The Path of the Clouds
by Marissa Nadler
Metascore
85

Universal acclaim - based on 8 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 8
  3. Negative: 0 out of 8
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  1. Sputnikmusic
    Nov 2, 2021
    90
    It’s Marissa Nadler’s most ambitious undertaking from a lyrical perspective, but she pulls it off brilliantly while simultaneously delivering an album that sounds so lush, sweeping, and powerful that all of the subtle, intricate melodies are merely the cherry on top.
  2. AllMusic
    Oct 29, 2021
    90
    The Path of the Clouds was constructed by Nadler sending frameworks of songs to long-distance collaborators; Seth Manchester (Lightning Bolt, Battles, METZ) later mixed the album after judiciously adding feedback and distorted guitars. These adjustments perfectly suit the album's epic, aching songs, which refuse to keep tragedy at arm's length.
  3. musicOMH.com
    Nov 4, 2021
    80
    It is clear from her latest opus that Marissa Nadler is at the peak of her powers, giving us a work whose intensity burns brightly. Here is a set of songs that keep their head while all around are losing theirs. The more you listen, the more you fall under their spell, just as you would want from your next box set craze.
  5. New Musical Express (NME)
    Oct 29, 2021
    80
    It all makes for a moving look at people who changed, transformed, disappeared and faded, but are immortalised on a beautiful record.
  6. Mojo
    Oct 29, 2021
    80
    Beautifully poised. [Dec 2021, p.92]
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  7. Uncut
    Oct 29, 2021
    80
    A lyrical treasure trove, but the biggest surprise of the self-produced album is the richness of the sound. Nadler’s usual sparse, gothic folk style is emboldened by well-chosen collaborators from Simon Raymonde to Emma Ruth Rundle. [Dec 2021, p.31]
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  8. Pitchfork
    Nov 3, 2021
    75
    The thrills of The Path of the Clouds are far richer than most true crime fiction, but like the best examples of the genre, it leaves you breathless.
  9. Beats Per Minute
    Nov 3, 2021
    70
    The album is suffused with atmosphere, and is full of intriguing narrative ideas, compelling lyrics, and some of her most well-observed stories. Ultimately, though, it ends up coming off a bit too staid and stuck in its own yawning landscape to truly take off.

Awards & Rankings

59
#59 Best Album of 2021

User Reviews

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User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 13 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 13
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 13
  3. Negative: 1 out of 13
  1. Raskolnikov1923
    Nov 28, 2021
    10
    The theme of Path of the Clouds may be escape, but it is in itself inescapable. It draws you in with celestial harmonies and beguilingThe theme of Path of the Clouds may be escape, but it is in itself inescapable. It draws you in with celestial harmonies and beguiling melodies and then transfixes you as you discover more layers of meaning and emotion – until you are hopelessly captivated. No airplane hatch, no canyon getaway, no makeshift life raft will save you. The best thing to do is surrender unconditionally to this glorious album.… Full Review »
  2. TheGreatWaaZoo
    Nov 23, 2021
    10
    What an amazing album ! I love the pace of the album, great guitar work, atmospheric instrumentation and stunning vocal delivery of poeticWhat an amazing album ! I love the pace of the album, great guitar work, atmospheric instrumentation and stunning vocal delivery of poetic lyrics deliver a very immersive experience like no other. Most certainly album of the year and I hope to hear these songs live !… Full Review »
  3. ImpeccibleTaste
    Nov 3, 2021
    10
    This foray into new territory is a bold move, considering the strength of her previous work, and she does it with finesse. LusciousThis foray into new territory is a bold move, considering the strength of her previous work, and she does it with finesse. Luscious instrumentation, more confident vocals and third-person storytelling set this album apart. A genuine artist at the height of her powers.… Full Review »
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