Noctourniquet
by The Mars Volta
Metascore
72

Generally favorable reviews - based on 25 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 19 out of 25
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 25
  3. Negative: 0 out of 25
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  1. Filter
    Mar 29, 2012
    44
    It's a mess--not without some tidy bits--but what's better: these songs could be the death throes, finally, of these guys' unfettered id.
  2. No Ripcord
    Apr 18, 2012
    60
    Noctourniquet, while not completely successful, finds The Mars Volta at their most pop and their most reasonable.
  3. AllMusic
    Mar 29, 2012
    60
    Noctourniquet highlights the more intellectual, esoteric sound the band has championed over the years, but even though the album soars creatively, it feels emotionally restrained.
  5. Rolling Stone
    Mar 27, 2012
    60
    Some songs explore emulsive alienation (see "In Absentia"), but TMV are at their best dabbling in shades of aggro.
  6. Mojo
    Apr 25, 2012
    60
    Assured and challenging. Unlikely to convert the uninitiated, it will thrill the Volta Nation. [May 2012, p.92]
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  7. Magnet
    Apr 12, 2012
    55
    Even album highlights "The Malkin Jewel" and the almost serene "Vedamalady" aren't likely to do much more than appease the group's most ardent fans. [No.86, p.60]
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Awards & Rankings

69
#69 Most Discussed Album of 2012
70
#70 Most Shared Album of 2012

User Reviews

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User Score
8.2

Universal acclaim- based on 59 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 53 out of 59
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 59
  3. Negative: 4 out of 59
  1. CalR
    Mar 27, 2012
    9
    The Mars Volta strike lucky once again after a string of good but nonetheless average releases. Noctourniquet, builds on the groups OctahedronThe Mars Volta strike lucky once again after a string of good but nonetheless average releases. Noctourniquet, builds on the groups Octahedron but thankfully moves back into more experimental territory. For die-hard fans of Bedlam or Ampatecture, you may find a lack of sonic lunacy, but while Noctourniquet fails in scope it more than makes up for in melody and immediacy. Whilst most Mars Volta albums take a staggering amount of listens to fully appreciate their sound (hence mixed and impatient reviews from critics), Noctourniquet spits in the face of its detractors by remaining true to their unique sound of prog-rock without forsaking or alienating the actual sound and melodies. It isn't perfect but by all accounts if this is to be their last album, it's one hell of a way to go out on. Best Tracks: Empty Vessels Make the Loudest Sound, Aegis, Lapochka, In Absentia.… Full Review »
  2. Polipiromelitii
    Mar 27, 2012
    10
    At last something exciting and inspiring from TMV. In my opinion, second best album to date, after Frances the Mute. Noctourniquet renew myAt last something exciting and inspiring from TMV. In my opinion, second best album to date, after Frances the Mute. Noctourniquet renew my love to TMV, thank you!… Full Review »
  3. BasaureH
    Oct 1, 2012
    9
    Good album to evolve, not such to remain the same. Clearly not your average The Mars Volta Jon Theodore on-the-drums, but a nice new travel toGood album to evolve, not such to remain the same. Clearly not your average The Mars Volta Jon Theodore on-the-drums, but a nice new travel to embark upon.… Full Review »
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