21
by Adele
  • Record Label: XL
  • Release Date: Feb 22, 2011
User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 930 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 804 out of 930
  2. Mixed: 43 out of 930
  3. Negative: 83 out of 930
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  1. Ricko
    Sep 25, 2014
    8
    A solid and generally enjoyable album, plenty of easy to listen to songs sung with what has to be acknowledged as a fabulous voice. The curtain raising Rolling in the Deep and closer Someone Like You are by far the highlights. Sandwiched in between these are 9 soul/pop tracks that vary in both quality and originality. I feel the first and final thirds of the album are the stronger partsA solid and generally enjoyable album, plenty of easy to listen to songs sung with what has to be acknowledged as a fabulous voice. The curtain raising Rolling in the Deep and closer Someone Like You are by far the highlights. Sandwiched in between these are 9 soul/pop tracks that vary in both quality and originality. I feel the first and final thirds of the album are the stronger parts with a dull middle section. There are shows of obvious talent in parts while there is also some stuff which I could only describe as lounge music. Not what I'd call an essential record but at the same time very much worth a listen and it really does have some gems on it. "Rolling In The Deep" is a truly great song and has it all - vocals, tune, production - a real anthem. Maybe Adele suffers a little from what I'd call U2 syndrome - talented and deservedly hugely successful but also overplayed to saturation point which makes it difficult to appreciate just how good the songs are after a while. You get to the stage where you become numb to the songs. If she was undiscovered she'd be one of these cult artists.… Expand
  2. All_ButTrU4
    Feb 11, 2022
    6
    Stunning essential pop! This record is a breathtaking endeavour with no easy way out. A definitive staple its the moment a talented artist became an artist. To only acknowledged the commercial impact independent of tge critical one would be cool hardy. It's astonishing how subtle what she does here with seemingly little ease. The classics stacked in this record are unimaginable from theStunning essential pop! This record is a breathtaking endeavour with no easy way out. A definitive staple its the moment a talented artist became an artist. To only acknowledged the commercial impact independent of tge critical one would be cool hardy. It's astonishing how subtle what she does here with seemingly little ease. The classics stacked in this record are unimaginable from the precarious "turning table " that takes great steps to confront an inconsistent love or the critique of low effort lovers in "take it all". The influence if Amy Winehouse and Julie Holiday are on her sleeve.

    What makes this an outstanding heartbreak record is how considerate it is even in angrier moments like "rumour has it", it's a fair narration of people wrong for each other dissolving their love . The one of many highlights "set fire to the rain" despite being an unexpected chart topper is also a skilful adress of the blameless lover who'd never be accountable for anything. "Someone Like You " is a wise goodbye to someone who might've hurt you but you'll always love closing a juggernaut off elegantly.    … Expand
  3. axelkoch
    Aug 5, 2012
    7
    I'm sorry with saying this, but '21' is overrated. 12 Songs: 6 songs very good, 6 songs only average. Her voice is fantastic, without a doubt. But honestly, this album could've been much better. Some songs are just too sketchy for me. Yeah, there are all sad love songs and that's also a thing that makes the disk a bit boring to me. Only rage against ex lovers that she still loves. Yeah,I'm sorry with saying this, but '21' is overrated. 12 Songs: 6 songs very good, 6 songs only average. Her voice is fantastic, without a doubt. But honestly, this album could've been much better. Some songs are just too sketchy for me. Yeah, there are all sad love songs and that's also a thing that makes the disk a bit boring to me. Only rage against ex lovers that she still loves. Yeah, Miss Adkins, we've got it now. In other cases, only the music makes the song special. Best Songs:
    Turning Tables
    Rolling In The Deep
    Set Fire To The Rain

    Conclusion:
    This album is really good, don't misunderstand me, but you now, with her voice this could've been much better.    … Expand
  4. jyo_tirmaya
    Feb 28, 2011
    7
    Adele's voice works great throughout the album, saving a couple of the songs which are aren't worthy of her pipes. All in all though, a much needed better return from her first album "19" - which I thought was sappy.
  5. NolanLundgaard
    Apr 11, 2020
    10
    21 by Adele: 9.58

    Rolling in the Deep: 1 :) Rumour Has It: 1 Turning Tables: 1 :) Don’t You Remember: 0.75 Set Fire to the Rain: 1 :) He Won’t Go: 1 Take It All: 1! I’ll Be Waiting: 1 :) One And Only: 1 :) Lovesong: 1 Someone Like You: 1! :) 11.75/12 ~ .979 -> 9.58 Wow. I am speechless. I went into listening to 21 with high expectations because 19 was such a good    21 by Adele: 9.58

    Rolling in the Deep: 1 :)
    Rumour Has It: 1
    Turning Tables: 1 :)
    Don’t You Remember: 0.75
    Set Fire to the Rain: 1 :)
    He Won’t Go: 1
    Take It All: 1!
    I’ll Be Waiting: 1 :)
    One And Only: 1 :)
    Lovesong: 1
    Someone Like You: 1! :)

    11.75/12 ~ .979 -> 9.58

    Wow. I am speechless. I went into listening to 21 with high expectations because 19 was such a good album, but Adele takes things to a whole new level in 21. 19 was more of an acoustic album where songs sounded kind of similar, but this is not the case in 21. Adele gives her music a “poppier” spin in this album, and this change has great results. Before officially reviewing it, I had heard Rolling in the Deep and loved it, so I was excited to listen to the other songs here. I was super surprised with the quality of music that this album contained, with pretty much all of the songs having emotionally charged lyrics paired with great music. Piano was the main instrument used here, and sounds similar to the style that the acoustic guitar and piano had in 19, which retains Adele’s style, if it sounds a little different. There is so much more I could say about this album because I loved it so much. All fans of fantastic music should listen to 21, as it is the best album I have reviewed to date (out of 87) and I would consider it a must-listen. Highlights: Rolling in the Deep, Rumour Has It, Turning Tables, Set Fire to the Rain, He Won’t Go, Take It All, I’ll Be Waiting, One And Only, Lovesong, and Someone Like You.    … Expand
  6. RonaldOVOXO
    Feb 3, 2012
    10
    Adele is such a good artist. Beautiful voice and music and she's the 2nd best singer (The Weeknd is the first). I bought this album for my mom and she loved it i checked it out it was one of the best albums of 2011
  7. jotaeseche
    Apr 13, 2014
    8
    It's hard to say that you really really like all the track an album offers you, but this was my case: I've enjoyed and loved them all! At some point they sound a bit like the same in structure or lyrics, but 21 is clearly an album that has to be heard and taken as one of the greatest achievements of 21st century music. Adele (with her brilliant and peculiar voice, her strong feelings andIt's hard to say that you really really like all the track an album offers you, but this was my case: I've enjoyed and loved them all! At some point they sound a bit like the same in structure or lyrics, but 21 is clearly an album that has to be heard and taken as one of the greatest achievements of 21st century music. Adele (with her brilliant and peculiar voice, her strong feelings and the sorrow she constantly expresses) has made a remarkable job. So all the excellent critics are well deserved. We'll be waiting for what's coming next, but I truly doubt that any future material can compare to this one.… Expand
  8. BWETMatangi
    Aug 14, 2013
    2
    It seems that I am the only one who dislikes Adele. I guess it just isn't my genre or something, but I am not impressed with this. The only decent song is "Rumour Has It".
  9. Jiano74
    Jan 24, 2016
    3
    Um what there was without a doubt too much hype over this album it was mediocre at best it is truly overplayed and over hyped and one of those albums not to listen to even if people say otherwise.
  10. andyn823
    Jul 21, 2020
    8
    This album is a little bit boring, because it's full of sad and ballad songs. But I really love "Set Fire to the Rain", "Rumor Has It", and "Rolling in the Deep", these songs are different from other tracks in this album. I love the lyrics, the melody and the messages behind these songs.
  11. Akura-ou
    Feb 1, 2023
    7
    To this day, this album is very good. Production is interesting and the vocals are amazing, but out of 11 tracks I remember maybe 4/5 of them.
  12. Segundoleo26
    Nov 23, 2021
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. "Things begin well enough with the single "Rolling in the Deep", with its thumping piano quadruplets and gospelly backing vocals, and continues reasonably with the galumphing Tom Waits-style arrangement of "Rumour Has It"; until, two-thirds of the way through the song, it grinds to a halt for a slower, torchy middle eight." ...… Expand
  13. GagaForGhibli
    May 30, 2012
    1
    Adele Makes Me Mad..
    Yes We Get It She Can Sing.. I Dont Like It That Everyone Says "Adele Is The Only Current Artist Who Can Carry A Tune Live" Hello People Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga, Florence And The Machine?
    The Album Is Nothing Special At All Is The Most Overated Album Of All Time! This Album Win's 5 Or 6 Grammys Florence And The Machine Is Ignored..
  14. greedybadidea
    May 29, 2020
    9
    Adele's sophomore album proves her legend status faster than any other artist I know. This record does so well vocally, production wise, and in terms of lyrical content. She even grows from her previous album with the larger vocal range portrayed on this album and steering from the jazzy production into an even more sophisticated sound. I would love to have a few more tracks steer awayAdele's sophomore album proves her legend status faster than any other artist I know. This record does so well vocally, production wise, and in terms of lyrical content. She even grows from her previous album with the larger vocal range portrayed on this album and steering from the jazzy production into an even more sophisticated sound. I would love to have a few more tracks steer away from ballads because even though I love her ballads, I do not want to see them become diluted in an entire album of ballads.

    Album Track Ranking:
    1. I'll Be Waiting
    2. Set Fire to the Rain
    3. Turning Tables
    4. Someone Like You
    5. Rolling in the Deep
    6. Rumour Has It
    7. One and Only
    8. Don't You Remember
    9. Take It Al
    10. Lovesong
    11. He Won't Go    … Expand
  15. chidime
    Nov 21, 2015
    8
    Writing a review 4 years later. My initial verdict for this album was a 7, but it's risen to an 8. This is actually a good album and it only gets better with time. Adele is a once-in-generation star and I am proud to have actually witnessed her rise in my lifetime. Though i think 25 is better, this was and still is a hell of an album. Congrats Adele, you deserve it all.
  16. Hackskeptic
    Mar 30, 2011
    8
    The maturity with which she delivers these 11 songs is astonishing, brought to life by her undeniable vocal ability and a commitment to deliver beautifully crafted songs without ever having to resort to calculated melodrama. Adele has without doubt, come of age.

    http://hackskeptic.com
  17. ManuelContreras
    Apr 8, 2018
    6
    me esperaba mas de este album en realidad, los singles son muy buenos, y ya
  18. NathanCabello
    Dec 16, 2014
    8
    Perfect vocals, and great songs, this is a wonderful album, a mixed of perfect songs, really really lovelly, one of the best albums od the world.
    Highlights: Turning Tables and Rumour Has It
    Lows: Take It All and One and Only
  19. ewhite
    Sep 2, 2018
    10
    Stunning album. Vocals, production, songwriting, theme, arrangement, EVERYTHING; on point.
  20. iamanicon
    May 29, 2011
    2
    I have absolutely no clue what all the fuss is about. 3 good songs. Overplayed TRIPE.
  21. MyleeneFRW
    Nov 20, 2021
    7
    Неплохой альбом с сильными синглами, из альбомных треков особо отметить нечего, средненькие.
  22. raviopatra
    Nov 18, 2013
    9
    This is obviously a better album than her debut effort. The sound is interesting, from the mid-tempo "Rumour Has It" to the piano ballad "Someone Like You". While being very appealing, the album manages to tell a story of a then-21 years old Adele pretty well. Seeing from how well the album is selling (I think no album has sold like this since the age of piracy began), it will absolutelyThis is obviously a better album than her debut effort. The sound is interesting, from the mid-tempo "Rumour Has It" to the piano ballad "Someone Like You". While being very appealing, the album manages to tell a story of a then-21 years old Adele pretty well. Seeing from how well the album is selling (I think no album has sold like this since the age of piracy began), it will absolutely be remembered for decades or even maybe centuries.… Expand
  23. SumitSumbria
    May 29, 2016
    9
    This is a classic piece, just pure singing, pure music; without the computer and technology edits. No artificiality, only originality; authentic music. Adele's vocals are everything along with the melodious production.
    A very different album in the crowd. It has got its own thing. The sentiment of the melodies has been extra oridinarily justified by Adele. The rythm is in good flow, tempo    This is a classic piece, just pure singing, pure music; without the computer and technology edits. No artificiality, only originality; authentic music. Adele's vocals are everything along with the melodious production.
    A very different album in the crowd. It has got its own thing. The sentiment of the melodies has been extra oridinarily justified by Adele. The rythm is in good flow, tempo is consistent.
    "Rolling in the Deep" is not the best track on the album. It's little over rated. "Rumour Has It" is a wonderful track, especially the bridge part. "Love Song" and "Don't You Remember" are essentially one of the best moments in the album.
    "Take It All" is my personal favourite. Can't express it in words. The perfect music, composition, choir, vocals; everything is just wonderful in this song. And then the comes the best part of the album, the closing track "Someone Like You", the best Adele song of all time.
    In this way Adele "sets fire to the rain"
    Adele's got a talented team. The production is not repetitive. It's so mucical and refreshing.
    Favourite Tracks - Someone Like You, Set Fire to the Rain, Take It All, Love Song, Don't You Remember, Rumours Has It, Rolling in the Deep.
    Jewel of the album - "Someone Like You"    … Expand
  24. JhosepKingsley
    Feb 23, 2018
    5
    From this album we can highlight the great writing skills of Adele which we can see reflected in the use of poetic metaphors, the magnificent production that sounds like a majestic symphony and the vocal performance of Adkins. However, despite the above, it is a flat, boring and uninnovative album that makes it overrated and monotonous.
  25. gabrielfobia
    Sep 10, 2016
    8
    Despite having a lot of slow songs, the album is progressive and captivating, you see yourself singing and crying with the album. It is her best album to date.
  26. mchlkirk77
    Nov 28, 2013
    10
    One of my favorite artists of all time, soulful, true to herself, genuine, moving, and every track is so enjoyable and wonderful, done with so much respect to original artists when a cover is done I love you Adele!
  27. mike4444
    Nov 1, 2013
    10
    This will probably be one of the most well known albums throughout music history. With over 22 million copies worldwide, the stunning vocals and music of this album have left a stain on the Earth that will not be cleaned up for quite a few years
  28. spongeswift
    Nov 11, 2017
    8
    21 is a nice record. It has a few very deep cutting songs but a lot of filler on top of that. This was the peak of Adele's work it is by far her best album because it was so monumental. Most of the singles became #1s and the album sold like hotcakes but other than that it's a pleasant album.
  29. Labarron
    Mar 1, 2011
    10
    This album is amazing! She has completely grew up and i am proud of her. The songs "Someone Like You" and "Turning Tabels" for example, shows how talent she is. To me, this album is 10 out of 10.
  30. pauldiam
    Jun 24, 2018
    10
    The Thriller of 10s. Iconic and legendary. Great music. Great voice. This album will keep selling for the following years and future generations will see it as a masterpiece.
  31. evermore13
    Nov 18, 2021
    7
    Overall, «21» shows that Adele is towering in the same landscape where some of her contemporaries have lost all their bearings. Her husky, powerful voice is what keeps you listening, but here's hoping she experiences something besides betrayal before writing her next record.
  32. Xbluannax
    Nov 20, 2021
    8
    Adele’s best album in my opinion. Loved the jazzy feel to her songs. I’ll be waiting is my favourite,
  33. rebeligado
    Sep 14, 2015
    8
    Hinário

    Rolling In The Deep
    Rumour Has It
    Turning Tables
    Don't You Remember
    Set Fire To The Rain

    Sequência ótima de faixas, além que não tem músicas ruins no "21"
  34. leostarboy
    Sep 9, 2020
    8
    Hearing a voice that grows scratchy and threatens to break and has not been tampered with, has not been slicked over in a studio, a voice that reveals all that can be found within a person and also seems to hold something back, to suggest another truth just behind the veil. Here's hoping that if Adele ever finds true love, she doesn't lose her ability to so convincingly channel heartbreak.
  35. arvintaylor138
    Feb 18, 2014
    5
    Adele is respectfully one of the most treasured artists of all time, but i wasn't too keen is album. Some tracks were soulful while the rest were moody, depressing and if I must say, 'boring' ballads. Not for me...
  36. camilosanchez16
    Dec 17, 2014
    9
    Soy un gran seguidor de Amy Winehouse, asimismo, de Adele, la razón de ello es su estilo... Y quien mejor que llevar las riendas del Soul que Amy dejo previamente preparadas que Adele! Tan melodiosa y expresiva! Gran trabajo!
  37. RafaelSeixas
    Apr 22, 2018
    10
    É o melhor álbum da linha pop/soul que temos até o momento. Adele se consolidou com todas as honras e méritos como um fenômeno mundial! '21' joga para escanteio a pressão por um segundo álbum, é evidência de que quando há talento, haverá sempre grandes trabalhos. 'Rolling in The Deep', 'Someone Like You' e 'Set Fire To The Rain' conseguiram, de uma só vez, um feito que há muito tempo nãoÉ o melhor álbum da linha pop/soul que temos até o momento. Adele se consolidou com todas as honras e méritos como um fenômeno mundial! '21' joga para escanteio a pressão por um segundo álbum, é evidência de que quando há talento, haverá sempre grandes trabalhos. 'Rolling in The Deep', 'Someone Like You' e 'Set Fire To The Rain' conseguiram, de uma só vez, um feito que há muito tempo não acontece: tornar-se verdadeiros hinos, e que com certeza serão eternamente lembrados. É o melhor trabalho da carreira de Adele, o melhor álbum do ano, tudo o que se pode colocar '21' em primeiro lugar, ele É!… Expand
  38. Adson
    Oct 4, 2014
    7
    The album is great, lyrically speaking, but instrumentally speaking, the sound isn't so marvelous listening track by track. My favs are the singles, "Rumour has it" and "Turning tables".
  39. CamdenRendell
    Jan 29, 2018
    7
    Although Adele is overpraised (*cough* The Grammys *cough), and overplayed, there are some great songs on this thing.
  40. MaraStone180
    Aug 28, 2020
    10
    Goddamn this is a living legend, never forget the first time i listen to someone like u
  41. Juan7
    May 12, 2020
    6
    Con influencias de soul, Adele nos demuestra su lado más vulnerable después de una ruptura.
  42. RogerSmith97
    Jun 24, 2011
    5
    I Like This Album Better Than 21, But Adele Has Real Talent... Rolling In The Deep Is A Great, Creative Song... Some Of The Other Songs Are Nice, But Sound Alot Alike.... In My Opinion Adele Should Keep To Fast Pop Like Rolling In The Deep... She Can Still Have Slow Songs, Just More Fast Songs To! Adele You Have Talent...
  43. PabloRivie
    May 12, 2020
    9
    El mejor trabajo de Adele hasta hoy. 9 canciones de 11 tienen potencial para ser single (en mi opinión). Lo único que sigue dejandome un poco que desear son las visuales y el concepto. Tanto en los videos musicales de los singles como en el arte del disco van muy acartonados y sin un trasfondo. Cuando lo mejore tendrá mi diez
  44. dharma
    Nov 16, 2011
    9
    The 'IT' girl of the year is an unlikely pop princess. Bolstered more by her talents than her looks and 'gimmicks', Adele brings in memories of pop powerhouse 'Dione Warwick', and soulful singer 'Aretha Franklin'. She is essentially the anti-'Lady Gaga'. 21 cemented her place as one of the best singer in the business right now, with some of the best vocal performance in recent memory. OneThe 'IT' girl of the year is an unlikely pop princess. Bolstered more by her talents than her looks and 'gimmicks', Adele brings in memories of pop powerhouse 'Dione Warwick', and soulful singer 'Aretha Franklin'. She is essentially the anti-'Lady Gaga'. 21 cemented her place as one of the best singer in the business right now, with some of the best vocal performance in recent memory. One of the year's best album.… Expand
  45. RIProo
    Mar 25, 2012
    7
    Without any incredible sounds, without any incredible video and without any fashion style Adele made a good album, for all the ages. Congrats. ( sorry for my English )
  46. Mangaeyes
    Feb 27, 2016
    8
    8/10 - "21 is simply stunning. After only a handful of plays, it feels like you've always known it" - BBC Music

    A little bit monotonous in places but if you've ever had your heart broken then you really need this album.
  47. Lenis
    Jan 28, 2015
    7
    I've overplayed this album and I don't get how it didn't get best reviews (watching her winnig grammys and selling millions with this album) it's the opposite way but at the XXI century, british singer/songwriter Adele gave us her second studio album, 21. In this record she proves her vocal range and good vibes, following her hit single "Rolling In The Deep" and the 2nd "Someone Like You"I've overplayed this album and I don't get how it didn't get best reviews (watching her winnig grammys and selling millions with this album) it's the opposite way but at the XXI century, british singer/songwriter Adele gave us her second studio album, 21. In this record she proves her vocal range and good vibes, following her hit single "Rolling In The Deep" and the 2nd "Someone Like You" you will get this travelling around powerful, classic and deep compositions such as the highlights -Set Fire To The Rain, Rumour Has It and Turning Tables-. Nice production but unfortunately a little basic and boring after 6 songs, the rise of the queen and the surprising fall it seems like unfinished or something like that because it doesn't have a theme, it doesn't have variation but it have 5 songs that can be declined and easily skipped… Expand
  48. TastyJamProject
    Feb 6, 2012
    10
    Although Foo Fighters' "Wasting Light" was my favourite album of 2011, Adele's "21" crosses, age and gender lines to create a solid album which everyone can enjoy. Her voice is majestic, the lyrical quality is transcendent and the music is catchy as hell. While the Foo's may have made my favourite album, Adele has made the best record of 2011. Great music is BACK.
  49. Hi_How_RYah
    Nov 20, 2021
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. among all albums made by her, it is the only exceptional, without the suspicion of repetitive singing style she mostly exhibiting for about half a decade apart from her debut.… Expand
  50. leafar0997
    Dec 15, 2012
    10
    21 is absolutely stunning, for me is one of the best albums of all times. Adele has a magnificent vintage voice and her songs are simply amazing. Love songs like Don't You Remember, Someone Like You, Hiding My Heart and One And Only show the incredible capacity of Adele to do lyrics about love, the most beautiful but painful thing in the world. All the songs are brilliantly produced. I was21 is absolutely stunning, for me is one of the best albums of all times. Adele has a magnificent vintage voice and her songs are simply amazing. Love songs like Don't You Remember, Someone Like You, Hiding My Heart and One And Only show the incredible capacity of Adele to do lyrics about love, the most beautiful but painful thing in the world. All the songs are brilliantly produced. I was waiting for a album like for a long time. Adele is in my opinion, one of the best artists ever in the music history.… Expand
  51. linikedemarco
    Aug 25, 2014
    7
    Even though Adele has left the teenage image behind, embracing a new level of the same concept, 21's catchy singles overshine other very good songs, emphasizing a poorly distributed climax throughout the album (which also gives one the possibility of cutting the album in half without affecting its quality) and enhancing the expectations over the singer for a killer third album.
  52. noahmanning14
    Nov 24, 2016
    10
    Adele 's 21 was my first album I ever bought and it is the best choice I ever made. Adele 's 21 for me is the best album in history. Her album sold over 31 million copies and was certified Diamond. This album is a collection of song that are some of the most beautiful songs ever. Everything Adele releases is just amazing.
  53. TheGorilla
    May 30, 2011
    9
    an album full of soul that doesn't rely on hype to be successful. Adele has shown everyone that all you actually need is a voice and a good song filled with emotion and class. one of the best albums of the year and the best voice right now and i'm so glad she received this amount of success.
  54. paulwilsonlogic
    Jul 18, 2012
    9
    Absolutely stunning. Though I think there's so much "heartbreaking" topics in the album, Adele's powerful voice really makes the day! The most particular thing is the incredible Adele's capacity to go through different types of styles, as we can see in "Set Fire to the Rain" and "Don't you remember". So far, one of the most incredible albums ever in the 21 st century! (Album's name says it: "21")
  55. AD421
    Aug 23, 2011
    8
    Adele. She's truly been a breath of fresh air this year. She's managed to let her slower songs take over peoples playlists in a time where dance songs run rampant. She's managed to bridge the gap and appeal to both young audiences and the older adult audience. Her strong voice and mopey sad love songs ave captivated many. "21" is a really solid album. Adele manages to drag you into her pitAdele. She's truly been a breath of fresh air this year. She's managed to let her slower songs take over peoples playlists in a time where dance songs run rampant. She's managed to bridge the gap and appeal to both young audiences and the older adult audience. Her strong voice and mopey sad love songs ave captivated many. "21" is a really solid album. Adele manages to drag you into her pit of despair. What's remarkable is her ability to get the audience to genuinely understand and feel for her. I do need to point out that she gets screechy a few times (it's noticeable on "I'll Be Waiting.") The standout on the album is most definitely "Set Fire to the Rain." Its one of the greatest songs I've come across this year. Its powerful and epic which makes it the black sheep of the album but it strangely finds it place and fits.… Expand
  56. KleineSean
    Feb 5, 2012
    9
    It may be a little overrated but Adele and her team did an excellent job with this album. I'd rather hear this playing on the radio than those generic pop songs with lots of autotune and no lyrical content AT ALL. Very well developed though the topic on its lyrics may be a little repetitive, but it's understandable since writing music is what helped her get over her break-up. Very deep andIt may be a little overrated but Adele and her team did an excellent job with this album. I'd rather hear this playing on the radio than those generic pop songs with lots of autotune and no lyrical content AT ALL. Very well developed though the topic on its lyrics may be a little repetitive, but it's understandable since writing music is what helped her get over her break-up. Very deep and emotional. It definitely deserves the awards it has been nominated for.… Expand
  57. chommy
    Apr 9, 2011
    3
    Boring as hell. Rolling in the Deep is a really nice song, but the rest are so boring. She has a beautiful voice and she could do so much better with it,
  58. dave40
    Aug 20, 2018
    10
    Aquí la muestra de que el talento vende sin necesidad de imagen ridícula y asquerosa como cierta payasa que gracias a que llegó este disco empezó su decadencia, como me alegró que esa payasa se quedara sentada mientras este precioso y emocional material se convirtió en el ganador de la noche y en el más vendido de la década
  59. aaronpaul121
    Oct 1, 2012
    9
    I don't understand why some people are giving a low score to this amazing album. The vocals of Adele are absolutely spectacular and the songs in the album are great. An incredibly fantastic album from Adele........
  60. wallofjericho42
    May 14, 2012
    8
    While it lacks the peculiar charm "19" had, her immensely powerful vocals sweep the floor. Less bluesy and jazzy and more leaning towards Pop, "21" is a step in the right direction despite losing some of the original pep. "21" is less pep, and more sass, which is by no means bad - just different.
  61. dreammusic
    Dec 21, 2012
    10
    Adele's debut was great but this album is fantastic. Filled with songs - mostly ballads - which make your heart ache and your eyes glisten with tears of how they connect to your life, 21 marks Adele's throne in the heaven of pop music. songs such as Turning Tables and Set Fire To The Rain really make your heart melt whereas Rolling In The Deep, Rumour Has It, and Don't You Remember giveAdele's debut was great but this album is fantastic. Filled with songs - mostly ballads - which make your heart ache and your eyes glisten with tears of how they connect to your life, 21 marks Adele's throne in the heaven of pop music. songs such as Turning Tables and Set Fire To The Rain really make your heart melt whereas Rolling In The Deep, Rumour Has It, and Don't You Remember give you a sudden urge to do something (mostly sing along and try to hit that enormous and amazing note in RITD!). Overall, 21 marks a turning point in Adele's carreer and distinguishes her from other artists such as Celine Dion and Leona Lewis, making her reach summits that are beyond the reaches of others...… Expand
  62. star_gazing
    Nov 19, 2012
    9
    Unique voice unusual to the industry: a very blues-like female contralto that can belt it like no other. Lyricism is your traditional simplicity, but the music is organic and full of ACTUAL INSTRUMENTS. It's almost like listening to REAL music for once. And let's take a moment to set it in.... 25 million sold. That's more than Maroon 5 in it's lifetime. That's more than Kanye West. That'sUnique voice unusual to the industry: a very blues-like female contralto that can belt it like no other. Lyricism is your traditional simplicity, but the music is organic and full of ACTUAL INSTRUMENTS. It's almost like listening to REAL music for once. And let's take a moment to set it in.... 25 million sold. That's more than Maroon 5 in it's lifetime. That's more than Kanye West. That's more than a lot of people. It's impressive. This one person could bring my faith back into the music industry like Darren Hayes did 10 months later. It's a serious listen to with varying emotion. Some of it does sound very bratty at times, but it's good nonetheless. This is the one of the few times I'd recommend buying the album and being a part of the madness.… Expand
  63. DanShelley
    Feb 2, 2018
    5
    Despite being a good album, it's way too overrated. There were better albums back in 2011 talking about acceptance and compassion but the Grammy's thought it would be a good idea to give a heartbreak album 6 awards because it went viral.
  64. igorpedro
    Apr 8, 2021
    10
    eu não tenho nem palavras para expressar o quão perspicaz e artista a nossa queria Adele foi aqui, sua melodia nesse album é milagrosa e majestosa, com letras de sofrimento e profundas que faz a gente compreender ela perfeitamente a sua dor, sem falar o sucesso estrondoso e merecido esse álbum teve.
  65. bernlin2000
    Jul 23, 2011
    7
    Quite a bit more uneven than her first album, but there's some standouts here for me: "Rolling in the Deep" "Turning Tables" "Someone Like You". What always stands out, even on the less memorable pieces, is Adele's stunning voice: she is one of the most vocally talented musicians out there today.
  66. CyyChi
    May 28, 2011
    10
    You will worship this album... in fact, you already are but you don't know. Like a critic said, after listening a few times to the album, you'll feel like you always knew them. This is quite true. If you loved 19, 21 will make you forget it quite fast.
  67. asjklas
    Oct 20, 2011
    7
    Aside from 21's biggest problem -- its insistence on recycling the same sound throughout its short eleven-track course -- Adele's phenomenal and almost magical voice and lyrical melodrama make this album one of the most enchanting listens of 2011.
  68. italoverdade
    Nov 19, 2015
    0
    And we really have an album with more of the same, with nothing innovative or influential, the disc has good lyrics but does not come close to its predecessor, and I feel at this point in his career the lack of personality that will be a watershed and come become a model to follow, as it comes to criticizing the sales Monster will give a super evaluation ...
  69. PrThKi
    Nov 19, 2021
    9
    Adele's 21 is absolutely one of the best albums of all time.
    The album spawned one of the world's best known, and most loved songs in 'Someone Like You'.
    Adele once again hits the sweet spot with this record. Amazing.
  70. ernis_v
    Apr 3, 2012
    5
    Adele intrigues us with something new for the first two songs, but then it all fades away into boring and banal same old-same old melodies about a cliché - he left her, now she's sad. Adele could have just put "Someone Like You" instead of the most part of the album, and the effect would have been be the same
  71. super-adn23
    Jan 16, 2012
    4
    Mediocre and pretentious work, nothing musically creative, low quality production, the only really good songs on the entire album are Rolling In The Deep and Set Fire To The Rain. Even though Great vocals and beautiful lyrics. Obviously overrated.
  72. JoelSN
    Mar 24, 2012
    6
    "21" is the most successful album of the digital era, and we will probably never see any other album acquire this success. It will most likely reach the "Diamond" certification in the US very soon, being the first album since 2004 Usher's "Confessions" to do so. But does the album deserve all the success that it's getting? No one can deny the incredibly talented singer that it's Adele. Not"21" is the most successful album of the digital era, and we will probably never see any other album acquire this success. It will most likely reach the "Diamond" certification in the US very soon, being the first album since 2004 Usher's "Confessions" to do so. But does the album deserve all the success that it's getting? No one can deny the incredibly talented singer that it's Adele. Not many artists in the pop scene can own the stage only with their voices, and Adele is perfectly capable of doing so. If I were to grade Adele herself, she would probably get excellent score, but "21" is not that good. The album shares Adele's feelings after a breakup with her former boyfriend, and I think the record suffers of "extreme depression" being "Rumour Has It" the only song that it's not some kind of ballad. This is not necessarily bad at all, but it becomes a problem when most of the songs in the record are dull and forgettable. In my opinion "21" has 4 or 5 extremely good songs, that would make super successful singles (and in fact they have). But the rest of the record is not that good, unfortunately. I think Adele's success has more to do with how refreshing her sound is compared to what's on mainstream radio all day, her mind blowing performances, her interesting persona and of course, her great singles than with the quality of the album. However, it's a midly solid sophomore effort, and now that she is on top of the world I hope she can outdo herself and deliver an amazing third record. Everybody will look at her and that's a lot of pressure, but she has the talent to make it.

    Highlights: Rolling in the Deep, Set Fire to the Rain, Someone Like You, Turning Tables    … Expand
  73. MalArken
    Jan 22, 2018
    9
    Adele keeps on proving her worth to the world. she will always be special. I am so glad I was here to experience her wonderful talent.
  74. zaeksito
    Nov 27, 2020
    7
    Tiene canciones que son joyas, pero considero que está sobrevalorado simplemente por el hecho de ser Adele.
  75. Turine
    Apr 9, 2011
    10
    Just after listening to it once, I became addicted to the album. Definitely one of my all-time favourites. Songs like 'Rolling in the Deep', 'Someone Like You' and 'Set Fire to the Rain' are main highlights of this album.
  76. Yoshipie
    Nov 14, 2011
    9
    Beautiful voice; powerful and meaningful. All the songs are very heart-warming and touching. However, I found the songs rather repetitive. Other than that, it is a perfect album. The song that stood out to me the most was 'Someone Like You' - such a heart-breaking song. A simple piano accompaniment was a fantastic decision to show off Adele's gorgeous vocals. Great job, keep it up!
  77. Seasz
    Apr 14, 2012
    4
    Her voice is so beautiful, but most of these songs are really depressing or boring, Rolling in The Deep is, in my opinion, the only catchy and good song from this album.
  78. doc2be
    Mar 26, 2012
    7
    Good album. Some of the songs feel a little repetitive on repeat listens. Her silky voice commands attention. But after a while the songs are a bit 'samesy'
  79. Spotlights
    Nov 17, 2012
    6
    I'm not actually sure about this one. It's very melancholy. I definitely prefer 19. 21 is good but does feature quite a few fillers. Basically, the really good tracks are REALLY good and the fillers are just meh. The ratio of fillers to hits is about 3:1.
  80. patp
    Apr 4, 2023
    8
    An almost perfect album. Iconic album full of great balads. Will never get old.
  81. cartmenez03
    Jun 19, 2011
    8
    A great change from what we usually see in the charts. "Rolling In the Deep" was a great choice as a first single, as it made me get the album as soon as I could. Love it.
  82. jredekop
    Apr 6, 2011
    3
    On hearing 'Rolling in the Deep' on the local alternative station, I decided to download the album. This ended up being a major disappointment. Besides the single, there was nothing exciting or fresh to be excited about. To me is was just pop with a tinge of blues and soul, with no real originality being put into it. No suprise here it's been number 1 on iTunes for so long...
  83. maxjtotsky
    Jan 20, 2012
    8
    On her debut '19', Adele sounded like a childish confused brat but on '21' she delivers some really diverse and touching songs, strong, emotional lyrics and her matured, powerful voice. The production is miles ahead of her debut, making this sound more comfortable and less insecure than you could have imagined. Adele's tales of heartbreak are likely to reach out to many, but for now we canOn her debut '19', Adele sounded like a childish confused brat but on '21' she delivers some really diverse and touching songs, strong, emotional lyrics and her matured, powerful voice. The production is miles ahead of her debut, making this sound more comfortable and less insecure than you could have imagined. Adele's tales of heartbreak are likely to reach out to many, but for now we can just celebrate how good a musician Adele has become.… Expand
  84. beingryanjude
    Dec 29, 2014
    10
    An album for the grand history of music. Adele continues to shock the world at such a very young age. Her vocals and her insightful and telling storytelling are well-beyond her years. There is a reason why this album saved a declined music industry. We wait in anticipate for your next brilliant year, Adele.
  85. ORIGINATED
    Apr 28, 2015
    7
    There’s a more mature voice and sound to it, with instantly catchy tracks. Adele has shown more audacity on this record and has collaborated with the right guys at the right time. It might sound less versatile than 19 but it’s also because its music serves its story, her stories actually. Her piano skills are cleverly used on some melancholic songs and her powerful voice makes this albumThere’s a more mature voice and sound to it, with instantly catchy tracks. Adele has shown more audacity on this record and has collaborated with the right guys at the right time. It might sound less versatile than 19 but it’s also because its music serves its story, her stories actually. Her piano skills are cleverly used on some melancholic songs and her powerful voice makes this album something everyone will remember for the next decade at least. The record is charming overall but could have gone deeper with a more detailed exploration of her feelings or a more cohesive track list. It’s still a wonderful mainstream album that dares and that’s creative enough to deserve some awards.

    Best track: Turning Tables
    Exact Score: 8    … Expand
  86. clei
    Apr 18, 2017
    10
    This album is a masterpiece. The way she is telling a story about her heart breaking is truly amazing, you can feel her pain in every track. Taking a step away from her roots, 21 is far from a soul album, but still she managed to create something spectacular.
  87. NKOAS
    Nov 17, 2012
    8
    Oh, dear reader, I still stand by my belief that Adele is massively overrated. I still believe that the magazines and public idea that Adele is great for
  88. alexanderab
    Oct 13, 2013
    10
    21 is an instant classic of an album. Adele has an incredible voice and her talent for songwriting is undeniable. Nobody should ever get tired of any song on this album.
  89. lkaliba
    May 30, 2014
    10
    "21" marked the transition for Adele from well-known singer to international pop singer, and this album shows you why. The songs are just magnificent and her voice is just breathtakingly beautiful.
  90. meduardanery
    Nov 10, 2015
    9
    É incrível, assim como o 19. Ela conseguiu ser fantástica nos dois. Vocais e músicas lindas, bem produzido... Maravilhoso! Um dos meus álbuns preferidos, com certeza.
  91. ilias1992
    Oct 25, 2011
    8
    I think Adele is a great vocalist, that will affect and inspire many from now and on! And I can see it in the album!!!Such songs as Rolling in the deep, Someone like you, Turning Tables, Don't you remember and One and only are surely worth to be listed as highlights on the album as they bring such an emotion that you couldn't expect from a 22 year-old woman!The rest is nice but not perfect!
  92. viniciusmiguel
    Dec 10, 2013
    0
    boring boring boring and boring, everything about this album is boring. Adele have an amazing voice but this album sucks!! it could be better if she stopped to talk about her break up in every song.
  93. shtnote
    Dec 20, 2016
    10
    Speechless Speechles Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless
  94. AbrahamBJ
    Oct 10, 2017
    10
    Almost every song off this album is relatable. Adele showcased how to channel heartbreak to a internationally loved modern masterpiece. Rolling in the Deep and Someone like You took the world by storm and rightfully so.
  95. rafaelffraposo
    Oct 25, 2022
    9
    Muito bom, fácil de se conectar, com Hit's.
    Contém muita verdade.
    Sendo um dos melhores da carreira!
  96. andykuchen
    Aug 29, 2011
    7
    A very soulful and powerful album, mostly revolving around breakup. Adele packs quite a punch with her stunning vocals. It is probably the most moving and touching album of the year... so far.
  97. BlacKat1025
    Mar 27, 2012
    4
    With all the praise surrounding this piece, it falls suprisingly flat for me. Even after a few listens, I have trouble distinguishing between songs. All of the tracs deal with the same subjects : Heartbreak, Love, Betrayal. I can appreciate the depth of emotion in this record, however, to describe it in one word...it's boring. That's it.
  98. mdm389
    Jul 13, 2012
    5
    Million dollar voice, totally generic songwriting. It doesn't venture into any waters that haven' been sailed through a thousand times before by soul and R&B singer, and the cliche lyrics and backing instrumentation fail to prop up the songs here. Adele has little to say beyond examining a failed past relationship. She'd be more tolerable if Florence Welch of Florence + The Machine wasn'tMillion dollar voice, totally generic songwriting. It doesn't venture into any waters that haven' been sailed through a thousand times before by soul and R&B singer, and the cliche lyrics and backing instrumentation fail to prop up the songs here. Adele has little to say beyond examining a failed past relationship. She'd be more tolerable if Florence Welch of Florence + The Machine wasn't doing the female British singer act so much better at the same time.… Expand
  99. P_Santiag8
    Jul 27, 2020
    10
    Este álbum marco un antes y después en mi vida , en pocas palabras ese álbum fue lo mejores que pude haber escuchado en mi infancia
  100. Sebastianher27
    Jul 8, 2020
    10
    21 is her best album so far and probably the best album of the decade. It's just timeless.
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Awards & Rankings

4
#4 Most Discussed Album of 2011
4
#4 Most Shared Album of 2011

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 34 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 26 out of 34
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 34
  3. Negative: 0 out of 34
  1. Sputnikmusic
    Jun 14, 2011
    80
    Hearing a voice that grows scratchy and threatens to break and has not been tampered with, has not been slicked over in a studio, a voice that reveals all that can be found within a person and also seems to hold something back, to suggest another truth just behind the veil.
    Read full review
  2. Mojo
    Apr 20, 2011
    60
    The Brit School girl undergoes a successful soul-pop makeover. [Feb. 2011, p. 108]
  3. Consequence
    Apr 11, 2011
    70
    On her sophomore album, 21, Adele channels real emotion and blasts through sincere ballads and angry rockers with few missteps.
    Read full review
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