Neck of the Woods - Silversun Pickups
Neck of the Woods Image
Metascore

Generally favorable reviews - based on 19 Critics What's this?

User Score

Universal acclaim- based on 27 Ratings

  • Summary: The third studio album for the Los Angeles-based alt-rock band was produced by Jacknife Lee.
  • Record Label: Dangerbird Records
  • Genre(s): Pop/Rock, Alternative/Indie Rock, Alternative Pop/Rock, Indie Rock, Dream Pop, Post-Grunge
  • More Details and Credits »
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 19
  2. Negative: 0 out of 19
  1. May 8, 2012
    85
    It's impossible to deny that not only has Silversun Pickups definitely arrived at their own sound, but that they're one of very few bands around who is finding new ground to break in a genre that most have given up for dead.
  2. May 4, 2012
    80
    The final word sees Neck Of The Woods as a great alternative rock record that will hopefully spur the band onward where 'Swoon' had them treading water.
  3. May 9, 2012
    80
    Neck of the Woods is an even more infectious and nuanced affair.
  4. Jun 7, 2012
    60
    Something's horribly lacking here. Namely, actual songs. [May 2012, p.53]

See all 19 Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 8
  3. Negative: 0 out of 8
  1. 10
    This album definitely took 1-2 listens to fully grow on me, but now after having listened to it approximately twenty times, it has become my favorite SSPU album, even ahead of Swoon. The drums have more variety in their sound on this record too, which is nice. Each and every song is memorable and each runs above 4 minutes in length, so you definitely get a lot of music for your money. Expand
  2. While Neck of the Woods doesn't have the easily accessible hits of the last 2 albums, after a few listens one realizes that it is their most complete work to date. The vibe and feel are intoxicating. They have found the balance between experimentation and familiar sound that Radiohead failed to on their last effort. Expand
  3. 10 out of 10 for me. Yes, it does require a few listens to get into but persevere and you'll be rewarded. Interestingly the negative reviews all mention the single - Bloody Mary - as being the only stand out track. I rather feel it pales in comparison to the rest of the CD. It lacks the sheer power and dark passion of Skin Graph, Make Believe, Simmer, Busy Bees. There are too many highlights to mention, right through to the final track. Album of the year so far. Brilliant! Expand
  4. 8
    I'm very surprised at the number of negative reviews here. It's not a perfect record, but it is definitely a great one. All four members of Silversun Pickups have stepped up their game, and it completely pays off. I like this record much more than Swoon, but not quite as much as Carnavas. Expand

See all 8 User Reviews