In Rolling Waves - The Naked and Famous
In Rolling Waves Image
Metascore
72

Generally favorable reviews - based on 11 Critics What's this?

User Score
8.1

Universal acclaim- based on 16 Ratings

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Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 11
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 11
  3. Negative: 0 out of 11
  1. The Guardian
    Sep 16, 2013
    80
    Their pop-rock noir is at its best on end-of-the-night anthems such as Hearts Like Ours and the suitably crashing Rolling Waves, or when it puts its sheeny spin on the xx's minimal house (as on Waltz).
  2. All Music Guide
    Sep 16, 2013
    80
    In minor contrast to the band's previous effort, the moments of pared-down instrumentation here seem to offer a necessary respite from the intensity, providing necessary moments of calm as we anticipate the next joyous sonic wave.
  3. The Line of Best Fit
    Sep 16, 2013
    80
    It’s a glorious return from one of 2010s most talked about bands that deserve to be talked about all over again.
  4. Clash Music
    Sep 16, 2013
    70
    When it all comes together, In Rolling Waves is a thrilling, melodramatic ride through the regions where pop, electro and alternative rock crossover, and finally meet.
  5. Alternative Press
    Sep 19, 2013
    70
    But is it emo-synth brilliance or just MOR cheese? That’s the question you may still be asking when you’ve surfaced from beneath these Waves.
  6. New Musical Express (NME)
    Sep 16, 2013
    70
    It’s a self-important album, but an accomplished one.
  7. PopMatters
    Sep 30, 2013
    50
    Stripped of much of the effervescent raw power that made their début so infectiously enjoyable, In Rolling Waves ultimately makes for a disappointing and frustrating experience.

See all 11 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

Write a Review
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 4
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 4
  3. Negative: 0 out of 4
  1. jayman69
    Sep 19, 2013
    8
    A touch more glossy than the debut, but the buildups are worth it and the trance layers mixed with guitar sound fresh. The song structure is too similiar though anc needs a few slower changups.… Expand
  2. BrandonBonasera
    Oct 3, 2013
    8
    The Naked and Famous' highly anticipated new album, In Rolling Waves, is spectacularly produced and is a beautiful sonic experience (like there previous album). This albums highlights include "Hearts Like Ours", "The Mess", "Golden Girl" and "I Kill Giants". Unfortunately, this album isn't as enjoyable as their previous outing, Passive Me, Aggressive You and some songs are a little boring. But overall, In Rolling Waves is a fantastic album that could have brilliant if it weren't for some errors.… Expand
  3. WadeVS
    Sep 18, 2013
    8
    This record is less fussy but retains the winning combination of sleek synth waves with aggressive guitar riffs. It doesn't branch out much, but where it does go is positive. There is no filler here. With this album The Naked & Famous leave other contemporary wunderkind bands like Sleigh Bells and School Of Seven Bells in the dust. 'In Rolling Waves' is a near perfect combination of catchy pop hooks, dark electro soundscapes and guitar riffs that feel genuine. A great sophomore effort.… Expand
  4. kermitology
    Sep 17, 2013
    7
    It's a good album. It channels more of the kind of sound from Punching In a Dream, which in my opinion, is one of their weaker songs from Passive Me, Aggressive You, but definitely one of their more popular. This album lacks the intensity and aggressiveness present on their EP's and some of Passive Me, Aggressive You. So while it's good, it's not as good as I wanted it to be.… Expand

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