Picaresque

Picaresque is a 2005 album by The Decemberists that mixes indie rock and folk influences into long, narrative songs with theatrical, often baroque arrangements. Colin Meloy's storytelling vocals ride acoustic guitars, piano, accordion, strings, and punchy rhythm sections across both hushed ballads and rollicking sea shanty style epics, including an extended multipart tale. The record is notable for its literate, story-driven songwriting and a fuller, more dramatic sound than the band's earlier releases.