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First Two Pages of Frankenstein
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First Two Pages of Frankenstein Image
Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 21 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
8.4

Universal acclaim- based on 37 Ratings

  • Summary: The ninth full-length studio release from indie rock quintet The National features guest appearances by Phoebe Bridgers, Sufjan Stevens, and Taylor Swift.
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Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 18 out of 21
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 21
  3. Negative: 0 out of 21
  1. New Musical Express (NME)
    Apr 26, 2023
    100
    This is The National back from their brink and at their absolute best.
  2. Consequence
    Apr 28, 2023
    83
    First Two Pages of Frankenstein is by no means subversive – but it’s worth at least keeping on the bookshelf for whenever you, too, feel lost.
  3. Rolling Stone
    Apr 26, 2023
    80
    A remarkable reassertion of the band’s potency. ... Nine albums deep, the National find new energy by conjuring not just a great, suffocating fog but also the far light that guides the way out.
  4. The Line of Best Fit
    Apr 27, 2023
    80
    First Two Pages of Frankenstein is yet another dose to remind you why – and how – the band have managed to carve their own special place out in the cultural landscape.
  5. Uncut
    May 15, 2023
    80
    Even without the backstory or an understanding of how difficult this record was to make, …Frankenstein is a skilful portrait of what it means to feel disconnected from the joy and urgency of life.
  6. Slant Magazine
    Apr 26, 2023
    70
    Occasionally, such stylings verge on the generically anthemic on First Two Pages of Frankenstein. ... The songs here are otherwise richly stacked with detail and sonic shadings.
  7. Mojo
    Apr 26, 2023
    60
    A sometimes-striking record that suggests new ground without actually reaching it. [Jun 2023, p.84]
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See all 21 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 16
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 16
  3. Negative: 0 out of 16
  1. JoelG
    Apr 28, 2023
    10
    One of the most creative albums I've ever heard - Superb songwriting, UNBELIEVABLE PRODUCTION!, genius-complex compositions, deep and intimateOne of the most creative albums I've ever heard - Superb songwriting, UNBELIEVABLE PRODUCTION!, genius-complex compositions, deep and intimate storytelling - everything connects like puzzle pieces, to create this masterpiece.

    This was my first time ever listening to The National, and it definitely made me want to do a deep dive into their discography, and that's the biggest affect a new release can make on you.

    The best album of 2023 so far, no doubt in that.

    Favorite Tracks: 'Once Upon A Poolside', 'Eucalyptus', 'New Order T-Shirt', 'Tropic Morning News', 'The Alcott', 'Grease In Your Hair', 'Ice Machines', 'Your Mind Is Not Your Friend'
    (a lot I know, but well deserved).    … Expand
  2. CriticalUser13
    May 1, 2023
    10
    The National mixes teen feeling beats with a heartbreaking voice and lyrics longing a top notch production
  4. gtroyp
    Apr 28, 2023
    10
    The National achieves what many try for but miss: elegance. Each song adds a unique turn on a central theme of loss but never losing beautyThe National achieves what many try for but miss: elegance. Each song adds a unique turn on a central theme of loss but never losing beauty and somehow, hope. Guest turns by Taylor Swift, Phoebe Bridgers and Sufjan Stevens are perfectly integrated into the fold. This is a band in complete command of their art.… Expand
  5. lehi
    May 3, 2023
    9
    Solid, consistent, harmonic, the bass killing it, Aaron dessner is that b1t*ch
  6. Desig
    Jul 3, 2023
    7
    The National seem to have discovered a formula that works for them and for their fans. No surprises here, just the same good old nostalgia,The National seem to have discovered a formula that works for them and for their fans. No surprises here, just the same good old nostalgia, mesmerising sounds weaving in and out of each other, coupled with hypnotic vocals. Some impressive guests appearances to boot.… Expand
  7. ohwhocares
    Apr 28, 2023
    6
    Meh. I don't get the love. I also don't get why people say this is a comeback. Sleep Well and I Am Easy to Find were better, even great,.Meh. I don't get the love. I also don't get why people say this is a comeback. Sleep Well and I Am Easy to Find were better, even great,. Well, really good. This is just blah. Honestly, their worst since Sad Songs.… Expand
  8. Kremyy
    May 14, 2023
    4
    I’ve been a fan since the beginning but this record is just a huge disappointment. Listened to it 4 times but I still can’t recall more than 2I’ve been a fan since the beginning but this record is just a huge disappointment. Listened to it 4 times but I still can’t recall more than 2 songs and even those I don’t like. Yes yes the production is nice but where’s the emotion? The force they used to have? It’s okay as background music but it’s just that.… Expand

See all 16 User Reviews

Awards & Rankings

32
#32 Most Discussed Album of 2023

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