User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 48 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 43 out of 48
  2. Negative: 1 out of 48

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  1. 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 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 suchI 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. Expand
  2. Sep 8, 2010
    10
    Great "EP" to back from since "The BQE". Sufjan's songs are very new and original sounding that I think any Sufjan fan, such as myself would love. He writes about his sister in the last song and the "homage to the apocalypse" throughout the album. I can't wait to see what he does for the next album.
    The Age Of Adz October 12
  3. 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. "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.
  4. 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 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 mayi 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. Expand
  5. Sep 18, 2010
    7
    At almost an hour long, it's pushing it to call this release an "EP", The highlight is almost certainly the original version of the title track, which is one of the best things Sufjan has ever released. "From the mouth of Gabriel" is also impressive once you get over the unsubtlety of the electronics, however, the EP suffers greatly from a lack of cohesion and the incredibly unjustifiedAt almost an hour long, it's pushing it to call this release an "EP", The highlight is almost certainly the original version of the title track, which is one of the best things Sufjan has ever released. "From the mouth of Gabriel" is also impressive once you get over the unsubtlety of the electronics, however, the EP suffers greatly from a lack of cohesion and the incredibly unjustified length of the closing track "Djohariah", which, while emotional, loses its effect over the course of its 17 minutes. Overall though, this marks an impressive return for Sufjan Stevens, especially considering how long he's been away. It does a great job of adjusting the listener for the obvious change of style coming with Octobers "Age of Adz" Expand
  6. Dec 9, 2015
    9
    It's an ambitious project-even for Sufjan. Fortunately, it works much more often than it doesn't. The long plays and sometime overly long screeching notes are balanced out by the more soft passionate instrumentals and cleverly crafted lyrics.
    CHECK OUT?- Absolutely!!
    BEST SONG- All Delighted People (Classic Rock Version)
    WORST SONG- All Delighted People (Original Version)
Metascore
63

Generally favorable reviews - based on 12 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 12
  2. Negative: 1 out of 12
  1. Under The Radar
    Oct 25, 2010
    70
    The EP is a quiet but forceful return. [Fall 2010, p.63]
  2. 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.
  3. I think All Delighted People is more fun to talk about than listen to even though I have trouble discerning what it is I'm trying to say.