All Delighted People EP
by Sufjan Stevens
Metascore
63

Generally favorable reviews - based on 12 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 12
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 12
  3. Negative: 1 out of 12
  1. AllMusic
    60
    As per usual, the record is immaculately crafted, but a bit "proggy," which could serve to disappoint listeners who have been waiting patiently for the artist to return to the engaging, patchwork pop/rock of 2005's Illinoise. Fans of the quirky, less immediate moments from that album will find a great deal to love on this precursor to October's full length Age of Adz.
  2. Rolling Stone
    60
    Stevens is best balancing his composer side with his singer-songwriter side on songs like "Arnika," which packs all that avant-Andrew Lloyd Webber ambition into soft, simple benedictions for bedroom-size cathedrals.
  3. PopMatters
    60
    As it stands, All Delighted People is a curious and relatively minor release for Stevens. As a context-less bundle of songs, All Delighted People is Stevens having a little fun while testing the elasticity of his sound.
  5. Drowned In Sound
    40
    He's capable of weaving such a compelling mix of avant garde, classical and pop music, but this time the artist's self-indulgence has got the better of him.
  6. No Ripcord
    40
    In the love affair of listeners to this EP, an overly ambitious singer-songwriter who seems to be far more into growing artistically then creating genuine songs will force fans and detractors alike into the arms of another.

Awards & Rankings

45
#45 Most Shared Album of 2010

User Reviews

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User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 48 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 43 out of 48
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 48
  3. Negative: 1 out of 48
  1. Rosales
    Sep 10, 2010
    10
    I think that this release represents a great comeback for the Sufjan. Months after his existential crisis, he proves with this EP that heI think that this release represents a great comeback for the Sufjan. Months after his existential crisis, he proves with this EP that he hasn't lost his touch. A powerful emotional album, with original composure, and a breath of fresh air from the more electronic pop albums being released these days. A GREAT EP all together, from start to finish. The songs differ from style, with such listeners as Mouth of Gabriel, to the final rocking track. I agree with Steiner, all the way. Thanks Sufjan, for a great finish to my summer break. AGE OF ADZ, im ready for you.… Full Review »
  2. papasmurf
    Sep 18, 2010
    10
    This is a triumphant return for Sufjan Stevens. At first blush, I was a little uncertain, but multiple listenings yield great rewards. "AllThis is a triumphant return for Sufjan Stevens. At first blush, I was a little uncertain, but multiple listenings yield great rewards. "All Delighted People" (both versions) and "Djohariah" deserve especial praise. Don't know why reviewers choose to ignore this EP/album. An essential addition to the Sufjan canon.… Full Review »
  3. pkdick67
    Sep 12, 2010
    7
    i do believe this is a great comeback for Sufjan. Starting from its own established style he strays away from known territories, landing ini do believe this is a great comeback for Sufjan. Starting from its own established style he strays away from known territories, landing in Crosby surroundings, not forgetting the Isaac Hayes loose approach delivered in the last - wonderful - track. The title track may be the definitive Sufjan canon , leaving last four minutes for a breathtaking ( soft) climax. What will be coming next may give us even more.… Full Review »
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