TBH I think the review itself is great and well written and if I were to just read it without seeing the score, I would’ve guessed they would’ve rated it an 8 or higher. Pitchfork is so weird.
Yeah, I had the same thought. Didn't read like a 6.8. The main criticism was that the album is "overstuffed" (which, IMO, is part of the appeal).
Pitchfork scores are annoyingly by committee some real nerds on it I’m more partial to the 100 sputnik review holding down the fort on metacritic ;)
so I've never properly listened to this band and the hype levels surrounding their new record are off the scale, sales pitch please
one of the best vocalists of his era guides you through one of the most tragic stories you'll hear with an incredible sense of optimism, good humour and beauty peaking through. somehow does so still delivering approximately 10 all-timer hooks per song and never losing the narrative thread once. on this album is accompanied by an incredibly lush combination of sophisti-indie-pop, strings, choirs and Avalanches-type beats. album is not quite like anything you've heard but supremely inviting and comforting nonetheless. it's perfect
It’s a grandiose, swing-for-the-fences indie rock record, the likes of which are rarely pulled off with such confidence and heart.
just reading that stereogum piece, and it fucking owns that Dave just casually knows Kevin Drew. that kicks ass also, love that he confirmed the chorus of "unison" is a Sufjan reference
good enough for me! too busy with Big Thief ahead of the show tonight but I'll go in on this tomorrow thanks y'all for being... angels
Craig, we’ve had a respectful banter back and forth about different bands/artists and album lengths/tracks per album. We both obviously enjoy Angel in Real-time, but I know you have often sided with a more concise album that leaves you wanting more. Just curious on your thoughts on that matter with record.