• Record Label: 4AD
  • Release Date: Dec 3, 2013
Metascore
68

Generally favorable reviews - based on 22 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 22
  2. Negative: 0 out of 22
  1. Q Magazine
    Jan 7, 2014
    60
    It's good, but he's better as part of the Gang. [Jan 2014, p.119]
  2. Jan 7, 2014
    60
    A bit of streamlining and editing would help DeGraw on future releases, but with songs like “Empty Vases” DeGraw proves that he’s a solo artist to watch.
  3. Dec 11, 2013
    60
    For those up to the challenge, SUM/ONE is a unifying electronic endeavor, astute in its own deconstruction for an indie crossover, and rife with enough low-end euphoria to get the most dedicated basshead bouncing.
  4. 60
    While there is nothing on here as life-altering as GGD's 2011 single MindKilla, tracks such as Overlook remain restless and inventive.
  5. Dec 5, 2013
    60
    Knowing what he is capable of with his band, though, one can't help but feel a little unfulfilled by his solo effort. If anything, SUM/ONE's moments of constriction emphasize how vital the expansive jam aspect is to Gang Gang Dance.
  6. Dec 3, 2013
    60
    It isn't quite as defined or as consistent as his work with Gang Gang Dance, but through persistence it certainly comes close.
  7. It’s smartly done but strangely rootless, roaming far and wide but without a place to call home.
  8. The Wire
    Dec 13, 2013
    50
    DeGraw's skill for mixing and matching swatches of sound is unparalleled, but without context it becomes much like choosing colours for your living room. [Dec 2013, p.48]
  9. 50
    Despite DeGraw’s earnestness and the many good ideas that are in there, SUM/ONE‘s sense of free rein results in something garishly over the top--a bit like reversing your cases when trying to write a serious point.
  10. Dec 3, 2013
    50
    As a producer, DeGraw's sonic instincts are nearly beyond reproach, his carefully sculpted synthscapes frequently gorgeous and never boring. But maximalist excess afflicts too much of SUM/ONE, to rapidly diminishing returns.

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