What is the best Death Cab for Cutie album?

Ten studio albums spanning raw lo-fi indie, a No. 1 debut, synth experiments, and reflective late-career work — Death Cab for Cutie's range is vast. Which record is their best?

1. 1
   Something About Airplanes

   The 1998 lo-fi debut establishing Ben Gibbard's confessional lyric style.
2. 2
   We Have the Facts and We're Voting Yes

   The 2000 album developing the band's melodic intricacy and emotional directness.
3. 3
   The Photo Album

   The 2001 album that expanded Death Cab's ambition with lush indie rock production.
4. 4
   Transatlanticism

   The beloved 2003 album often called their masterpiece — exploring love and distance.
5. 5
   Plans

   The 2005 major-label breakthrough featuring I Will Follow You into the Dark.
6. 6
   Narrow Stairs

   The 2008 album that debuted at No. 1 on Billboard, featuring the epic I Will Possess Your Heart.
7. 7
   Codes and Keys

   The synth-driven 2011 album, more atmospheric and textural than its predecessors.
8. 8
   Kintsugi

   The 2015 album named after the Japanese art of repairing broken things, written during Chris Walla's departure.
9. 9
   Thank You for Today

   The 2018 first album without founding member Chris Walla — embracing synthesizers and nostalgic longing.
10. 10
    Asphalt Meadows

    The 2022 twelfth album blending guitar rock with electronics, reflecting on American decline.