Manzanita
by Mia Doi Todd
Metascore
71

Generally favorable reviews - based on 12 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 12
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 12
  3. Negative: 0 out of 12
  1. Delusions of Adequacy
    60
    Manzanita is an uneven album that nonetheless reveals a great talent and a terrific voice.
  2. The New York Times
    60
    There is nothing but earnestness and obsession in her songs, which risk both clichés and awkwardness as they reach for honesty. [31 Jan 2005]
    All this publication's reviews
  3. Uncut
    60
    A peculiar take on neo-baroque folk with an utterly contemporary twist. [Apr 2005, p.100]
    All this publication's reviews
  5. Urb
    50
    It's nice that a singer/songwriter can fit comfortably on a label known for abstract techno and heady hip-hop. It's not so great when she sounds like Dido. [Apr 2005, p.109]
    All this publication's reviews
  6. Village Voice
    60
    One problem though: Mia peaks too soon. That opener is by far the strongest song. The rest is by turns meditative, breezy, intimate, and snoozy.

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
tbd

No user score yet- Awaiting 2 more ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2 out of 2
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 2
  3. Negative: 0 out of 2
  1. Morcoded
    Jun 15, 2011
    7
    A welcome return after The Golden State's overly produced sound. If GS had any good outcome on Manzanita, it introduced a fuller of soundA welcome return after The Golden State's overly produced sound. If GS had any good outcome on Manzanita, it introduced a fuller of sound brought in from some of her touring band. There are still songs with just her and a piano or a guitar - which highlight her lyrical writing, but sons like "The Way," "Deep At Sea" and "What If We Do?" underscore the rich territory brought in from the new band sound. Building a career on austere songwriting, what's most surprising is the sense of humor or whimsy on Manzanita are the songs that I would have never guessed she would have done. Songs like "Casa Nova," and "Tongue-Tied" are welcome additions.… Full Review »
  2. BBlatt
    Mar 24, 2005
    9
    Brilliant work. Lyrically subtle, musically satisifying.Cohen, Mitchell and Janch.