Always - Xiu Xiu
Always Image
Metascore
78 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 23 Critics What's this?

User Score
7.1 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 10 Ratings

Your Score
0 out of 10
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  • Band members: Jamie Stewart
  • Summary: This is the eighth album for the experimental pop band led by Jamie Stewart.
  • Record Label: Polyvinyl
  • Genre(s): Pop/Rock, Alternative/Indie Rock, Alternative Pop/Rock, Indie Rock, Post-Rock, Experimental Rock
  • More Details and Credits »

Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 20 out of 23
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 23
  3. Negative: 0 out of 23
  1. The Independent on Sunday (UK)
    Feb 27, 2012
    100
    Always may well be the Californians' finest yet.
  2. All Music Guide
    Mar 10, 2012
    80
    These catchy, desperate, searing, and searching songs aren't always the most accessible, but they show exactly why this band has such a dedicated audience.
  3. Blurt Magazine
    Mar 12, 2012
    80
    The most noticeable thing about the new Xiu Xiu album is ... how disarmingly vibrant it sounds.
  4. Q Magazine
    Mar 16, 2012
    60
    It's not all politico-provocation; pretty duet Honeysuckle and minimalist piano ballad The Oldness counterbalance the more outspoken moments nicely. [April 2012, p.107]
    All this publication's reviews

See all 23 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

Write a Review
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2 out of 2
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 2
  3. Negative: 0 out of 2
  1. lostyourhead
    10
    Xiu Xiu's always is, in my opinion, a (very early) contender for album of the year. This is Jamie Stewart's most accessible album by a mile, yet he manages to maintain every bit of his artistic integrity in the process. Highlights include first single "Hi," "Joey's Song," and "Chimney's Afire (Mickensian Suicide)". Honestly, however, I had a really hard time choosing three standouts, as the album is consistently enjoyable throughout. Xiu Xiu is one of my favorite bands, and I know their music isn't for everyone. However, this is a pretty good entry point if you're new to them. Also try "Women as Lovers." If you'd like to hear why I fell in love with them in the first place, check out track #2 from "Fabulous Muscles," the unforgettable "I Luv the Valley OH!"… Expand
  2. AlexxTrusc
    7
    Jamie's Stewart psychedelic vocals combined with the album's style give it a much experimental overtones. Ballads such as "The Oldness", "Black Drum Machine" are holdig all the time in indescribable, almost terrifying anticipation. On the other hand, the compositions of "Hi" or "I Love Abortion" is not at all inferior. Strong lyrics and original style are the greatest advantages of the album.… Expand

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