Yankee Hotel Foxtrot

I went into this with an open mind and came out confused about its reputation. The songwriting is meandering, the production choices are baffling, and the whole thing feels about twice as long as it needs to be. There are maybe two tracks that justify their existence and the rest is filler. I don't begrudge anyone who loves this — art is subjective and all that — but I find the unanimous critical acclaim mystifying. This felt like homework, not music. I kept waiting for the moment where it all clicks and it just never came.

Really impressive debut that announced a major new talent. There are a few rough edges that betray inexperience, but the raw ability and creative vision are undeniable. Can't wait to hear what comes next.

The talent is obvious but the execution is inconsistent.

A confident, mature work. You can hear the growth from their earlier releases.

Timeless. I've listened hundreds of times and it never gets old.

Took a few listens to click but now I can't stop playing it.

An absolute masterpiece from start to finish. Every track earns its place.

This grew on me a lot. First listen I thought it was good, not great. By the fifth listen I was completely hooked. The subtlety of the arrangements really rewards patience and close attention.

Great album that rewards repeated listens. Gets better every time.

Occasionally overindulgent but the quality is undeniable.