Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 16 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 16
  2. Negative: 0 out of 16
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  1. Feb 12, 2019
    50
    Side-by-side with an "original" release, especially 2002's Control, a bit of life just seems to be missing in this resurrection.
  2. Mojo
    Jan 15, 2019
    60
    There's still a lot of soul-searching at mournful tempos, but reconnecting to his roots has made for a fine set of songs. [Feb 2019, p.93]
User Score
7.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 14 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 14
  2. Negative: 2 out of 14
  1. Feb 23, 2019
    8
    5th album from this Seattle, Washington band who play poignant and powerful guitar roots-rockers led by the riveting, emotive voice of David5th album from this Seattle, Washington band who play poignant and powerful guitar roots-rockers led by the riveting, emotive voice of David Bazan. These are medium-to-slow paced, heartfelt rock songs with a passionate strength that digs deep into the soul—bolstered by muscular guitars and Bazan’s uniquely affecting vocals. Members have played in Lo Tom, Headphones, The Globes, Silver Torches. Recalls bands like American Music Club, Drive-By Truckers, Starflyer 59, The Hold Steady. “Phoenix” will leave you affectionately shaking your head with deep sense of satisfaction and time well spent. Recommended. Full Review »
  2. Feb 14, 2019
    9
    Phoenix is Bazan's love letter to his younger selves. It's a chronicle of integration and of revisiting one's younger selves as a differentPhoenix is Bazan's love letter to his younger selves. It's a chronicle of integration and of revisiting one's younger selves as a different but whole, healthy person. Full Review »
  3. Jan 18, 2019
    9
    You can clearly hear that Bazan is reinvigorated on this record. There are some standouts. "Model Homes", "Quietest Friend" and "My Phoenix"You can clearly hear that Bazan is reinvigorated on this record. There are some standouts. "Model Homes", "Quietest Friend" and "My Phoenix" in particular made even me feel his nostalgia for the places he grew up that set the theme for the album. The entirety of it feels very cohesive, he's telling a great story and I can't wait for the next 4 in this planned 5 album arc. Full Review »