Chutes Too Narrow
by The Shins
  • Record Label: Sub Pop
  • Release Date: Oct 21, 2003
User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 212 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 181 out of 212
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 212
  3. Negative: 25 out of 212

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  1. RomulusS
    Oct 24, 2003
    9
    A little different direction than "Oh, inverted World," but it's moving in a good direction as long as Mercer is dictating the pace. The lyrics avoid cliches and invite one's ear to talk to the brain to figure out Mercer's intentions. A good pick up.
  2. NormanD
    Oct 23, 2003
    10
    The best American band since the Pixies have created another gem of melody, joy, wistfulness and understated grandeur. Make them the legends they deserve to be.
  3. AceKabob
    Oct 22, 2003
    9
    Masterful follow-up to Oh, Inverted World. Unlike The Coral, The Shins hint at their 60s influences without simply imitating them.
  4. AaronG
    Oct 22, 2003
    9
    This album is amazing. After waiting so long for it I was not let down. Different from Oh, Inverted World, but just as amazing. It hasn't left my CD player for the past 3 days and hasn't stopped playing, either.
  5. DustinC.
    Oct 21, 2003
    8
    Good album, but not as good as Oh, Inverted World. The songs sometimes feel a little strained and not as "easy" sounding as Oh, Inverted World. Still a quality listen, and better than most albums that have come out recently.
  6. Kalebconfusing
    Oct 21, 2003
    9
    Not simply an excellent album, Chutes Too Narrow is also a powerful testament to pop music's capacity for depth, beauty and expressiveness. Did I say that?
  7. GJO.
    Oct 21, 2003
    10
    Even though their first CD will always rate as the best album ever, I still see 'Chutes too Narrow' as a worthy successor. The Shins are absolutely great!
  8. JeffF
    Oct 21, 2003
    9
    Everyone knew that it would be impossible to live up to "Oh Inverted World," but The Shins come damn close. Mercers vocal range is amazing and his seemingly effortless vocal delivery make this another release that will be tough to follow up. Up there with "Hail To The Thief" as one of 2003s best.
  9. DavidC.
    Oct 21, 2003
    10
    It uses brighter and louder instruments to perfect the already pure sound they achieved in their previous album. It has the amazing capability to strike you on a musical level, but when you phase the lyrics into your consciousness you get caught off guard because of their brilliance. I love everything about them: The vocals, the pop sound, the purity, and the lyrical wit. It's a must have.
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Awards & Rankings

5
#5 Best Album of 2003
12
#12 Most Discussed Album of 2003
18
#18 Most Shared Album of 2003

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
88

Universal acclaim - based on 28 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 27 out of 28
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 28
  3. Negative: 0 out of 28
  1. Uncut
    90
    You don't expect progression from such evident classicists, but there's a new clarity, poise and refinement. [Apr 2004, p.107]
  2. Stylus Magazine
    82
    Review 1: All the elements of timelessness are there, but the songs just don’t seem to live beyond the last note. [score=73] Review 2: The Shins’ music has grown by leaps and bounds. [score=90]
  3. Dusted Magazine
    100
    On Chutes, Mercer’s voice is singing right next to you, and the change works wonders.
    Read full review
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