Trial Of The Century - French Kicks
Trial Of The Century Image
Metascore
73 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 17 Critics What's this?

User Score
9.2 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 5 Ratings

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  • Summary: This sophomore disc finds the New York foursome moving a bit further into 80s synth-pop territory.

Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 17
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 17
  3. Negative: 0 out of 17
  1. Tiny Mix Tapes
    90
    Trial is as rhythmically acerbic and propulsive as the last couple of French Kicks offerings, but the pace is a little slower and more deliberate, the songwriting more cohesive, reflective, and mature.
  2. Mojo
    80
    With elements of synth-pop, new wave and blue-eyed soul distilled into a succession of heart-beating hits, Trial Of The Century is a record that gets better with each listen. [Dec 2004, p.99]
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  3. New Musical Express (NME)
    80
    Has them concealing Duran Duran, Tears For Fears, Wire and U2 under a thick pea-soup of organ and rolling bass. [30 Oct 2004, p.65]
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  4. Q Magazine
    60
    Geographically, one would here have to imagine a borough between The Stills and The Walkmen. [Nov 2004, p.120]
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See all 17 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 3
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 3
  3. Negative: 0 out of 3
  1. Jody
    10
    'Trial of the century' is one amazing song after another. Vocalist Nick Stumpf sings with conviction, letting his unique voice complement the songs, not overpower or distract you from the wonderful melodies and lyrics. The songs are much stronger here than on 'One time Bells'. They soften their sound, using more synthesisers and electronic beats, but still keeping the chunky guitar riffs. This album flows beautifully from begining to end, and you will never tire. They are more experimental on their second effort, and I thank them for it. Their sound is truly magical.… Expand
  2. DavisW
    9
    Probably the most underrated album of 2004 from one of the most underrated bands around today. Simply brilliant.
  3. AaronQ
    9
    Definately the most underrated album of 2004. "One More Time" was the song of the year. The most perfect straightforward pop album of the past few years.… Expand

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