• Record Label: ATO
  • Release Date: Nov 5, 2013
Metascore
74

Generally favorable reviews - based on 24 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 18 out of 24
  2. Negative: 1 out of 24
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  1. They swiftly slump back into portentous jams made for mourning failed crops, made worse by the ye olde farmhand Yoda-isms of Eric Pulido.
User Score
8.1

Universal acclaim- based on 22 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 19 out of 22
  2. Negative: 2 out of 22
  1. Dec 11, 2013
    10
    This is Midlake's best work, and that says a lot. It still has that "Midlake sound" with the old time lyrics and tons of harmonies but it'sThis is Midlake's best work, and that says a lot. It still has that "Midlake sound" with the old time lyrics and tons of harmonies but it's even better than the Courage of Others or Trials of Van Occupather. The swirling synths, reverbed out vocals, ridiculous drums will swoon you over after one listen. If you like Midlake or not this album must be listened to immediately. Full Review »
  2. Nov 10, 2013
    7
    While there isn't any "Roscoe" on here, and the emotional croons of Tim Smith are definitely missed, it doesn't take long for this album toWhile there isn't any "Roscoe" on here, and the emotional croons of Tim Smith are definitely missed, it doesn't take long for this album to make more of an impression than "Courage of Others" did. While it does, at times, end up feeling a bit repetitive and slogged down in the same sounding rut, that rut is much more interesting and open to variety and moodiness. There are a few stand out songs on here, and it often feels like an album that the Fleet Foxes would put out after two weeks in the studio. Not a bad thing, really. Very decent album, but not likely to maintain a spot in your car CD player for more than a few weeks. Full Review »
  3. Nov 10, 2013
    6
    Following the departure of bandleader Tim Smith, the band tries to expand its sound and refine its soft-rock approach. Unfortunately, whileFollowing the departure of bandleader Tim Smith, the band tries to expand its sound and refine its soft-rock approach. Unfortunately, while the musicianship is top-notch from start to finish, you can't escape thinking that there is a lack of real songs. Most of the pieces here sound more like barely organized jams than full-fledged compositions. There is a feeling that the band had taken real pleasure in doing it but they need to be more serious about songwriting next time. Full Review »