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Impersonator
by
Impersonator Image
Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 23 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
8.2

Universal acclaim- based on 21 Ratings

  • Summary: This is the debut full-length release for the now duo of Montreal producer Devon Welsh and Matthew Otto. [Welsh released II, a collection of songs in 2011 as a solo project.]
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  • Record Label: Matador Records
  • Genre(s): Electronic, Pop/Rock, Alternative/Indie Rock, Alternative Pop/Rock, Indie Rock, Indie Electronic, Post-Rock
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Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 19 out of 23
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 23
  3. Negative: 0 out of 23
  1. AllMusic
    May 16, 2013
    90
    With such a wide-open sound, even the confusing and painful parts sound hauntingly beautiful.
  2. Pitchfork
    May 22, 2013
    82
    Impersonator gently twists your arm like this, song-by-song and note-by-note, and it is as discomfiting as it is transcendent.
  3. cokemachineglow
    Jun 24, 2013
    80
    There’s a central and important paradox at work here, something that elevates the record above what might otherwise be emo-aspirations of gushy earnestness. Singer Devon Welsh makes himself the first target of an incisive analysis.
  4. Filter
    May 20, 2013
    72
    Welsh and Otto reach those who can find self-fulfillment in unearthing complexities, especially ones that lie underneath a surface subtlety.
  5. The Line of Best Fit
    Jun 3, 2013
    70
    Tedious genre classification aside, it’s a fascinating record that begs softly for closer inspection and possibly even adoration.
  6. Tiny Mix Tapes
    May 24, 2013
    70
    This isn’t an album that I foresee myself returning to very often, but under the right set of circumstances--such as the live performance that I attended last December--these are songs that contain the potential to deliver an unforgettable, emotionally cathartic experience.
  7. Under The Radar
    May 29, 2013
    55
    The majority sounds like demos for a fuller, richer album that Welsh undoubtedly has the skills to write.

See all 23 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2 out of 2
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 2
  3. Negative: 0 out of 2
  1. xfishcorex
    May 26, 2013
    9
    In a world where it seems each electronic producer and musician is trying to 'out dance' the competition, it is unbelievably refreshing toIn a world where it seems each electronic producer and musician is trying to 'out dance' the competition, it is unbelievably refreshing to hear an album so ingrained with emotional purity and honesty as Impersonator. While this album is an excellent example of synth-pop, it leaves many of its contemporaries in the dust due to its stripped back approach and focus on writing songs dripping with heart-wrenching clarity and simplicity. There are none of the crutches used by many electronic artists (auto-tune, blaring bass lines, etc.) to hide creative gaps in their writing. Only elements complimentary to Devon Welsh's cathartic lyrics and surprisingly powerful singing. While I can see this album being dismissed by many, especially due to it's lack of outward excitement, it will also gush a refreshing amount of emotion and intelligence to anyone willing to give it a few spins. I anticipate this being one of the years best.… Expand
  2. adhamhany
    Dec 21, 2013
    9
    The music is minimal, which is great. It leaves room for this guys commanding voice, his wonderful singing, and heartbreaking lyrics to takeThe music is minimal, which is great. It leaves room for this guys commanding voice, his wonderful singing, and heartbreaking lyrics to take center stage, resulting in a truly captivating album. Very grateful to have heard this amazing piece of music.… Expand