Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 27 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 24 out of 27
  2. Negative: 0 out of 27
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  1. Q Magazine
    Aug 1, 2012
    60
    The neurotic twists and nuances that made 1982's Vs so electrifying are still apparent... further confirmation that Mission of Burma have no intention of either burning out or fading away. [Aug 2012, p.104]
  2. Jul 12, 2012
    60
    Unsound is simply the sound of a band retreading what it did 30 years ago, even if they put conscious effort into making a few distinct changes to how their sound was delivered.
  3. Alternative Press
    Jul 3, 2012
    60
    Unsound falters on ragged tune such as "Sectionals In Mourning" and "Semi-Pseudo-Sort-Of-Plan;" these songs feel far too much like half-finished rehearsal takes that could use some tightening. [Aug 2012, p.92]
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 5 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 5
  2. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. Aug 29, 2012
    9
    I love these guys; they seeming incapable of making a bad record. This one is more varied sonically, yet still sounds 100% MOB. I especiallyI love these guys; they seeming incapable of making a bad record. This one is more varied sonically, yet still sounds 100% MOB. I especially like 'Dust Devil' and 'Second Television', but the whole album is engaging and high energy. It's different enough that you can't say you've heard it before; yeah you need it. Full Review »
  2. Jul 17, 2012
    10
    Another great MOB album, ho-hum. I get a certain type of aural pleasure from listening to a new MOB album that I don't get from any of myAnother great MOB album, ho-hum. I get a certain type of aural pleasure from listening to a new MOB album that I don't get from any of my other albums. They have really perfected post-punk, but at the same time have created this unique sound that nobody could ever copy. What other band has three band members consisting of a drummer, bassist, and guitarist that trades off lead singing duties from song to song with each member owning a unique, perfect voice for the genre? None, in my estimation. Oh yeah, they also together create wonderful vocal harmonies. And the instruments? Do you like idiosyncratic drumming, angular guitar riffs, strange tape manipulations, an overall sonic attack that creates a highly original noise, yet oddly catchy tunes? This is rock music that creates brain cells. I do like this album more than their last also-great album The Sound, The Speed, The Light but not quite as much as Vs., OnOffOn, or The Obliterati. The biggest gripe I have over this one is that it clocks in at only 35 minutes. 2-3 more songs probably would have made this one just as good as their best ones. Full Review »