Neck of the Woods
by Silversun Pickups
Metascore
69

Generally favorable reviews - based on 19 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 19
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 19
  3. Negative: 0 out of 19
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  1. Paste Magazine
    May 8, 2012
    85
    It's impossible to deny that not only has Silversun Pickups definitely arrived at their own sound, but that they're one of very few bands around who is finding new ground to break in a genre that most have given up for dead.
  2. AllMusic
    May 9, 2012
    80
    Neck of the Woods is an even more infectious and nuanced affair.
  3. DIY Magazine
    May 4, 2012
    80
    The final word sees Neck Of The Woods as a great alternative rock record that will hopefully spur the band onward where 'Swoon' had them treading water.
  5. Alternative Press
    May 2, 2012
    80
    While some songs could benefit from a slight edit, Woods still feels complete--and essential. [Jun 2012, p.80]
  6. The A.V. Club
    May 8, 2012
    75
    Neck Of The Woods may not coax many new fans to the Pickups' newly appointed Camp Crystal Lake, but it gives those already there something dark and sinister to mull over.
  7. The Boston Phoenix
    May 2, 2012
    75
    Enlisting uber-producer Jacknife Lee (Bloc Party, Kasabian, R.E.M.) has brought some magic that keeps the mid-'90s flame--if not eternal--then at least at a reliable glow.
  8. Magnet
    Jun 19, 2012
    70
    A surprisingly deep album that fleshes out the vaguely krautish electronica the band only touched on in previous efforts. [No.88 p.59]
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  9. Rolling Stone
    May 22, 2012
    70
    It could be a blurry Xerox of old sounds, but singer-guitarist Brian Aubert infuses his songs with wispy drama, balancing moppy-haired brooding and bright, bracing fuzz-drunk melodies.
  10. Delusions of Adequacy
    May 18, 2012
    70
    Neck of the Woods may not be album of the year material, but it's the best album in this band's catalog by a long shot.
  11. Under The Radar
    May 16, 2012
    70
    Lucky for listeners, not one track on the album is under five minutes, each song allowed the necessary incubation period to develop and grow without ever losing a limb.
  12. Sputnikmusic
    May 9, 2012
    70
    Neck of the Woods marks interesting territory in their development; it both stands its ground and stretches its legs without actually feeling like it's desperate to do either.
  13. PopMatters
    May 9, 2012
    70
    Even in their least inspired moments, Silversun Pickups have something interesting on offer.

User Reviews

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User Score
8.4

Universal acclaim- based on 44 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 40 out of 44
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 44
  3. Negative: 0 out of 44
  1. ClevelandRob
    May 8, 2012
    10
    While Neck of the Woods doesn't have the easily accessible hits of the last 2 albums, after a few listens one realizes that it is their mostWhile Neck of the Woods doesn't have the easily accessible hits of the last 2 albums, after a few listens one realizes that it is their most complete work to date. The vibe and feel are intoxicating. They have found the balance between experimentation and familiar sound that Radiohead failed to on their last effort.… Full Review »
  2. Palp
    May 24, 2012
    10
    This album definitely took 1-2 listens to fully grow on me, but now after having listened to it approximately twenty times, it has become myThis album definitely took 1-2 listens to fully grow on me, but now after having listened to it approximately twenty times, it has become my favorite SSPU album, even ahead of Swoon. The drums have more variety in their sound on this record too, which is nice. Each and every song is memorable and each runs above 4 minutes in length, so you definitely get a lot of music for your money.… Full Review »
  3. mikejaycee
    May 17, 2012
    10
    10 out of 10 for me. Yes, it does require a few listens to get into but persevere and you'll be rewarded. Interestingly the negative reviews10 out of 10 for me. Yes, it does require a few listens to get into but persevere and you'll be rewarded. Interestingly the negative reviews all mention the single - Bloody Mary - as being the only stand out track. I rather feel it pales in comparison to the rest of the CD. It lacks the sheer power and dark passion of Skin Graph, Make Believe, Simmer, Busy Bees. There are too many highlights to mention, right through to the final track. Album of the year so far. Brilliant!… Full Review »
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