Black City
by Matthew Dear
Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 23 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 19 out of 23
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 23
  3. Negative: 0 out of 23
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  1. BBC Music
    60
    Throughout there is an attention to detail, to little tics and tricks in the mix, that make this a treat for listeners who still wear headphones. But mostly it's music for defunct--or, rather, Defunkt--nightclubs.
  2. The A.V. Club
    50
    In the end, Dear has successfully turned a tense, eerie mood into songs. They just aren't songs most people will feel like hearing.
  3. Dusted Magazine
    40
    It's another misfire with a handful of great moments that point to something better.
  5. The Guardian
    40
    The production on Black City feels thin, particularly compared to what Dear is capable of--as, fatally, does the songwriting; tracks putter along aimlessly without ever reaching anywhere interesting.

User Reviews

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User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 12 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 12
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 12
  3. Negative: 0 out of 12
  1. usherd369
    Feb 26, 2014
    8
    The tracks on their own have enough poignancy to warrant multiple listens, and although Dear's production shows prowess in establishingThe tracks on their own have enough poignancy to warrant multiple listens, and although Dear's production shows prowess in establishing synchronicity, the lyrical component does not match, leaving itself to feel like forced conceptual catharsis. If it wasn't for the release of 'Headcage', 'Slowdance' would be the lone unforgettable standout of Dear's ambitious catalogue.… Full Review »
  2. captain_pylon
    Sep 15, 2010
    7
    This album provides a skillful level of cohesion throughout its tracks. The multiple layering of vocals creates ambient lyrical environment.This album provides a skillful level of cohesion throughout its tracks. The multiple layering of vocals creates ambient lyrical environment. Musically, the album contains interesting percussive details, and comparisons aside, at times spans popular genres. While "Dark City" is certainly a dark album, its turning point comes during 'Monkey", a slightly humorous pick-me-up before the end. Replay value: 3/5.… Full Review »
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