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Fear Is On Our Side Image
Metascore
73

Generally favorable reviews - based on 14 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 11 Ratings

  • Summary: Paul Barker (Ministry) produced the Austin band's debut full-length.
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 14
  2. Negative: 0 out of 14
  1. From note one, the listener is hermetically sealed into Chosen Darkness' unique musical universe where overdriven bass leads, pinpoint guitar lines and ominous synths hit with maximum impact.
  2. Urb
    80
    A stunning debut. [Apr 2006, p.96]
  3. Alternative Press
    80
    A compelling spin. [May 2006, p.164]
  4. Magnet
    70
    Casts [their] this-is-not-a-love-song songs in an ultraviolet, goth-shoegazer glow that stretches [their] glistening guitar ripples to Mogwai-like proportions. [#71, p.100]
  5. The problem seems to be a not yet fully developed understanding of how to make their pop moments gel with the layered atmosphere they seem committed to.
  6. Mojo
    70
    Their unique pop panache saves the proceedings from simple retread. [May 2006, p.102]
  7. Uncut
    40
    It's sleek, goth-leaning alt.pop, but ILYBICD's music ultimately leaves less of an impression than their band name. [May 2006, p.109]

See all 14 Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 8
  2. Negative: 0 out of 8
  1. TomasS
    May 14, 2006
    9
    despite all of its polish and grandiosity, this is no easy listening, but so much more rewarding. with each listen, it grows on you
  2. Frank
    Mar 14, 2006
    9
    Fantastic debut.
  3. JordanB
    Apr 9, 2006
    9
    their worst is your best...
  4. abenthobo
    Mar 11, 2006
    8
    better than most people think..
  5. DavidS
    May 24, 2006
    8
    Really good dark pop. Hasn't left my cd player in days.
  6. MusicMaven
    May 24, 2006
    8
    They bring the 80's retro style without overwhelming histrionics (like the Killers/Bravery) or rigid Ian-Curtis-like vocals (a la They bring the 80's retro style without overwhelming histrionics (like the Killers/Bravery) or rigid Ian-Curtis-like vocals (a la Interpol/Editors). Instead, the streamlined goth-pop and indie-rock sounds are complemented by the emotive yet distant vocals. A slightly different, and very enjoyable bit of post-punk revival. Expand
  7. MartinS
    Mar 11, 2006
    5
    Well executed but nothing to distinguish this band from anybody else.

See all 8 User Reviews