Thief

"Thief," Destroyer's third full-length album, marks a significant evolution in the band's sound, as it is their first record featuring a full band. Released on September 18, 2000, via Merge Records, this chamber pop and art pop gem clocks in at a concise 43 minutes, packing a wealth of creativity and musical prowess into its duration.

With "Thief," Destroyer, led by the enigmatic Dan Bejar, expanded their lineup to a quintet, allowing for a richer, more textured sound. The album opens with the haunting "Destroyer's the Temple" and journeys through a landscape of intricate compositions and lyrical depth. Standout tracks like "To the Heart of the Sun on the Back of the Vulture" and "City of Daughters" showcase Bejar's knack for weaving complex narratives with a pop sensibility.

The album's reissue in 2016 brought this early Destroyer masterpiece to a wider audience, solidifying its place in the band's discography. "Thief" is not just an album; it's a testament to Destroyer's unique blend of intellectual lyricism and accessible melodies, making it a standout release in their catalog. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to Destroyer's music, "Thief" offers a captivating exploration of the band's early sound and a glimpse into their artistic evolution.