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I See a Darkness received widespread critical acclaim from music critics. Samir Khan of Pitchfork described the album as Oldham's "consummate offering" and the "type of record that demands solitary reverence".[10] Gregg Rounds of AllMusic wrote that it showcased "a more melodic style than the veteran Palace listener might be used to", while at the same time noting that Oldham "hasn't abandoned his foundation of mordant lyrics and minimalist arrangements, but he has built a variety of different layers that make this album an emotional and pleasurable listening experience".[4]The A.V. Club'sStephen Thompson remarked that I See a Darkness was the "most appropriate synthesis yet of Oldham's vocals and backing band".[13] Simon Williams of NME was more reserved in his praise of the album, advising listeners that "patience is a virtue" while nonetheless calling it a "delicate, intelligent record".[9]
I See a Darkness has been ranked in several publications' lists of best albums. Pitchfork ranked it the ninth best album of the 1990s.[14] In 2004, Stylus Magazine placed I See a Darkness at number 171 on its list of the 200 best albums of all time,[15] while in 2006, Mojo deemed it a "modern classic" and the twentieth best album released during the magazine's lifetime.[16] The album was also included in the book 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die.[2]
In 2002, Matt LeMay of Stylus Magazine wrote that "by addressing concepts so grand with such sincerity and skill, the album is incredibly powerful under even the most mundane of circumstances".[17] Reviewing its 2012 reissue, Aaron Lavery of Drowned in Sound called I See a Darkness Oldham's "finest achievement thus far" and the "essential release" in his discography.[6]Q cited the album as "his masterpiece, ushering in a direct and less mythic style of songwriting".[11]
^Paste Staff (June 3, 2024). "The 300 Greatest Albums of All Time". Paste. Retrieved June 3, 2024. ...this is where the Kentuckian's eccentric vision comes into sharp focus: Appalachian-inspired country-folk, existential musings, vivid storytelling...
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