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Lyrically, Haunted progresses from timid to defiant, and ultimately to triumphant. Musically, Poe drifts confidently from trippy beats and spacy sounds to straight ahead rock and mellow, melancholic numbers, though not always in such a way as to strictly parallel the dramatic flow of the album's lyrics. All that means, though, is that this is a dynamic collection of songs and not merely the kind of high-minded rock opera that quickly goes from interesting novelty to pretentious joke. Ignore everything but what comes out of the speakers, and you've got a pop treasure that is as innovative and insightful as it is immediate and unforced.
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Sadly, Poe's work might not be welcomed in the mainstream, which is disappointing because her original compositions have the makings for a new music revolution alongside the likes of Radiohead's Kid A. Haunted is in its own class of twisted intelligence and beauty.
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Q MagazineThe mood is too heavy for far too long, but some good songs and more cohesive, melodic structures augur well for this damaged daughter's future. [Sep 2001, p.115]
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Entertainment WeeklyHaunted's evocative sound collages--guitar, voice samples, percussion, synth--broaden standard notions of "song" while steering clear of self-indulgent meandering. [11/3/2000, p.83]
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Unfortunately, Haunted reverberates with tired samples, rehashed echo effects and beats so plodding they could stop a metronome.
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As uncomfortable as it is beautiful, Haunted's intense personal nature is both disturbing and compelling. It is less an album than an experience.
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Haunted is largely a concept album. With 17 tracks, several clocking in at over five minutes a pop, it's a bit heavy to carry in its full weight. However, for listeners up for the challenge, it's a beautiful, psychological journey in audio.
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The concept album is more than an afterthought, it's musically revelatory and one of the best records of the year.
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Propelled by her aggressive but seductive voice, Haunted walks the line between dark, beat-driven trip-hop and warm, melodic pop. What separates the album from its competition is Poe?s smart and emotionally charged songwriting, rife with raw energy balanced by gorgeously understated hooks.
Awards & Rankings
User score distribution:
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Positive: 63 out of 71
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Mixed: 0 out of 71
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Negative: 8 out of 71
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Apr 5, 2019
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Mar 6, 2016
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Dec 20, 2011