A Color Map of the Sun
by Pretty Lights
User Score
8.2

Universal acclaim- based on 9 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 9
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 9
  3. Negative: 0 out of 9
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  1. clem666
    Feb 7, 2023
    5
    As the note tends to show, I have mixed feelings about this project.
    What I regret is the length of 'A Color Map of the Sun'. This tape is a record of percussive tracks, some inducing something close to headaches as I listen to them for too long. In addition to these constant drum sounds and hymns, I have to point out that the electro layer also was a bit too much for me. I all feels and    As the note tends to show, I have mixed feelings about this project.
    What I regret is the length of 'A Color Map of the Sun'. This tape is a record of percussive tracks, some inducing something close to headaches as I listen to them for too long. In addition to these constant drum sounds and hymns, I have to point out that the electro layer also was a bit too much for me. I all feels and sounds so disorganized, so over-the-top that it almost becomes unbearable from time to time.

    But I have to admit that, between the many disappointments and questions, some poetic and unpredictable gems do shine. I am speaking about tracks like 'Press Pause', 'Yellow Bird' or some parts of 'Color of My Soul'. I was amazed by these trumpet and horns coming out of nowhere. Some vocal samples also make it glitter here and there. Once I was in the mood, it stuck to me, but some tracks just totally missed my sensitivity. A split album should have been more enjoyable to me.    … Expand

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
72

Generally favorable reviews - based on 6 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 6
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 6
  3. Negative: 1 out of 6
  1. Magnet
    Aug 16, 2013
    80
    It feels like the jazz/hip-hop album we've been waiting for. [No. 101, p.59]
  2. Sputnikmusic
    Aug 7, 2013
    64
    For fans of Pretty Lights, A Color Map of the Sun is an acceptable recreation of his wild live show, if nothing else. For those looking to get into the real contradiction of Smith, the album makes for a wonderful primer.
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  3. The New York Times
    Jul 9, 2013
    70
    The tracks, mostly in minor keys, are bass heavy, unhurried and unexpectedly thoughtful. Sonically as well as verbally, they set aside hip-hop swagger to contemplate how the present reconfigures the past.
    Read full review
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