Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 8 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 8
  2. Negative: 0 out of 8
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  1. Sep 20, 2012
    90
    Circa Survive have managed to stay both relevant and utterly compelling – not just surviving but thriving.
  2. Sep 20, 2012
    80
    The band's fourth album sees them further stepping away from their Warped Tour roots to craft a disc that's teeming with emotion without falling on emo clichés.
  3. Sep 20, 2012
    70
    Despite some missed opportunities, Violent Waves is exactly the album Circa Survive needed to make.
  4. Q Magazine
    Sep 20, 2012
    60
    A dreamy, atmospheric record. [Oct 2012, p.98]
  5. Kerrang!
    Sep 20, 2012
    60
    They offer no hits or immediately accessible anthems, but when they do engage, they show why they're beloved of so many. [25 Aug 2012, p.54]
  6. You're going to need more than a few listens to truly sink your teeth into the meaty layers and themes, but once you get it, you'll find that this is one of the most rewarding albums of 2012.
  7. Sep 20, 2012
    90
    Perhaps the only surprise about Violent Waves is how strong and focused, creatively fierce and yet cohesive Circa Survive sound.
  8. Sep 20, 2012
    70
    This is the band's first self-produced, self-released album, and the extent to which it improves and builds on their previous material is a testament to how much these guys have their shit together--producers and record labels be damned.
User Score
7.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 16 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 13 out of 16
  2. Negative: 1 out of 16
  1. Feb 11, 2013
    2
    I am not sure why no one is pointing out that this album sounded like it was produced and recorded by some kid in his basement. The violentI am not sure why no one is pointing out that this album sounded like it was produced and recorded by some kid in his basement. The violent mashing of the instruments completely overpowers the vocals by Anthony Green. His vocal talent was something I always loved in Circa Survive and his previous bands. This release is by far the worst display of his talent out of anything I've ever listened to. Perhaps I just streamed a bunk copy, but unlikely since I went to RollingStone.com. I understand they were trying to do something different with this cd and I respect that; I just wish it was recorded properly and didn't make my ears bleed. Full Review »
  2. Sep 30, 2012
    9
    Cathartic and emotional give and release has always been the primary driving force behind Circa Survive. This album showcases not only theirCathartic and emotional give and release has always been the primary driving force behind Circa Survive. This album showcases not only their honing of that craft, but artistic maturity, and it's made for the best output of their career. Full Review »