The King Is Dead is The Decemberists' third release for Capitol Records and sixth overall. The album - a set of 10 concise, country-based songs - marks a deliberate turn towards simplicity after the band's wildly ambitious and widely acclaimed 2009 song-cycle, The Hazards of Love. Produced once again by Tucker Martine, The King Is Dead features special guest appearances by Americana luminary Gillian Welch and legendary R.E.M. guitarist Peter Buck on several tracks, including contributions from both on the album's lead single, 'Down by the Water.'