Beast Epic
by Iron & Wine
  • Record Label: Sub Pop
  • Release Date: Aug 25, 2017
Metascore
80

Generally favorable reviews - based on 24 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 22 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 24
  3. Negative: 0 out of 24
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  1. Exclaim
    Aug 23, 2017
    60
    It's noble to see Iron & Wine trying to take his songs into a different direction, but it's a shame that he lacks the confidence to allow these great songs to show off their personality without the help of inane studio glossiness.
  2. Slant Magazine
    Aug 15, 2017
    60
    The sneaky-sounding arpeggios and the hushed, fragile vocal performances that defined albums like Our Endless Numbered Days are eschewed in favor of bright strumming and unbridled joyousness, rendering most of Beast Epic undeniably pretty but ultimately toothless. That's not to say Beast Epic doesn't sometimes explore hefty themes.

User Reviews

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User Score
7.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 24 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 20 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 24
  3. Negative: 1 out of 24
  1. jbledsoe
    Aug 31, 2017
    9
    The best Iron & Wine album since 2004's Our Endless Numbered Days. After several years of experimenting with his sound in often wonderfulThe best Iron & Wine album since 2004's Our Endless Numbered Days. After several years of experimenting with his sound in often wonderful ways, Sam Beam has gone back to the stripped-down, lovely songwriting of his early days.

    If an artist keeps doing the same thing over and over, they are usually criticized for playing it safe and not challenging themselves. But if they do get weird and experimental, an artist can lose many of their original fans along the way. I think that happened with some Iron & Wine fans who were there from the early four-track days of simple banjo, guitar, and Beam's hushed singing. I never stopped listening to Iron & Wine albums after Numbered Days, but I did find myself feeling less passionate about his music. However, it's interesting to me that it seems if enough time passes, the return to the early sounds can be refreshing and vibrant all over again, as it is here on the lovely and heartfelt Beast Epic. I applaud this triumphant return and hope for more in the same vein.    … Full Review »
  2. LancerReviews
    Aug 31, 2017
    10
    He’s the same artist we have come to know. The album is personal and reflective. Sam Beam is still powerful in his restraints; and Beast EpicHe’s the same artist we have come to know. The album is personal and reflective. Sam Beam is still powerful in his restraints; and Beast Epic is one of his best.… Full Review »
  3. Music_Observer
    Sep 12, 2017
    8
    This album fully succeeds in bringing out the beauty of straightforward folk music with strong melodic delivery surrounded by sweet simplicityThis album fully succeeds in bringing out the beauty of straightforward folk music with strong melodic delivery surrounded by sweet simplicity that’s easily reminiscent of happy emotions, and although the harmonic language got a bit too wearisome and the sound had a lack of additions or real nuance, it’s the kind of simple and consistent work paired with convincing musicality that can’t go wrong. My Score: 135/180 (Solid) = 7.5/10… Full Review »
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