The Courage Of Others
by Midlake
Metascore
72

Generally favorable reviews - based on 32 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 22 out of 32
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 32
  3. Negative: 2 out of 32
  1. Austin Chronicle
    50
    Despite its meticulous craftsmanship and ornamentation, Tim Smith's stoic delivery throughout – detached and downtrodden – ultimately turns The Courage of Others into a sepia-toned slumber.
  2. No Ripcord
    40
    What Midlake has crafted here is monastery music – glorified Gregorian chants that achieve nothing if not snuff out the candle light in your head that represents your slowly melting interest.
  3. NOW Magazine
    40
    This is background music for a mundane clerical job at Medieval Times or cash duties at a fantasy sword store. But why not just pick up an old Jethro Tull record?
  5. Rolling Stone
    50
    Yet they never come, and without the vivid talents of their heroes — Sandy Denny, Richard Thompson, John Renbourn — Midlake's abstracted invocations of maidens, merchant ships and "ancient light" feel a bit bookish and distant.
  6. Spin
    60
    Even though the lyrics stay hippy-dippy, there are hard-earned moments of musical release.
  7. Sputnikmusic
    50
    The music takes a decidedly darker, slower note, further delving into the folk rock of The Trials of Van Occupanther and losing the powerful orchestration that made Van Occupanther so special.
  8. Uncut
    60
    Like ...Van Occupanther, The Courage Of Others is texturally rich and technically refined, elegantly capturing the ambience of the folk rock scene to which it pays fulsome tribute. But sadly, there's something cold and unwelcoming at its core.
  9. Under The Radar
    50
    It is, quite frankly, a bland album. [Winter 2010, p.69]
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User Reviews

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User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 53 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 41 out of 53
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 53
  3. Negative: 5 out of 53
  1. Entersceptre
    Nov 27, 2016
    10
    This is one of the most achingly brilliant records I have ever heard. The entire record evokes a peace, love and wisdom that enthralls myThis is one of the most achingly brilliant records I have ever heard. The entire record evokes a peace, love and wisdom that enthralls my mind, touches my heart, and quiets my soul. I'm desperate to hear Harp. Thanks for your courage and patience, Tim.… Full Review »
  2. Trevskii
    Jun 27, 2013
    9
    I have been awestruck by this album. Multiple plays later it still enchants my ears with its total difference to just about everything else.I have been awestruck by this album. Multiple plays later it still enchants my ears with its total difference to just about everything else.

    No, it's not The Trials of Van Occupanther. But is that what you'd really want? Go straight to the iTunes chart if the answer is 'yes', please. No, this is a thought-out, restrained gem made with a clear vision. Its quiet restraint pulls me in to soak up every subtle lick and lyric. Its odd, elsewhere world is fascinating. What happened? Is it the past or the future? Why is its condition both attractive and daunting?

    Beautiful.    … Full Review »
  3. Ricko
    Feb 24, 2012
    8
    strong 3rd album from the lo-fi folk-rockers. Midlake have a real unique sound that stands out amongst other releases over the last decade.strong 3rd album from the lo-fi folk-rockers. Midlake have a real unique sound that stands out amongst other releases over the last decade. It's hard to say what their influences are. This album is a mix of acoustic and electric guitars blend in with a host of other instruments, topped off with dark and dreary vocals which really suits the style of the music. At times I'm reminded of Led Zep's quieter tracks, but in general they just sound from a completely different era. Some of it has a medieval feel to it. It's take a lot of listens to really hear what's going on here but it's worth sticking with it. The opener "Acts of Man", "Children of the Grounds" and the title track "The Courage of Others" are the highlights for me.… Full Review »
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