• Record Label: 4AD
  • Release Date: Jul 24, 2012
Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 37 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 29 out of 37
  2. Negative: 0 out of 37
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  1. Sep 5, 2012
    60
    [A] sense of distance permeates the music: dark, mutable, likably repetitive synth whirr that recalls artfully creepy bands like the Knife.
  2. Aug 8, 2012
    40
    The LP plays at depth and synthesis while making do with simply reproducing indie electro-pop tropes.
  3. Aug 3, 2012
    50
    Shrines lacks any friction; Purity Ring has created a very viable sound that doesn't offend or stick.
  4. Q Magazine
    Aug 2, 2012
    60
    Both vocals and music here shimmer with a weird radiance... to dizzying, intoxicating effect. [Aug 2012, p.108]
  5. Jul 26, 2012
    60
    The inventiveness in James's vocals draws attention to the lack of that quality in Roddick's production, which grows clichéd after a while.
  6. Jul 25, 2012
    45
    Purity Ring suffers from the all-too-popular idea that pitch-shifted vocal samples and well-calibrated washes of reverb are enough to create haunting, enigmatic music, as opposed to crafting singular worlds of sound that convey the soul of their creator and resonate within the listener.
  7. Jul 23, 2012
    60
    Purity Ring are an alluring concept – the lyrical imagery alone is dazzling – and there is divinity here worthy of rapture and reverence. However, even over a polite forty minutes, familiarity and repetition conspire to break the spell.
  8. Jul 20, 2012
    60
    Purity Ring is trying to do too much, and true to the less-is-more adage, the busier Shrines gets, the emptier it feels.
User Score
8.6

Universal acclaim- based on 122 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 4 out of 122
  1. Jul 25, 2012
    10
    An outstanding debut, this sound so addictive and deepest more than ever! a surprising and well done job! one of the best new band actually!An outstanding debut, this sound so addictive and deepest more than ever! a surprising and well done job! one of the best new band actually! Ungirthed, Fineshrine, Saltkin and Belispeak are highly recommendable! Full Review »
  2. Aug 14, 2012
    10
    wow i cant believe that the critic score has gone so low! Purity Ring's shrines is probably my favorite album this year, along with diiv'swow i cant believe that the critic score has gone so low! Purity Ring's shrines is probably my favorite album this year, along with diiv's oshin. I hope they build on this album's success Full Review »
  3. Jul 31, 2012
    10
    The Canadians have been on heavy rotation and recommended highly to friends.

    Incredible flow, catchy yet easily lost in the background - an
    The Canadians have been on heavy rotation and recommended highly to friends.

    Incredible flow, catchy yet easily lost in the background - an amazing debut album.

    Grandloves and Loftcries are a favourite - Look forward to seeing them live!
    Full Review »