Paralytic Stalks
by Of Montreal
Metascore
62

Generally favorable reviews - based on 27 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 27
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 27
  3. Negative: 2 out of 27
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  1. Alternative Press
    Feb 3, 2012
    50
    This is isn't a terrible album, but considering the rest of their vibrant catalog, it just seems a bit stale. [Mar 2012, p.98]
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  2. Delusions of Adequacy
    Feb 8, 2012
    60
    An unquestionable oblique listen by mainstream standards, but compared to Of Montreal's previous offerings, Paralytic Stalks demonstrates an intimacy and immediacy which Barnes would do well to repeat.
  3. Mojo
    Feb 27, 2012
    40
    Paralytic Stalks is not an easy listen, but neither is it a good one. [Mar 2012, p.98]
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  5. No Ripcord
    Feb 23, 2012
    60
    There are some truly great moments here where the band crash around making glorious, daft, noisy pop music, but they stand at a stark counterpoint with the cloying experimental tendencies Barnes forces through.
  6. Pitchfork
    Feb 6, 2012
    46
    The thoroughly unenjoyable Paralytic Stalks might be a sign that Barnes should take some time off and let the inspiration come to him.
  7. PopMatters
    Feb 6, 2012
    40
    It's more likely that Paralytic Stalks won't win Kevin Barnes any new fans, and may actually drive away some of his longtime followers.
  8. Q Magazine
    Feb 22, 2012
    60
    The idea of crossing over is approached like somebody running onto a motorway wearing a blindfold. [Mar 2012, p.111]
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  9. Rolling Stone
    Feb 7, 2012
    60
    It's submerged beneath the noise of a dream unraveling, schizoid instead of sexy.
  10. Spin
    Feb 9, 2012
    40
    The result is a nightmarish mess, but it's no relapse into disarray.
  11. The Guardian
    Feb 9, 2012
    60
    You get the feeling Barnes is trying to bash you into the same twisted mindspace he himself inhabits, mixing up spiralling flute lines, cosmic rock and deranged show tunes.
  12. Uncut
    Feb 3, 2012
    60
    In this mood, 57 minutes with Barnes is exhausting. [Mar 2012, p.94]
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User Reviews

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User Score
7.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 38 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 27 out of 38
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 38
  3. Negative: 8 out of 38
  1. Butsku
    Feb 7, 2012
    10
    I waited for a peaceful moment in the busy work week to listen to the album with full concentration. Iâ
  2. swdel
    Feb 7, 2012
    10
    A glorious mess of deeply personal introspection and eclectic instrumentation. Each consecutive listen bring more clarity and enjoyment. ItsA glorious mess of deeply personal introspection and eclectic instrumentation. Each consecutive listen bring more clarity and enjoyment. Its one of those record where the first play-through has you thinking: "What on earth did I just listen to?". Nothing short of sublime.… Full Review »
  3. carla125
    Feb 8, 2012
    10
    Kevin Barnes creates another splendorous record. I understand the different opinions the critics are having, but this has to be one of theKevin Barnes creates another splendorous record. I understand the different opinions the critics are having, but this has to be one of the most interesting releases in months. Totally worth buying it, the songs won't leave your head.… Full Review »
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