Around The Well
by Iron & Wine
  • Record Label: Sub Pop
  • Release Date: May 19, 2009
Metascore
74

Generally favorable reviews - based on 19 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 19
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 19
  3. Negative: 0 out of 19
  1. Slant Magazine
    60
    In the end, the collection's bevy of elegance, purity, and passion is simply 10 tracks too long.
  2. Spin
    60
    Sam Beam's breathy croon is as soothing as a lullaby, but just as limited--which becomes an issue over two discs and 23 songs. Yet that very sameness helps this patchwork of singles, soundtrack cuts, and unreleased tracks cohere.
  3. Mojo
    60
    Much here stands in marked contrast to that lushly arranged benchmark ["The Shepherd's Dog"]. [Jul 2009, p.114]
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  5. Q Magazine
    40
    The home recordings, however, insist this is probably for fans only. [Jul 2009, p.138]
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User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 13 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 13
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 13
  3. Negative: 0 out of 13
  1. DanielB
    Jul 9, 2009
    10
    Amazing, heart-wrenching stuff. Both Cds are terrific but I really recommend giving "The Trapeze Swinger" a listen. It's longer than Amazing, heart-wrenching stuff. Both Cds are terrific but I really recommend giving "The Trapeze Swinger" a listen. It's longer than "Stairway" but it's amazing.… Full Review »
  2. BillS
    May 20, 2009
    8
    A strong compilation of out of print and previously unreleased material.
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