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- Record Label: YABB
- Release Date: Jun 14, 2024
- Artist(s): Colin Meloy, Chris Funk, John Moen, Nate Query
- Summary: The latest full-length release from Portland-based rock band The Decemberists was produced with Tucker Martine and features backing vocals by Shins' James Mercer and R.E.M.'s Mike Mills.
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- Record Label: YABB
- Genre(s): Pop/Rock
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Score distribution:
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Positive: 13 out of 14
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Mixed: 1 out of 14
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Negative: 0 out of 14
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Jun 14, 2024One of the Decemberists’ finest albums. Even at this stage of their career, where they can comfortably be described as veterans, Colin Meloy and company still have the power to enchant and inspire – As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again, indeed.
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Record CollectorJun 14, 2024Their most ambitious to date. Presented as an old-school double album split into four thematic sides, it serves (by design or otherwise) as a thoughtful precis of the band's 20-year history. [Jul 2024, p.105]
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Jun 24, 2024The Decemberists fill the album to overflowing with sharp, catchy songs, Colin Meloy’s idiosyncratic bookishness well-turned for emotional resonance without relinquishing energy or wit
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Jun 20, 2024It’s more a personal reckoning with their own past: a rummage sale of dusty enthusiasms.
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Jul 9, 2024Rather than a succinct return to form, As It Ever Was is quite dense, occasionally getting in its own way in trying to do a bit of everything. For that reason, it might not be the record that earns them scads of new listeners, but for longtime fans, there is a lot to love.
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Jun 27, 2024While this new LP will not convert many new fans, The Decemberists have re-found that comfortable spot between the arcane and the humane. For that, the dedicated followers will be grateful.
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MojoJun 12, 2024Their ninth record proves their distinctive spirit is still unbroken. The mood is knowingly mordant. [Jul 2024, p.84]