Metascore
60

Mixed or average reviews - based on 9 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 9
  2. Negative: 0 out of 9
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  1. 70
    Thecontrollersphere is another thrilling addition to the Of Montreal catalog, but it's hardly a welcoming entry point for those unaccustomed to the depraved yet tantalizing world of Kevin Barnes. For longtime fans though, this EP represents another exhilarating turn from one of America's most singular musicians.
  2. May 3, 2011
    66
    "Holiday Call" and "Black Lion Massacre" aren't among Barnes' best songs, but they are bold and show that he's an artist who is eager to challenge himself rather than stick to what has become a very successful formula.
  3. Apr 22, 2011
    70
    thecontrollersphere may be an album of toss-offs, but they're proud ones, earning that status by virtue of robust exploration rather than any real deficiency.
User Score
7.3

Generally favorable reviews- based on 7 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 7
  2. Negative: 0 out of 7
  1. Aug 24, 2012
    8
    Thecontrollersphere, like the album cover suggests, appropriately, is a heaving, swarming cauldron of sound with explorations into what soundsThecontrollersphere, like the album cover suggests, appropriately, is a heaving, swarming cauldron of sound with explorations into what sounds emerge when you follow of Montreal into wee hours. The lyrics flay psychic trauma and insecurity with a voice that is at once direct and at ease. Holiday Call reaches out to Middle Eastern influences. The riffs are characteristically catchy. Yes, it's an EP, but this effort is not even close to a rehashing of old material. It is a unique and exciting collection, and worthy of discovery. Full Review »
  2. Jun 23, 2011
    7
    This EP is like most EP's. The songs are leftovers from their full length that didn't quite make the cut or fit into the composition. If youThis EP is like most EP's. The songs are leftovers from their full length that didn't quite make the cut or fit into the composition. If you are already a fan of Of Montreal, you will love the songs, go buy the record. If not, go pick up a full length. Full Review »