Strange Mercy
by St. Vincent
  • Record Label: 4AD
  • Release Date: Sep 13, 2011
User Score
8.7

Universal acclaim- based on 210 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 197 out of 210
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 210
  3. Negative: 7 out of 210
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  1. All_ButTrU4
    Sep 20, 2021
    9
    Like a small budget indie studio A24 flick sweeping award season this St. Vincent effort hoarded top ten lists when it came out and even later on at the end of the decade seven years later. From the perfect title and addictive rift of the opener, the album plays like a story,but of wat? We'll never know. But death, change and rebirth mark the releases with points of disheartening honestyLike a small budget indie studio A24 flick sweeping award season this St. Vincent effort hoarded top ten lists when it came out and even later on at the end of the decade seven years later. From the perfect title and addictive rift of the opener, the album plays like a story,but of wat? We'll never know. But death, change and rebirth mark the releases with points of disheartening honesty and reflection. As the title suggest the project is an exploration of an unnatural reprieve whether it be in the form of forgiveness, rage,body dismorphia and self reflection. The concept of mercy is analysed. The opener marches onto the scene nervous yet sensual "You're all legs
    I'm all nerves"
    Siting beauty and apprehension at once, the albums conflicting themes . Employing the iconic pixies loud-quite dynamic she uses her allusion to a movie to create a relationship so unstable by the time they've gone "back to work" you're breathless on the 1st song. Before the grand single "Cruel" cuts through with evocative remunerations on the irony of patriarchy settling on a chilling refrain and the catchy-est chorus of her career. Balancing eerie with with warm pop elevates the record and shows Annie at her most St. Vincent. The self depreciating yet empowering "cheerleader " sees a detachment from bad habits giving rise to nothing. Marylin Monroe makes a literary appearances in "Surgeon " heady traditional femininity critique benchmarked with a drowsy ominous tone. A show of Annie Clark's gift for setting a mood and delivering it unsparingly. But the guitar plays it's own part from the gnarly screams in "chloe" to the medicated notes on "Surgeon " it doesn't stand to solely compliment but to stand on it's own. In the weird rock of "northern lights "where an explosion of what can only be called chaos bangs it's head repeatedly on a bloody wall ,walking arm in arm with the insanity of the lyrics. The title track, arguably the best song ,is diaristic as it explores Clark's brush with the law and loss from her father's crimes. Going from sadness, anger and calm she makes another grand statement in a line of grand statements. Overall this is a compelling guitar rock record I'll never stop revisiting.
    Favourites:cruel,chloe in the afternoon, strange mercy, surgeon, northern lights.    … Expand
  2. Andremax
    Feb 6, 2020
    8
    Strange Mercy is a delicious musical influeneces' mix full of creativity .
  3. Ricko
    Mar 11, 2018
    6
    For many, "Strange Mercy" is peak St Vincent yet it is well down the list of her releases for me. Certainly, this is a highly interesting listen, multi textured sonically and lyrically provoking it takes many many listens to appreciate and gets better with each one. Personally I feel the album lacks a true soul. At the very least the raw material has a suffocated, slightly clinical feel toFor many, "Strange Mercy" is peak St Vincent yet it is well down the list of her releases for me. Certainly, this is a highly interesting listen, multi textured sonically and lyrically provoking it takes many many listens to appreciate and gets better with each one. Personally I feel the album lacks a true soul. At the very least the raw material has a suffocated, slightly clinical feel to it with the amount going on in each track. Her more recent albums have had intelligence and invention but some incredible pop songs as well but on "Strange Mercy" it is the production and studio work that takes centre stage rather than the songs themselves.… Expand
  4. marcmyworks
    Nov 23, 2017
    8
    Strange Mercy is a strong follow up to Clark's opus, Actor, however doesn't seem as new and fresh. I will say this though, the thematic idea of high school exclusion is incredibly interesting to hear in such a mature sound. Download: Cheerleader, Year of the Tiger, Surgeon.
  5. jotaeseche
    Jul 25, 2014
    10
    Marvelously created, beautifully designed and planned, and fantastically performed. And it has Surgeon: that's enough to say. St Vincent has nothing else to prove, she is just great. Bravo!
  6. JohnL
    Apr 27, 2014
    10
    And incredible album...one of my three faves from that year.
    My faves for the decade?- "The Whole Love" by Wilco (2011)..."So Beautiful Of So What" by Paul Simon (2011)..."Strange Mercy" by St. Vincent (2011) & "St. Vincent" by St. Vincent (2014).
  7. Esteban
    Mar 24, 2012
    6
    It's OK. It's not great though. There are some good songs. 'Cruel' is great and 'Champagne Years' (despite sounding strangely like the Vaccines 'Blow It Up') is fantastic as well. It doesn't have that complete album feel however.
  8. littlehedonist
    Mar 19, 2012
    10
    Clark's gotten a bit of criticism for the lyrics on this album, and I really don't understand whyâ
  9. Vampire25
    Jan 25, 2012
    10
    I used to think Actor was a flawless album, until I listened to Strange Mercy and my opinion changed quickly. Don't get me wrong, Actor is a fantastic album, but Strange Mercy is better. Annie Clark writes songs no other person would think about. Her vocals are beautiful, her lyrics are out of this world, and the production value is impeccable. Each track is a landmark in music. St.I used to think Actor was a flawless album, until I listened to Strange Mercy and my opinion changed quickly. Don't get me wrong, Actor is a fantastic album, but Strange Mercy is better. Annie Clark writes songs no other person would think about. Her vocals are beautiful, her lyrics are out of this world, and the production value is impeccable. Each track is a landmark in music. St. Vincent just seems to get better with each release. A… Expand
  10. LuizCC
    Jan 8, 2012
    10
    In her own words, Annie Clark said this album was wirtten in a solitude moment of her life, and it sounds very personal. It's like she put all of her thoughts about life itself in this album, and they seem to be brilliant. She left behind the experimental/baroque sound of "Actor", and gave us a different kind of pop, mixed with folk. It is one of the marvelous CDs from last year.
  11. jimmytancredi
    Dec 30, 2011
    9
    I find this one the more varied than the rest of her albums. Absolutely brilliant as always. We assume that there will be many people who find it hard to provide an opportunity for St. Vincent, that didn't agree with that kind of pop or because it dismay them the references to symphonic rock, but even they would recommend Strange Mercy because it is a clear demonstration of what Clark canI find this one the more varied than the rest of her albums. Absolutely brilliant as always. We assume that there will be many people who find it hard to provide an opportunity for St. Vincent, that didn't agree with that kind of pop or because it dismay them the references to symphonic rock, but even they would recommend Strange Mercy because it is a clear demonstration of what Clark can do with talent unlike many others, trying to enlarge a style.… Expand
  12. zmleslie
    Dec 30, 2011
    9
    St. Vincent invites you into a world that pairs her hypnotic, beautiful voice with music that is elegant yet chaotic. It's an unusual, surreal treat that feels like The Beatles meet Bjork. Strange Mercy is an indie powerhouse that is one of the best albums from 2011.
  13. JUIKER
    Dec 25, 2011
    9
    This is a sometimes beautiful, sometimes experimental and always interesting record. It's still growing on me but I think it might be growing on me for a long while to come. And what a voice.
  14. jacobking230
    Dec 17, 2011
    8
    Sometimes I find art, film or a piece music falling in-between this gray space of awkwardness and a place where I am a bit uneasy and not too sure if I should be laughing or be serious. It reminds me of the first time I saw David Lynch's Eraserhead, ( sober I might add, ) and was clearly the only person laughing in the room. It was a comedy right? Also I find this void and feeling when ISometimes I find art, film or a piece music falling in-between this gray space of awkwardness and a place where I am a bit uneasy and not too sure if I should be laughing or be serious. It reminds me of the first time I saw David Lynch's Eraserhead, ( sober I might add, ) and was clearly the only person laughing in the room. It was a comedy right? Also I find this void and feeling when I am watching a comedian BOMB onstage and can't help but laugh at the strain and stress of the situation. It's the elephant in the room.

    Interestingly I had that same gap of humor and reality while listing to the sonic canvas of Annie Clark's musical statement St Vincent and her latest effort Strange Mercy on 4AD. Lush and melodic with broken time signatures reminding me of Eno / Fripp guitar textures, St Vincent are an outstanding project, ugly, beautiful and angular all at the same time.

    Speaking from a technical side, the guitar playing is wonderful in its complexity and simplicity, tone and static. It's on par and relevant to any guitar nerd who believes that Adrian Belew is a bit more interesting than Mudvayne. Vocally speaking, its leaning in the direction of the lush and creative vocals from Elizabeth Frazier / Cocteau Twins and my ears like it.

    I asked myself how did this happen? Why now? Why St Vincent ? Maybe the magic answer is that Annie Clark's DNA is mildly related to jazz guitarist Tuck Andress or because she was able to run away just in the nick of time before losing her creativity to too much formal guitar training. Whatever the reason - its a good thing! If you're not convinced, listen to the song Surgeon and get back with me.    … Expand
  15. dartagnan
    Dec 14, 2011
    10
    strong melodies great lyrics she has a good voice as well as being an accomplished musician well constructed you may have to give it a few listens but eventually it will suck you in
  16. DaveOatHT
    Oct 25, 2011
    8
    It wasn't unti I saw St. Vincent live at the Treasure Island Music Festival that I realized what a talented guitar player she was. She has serious chops and this album will suck you in. The vocal melody of Cheerleader gets stuck in my head for days. A great effort.
  17. EvanS
    Oct 14, 2011
    8
    In the running with P.J. Harvey's "Let England Shake" as album of the year. It's twisted and glorious. St. Vincent matures with each new album and she continues to throw curveballs where a melody sounds so familiar but is twisted into her own brilliant and original outcome.
  18. jredekop
    Oct 9, 2011
    9
    Strange Mercy feels like it is definitely up for album of the year. It feels so out there, but with familiar aspects. St. Vincent is an artist who is very unknown, but is truly innovative. Great melodies over what is in some songs absolute chaos. Phenomenal album.
  19. hydrawithears
    Oct 2, 2011
    8
    On Strange Mercy St. Vincent finally releases her inner freak. While itâ
  20. bl_nk
    Sep 28, 2011
    9
    Might sound slightly off-putting at first, but 5 listens later, I can confidently say there isn't a stinker on this album. Highly experimental, yet highly rewarding. One of my favorites from 2011.
  21. MorriBey
    Sep 25, 2011
    10
    Instantly liked it. Grows on you so easily. Its the cardigans mixed with Bjork mixed with addictive guitar. And I dont even like Bjork. Dont be put off my the first track, start with the second, Cruel. Great sound and so original. Top 10 for 2011, another great female vocalist to add to The Cults and Phantogram. When you get it, you will eventually love the first track!
  22. sn0wsh00
    Sep 21, 2011
    10
    This album has the precision of a surgeon and the cruelness of a puppy. All the experimentation and blips and dissonance, it works out so damn well! Strange Mercy simply one of the best, if not, the best pop albums of 2011. I am in love with this.
  23. Belmsher
    Sep 19, 2011
    9
    Annie turned it up a notch with Strange Mercy, which is deffo her best so far. Lyrically, it's simple but clever and how cannot i resist loving the brilliant erotic delivery in Chloe In The Afternoon or the fusion of her voice into the guitar freakout in Northern Lights? Flabbergasting masterwork.
  24. Lodz
    Sep 14, 2011
    5
    Just another Tori Amos trying to reach Kate Bush level. No chance. Songs are boring, no surprises at all. At least lyrics is not bad. To sum up, nothing to be so excited about. Critics definitely went wrong.
  25. lightwarrior179
    Sep 14, 2011
    10
    Annie Clark's musical evolution takes its next big step delivering one of the year's best albums yet -- a thrilling,intense yet deeply personal collection of songs that develop on musical and lyrical concepts she has dabbled with on her previous works.
    The musical sophistication on the album is apparent right from "Chloe in the Afternoon" with rough guitars co-operating in tune with her    Annie Clark's musical evolution takes its next big step delivering one of the year's best albums yet -- a thrilling,intense yet deeply personal collection of songs that develop on musical and lyrical concepts she has dabbled with on her previous works.
    The musical sophistication on the album is apparent right from "Chloe in the Afternoon" with rough guitars co-operating in tune with her choir-like vocals. "Cheerleader" possibly her most personal song lyrically sees her sick and tired of being at the sidelines and states her independence with a defiant " I...I...I" beat in the song.
    "Surgeon" might be her most sophisticated work having an oft-kilter guitar hook in the middle that is catchy. As she evolves as a songwriter,singer and composer she also develops in unique way as a guitarist. She has a very unique way of treating the instrument often caressing it on songs to produce deep,soulful melodies but can strangle her guitar to produce jarring rough solos that are as memorable as the music in this album.

    A top contender for the album of the year! "Strange Mercy" sees the one of the better solo artists in the indie scene realize the immense scope of her true potential. This might just be the beginning but what a beginning it really is.    … Expand
  26. ramona
    Sep 13, 2011
    10
    I think a lot of people would agree with me if I say that this is one of the best albums of the year. After the sweet "Marry Me" and the psychotic "Actor", "Strange Mercy" seems a more introverted and sensitive albums. Annie's voice is challenged in this album a well as her guitar, but she was able to take control of both, getting new sounds which in my opinion are very interesting. "ChloeI think a lot of people would agree with me if I say that this is one of the best albums of the year. After the sweet "Marry Me" and the psychotic "Actor", "Strange Mercy" seems a more introverted and sensitive albums. Annie's voice is challenged in this album a well as her guitar, but she was able to take control of both, getting new sounds which in my opinion are very interesting. "Chloe In The Afternoon" opens the album with a catchy beat, and it's followed by the single "Cruel" (I recommend you to watch the music video of this song). I think "Cheerleader" is one of the highlights of this album, transmitting a desperation and tiredness. There are also more calmly songs such as "Champagne Year" and "Dilettante", in which the slow motion style in which Annie sings can be easily noted. Another highlight for me is "Strange Mercy", which seems a song that has nothing from another world with a peaceful guitar, until she's starts singing with her now incinerating guitar thunders at the back "If I ever meet that dirty policeman who rough you up!". Personally, I think this album is for St. Vincent another step up the ladder. I had nothing to do but congratulate her for this incredible album.… Expand
  27. rudsat
    Sep 13, 2011
    10
    This review contains spoilers. Great Album! One of the best I have heard this year so far! This is her best album. Highlights songs: "Cruel" , "Surgeon" and "Dilettante".… Collapse

Awards & Rankings

25
#25 Best Album of 2011
46
#46 Most Discussed Album of 2011
88
#88 Most Shared Album of 2011

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
85

Universal acclaim - based on 39 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 36 out of 39
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 39
  3. Negative: 0 out of 39
  1. No Ripcord
    Jan 3, 2012
    90
    St. Vincent's most sonically rich effort to date.
    Read full review
  2. The Wire
    Dec 6, 2011
    60
    Musically, in other words, Strange Mercy delivers plenty of interest. What's not so convincing is the songwriting, specifically the lyrics. [Oct 2011, p.60]
  3. Entertainment Weekly
    Oct 6, 2011
    91
    It's cerebral and a little chilly, but also full of musical surprises. [23 Sep 2011, p.79]
See all critic reviews »