Metascore
64

Generally favorable reviews - based on 16 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 16
  2. Negative: 0 out of 16
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  1. Oct 9, 2012
    80
    Ultraista could so easily have been yet another post-dubstep decent-but-disposable record. Instead the trio have managed to create something that genuinely impresses and surprises.
  2. Oct 5, 2012
    76
    Bettinson's vocals can be a little... sweet, but the dark atmospherics sustain a palpable level of foreboding throughout.
  3. Nov 29, 2012
    70
    The best songs on Ultraísta recall the murky pop made by the likes of Broadcast, where clarity and catchiness intermingled
  4. Oct 10, 2012
    70
    From its start to the jazzy electro shuffle of You're Out that rounds it off, Ultraísta is consistently involving, even if it sags in the middle with Our Song. It's set to be a cult favourite rather than sell millions of copies, but this is because it contains fascinating ideas you won't hear on most pop records.
  5. 70
    The lyrics often hint at the push and pull of relationships, but they're contemplated serenely from afar and cushioned by those synthesizers, just one more element in the pattern.
  6. Oct 5, 2012
    70
    As a collection of songs, and particularly as a "pop" record (inspirations for the group reportedly included Rye Rye and Whigfield, which seems far-fetched at best), Ultraísta feels a bit unfulfilled, but as a work of sound and atmosphere, it's captivating, predictably excellent work.
  7. Oct 5, 2012
    70
    He doesn't exactly leave his own atmospheres, but he has fun in them.
  8. Oct 5, 2012
    64
    The group's clearly more concerned with making great sounds and creating a distinctive vibe than they are with making lasting statements.
User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 6 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 6
  2. Negative: 0 out of 6
  1. May 26, 2020
    8
    As a Radiohead, Atoms for Peace and general Thom Yorke enthusiast, I always have some interest in Nigel Godrich's projects. This brought meAs a Radiohead, Atoms for Peace and general Thom Yorke enthusiast, I always have some interest in Nigel Godrich's projects. This brought me to this album, a self titled debut from a type of supergroup going under the name Ultraista. This also had the added bonus of Joey Waronker. With 2 members of Atoms for Peace, there is inevitably a similarity in style but instead of Thom Yorke's frantic musings we have more smooth silk of Laura Bettinson's vocals. It brings the cut up percussion and synths up in a different light. Of course there is the downside that this record lacks the genius of Yorke's songwriting to elevate the vibes created into something truly special, not to mention the presence of his truly unique vocal delivery. I really enjoy this record, I think it has a distinct sound that I love. You could listen to the drum and bass riffs all day. The synths are somewhat repetitive which results in many of the tracks sounding too alike but on the plus side it is this sound that gives the overall album its appealing texture and feel. Full Review »
  2. Jan 10, 2014
    10
    The album is just gorgeous. Laura Bettinsons vocals are amazing and the music is beautiful. Every song is a joy to listen. Easily one of theThe album is just gorgeous. Laura Bettinsons vocals are amazing and the music is beautiful. Every song is a joy to listen. Easily one of the best albums of 2012 Full Review »