In 2004, when Arcade Fire performed "Neighborhood #2 (Laika)" live in Toronto, they were riding a massive wave of momentum following the release of their debut album, *Funeral*. Released just a few months earlier in September 2004, *Funeral* quickly became a critical darling, known for its lush instrumentation and poignant lyrics that resonate with themes of loss and community. The band's performance at Mojo's in Columbia showed their raw energy and emotional depth, which contributed to their reputation as an explosive live act. Interestingly, "Laika," the song they performed, reflects the band's ability to blend personal and universal themes, echoing the sense of hope and despair from their album. This concert took place during a pivotal time for the band when they were transitioning from indie darlings to a major force in the music scene, a journey that would only gain traction in the years to come.