Curse Your Branches
by David Bazan
  • Record Label: Barsuk
  • Release Date: Sep 1, 2009
User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 29 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 25 out of 29
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 29
  3. Negative: 1 out of 29

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  1. Jet
    Sep 4, 2009
    9
    Bazan's debut full length record connects with the listener in a way few albums can. The lyrics bring you into the life of a Bazan and allow you to share in his trials and doubts. Aside from fantastic storytelling, Curse Your Branches also succeeds musically with delicate texturing of many instruments. You won't be disappointed with this album and it will grow dearer to your Bazan's debut full length record connects with the listener in a way few albums can. The lyrics bring you into the life of a Bazan and allow you to share in his trials and doubts. Aside from fantastic storytelling, Curse Your Branches also succeeds musically with delicate texturing of many instruments. You won't be disappointed with this album and it will grow dearer to your heart with every listen.… Collapse
  2. AdamM
    Sep 2, 2009
    9
    Great new offering from Bazan. Thoughtful lyrics and a solid sound.
  3. ChetE
    Sep 15, 2009
    10
    This is by far the best sounding recording that David has released to date. Not only is the music composition, arrangement, and lyrics terrific, but the sound quality of the album is absolutely phenomenal! It's about time that somebody has shelled out the big bucks to record this guy the way he ought to, and I for one am truly impressed. A+ on this effort (and a smiley face, to boot!)

Awards & Rankings

45
#45 Best Album of 2009

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
82

Universal acclaim - based on 18 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 16 out of 18
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 18
  3. Negative: 1 out of 18
  1. MSN Consumer Guide (Robert Christgau)
    91
    His salvation is humanistic empathy, spiritual complexity, and melodies more unfailing than back when the Holy Ghost was inspiring into his ear.
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  2. PopMatters
    80
    While he has been rightfully criticized in the past for leaning too heavily on fuzzed-out, midtempo guitar pop and stripped-down folk, there's a surprising amount of variety to be found here, not to mention a great deal of depth.
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  3. Slant Magazine
    60
    Still a little dry at times, Curse Your Branches is saved by its attempts at lightness and levity, a positive step which shakes the singer out of a funk of self-serious gloominess.
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