Pool
by Porches
  • Record Label: Domino
  • Release Date: Feb 5, 2016
Metascore
75

Generally favorable reviews - based on 16 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 16
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 16
  3. Negative: 0 out of 16
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  1. NOW Magazine
    Feb 10, 2016
    60
    As he wrestles with his isolation--a major theme here--Maine shows shades of Grizzly Bear, but he still fails to narrow in on his own distinct sound.
  2. DIY Magazine
    Feb 5, 2016
    60
    For the most part it works--a few repeated listens and the melodies and hooks bury themselves in the brain. But on tracks like ‘Car’ and ‘Be Apart’, Maine’s determination to retain that sense of despair can overshadow everything and cause some slight desensitivity.
  3. Mojo
    Feb 2, 2016
    60
    Experimental pop that feels for the warm electronic pulse of '80s futurism. [Mar 2016, p.100]
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  5. Consequence
    Feb 9, 2016
    58
    For now, Pool is a pleasant enough record, but one that doesn’t quite hook into the emotions or memory.
  6. No Ripcord
    Feb 11, 2016
    50
    His boyish sensibilities alongside his weary, romantic croon does grate, and especially so considering he’s taking a musical approach that automatically puts him in a more vulnerable place. But in trying to find his groove back, Maine’s insular stiffness fails to provide any plausible authenticity.

User Reviews

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User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 34 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 26 out of 34
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 34
  3. Negative: 1 out of 34
  1. gabrielfobia
    Sep 15, 2016
    10
    This is an unique album, Aaron Maine was able to reinvent himself creating a pool of sadness and emotions. His voice got deeper just like hisThis is an unique album, Aaron Maine was able to reinvent himself creating a pool of sadness and emotions. His voice got deeper just like his songs, the album is just amazing.… Full Review »
  2. atmosphericrex
    Feb 14, 2016
    9
    Listening to this record is like watching an ice sculpture melt. There's beauty in its distortion and changing form. The only thing I dislikeListening to this record is like watching an ice sculpture melt. There's beauty in its distortion and changing form. The only thing I dislike is the voice modulation on a couple tracks, I think the record could do without it.… Full Review »
  3. leiflacroix
    Feb 9, 2016
    9
    Tapping into the warm, smooth textures of chillwave and indie, Porches created a spectacular album revolving around the water splashes. TheyTapping into the warm, smooth textures of chillwave and indie, Porches created a spectacular album revolving around the water splashes. They are taking your feet and immersing them into sand and water.… Full Review »
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