Here
by Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros
  • Record Label: Vagrant
  • Release Date: May 29, 2012
User Score
7.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 23 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 23
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 23
  3. Negative: 2 out of 23
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  1. trionafelt
    Jul 11, 2012
    9
    Love this album and have played it over and over. Beautifully crafted songs, great melodies and there aren't any tracks that sound like "fillers". One of the best albums I have listened to in recent times, I have bought tickets to their concert in Sydney this October. As a bonus, I get to see Mumford and Sons as well!
  2. cryhardhumor
    Jul 21, 2015
    8
    A very well crafted and under rated album. Despite the fact that some of the songs might be "too boring" or "too slow" for people who are not accustomed to the band's style, they are very well written and always enjoyable to listen to.
  3. Prozac_Nation
    May 31, 2012
    8
    Here is pleasant escapism with an overwhelming theme of love. The short track list of 9 songs have enough variety for auditory distinction while being highly accessible. Emulating the sound of those 70s hippie bands of yesteryear, Edward Sharpe reinforces the same messages that have been pedaled since Woodstock. There is more complex thought on Here, although the message is quite simple.Here is pleasant escapism with an overwhelming theme of love. The short track list of 9 songs have enough variety for auditory distinction while being highly accessible. Emulating the sound of those 70s hippie bands of yesteryear, Edward Sharpe reinforces the same messages that have been pedaled since Woodstock. There is more complex thought on Here, although the message is quite simple. For instance, in I Don't Wanna Pray, Sharpe recognizes a creator that he doesn't feel obligated to, while also acknowledging a strong affection for. Although sharpe ultimately chooses his own freedom before any god. 

    My issues with Here lie within the album's theme, more specifically the overuse of the the word love. In most (if not all) of Here's tracks, the word "love" is thrown around like it's going out of style. The impact of the word and over-sentimentality put a groan inducing gloss on the album. Had the sound and invention not been as strong, the album could have slogged on like a giant, neon painted, love snail. Thankfully Alex Ebert & Co. are highly talented musicians that bring a cohesive atmosphere and an old fashioned reminder of why we were taken with such greats as Simon & Garfunkel, The Band, or Cat Stevens.    … Expand
  4. Manik_Music
    May 30, 2012
    8
    Full review available at Manik Music http://www.manikmusic.net/reviews/edward-sharpe-and-the-magnetic-zeros-here/#

    Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros quickly endeared themselves to love struck hippies who have a penchant for wearing their emotions on their shoulders. From their first album Up from Below, â
  5. AlexxTrusc
    May 31, 2012
    7
    Edward Sharpe And The Magnetic Zeros on the "Here" has once again proved that they are one of the elite folk today, because despite the fact that this is only their second album - is it still maintained a good level. Songs are very melodic folk compositions, and the biggest plus for the band is a pure joy derriving from them. Undoubtedly, attention should be drawn to the instrumentalEdward Sharpe And The Magnetic Zeros on the "Here" has once again proved that they are one of the elite folk today, because despite the fact that this is only their second album - is it still maintained a good level. Songs are very melodic folk compositions, and the biggest plus for the band is a pure joy derriving from them. Undoubtedly, attention should be drawn to the instrumental diversity, distinctive vocals and a great-sounding backing vocals.… Expand
  6. Antiparra73
    Jun 25, 2012
    9
    Hippy songs to celebrate love & life. Sounds like Lambchop at times, with arrangements that resemble The Walker Brothers. Great album. I don't know why it was dismissed by most critics, maybe the excess of love & religious imagery. But what's the damage!

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
62

Generally favorable reviews - based on 20 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 20
  2. Mixed: 10 out of 20
  3. Negative: 0 out of 20
  1. Austin Chronicle
    Oct 30, 2012
    40
    Frontman Alex Ebert shoots more sincerity with the sophomore effort, which paradoxically results in a set that feels about as authentic as his previous Ima Robot persona.
    Read full review
  2. Q Magazine
    Oct 12, 2012
    40
    As tourism, fine, but it's no trip. [Jul 2012, p.103]
  3. Magnet
    Jun 19, 2012
    40
    Two albums in, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros sound just as phony as Ima Robot did. [No.88 p.59]
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