The Speed of Things
by Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr.
Metascore
63

Generally favorable reviews - based on 13 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 13
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 13
  3. Negative: 0 out of 13
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  1. AllMusic
    Oct 8, 2013
    90
    By slowing things down a bit, they're able to let the knack for melody do a lot of the heavy lifting, giving the songs an airiness that's unlike any other electronic band out there. This makes The Speed of Things not only an excellent follow-up to their already stellar debut, but an album that you'd almost have to try not to like.
  2. Paste Magazine
    Oct 8, 2013
    81
    While the album bolsters the band’s brand of sound rather than showcasing any significant amount growth in writing and arrangement, The Speed of Things is an exercise in consistency and accessibility. It’s refreshing.
  3. Filter
    Oct 9, 2013
    74
    Joshua Epstein and Daniel Zott’s latest effort fires on all cylinders throughout (pun intended), continuing their successful blend of modern electronics and a Beach Boys approach to melody and vocal harmony.
  5. Uncut
    Dec 6, 2013
    70
    [The single "If You Didn't See Me (Then You Weren't On The Dancefloor)"] is sumptuous, sad and beautiful, as is the res of the album. [Jan 2014, p.73]
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  6. PopMatters
    Oct 23, 2013
    70
    There are clear flashes of brilliance here that convince me that Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. is on the verge of something bigger.
  7. Under The Radar
    Oct 8, 2013
    65
    It takes a few steps forward, undoubtedly, but sticks to the formula--because this formula still works.

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User Score
8.4

Universal acclaim- based on 5 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 5
  3. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. KJShannon
    Jan 13, 2016
    9
    I'd say it is one of the most accessible albums, especially when you can dig good vibes and happy melodies. The two songs that had me soldI'd say it is one of the most accessible albums, especially when you can dig good vibes and happy melodies. The two songs that had me sold were "knock louder" and "War Zone"; both songs having an incredible knack for lyricism, song structure, and melody. this album is best listened to when you are going through the early and intense stages of infatuation, but could be a good smile bringer any day if you enjoy hearing happy music. You can listen, and listen, and listen-- there'll always be new little things you'll notice. As somebody who has taken the time to do electronic music (which is such a tedious and time consuming task) they've went the extra mile in detail, and although the overall reverb is a bit tincan-like, the meticulous attention to detail is very rewarding and kind of makes the (some would say) poor choice of environment reverb their little tasty signature. very nice album.… Full Review »
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