly emotional, but it's delivered with unique song structures and unmistakeable honesty. There are some real gems: It make take repeated listens for a , but for me, it just gets better and better.
  23. ZachP
    Aug 29, 2006
    8
    On firdst listen, I was floored. However, on furthur listens, it gets less and less exciting. But the truth is is that they are a very exciting band to watch.
  24. carlosd
    Dec 26, 2007
    8
    Yes, this CD has a lot of great moments, but there are some duds too. And why have so few people noticed how old and unoriginal the chord progressions are? If you want to check out Canada's best indie (whatever that means now) bands, try the Weakerthans and the New Pornographers.
  25. drlowdon
    Nov 16, 2013
    8
    Funeral is probably not my favourite Arcade Fire album, that honour would go to The Suburbs, but it is hauntingly brilliant nonetheless and a great introduction to one of the best bands around.
  26. lovemusic
    Jul 4, 2011
    8
    it was good. this album isn't a personal favorite of mine. but i love their 2 other albums better. but this album is still very good. i liked it. the end of the album gives you their best songs.
  27. jatv1994
    Apr 13, 2013
    8
    Although this genre its not my cup of tea; i must admit IT IS a masterpiece, and im sure if i liked more this type of music; id be my favorite album ever; 10 songs, 10 perfect melodies.
  28. TimothyTuatara
    Aug 16, 2013
    8
    A very solid album that unfortunately is very overcelebrated. It has a lot of lovely moments but it just pales in comparison to other similar albums (The Glow Pt 2, ITAOTS)
  29. mellonhead
    Feb 5, 2018
    8
    This is a debut most bands should be proud of. Its songs are mostly good. It influenced most modern indie groups (unfortunately) and will stand as one of the best albums of the decade. Unfortunately, they're just a bit too annoying to love on this album
    GRADE: B+
    Favorite Songs: Neighborhood #1-4, Crown of Love, Rebellion (Lies) - ehh, it's a stretch, In The Backseat Least Favorite    This is a debut most bands should be proud of. Its songs are mostly good. It influenced most modern indie groups (unfortunately) and will stand as one of the best albums of the decade. Unfortunately, they're just a bit too annoying to love on this album
    GRADE: B+
    Favorite Songs: Neighborhood #1-4, Crown of Love, Rebellion (Lies) - ehh, it's a stretch, In The Backseat
    Least Favorite Songs: Une annee sans lumiere    … Expand
  30. All_ButTrU4
    Jun 7, 2022
    8
    Overrated for all the right reasons . Instant icon. A great album that suffers from keeping a few songs that shouldn't be included and disrupting their own momentum in sequencing.
  31. Fuerstenberg
    Apr 12, 2022
    8
    Arcade Fire’s debut studio album "Funeral" – 8 out of 10.

    My favorites:
    "Rebellion (Lies)"
    "Neighborhood #3 (Power Out)"
    "Haiti"
    "Wake Up"

    ~ Fürstenberg
    April 12, 2022
  32. zmiy
    Jun 18, 2023
    8
    Не то чтобы этот альбом прямо ГРЕЙТЕСТ!!! Альбом не плохой, я б даже сказал хороший. Он достаточно легко слушается, но есть в нем и огрооомный минус. По факту альбом строится вокруг 4х треков, и это даже не скрывается (они называются одинаково, нейборхудами). Все остальные треки будто были накиданы для заполнения времени, чтобы альбом можно было назвать полноформатником. Некоторые из этихНе то чтобы этот альбом прямо ГРЕЙТЕСТ!!! Альбом не плохой, я б даже сказал хороший. Он достаточно легко слушается, но есть в нем и огрооомный минус. По факту альбом строится вокруг 4х треков, и это даже не скрывается (они называются одинаково, нейборхудами). Все остальные треки будто были накиданы для заполнения времени, чтобы альбом можно было назвать полноформатником. Некоторые из этих треков неплохие, но например шестой (crown of love) звучит как будто пьяный бомж у падика решил рассказать душераздирающюю историю о его сложной лайв. Седьмой трек тоже нудень с каким то закосам под филасофею. Из за двух откровенно слабых треков подряд я думал скипнуть альбом, хотя на нейборхудах я такой: "хм а крута". Последние два трека исправляют нудный муд, но осадочек остается.
    В принципе, можно оставить только нейборхуды и получится охуенное еп.
    Звучит альбом, как что-то между Боуи и Блек Кейс. Если кратко, то начало крутое(1-5), середина ...(6-7), конец(8-10) исправляется, но до первой части не дотягивает.
    Альбом в медиатеку добавил, ставлю лайк 8/10
    Лучший треки: Neighborhood #1 (Tunnels), Neighborhood #2 (Laïka)
    Худшие: Crown of Love, Wake Up    … Expand
  33. StephenW
    Feb 24, 2005
    7
    A beautiful and promising start, but then the album ambles mighty close to Bright Eyes territory. Some nice moments, but the gushing praise this album has received would suggest limited experience with 'beauty' and 'originality' on the part of the gushers.
  34. Pol
    Oct 19, 2004
    7
    it is important to understand that music should not be judged on the intention, but on the results. the arcade fire aim for all things massive in scope, lyrically and musically. having a band of ten plus members of course ensures that the music will be "big." unfortunately the band undercut themselves with completely played out "dance" beats and a certain lack of originality that tends to it is important to understand that music should not be judged on the intention, but on the results. the arcade fire aim for all things massive in scope, lyrically and musically. having a band of ten plus members of course ensures that the music will be "big." unfortunately the band undercut themselves with completely played out "dance" beats and a certain lack of originality that tends to make them sound like modest mouse with 15 members. some very good songs in the mix but not the miracle it has been hailed as.… Expand
  35. MarkF
    Feb 16, 2006
    7
    It may be a 9+ for many, and I'm not saying they're wrong, but for me it's a 7 (quite enjoyable). Lyrically very rich and worth following the printed sheet, and musically, some nice arrangements. But here's my problem. It goes like this: 1-2-3-4, 1-2-3-4 (chord change) 1-2-3-4,1-2-3-4 (chord change). Are they ashamed of their vocals? Every time the pace drops they It may be a 9+ for many, and I'm not saying they're wrong, but for me it's a 7 (quite enjoyable). Lyrically very rich and worth following the printed sheet, and musically, some nice arrangements. But here's my problem. It goes like this: 1-2-3-4, 1-2-3-4 (chord change) 1-2-3-4,1-2-3-4 (chord change). Are they ashamed of their vocals? Every time the pace drops they bring in a string quartet to cover up the voices.… Expand
  36. RayC
    Sep 28, 2004
    7
    yeah ok
  37. nc_jj
    Feb 1, 2011
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A debut of irrefutable power, arguably superior to "Is This It", "Funeral" marked the arrival of a great big band with major big talent[s]. It's bleak and eerie, but beautifully wondrous. A record, of whose confidence and wittiness may be at the height of debuts like Television's "Marquee Moon".… Expand
  38. Syott
    Jan 9, 2015
    7
    Arcade Fire siempre me pareció un grupo un tanto interesante, y cuando me di el tiempo de oír Funeral, ahí es cuando me di cuenta del porqué. En este álbum oirás canciones con trasfondos no muy comunes, tanto lírica como de forma melódica, destacando canciones como Haiti, Crown of Love, Rebellion (Lies).
  39. ma
    Dec 24, 2004
    6
    everybody calm down. thems some catchy tunes to be sure, but it doesnt exactly reinvent the wheel.
  40. micahg
    Oct 27, 2004
    6
    I recommend everyone buy their six song EP which is fantastic, brilliant, amazing. The songs are so great they overcome poor production, quite a feat. I think this accounts for my low opinion of the CD. It is a huge disappointment. The magic and energy of the EP is gone. I guess for most people this album is their introduction to the band, but for me it is their disappointing sophomore I recommend everyone buy their six song EP which is fantastic, brilliant, amazing. The songs are so great they overcome poor production, quite a feat. I think this accounts for my low opinion of the CD. It is a huge disappointment. The magic and energy of the EP is gone. I guess for most people this album is their introduction to the band, but for me it is their disappointing sophomore release. I like the first song a lot but I think the rest is quite weak and frankly a few songs are unlistenable. If I had only heard this album I would think this was just another hype band but they also have a great live show. But this album is unlikely to break with large audiences with this album.… Expand
  41. RudigerS
    Jan 22, 2005
    6
    Half is totally great. Half is totally boring. And I think you all know this.
  42. PabloG.
    Jul 10, 2007
    6
    The music is OK, but from the first second to the last second I though "Oh my God... this is what Bon Jovi would sound like if he was an indie rock artist." Over-produced would an understatement. Also it doesn't help that I dislike the singer's voice. But I understand why people like this. Power Out is an alright song.
  43. mpshea28
    Sep 5, 2010
    6
    Some decent stuff here, unlike the other two discs (Neon Bible is especially bad). I really wanted to like them, but I can't help but think they are the most overrated band out there right now. Nothing really knocks my socks off, except for a few choice numbers off this particular record.
  44. B.Cool
    Sep 27, 2004
    5
    weirdos, great and awful all at once
  45. S.Gray
    Sep 28, 2004
    5
    Most of the tunes drudge along, hinting at some great melodic swing without ever acheiving anything to make a track truly shine, with the exception of 'wake up' and 'in the back seat'. It tries to be inspirational but falls flat too often.
  46. jao
    Feb 26, 2005
    5
    Man, I really wanted to like this album, I really did. I heard so many good things about it that I just had to listen. And I have to admit, at first listen, I was impressed. I can seriously appreciate the music, it's authentic and upbeat which makes it something I want to hear more often these days. On the bad side, the lyrics do absolutley no justice to the musically powerful songs Man, I really wanted to like this album, I really did. I heard so many good things about it that I just had to listen. And I have to admit, at first listen, I was impressed. I can seriously appreciate the music, it's authentic and upbeat which makes it something I want to hear more often these days. On the bad side, the lyrics do absolutley no justice to the musically powerful songs on Funeral. Some of the lines made me embarrassed to even be listening to this. Add the fact that it sounds like the guy just got out of bed and recorded his voice in his bedroom and this record really doesn't hold up to some of the great albums being released lately. Come on people don't jump on the bandwagon because you've heard how great this band is. how can you enjoy an album with lines like : "Come on Alex, you can do it, come on Alex, theres nothin to it. If you want somethin, don't ask for nothin. If you want nothin, don't ask for somethin" So weak, how can people who seriously enjoy music let these guys get away with lines like that? I et more and more annoyed with every listen.… Expand
  47. spilly
    Oct 21, 2004
    5
    Not a big fan of this sound and honestly don't know what the fuss is about. It's all over the place, crammed with random instruments and basically sounds like somewhat melodic, anthemic noise. Some songs are decent, but nothing ground breaking. I think they might be better live. They are easily compared to broken social scene which I also thought were way over hyped. They did Not a big fan of this sound and honestly don't know what the fuss is about. It's all over the place, crammed with random instruments and basically sounds like somewhat melodic, anthemic noise. Some songs are decent, but nothing ground breaking. I think they might be better live. They are easily compared to broken social scene which I also thought were way over hyped. They did have a decent live show, but I was absolutely wasted at the time, so any group of hippies playing any assortment of instruments would have sounded alright. If I had to choose to listen to this style of music I would listen to brss. If this is the best Canada can come up with than I guess I was right about them all along ; )… Expand
  48. WillyP
    Nov 18, 2005
    5
    Imagine if they hired a real singer!
  49. RussA
    Feb 4, 2005
    4
    I have to say that I agree with all the professional reviewers and the others who have written in about this album and this band. I have heard a number of the songs on the internet and saw them live on Conan the other night. Everyone mentions how moving and profound their music is, and I agree, it is moving alright, in the same way taking a shit is moving...when its over, you feel better, I have to say that I agree with all the professional reviewers and the others who have written in about this album and this band. I have heard a number of the songs on the internet and saw them live on Conan the other night. Everyone mentions how moving and profound their music is, and I agree, it is moving alright, in the same way taking a shit is moving...when its over, you feel better, and there's a nasty smell in the air. Arcade Fire stinks!… Expand
  50. bdurmaz
    May 1, 2017
    4
    I honestly don't undertand what people are so fond of about this album. I tried to like it, gave it many chances but all I keep seeing is a below-average art rock album with overdone tracks.

    Although there are a few decent songs, most of them left me wishing if they could just end. Especially the vocals I couldn't stand at all.
  51. casimirp
    Nov 5, 2005
    3
    Someday, singers will again be required to be able to sing. Meanwhile, this is at least not as irritating as Antony and the Johnsons.
  52. BernieB
    Jun 14, 2005
    3
    I must really not get it, or perhaps this is just the bandwagon to jump on, but to me there is something seriously lacking with Funeral. Three maybe four decent tracks, but the rest I'd skip. Overall, not worth my time, not the album of the year, and certainly not the best Canadian indie-rock band. (Most of those records don't even get released stateside. I guess we Americans I must really not get it, or perhaps this is just the bandwagon to jump on, but to me there is something seriously lacking with Funeral. Three maybe four decent tracks, but the rest I'd skip. Overall, not worth my time, not the album of the year, and certainly not the best Canadian indie-rock band. (Most of those records don't even get released stateside. I guess we Americans have a jones for mediocrity?)… Expand
  53. fetusn.
    Aug 13, 2007
    1
    overrated by far. not worth a penny
  54. erikk
    Jul 31, 2005
    1
    saw them on conan and sounded good but straining vocals make almost unlistenable. seriously. as much hype as the rapture and twice as disappointing. save your indie money for spoon, stellastarr, bsp...
  55. joeK
    Mar 7, 2007
    0
    this album is rated way too high for something so bad
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Awards & Rankings

7
#7 Best Album of 2004
1
#1 Most Discussed Album of 2004
3
#3 Most Shared Album of 2004

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
90

Universal acclaim - based on 33 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 32 out of 33
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 33
  3. Negative: 0 out of 33
  1. Almost Cool
    83
    If I were to have just heard the first half of the disc, I probably would have proclaimed it the best of the year as well.
    Read full review
  2. Pitchfork
    97
    So long as we're unable or unwilling to fully recognize the healing aspect of embracing honest emotion in popular music, we will always approach the sincerity of an album like Funeral from a clinical distance. Still, that it's so easy to embrace this album's operatic proclamation of love and redemption speaks to the scope of The Arcade Fire's vision.
    Read full review
  3. Dusted Magazine
    60
    Marred by indie-rock clichés and occasional over-effort, it remains frustrating.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »