Summer In Abaddon
by Pinback
Metascore
73

Generally favorable reviews - based on 19 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 19
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 19
  3. Negative: 0 out of 19
  1. PopMatters
    60
    Pinback can't be faulted for trying to capture a larger audience with their new record, because the fact of the matter is they're a good band with tremendous potential and ability. But for fans that have been following the group for some time, you'd like to see them get there already, and get on with it.
  2. Uncut
    40
    For all their deft intricacies, they're somewhat characterless. [Dec 2004, p.140]
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  3. Under The Radar
    60
    There is some pabulum filler... But Abaddon's best moments are as good as Pinback's ever been. [#8, p.111]
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  5. The A.V. Club
    60
    The cleaner, more direct approach both helps and hurts. Without at least some sonic kink, Pinback drifts toward the pleasant but undistinguished; its core sound is too rarefied to snag the common rock fan.
  6. Dusted Magazine
    60
    While not really better or worse than their previous albums, Summer in Abaddon is at least pretty good -- more of exactly what fans wanted.

Awards & Rankings

75
#75 Most Discussed Album of 2004

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 32 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 29 out of 32
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 32
  3. Negative: 3 out of 32
  1. cobly
    Jul 15, 2023
    8
    Pretty unique sound. I like how the vocals sound somewhat submerged in the instrumental, not sure what others think about that but IPretty unique sound. I like how the vocals sound somewhat submerged in the instrumental, not sure what others think about that but I personally enjoy it… Full Review »
  2. monkeysloveme
    Nov 13, 2020
    10
    an absolutely perfect and beautiful album from start to finish, just buy it you won't be disappointed, 10/10 doesn't seem quite high enough
  3. eugene_skala
    Oct 11, 2011
    10
    Nevermind the mainstream, this music is too good to get ruined by overexposure. Pinback seemed to have achieved the impossible: a truly indieNevermind the mainstream, this music is too good to get ruined by overexposure. Pinback seemed to have achieved the impossible: a truly indie record with masterful studio production; terrific musicianship that keep it loose; lyrics are obscured and seldom rhyme; cryptic yet memorable songs that are impossible to get out of your head; crisp and immediate playing; and enigmatic atmospheres. This is long-term listening, each song growing on you over time. Quite simply this or recent LCD SoundSystem will remind you or let you experience how engaging early albums by REM or U2 were, back when alternative was really, truly alternative.… Full Review »
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