Erlewine from Allmusic gave to the album three stars out of five and opined that "O'Brien helps them articulate their ideas, giving them definition and muscle, attributes that are appealing when the songs lack distinct hooks. A positive review came from Ryan Gardner writer of Absolute Punk, he stated that they "definitely take a different approach this time around, welcoming producer Brendan O’Brien to the boards, which brings a more rock and roll sound to this record." He concluded the review, examining that "As Scars & Stories comes to a close, it sums up everything The Fray have been about the past seven years. While they don’t throw any curveballs or stir the pot too much, the band definitely stays true to their core, crafting yet another memorable piano pop-rock record with these stories." Rusty Redden wrote a positive review for American Songwriter, praising the album for being their "most-produced and boldest album yet." He also mentioned that the band "achieves a bigger sounding record as Coldplay or Switchfoot, but does so in a way that is unmistakably their own." Sputnikmusic's review was also positive, saying that the album "chooses to defend the band’s empire instead of pushing towards newer and greener pastures." Billboards Gary Greff wrote that the album "pushes things perceptibly forward." The A.V. Club gave a negative review, saying "Ultimately, these mid-tempo, mid-volume tunes flounder in mediocrity." Jon Dolan, reviewing for Rolling Stone magazine, gave a similar review, stating "They're still pumping American-Coldplay ballads full of sky-groping choruses and symphonic rushes." He went on to pan the lyrics, saying "If it were a Lonely Island parody of an earnest rock band it'd be kind of funny. Unfortunately, the Fray are terrifyingly serious." and gave the album 2 stars out of 5. Melissa Maerz wrote a mixed review for Entertainment Weekly that the band is "too serious" and that "even producer Brendan O'Brien can't save Scars & Stories from generic TV-soundtrack mediocrity." Singles The lead single from the album is titled "Heartbeat". It was released to radio October 8, 2011, and surfaced online via radio music ripping. Shortly after it was officially released for download on October 11, 2011. The music video for the second single, "Run for Your Life" was released on March 11, 2012. Track listing Personnel The Fray Isaac Slade – lead vocals, acoustic piano, rhythm guitar on "Munich" Dave Welsh – lead guitars, bass