It's Never Been Like That
by Phoenix
Metascore
72

Generally favorable reviews - based on 25 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 16 out of 25
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 25
  3. Negative: 2 out of 25
  1. Tiny Mix Tapes
    30
    A change in demeanor accompanies this change in style, however, and it's a turn for the worse: Phoenix now gesture at being a Serious Group with Something to Say.
  2. Dusted Magazine
    30
    A puny, ill-conceived record in comparison to both Alphabetical and its predecessor United.

User Reviews

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User Score
8.6

Universal acclaim- based on 47 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 43 out of 47
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 47
  3. Negative: 1 out of 47
  1. flawlessminds
    Jul 18, 2013
    8
    It's Never Been Like That is an excellent follow up to their first effort, United, though it differs in style and production quality. WhereasIt's Never Been Like That is an excellent follow up to their first effort, United, though it differs in style and production quality. Whereas United had areas that were rough around the edges, It's Never Been Like That feels finished and well polished. Phoenix begins to carve out their niche in cheery rock-pop with tracks like "Consolation Prizes" and "Rally". Later in the album, tracks such as "Sometimes in the Fall" grow more introspective, as well as "North", which paints a beautiful snow-scape as the only instrumental on the album.

    All considered, It's Never Been Like That does a good job at what it was trying to do- develop Phoenix into a well rounded group capable of rock-pop that pleases anyone with an ear for music.

    P.S.
    (The phrase "It's Never Been Like That" surfaces on the track "Long Distance Call")    … Full Review »
  2. ShaneL
    Oct 20, 2006
    10
    I just came across this bank on XM Radio, XMU. I can't quit listening to it, and its the first time a cd's been good enough to buy I just came across this bank on XM Radio, XMU. I can't quit listening to it, and its the first time a cd's been good enough to buy off i-pod just because I can't wait to get to the store. I love cool new music, just rare to find anything mainstream anymore.… Full Review »
  3. SeamusS
    Sep 20, 2006
    10
    An inescapably catchy album filled with some of the most brillaint and fast hooks in my knowledge of contemporary pop. The album flows An inescapably catchy album filled with some of the most brillaint and fast hooks in my knowledge of contemporary pop. The album flows without one week track, paced out beautifully without filler. The second best album of 2006 by far.… Full Review »
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