Distortion
by Magnetic Fields
  • Record Label: Nonesuch
  • Release Date: Jan 15, 2008
Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 33 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 27 out of 33
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 33
  3. Negative: 1 out of 33
  1. Under The Radar
    30
    There are some entertaining songs here ('Drive On, Driver,' 'I’ll Dream Alone') but overall, there is scarcely an affective moment on Distortion. [Winter 2008, p.83]
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Awards & Rankings

96
#96 Best Album of 2008

User Reviews

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User Score
7.3

Generally favorable reviews- based on 16 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 16
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 16
  3. Negative: 2 out of 16
  1. Ricko
    Feb 5, 2015
    5
    As an album "Distortion" relies heavily on the sonic characteristic after which it is named. A set of throwaway pop songs that hover betweenAs an album "Distortion" relies heavily on the sonic characteristic after which it is named. A set of throwaway pop songs that hover between the quality marks of standard and decent that are given a whole additional dimension through the use of pedals and other studio trickery. Despite this innovation, there is no escaping the fact that the songs are middling. The likes of "Xavier Says" really doesn't belong in the same back catalog as 69LS. Hardcore fans will enjoy and even love but as curious music listener just checking stuff out its a disappointment.… Full Review »
  2. JohnMcC.
    Apr 3, 2008
    9
    Tuneless? I think not. A great pop album reminiscent of earlier Magnetic Fields records.
  3. BrianS.
    Jan 28, 2008
    2
    All the tunefulness from the previous album is gone, replaced by a series of songs that are more kitsch than substance. If "Washington, D.C." All the tunefulness from the previous album is gone, replaced by a series of songs that are more kitsch than substance. If "Washington, D.C." was your favorite song from "69 Love Songs," you'll like this record. If you're looking for real songs, such as "I Don't Believe in the Sun" and "Long Forgotten Fairytale," you'll be disappointed.… Full Review »
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