The Speed of Things
by Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr.
Metascore
63

Generally favorable reviews - based on 13 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 13
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 13
  3. Negative: 0 out of 13
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  1. Mojo
    Nov 22, 2013
    60
    A glossy finish leaves little to hang on to. [Dec 2013, p.92]
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  2. Magnet
    Oct 18, 2013
    60
    The Speed Of Things has no teeth.... But the choruses are strong and the melodies catchy enough. [No. 103, p.54]
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  3. Blurt Magazine
    Oct 9, 2013
    60
    So while songs such as “Beautiful Dream,” “Run” and “Gloria” may be anchored with a touch of techno, there’s also plenty of sparkle and substance to keep most folks satisfied.
  5. Consequence
    Oct 8, 2013
    60
    Though the compositions at times straddle the line between detailed and busy, on the whole, The Speed of Things is a seamless, competent, and lighthearted pop release.
  6. Q Magazine
    Nov 22, 2013
    40
    If they're not stressing about anything, neither will the listener, meaning meager traces remain when it's finished. [Dec 2013, p.105]
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  7. DIY Magazine
    Oct 21, 2013
    40
    By trying to make them sound something they're not, the end effect falls far short.
  8. Rolling Stone
    Oct 8, 2013
    40
    They tentatively attempt lounge-y jazz ("Dark Water") and falsetto disco ("War Zone"), but their real energy goes into harmonies so fussily layered and childlike that all their lonely yearning can't help but come off as precious.

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User Score
8.4

Universal acclaim- based on 5 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 5
  3. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. KJShannon
    Jan 13, 2016
    9
    I'd say it is one of the most accessible albums, especially when you can dig good vibes and happy melodies. The two songs that had me soldI'd say it is one of the most accessible albums, especially when you can dig good vibes and happy melodies. The two songs that had me sold were "knock louder" and "War Zone"; both songs having an incredible knack for lyricism, song structure, and melody. this album is best listened to when you are going through the early and intense stages of infatuation, but could be a good smile bringer any day if you enjoy hearing happy music. You can listen, and listen, and listen-- there'll always be new little things you'll notice. As somebody who has taken the time to do electronic music (which is such a tedious and time consuming task) they've went the extra mile in detail, and although the overall reverb is a bit tincan-like, the meticulous attention to detail is very rewarding and kind of makes the (some would say) poor choice of environment reverb their little tasty signature. very nice album.… Full Review »
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