Metascore
72

Generally favorable reviews - based on 13 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 13
  2. Negative: 0 out of 13
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  1. Sep 24, 2013
    80
    Though Negativity bounces around a little, its tormented core and multifaceted musical approach make it one of Deer Tick's most consistent and enjoyable albums.
  2. Uncut
    Oct 1, 2013
    80
    A records that spurts gloriously in all directions. [Oct 2013, p.65]
  3. Q Magazine
    Oct 11, 2013
    60
    A perfectly acceptable retrenchment. [Nov 2013, p.105]
  4. 70
    While Negativity is an apt word to describe the impact of the events that inspired Deer Tick’s fifth full-length, it’s not an overwhelmingly dark record.
  5. Sep 24, 2013
    70
    Tight songs flash their roots.
  6. Sep 24, 2013
    72
    It’s when the band has something more to say than “Let’s All Go to the Bar” that the poetry becomes worth anything at all.
  7. 70
    Less sprawling than its immediate predecessor, at its best it highlights the band’s creativity and tautness, echoing some of the vigour of Born on Flag Day.
  8. Sep 27, 2013
    70
    The party might be coming to an end, but at least Negativity gives enough of a hint that the band might be better off for it.
  9. Sep 26, 2013
    60
    Songs are focused, multi-layered and crafted, sometimes even bringing Wilco’s more experimental moments to mind.
  10. Magnet
    Sep 25, 2013
    65
    Negativity is well worth a shot, but there may be times you'll end up sleeping it off. [No. 102, p.55]
  11. Classic Rock Magazine
    Oct 23, 2013
    60
    McCauley strains a little too hard for unpolished authenticity over originality, but he still hits the emotional bullseye half the time. [Oct 2013, p.86]
  12. Nov 6, 2013
    74
    While the album title may aptly describe the plight, this is easily Deer Tick’s most complete album to date, proving that sometimes a bit of good comes from even the most dire of circumstances.
  13. Oct 31, 2013
    60
    Deer Tick’s fifth and latest offering is a tad darker and surprisingly personal compared to earlier efforts. The result is ultimately a stronger album, but it takes a little time to get to the good stuff.

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