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  • Release Date:
Heroes & Villains Image
Metascore
72

Generally favorable reviews - based on 9 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
8.1

Universal acclaim- based on 7 Ratings

  • Summary: The Los Angeles- (no, not Bay Area-) based alt-rock band led by singer-songwriter James Grundler returns with a Rick Rubin-produced sophomore LP.
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 9
  2. Negative: 0 out of 9
  1. Some of the dreamiest pop to emerge on the U.S. side of the pond in recent years.
  2. Q Magazine
    80
    It is the quieter songs, like the beautiful Throwing Stones, that make this record the most charming Rubin has produced since Donovan's comeback. [May 2003, p.111]
  3. Alternative Press
    80
    Loaded with lilting melodies, powerfully introspective lyrics, swelling harmonies and an orchestral quality whose timelessness transcends trends. [Jul 2003, p.121]
  4. The Los Angeles band wants to be Radiohead so bad it hurts, but too bad--they're just too good at pop.
  5. Spin
    67
    There's more muscle in their moping this time around. [Apr 2003, p.107]
  6. The tunes are tepid, but that's not to say they aren't enjoyable to listen to -- in fact, the songs aren't bad at all, but they're not exactly great either.
  7. Those who appreciate an honest, basic record will enjoy Paloalto's simple approach.

See all 9 Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 4
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 4
  3. Negative: 0 out of 4
  1. emilyg
    Sep 12, 2003
    10
    This CD is awesome! :-D I cannot wait to see them!
  2. AndrewL
    Sep 24, 2003
    10
    Fabulous stuff here! I'm a huge fan of Radiohead, the Stereophonics, Verve, Blur, Travis and other Brit-Pop bands. It's nice to Fabulous stuff here! I'm a huge fan of Radiohead, the Stereophonics, Verve, Blur, Travis and other Brit-Pop bands. It's nice to hear some American rock with heart and intelligence in this era of over-produced bubblegum pop. Rock On PaloAlto! Collapse
  3. ginagina
    Feb 7, 2004
    10
    the combo of these guys and rick rubin turn me oooooooon, over and all around.....thanks for the music
  4. AlexP
    Jul 22, 2003
    9
    fuck yeah!!!