Metascore
70

Generally favorable reviews - based on 23 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 23
  2. Negative: 1 out of 23
  1. SVIIB make good on the promise of their early seven-inches and EPs with this debut full-length for Ghostly International.
  2. Like the band members themselves, Alpinisms is full of promise and obvious talent but would benefit from a more clearly defined direction.
  3. Mojo
    60
    Its influences and allusions diverse, but fruitful. [Dec 2008, p.110]
  4. The dual harmonies and inherently hypnotic cadences render music that is largely exhilarating occasionally monotonous.
  5. Uncut
    40
    The dreary emotional content and the sub-MBV soundscapes set out to gaze enigmatically at their shoes. Sadly, they don't get past the navel. [dec 2008, p.115]
  6. Q Magazine
    60
    Herren's wall-of-noise productions were clearly a big influence, alongside shoegazing indie bands and Joy Division, though nothing that follows quite measures up to spectacular opening lamundernodisguise, somehow reminiscent of both MGMT and gothic folk troupe Espers. [Dec 2008, p.133]
  7. The ethno-tinted dreampop of School of Seven Bells left me stymied and listless and, most crucially for a critic, at a loss for words.
  8. In their attempt to induce dreams, though, too much of Alpinisms is a laptop-gazing wash out, neglecting the intensity required for this kind of thing, and "Prince Of Peace" inhabits a disturbing world where Enya might front an electronically-enhanced baggy band.
User Score
7.2

Generally favorable reviews- based on 12 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 12
  2. Negative: 2 out of 12
  1. Oct 2, 2011
    8
    School of Seven Bellsâ
  2. seanm.
    Feb 5, 2009
    9
    An indie psychdelic trip that does'nt leave you cold. Nods to Valentines and Cocteaus all mushed up with hypnotic rythms that make you An indie psychdelic trip that does'nt leave you cold. Nods to Valentines and Cocteaus all mushed up with hypnotic rythms that make you sway with a smile. A real grower with minimum filler. Impresive and highly recommended. Full Review »
  3. ScottT
    Nov 11, 2008
    10
    Great album!!!