Algiers
by Calexico
  • Record Label: Anti
  • Release Date: Sep 11, 2012
Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 27 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 23 out of 27
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 27
  3. Negative: 0 out of 27
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  1. Consequence
    Sep 12, 2012
    50
    Algiers is sort of like the Grand Canyon: it may have some enjoyable attractions, but in the end, you're just staring at a giant hole.
  2. Drowned In Sound
    Sep 4, 2012
    50
    Not a bad album, just a boring one.
  3. Magnet
    Oct 1, 2012
    50
    Algiers appears designed not to define, defy, offend and - most heinously- explore. [No.91, p.53]
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  5. New Musical Express (NME)
    Sep 4, 2012
    60
    'Algiers', their seventh album, is far less surface-level appealing, but the sad twang of a pedal steel and Joey Burns' rich lyrical imagery draw you in, and depth and craftsmanship is slowly revealed.

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User Score
8.4

Universal acclaim- based on 12 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 12
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 12
  3. Negative: 0 out of 12
  1. come2whereiam
    Jun 1, 2013
    8
    Calexico return with a mix of old and new on their seventh album ‘Algiers’. Never afraid to blend styles it fair to say that the CalexicoCalexico return with a mix of old and new on their seventh album ‘Algiers’. Never afraid to blend styles it fair to say that the Calexico sound is one that is quite recognisable, often sung in different languages and blending folk rock with mariachi horns. Well that is still present here like the Spanish sung ‘No Te Vayas’ but they have once again branched out like the bluesy ‘Sinner in the Sea’ or the sharp strings on ‘Better and Better’. ‘Maybe on Monday’ probably wouldn’t sound out of place on an album by Travis, it’s a catchy love song built around rhythmic drums and a hushed vocal, but overall the album reminds me of Wilco around the time of ‘Yankee Hotel Foxtrot’ or ‘A Ghost is Born’ just great song writing peppered with slight experimentation. Musically strong across the twelve tracks on offer this should satisfy fans while hopefully giving them the wider appreciation they deserve.… Full Review »
  2. coolcrowe
    Jan 21, 2013
    9
    On first listen, I thought that this was "just another Calexico album". I enjoy them but have never been sucked in before. But this albumOn first listen, I thought that this was "just another Calexico album". I enjoy them but have never been sucked in before. But this album really does grow on you, and good lord is it beautiful. These melodies will haunt your thoughts, and every listen is an intimate experience.… Full Review »
  3. Gerton
    Oct 13, 2012
    7
    This album is less coherent/ consistent than some of their earlier albums. Maybe it has to do with other projects and they couldn'tThis album is less coherent/ consistent than some of their earlier albums. Maybe it has to do with other projects and they couldn't concentrate on a complete album. In general the songs OK but there are a few which surpass others. I particularly like the number 'Hush' because there's a certain tension in it. The title track is also nice however it is not their best Instrumental.… Full Review »
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