Noble Beast - Andrew Bird
Noble Beast Image
Metascore
79 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 29 Critics What's this?

User Score
8.9 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 36 Ratings

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  • Summary: This is the latest solo album for the singer/songwriter.

Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 25 out of 29
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 29
  3. Negative: 0 out of 29
  1. The Guardian
    100
    Bird and his 10 collaborators use sound the way the impressionists daubed paint, layering elegiac violin melodies with pattering plucked notes, fuzzy or jangly guitar, clip-clop percussion, clicks and drones to create music that might be straightforwardly folky, brightly poppy or more experimental, but is always vivid and engaging.
  2. Uncut
    80
    There’s a sense throughout that Bird’s head is engaged in a battle with his heart, as if aware that there’s a pop masterpiece squatting on the far horizons of his intuition.
  3. Mojo
    80
    It may lack the wrong-footing eclecticism that made his name, but makes up for that in pure melodic charm. [Mar 2009, p.109]
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  4. No Ripcord
    60
    There certainly isn't a lack of beautifully crafted, well produced music on this release, but if you're looking for a full plate of pop-inspired power ballads, stick to the last two discs.

See all 29 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 16 out of 16
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 16
  3. Negative: 0 out of 16
  1. Coltron
    10
    This is undoubtedly one of the most crisp and original albums I've ever heard. He sings with volition and plays so sweetly. The lyrics are masterful and fun, with a lot to sink your teeth into. This album definitely takes you places.… Expand
  2. AlanO
    10
    An absolutely brilliant album. It is lush, intricate, and detailed to the extreme. However, it presents itself as a laid back Bon Ivor/Iron and Wine/Decemberists record...but, it is much more. musically, I would say that this album would more likelt appeal to David Sylvian fans, late-era Talk Talk, or even prefab Sprout fans simply due to it's attention to detail. I love this record and think it's by far Bird's best. I've seen a few "it didn't hit me immediatly" or "it's boring" comments...noting that I'm a long time Sylvian fan...you must have patience and give this a few listens before it becomes part of your life.… Expand
  3. Tubie
    8
    Such a beautiful album. Every song simply oozes beauty and charm. I love just playing this album from start to finish, it's one of those that you can just leave on and none of the songs are worthy of skipping.… Expand
  4. RoryS
    7
    I pretty much agree with the critics here. Nothing too special but there are a few really good songs on here. Definitely not his best, though.

See all 16 User Reviews

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