If I Was
by The Staves
  • Record Label: Nonesuch
  • Release Date: Mar 23, 2015
Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 13 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 13
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 13
  3. Negative: 0 out of 13
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  1. DIY Magazine
    Mar 23, 2015
    60
    The clear direction and production of the album means that while those who enjoyed The Staves’ debut will not be disappointed, there is arguably less of a initial folk sound that was more apparent on their first record.
  2. Mojo
    Mar 19, 2015
    60
    It's an engaging, sometimes beautiful step forward. [Apr 2015, p.92]
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User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 5 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 5
  3. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. Ricko
    Nov 15, 2021
    7
    I listened to this after coming across 2021's excellent "Good Woman". Between the sound of that album and the additional fact of Bon Iver'sI listened to this after coming across 2021's excellent "Good Woman". Between the sound of that album and the additional fact of Bon Iver's involvement in the production, "If I Was" ended up being far folkier and less contemporary than I expected. The songwriting is pretty solid as is the production. It's a solid album but there isn't that much that stands out or comes across as brave in terms of the decisions and directions taken. The Staves have a nice sound, lovely melodies, good vocals leading to an all round pleasant listening experience. The deluxe version, which is the one I've listened to, is probably overly padded out.… Full Review »
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