Arcade Fire

In the vibrant whirlwind of 2005, Arcade Fire was riding the wave of their critically acclaimed debut album, *Funeral*, which had captivated listeners since its release the previous year. By September, when they performed "Rebellion (Lies)" on *The Late Show with David Letterman*, the band was at a pivotal moment in their meteoric rise, marked by both buzz and emotional intensity. The energy of that performance perfectly encapsulated the album's themes of loss and defiance, resonating deeply with audiences. What's fascinating is that *Funeral* was not just an album; it felt like a communal experience, and that night on Letterman, they showcased their eclectic instrumentation, including a prominent role for the accordion, solidifying their unique sound. They were still relatively new to the mainstream spotlight, yet the raw passion in their performance hinted at the enduring legacy they would go on to create. Who would’ve thought a simple late-night gig could reveal so much potential?

Watch on YouTube