Chris Walla

Chris Walla is an American musician, songwriter and record producer best known as guitarist and producer for Death Cab for Cutie. He released the solo album Field Manual (2008) on Barsuk and previously released a cassette under the name Martin Youth Auxiliary (1999). He has produced records for Hot Hot Heat, The Thermals, The Decemberists, Nada Surf and Tegan and Sara. Walla left Death Cab for Cutie in 2014.

Walla played most instruments on Field Manual except for some drums. Field Manual was released on Barsuk and was at one point referenced with the title "It's Unsustainable" in reviews. He is widely credited as a producer for multiple notable indie acts.

The review frames Chris Walla as Death Cab for Cutie's guitarist and a sought-after indie producer. Field Manual (2008, Barsuk) is presented as a fully formed solo album, not a mere side project. The writing highlights robust guitar parts, some R.E.M. reminiscences, and notes Walla played most instruments on the record. Vocals are described as good but not outstanding.

For:Fans of indie rock, listeners of Death Cab for Cutie, and people interested in indie production and solo projects.