Metascore
71

Generally favorable reviews - based on 15 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 15
  2. Negative: 0 out of 15
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  1. Oct 27, 2011
    60
    Sustained by romantic tension, they walk a strange line between being mesmerizing and washing over you like sonic wallpaper.
  2. May 10, 2011
    60
    Williams and White seem born to sing together. Their natural vocal chemistry makes Barton Hollow a satisfying listen straight through. That said, the album is heavy on made-for-TV dramatic balladry, the sort of thing that features so well on Grey's Anatomy.
  3. Mar 17, 2011
    50
    The Civil Wars display some moments of real promise, though not enough to warrant the crush of attention paid their debut, Barton Hollow.
  4. Q Magazine
    Apr 13, 2012
    40
    Deeply unengaging. [May 2012, p.94]
User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 28 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 26 out of 28
  2. Negative: 1 out of 28
  1. Feb 2, 2014
    10
    This is one of my all-time favorite albums. Every song is in my Top 100 playlist. If I was on a deserted island I would take this album withThis is one of my all-time favorite albums. Every song is in my Top 100 playlist. If I was on a deserted island I would take this album with me. This is as real, pure, soulful, and honest as music can get. The partnership of JW & JPW's voices is perfection and their songwriting leaves nothing lacking. The covers are pure icing! Full Review »
  2. Nov 19, 2013
    10
    I couldn't believe it when I first listened to them that this is just their debut album. They sound like they have been making music forI couldn't believe it when I first listened to them that this is just their debut album. They sound like they have been making music for decades now. The tracks are all produced beautifully with Joy's and John's vocals mix in just the right amount of harmonization. Barton Hollow is absolutely one of the best folk releases in years. Full Review »
  3. Nov 17, 2012
    8
    One of the best debuts in years, The Civil Wars are branded as country, but that