Embracism
by Kirin J. Callinan
  • Record Label: XL
  • Release Date: Jul 1, 2013
Metascore
69

Generally favorable reviews - based on 11 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 11
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 11
  3. Negative: 0 out of 11
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  1. cokemachineglow
    Jul 17, 2013
    60
    If this album works, it’s because of moments like “Landslide”: those that cut through the density of an artist in flux, one susceptible to myriad influences, managerial grumblings, and producer cues, overeager to pass off his work as undeniably unique.
  2. The New York Times
    Jul 17, 2013
    50
    For each solid purchase on a strong lyric there’s a mess somewhere else; for nearly every powerful accretion of sound there’s a nearly unbearable one. The record’s volatility both saves and mars it.
  3. Q Magazine
    Aug 20, 2013
    40
    Embracism is like a night in a dingy club with someone you've just met reeling through emotions with each additional drink. [Sep 2013, p.99]
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Awards & Rankings

87
#87 Most Shared Album of 2013

User Reviews

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User Score
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No user score yet- Awaiting 2 more ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2 out of 2
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 2
  3. Negative: 0 out of 2
  1. Custom_Concerns
    Jan 25, 2014
    9
    This is my favorite album of 2013, hands down. Callinan's blend of unusual styles and aggressive, energetic vocals make this an album that,This is my favorite album of 2013, hands down. Callinan's blend of unusual styles and aggressive, energetic vocals make this an album that, for me, is impossible to put down. It may take a few listens to really get into it, but this album is so experimental, so ORIGINAL, and full of such unique and great songwriting that it is entirely worth your time. From what I can only describe as "really aggressive electronic with a singer that sounds like an angry Bruce Springsteen" on songs like the title track Embracism and Come On USA, Callinan treats us to more emotional guitar driven tracks like Victoria M., Chardonnay Sean, and Landslide. The closer, Love Delay, is my favorite song of 2013 and one of my favorites of all time. Starting with nothing but quick, short guitar chords and vocals, this song begins with a tenseness that, when the song really takes off, sends shivers up my spine. I absolutely love this album. Give this thing a chance. If you can get past Callinan's rough exterior, you may find an album that grabs you emotionally more than you ever thought it could.

    95/100

    Track Picks: Embracism, Come On USA, Chardonnay Sean, Landslide, Love Delay    … Full Review »
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