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Fantastic Explanations (And Similar Situations) Image
Metascore
70

Generally favorable reviews - based on 5 Critic Reviews What's this?

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  • Summary: The Jeffrey Novak-led indie rock trio returns with its follow-up to its 2008 self-titled debut.
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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 5
  2. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. Dec 15, 2010
    70
    Fantastic Explanations (And Similar Situations) makes something fresh and powerful from Novak's influences, and if the ingredients to this cocktail are pretty simple to figure out, that doesn't mean it's not strong enough to knock you out.
  2. Dec 15, 2010
    70
    Singer-guitarist Jeffrey Novak pulls off a neat stunt on the second Cheap Time album, bringing fresh life to the most timeworn garage-band conventions.
  3. Dec 15, 2010
    70
    This is still a fun and fast record, showcasing a band with as many ideas as bratty rave-ups. Next time out, they might take a look at the pros with ridiculous hats that co-inhabit their hometown, though, and tell a story.
  4. Dec 15, 2010
    60
    It's a solid reminder that it's tough to grow your rock up, but worth working toward, and Fantastic Explanations is a solid record demonstrating the results.
  5. Dec 15, 2010
    60
    Novak and company are capable of writing great hooks and snotty lyrics, which prevents this album from being a total waste. This time around, it just seems like they got a little too tied up with exemplifying some sort of glam-rock, don't-care-about-anything attitude.