Arcade Fire's self titled EP

Prior to Arcade Fire’s debut album, Funeral, they released a seven track, self-titled EP in 2003. Husband and wife, Win Butler and Regine Chassagne serve as the band’s primary vocals, with the latter’s high pitched voice giving the band’s sound a sense of innocence.  

Track 1: Old Flame- The track is very Funeral-esque, with Butler’s underdeveloped cutesy vocals. It is nothing memorable, but worth mentioning.

            Track 2: I’m Sleeping in a Submarine- On this track, Chassagne takes lead vocals, while Butler is on backing vocals. The song is interesting and confusing with random shrieks and birdcalls throughout.

            Track 3: No Cars Go- A very elaborate version of “No Cars Go” was rerecorded and rereleased on Arcade Fire’s second LP, Neon Bible. This version, unlike the one on Neon Bible, is missing the grand string arrangement and horns.

            Track 4: The Woodland National Anthem- The track starts out with Chassagne on lead vocals and Butler joining in about thirty seconds into the track. The song does not really go anywhere, with no explosive chorus or change of pace—it just sounds like one long verse. The string arrangement at the end is a plus, though.

            Track 5: My Heart is an Apple- Butler is back on lead vocals, but Chassagne’s backing vocals are completely inaudible. The lyrics are repetitive, with Butler repeatedly saying, “I go outside.” The track ends with the sound of a waterfall.

            Track 6: Headlights Look like Diamonds- “Headlights Look like Diamonds” is, according to Butler, the band’s first hit song. It has the feel of an anthem, just like songs on Funeral. Chassagne and Butler share vocals on the track, while it begs to be performed in an arena.

            Track 7: Vampire/Forest Fire- Butler is back on lead vocals, once again proclaiming, “I’m a vampire in a forest fire”. It is a slow song that ends the EP on a high note.