Metascore
72

Generally favorable reviews - based on 15 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 15
  2. Negative: 0 out of 15
  1. Romanian Names holds the unfortunate and surprising distinction of being the very first John Vanderslice album to feel like just another John Vanderslice album.
  2. This is a “nice” album, not a great one. It pleases with clean, intelligent production, thoughtful arrangements, clever, elliptical words.
  3. It’s certainly an enjoyable collection of pop songs, but, unfortunately, it’s mostly innocuous and not as remarkable as past efforts.
  4. Under The Radar
    60
    Although Romanian Names drops the terrorism fixation, it does attempt to make the most of the other moves that its predecessors did, but to diminishing returns. [Spring 2009, p.68]
  5. Q Magazine
    60
    A unique, if impenetrable artists, Vanderslice deserves a wider audience. [Jun 2009, p.132]
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 10 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 10
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 10
  3. Negative: 1 out of 10
  1. RichardF.
    May 22, 2009
    10
    His tightest, most accessible album to date. Ranks at the top of his list, not nearly as average as the reviews let on.
  2. LaunceR
    May 22, 2009
    9
    Vanderslice whispy, old man voice and the twinkly sounds coaxed from various instruments won't be for everybody. But these are pop songs Vanderslice whispy, old man voice and the twinkly sounds coaxed from various instruments won't be for everybody. But these are pop songs that do what the best pop does - strike an emotional chord. Full Review »
  3. JRock
    May 21, 2009
    8
    JV is the stuff. The Horrors get an 82 and Vanderpuff gets a 71? Hype vs substance. Ding Ding, substance wins!