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. bamboo
    Mar 4, 2011
    10
    This is the best album of this year so far. All of the songs here are well-written and full of emotion that the audience can easily relate themselves to. With an instant classic and Grammy-nominated potential album like 21, I really cannot believe why it got only 76 points. All the mixed reviews are full of hatred and maybe the people who wrote those reviews need to check their definitionThis is the best album of this year so far. All of the songs here are well-written and full of emotion that the audience can easily relate themselves to. With an instant classic and Grammy-nominated potential album like 21, I really cannot believe why it got only 76 points. All the mixed reviews are full of hatred and maybe the people who wrote those reviews need to check their definition of what is called " true music " !… Expand
  2. 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.
  3. Atech66
    Feb 24, 2011
    10
    OK first off.. Amy and Duffy?? wth are you smoking..
    This woman is in a class of her own and a truly rare talent.
    I preordered her latest release and im blown away...It will leave you captivated and wanting more.
  4. 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.
  5. Theparty4one
    Mar 13, 2011
    10
    Adele has a talent that people wish they had. You can't help but fall in love with this album after you listen to it once. Adele is a true artist and you will not be disappointed purchasing 21.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. moosesick
    Mar 23, 2011
    10
    Compared to 19, this albumâ
  9. vispreeve
    May 25, 2011
    10
    I loved the un-pretentiousness and softness of the album. Love it! Adele has a unique voice, but in a few songs she reminds me on P!nk - and that's not a bad thing!
  10. nevalon1
    Aug 14, 2011
    10
    Adele never lets you down. You know, Adele gives you the "clean, high quality, polished" music feeling when you listen. Some songs are ear-worms, some are classics that won't be forgotten. And in this era full of bubbly-pop, Adele is like a refreshment.
  11. Bangkit20
    Nov 21, 2011
    10
    I â
  12. Leetha
    Nov 23, 2011
    10
    I "LOVE" this album........
    I think this is the best album i had ever listened to!
    Adele such an inspiration and a great singer as well. Everything about Adele is just wonderful . She really has the talent. Well done Adele ! 21 fabulous album forever â
  13. vamosrafa07
    Nov 27, 2011
    10
    It's amazing. It's as simple as that. Her voice is so soulful and beautiful, it cannot NOT touch you in some way. The orchestration and the piano suit her perfectly.
    Both her albums are absolute must-buys.
  14. 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
  15. Mehowee
    Jan 15, 2012
    10
    Without a doubt 21 is a masterpiece. The flowing integrity of the album is simply astounding, starts with the singers breakup, progresses to loneliness, and eventually accepts everything. Rarely does an artist spill their heart onto an album, and make it pleasurable for the listener, it includes up-beat meaningful tunes that pull on emotional cords, all combined with a magical voice.
  16. 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.
  17. Eddiegamer
    Mar 31, 2012
    10
    What a great album.Adele puts her heart and soul into this album.Great songs from Rolling in the Deep to Rumour Has It this is something to hear.21 is a album that you will love.Adele is a amazing singer.This is something you will enjoy and worth your money.
  18. Boydiepoohs
    May 19, 2012
    10
    No amount of classy stylish production can hide the power and stunning beauty of the voice here. What a fabulous collection of songs. Even the cover version of the great Cure track is great!
  19. HonestJudging
    Jun 18, 2012
    10
    This album is literally perfection. If you think so otherwise, please take a minute to listen to these songs while reading the lyrics, and understanding the musical arrangement.
  20. JoshuaCole
    Jul 21, 2012
    10
    Simply amazing the album tells a tale of lost love which is what everybody has felt one time or another the album is master class and from a singer whose voice is so memorising. One of the best albums of all time!
  21. 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...… Collapse
  22. 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
  23. Raymondjeffy
    Feb 19, 2013
    10
    A great album The singer sang the deepness feeling for her heart ''Rolling in the deep'' and ''someone like you'' are my favourite songs An amazing vocals with wide feeling expressions.
  24. sebastian1
    Jun 21, 2014
    10
    For all those stupid people who talked bad about my beautIful Adele : you can all go **** your self **** this album is a 101% the best!!!!!!!!!! Daydreamers hold me
  25. 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.
  26. 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
  27. 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
  28. 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!
  29. 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.
  30. hivton_almeida
    Jan 31, 2016
    10
    Ótimo disco dessa grande artista de potencial para chamar a atenção para o mundo inteiro sem a necessidade de usar seu corpo, polêmicas ou levantar bandeiras para conseguir agradar ao outros. Um disco para ouvir e emocionar.
  31. mauriadkins77
    May 1, 2015
    10
    Definitivamente mi álbum favorito, todas las canciones tienen una gran calidad vocal, además de una lirica perfecta, me produce muchas emociones, no puedo esperar más por el regreso de Adele
  32. ma5di
    Nov 2, 2014
    10
    This album is flawless. The songwriting is impeccable, and the production is superb. Every person who experienced love and heartbreak in his life can relate to this album. The songs vary from rage (Rolling In The Deep) to sorrow (Don't You Remember) to the state of being hopeful (I'll be waiting) and finally to the phase of forgiveness and moving on (Someone Like You). It's never boring,This album is flawless. The songwriting is impeccable, and the production is superb. Every person who experienced love and heartbreak in his life can relate to this album. The songs vary from rage (Rolling In The Deep) to sorrow (Don't You Remember) to the state of being hopeful (I'll be waiting) and finally to the phase of forgiveness and moving on (Someone Like You). It's never boring, it makes your heart skip a beat with each song. It's a brilliant record.… Expand
  33. ramonfreitas
    Dec 19, 2014
    10
    Best album of the decade. 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　
  34. Prospctiv_Writr
    Nov 28, 2015
    10
    Sheer brilliance. Perfection. 21 is hands-down one of the best albums to come out in the last 20 years. Adele's flawless vocals bring to life an emotionally passionate piece of work with strong lyrics, great production, and an awing mystique.
  35. Riskey
    Jul 14, 2015
    10
    '21' will stand the test of time. Elegant, classy, passionate, melancholic, graceful, mournful and simplistic, '21' is one of the standout albums of the 21st Century.
    I have no idea why this album has a score of only 76....or why people are giving it a score of less than 9.

    It sold 30 million copies in an age of digital streaming.

    '21'
  36. 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.
  37. Timi
    Aug 25, 2016
    10
    With every song being delivered with raw talent and emotion and material that is so good, there is not much more to say about this masterpiece of timeless pop.
  38. 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.
  39. shtnote
    Dec 20, 2016
    10
    Speechless Speechles Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless Speechless
  40. Dankols
    Jun 16, 2017
    10
    It is possible to list all his achievements for a very, very long time, here there are not enough five posts, but in this case all these figures, these words, these achievements will tell for us. "21" does not need a presentation, everyone knows that this album will remain forever in the history of the music industry. And he will remain in it not only because of his achievements, but alsoIt is possible to list all his achievements for a very, very long time, here there are not enough five posts, but in this case all these figures, these words, these achievements will tell for us. "21" does not need a presentation, everyone knows that this album will remain forever in the history of the music industry. And he will remain in it not only because of his achievements, but also because of the incredible quality, soulfulness and atmosphere.… Expand
  41. 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.
  42. 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
  43. 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
  44. 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
  45. 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.
  46. ewhite
    Sep 2, 2018
    10
    Stunning album. Vocals, production, songwriting, theme, arrangement, EVERYTHING; on point.
  47. LoveX
    Aug 23, 2019
    10
    Inevitable no escuchar esta joya de la música. 21 nos deja mas que claro que después,de una despedida tan amarga, siempre hay vida después del amor.
  48. Fernandooooo
    Dec 19, 2019
    10
    It's the best álbum all time!It's the best álbum all time! Adele's the best. Adele's the bestAdele's the bestAdele's the bestAdele's the best
    It's the best álbum all time!It's the best álbum all time!It's the best álbum all time!It's the best álbum all time!
  49. keghtlezt
    Apr 4, 2020
    10
    Incrível album, excelentes batidas, principalmente em I'll Be Waiting e Rolling in The Deep(sem falar na perfeita voz de Adele). Não tenho críticas em relação a esta obra prima. Agradecido por ter feito algo tão maravilhoso.
  50. Sebastianher27
    Jul 8, 2020
    10
    21 is her best album so far and probably the best album of the decade. It's just timeless.
  51. Lachlan_Lorimer
    Jul 23, 2020
    10
    21 is one of the best albums of 2011 and subsequently swept the Grammys. Adele proves she can do much more than we expected.
  52. MaraStone180
    Aug 28, 2020
    10
    Goddamn this is a living legend, never forget the first time i listen to someone like u
  53. Xlvvm
    Aug 28, 2020
    10
    Adele's 21 album is perfect. Aged so well and no matter when nor where, at least 1 person will sing with you Rollin in the deep.
  54. Helora
    Nov 30, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. My favorite album of all time, love every single song in it, I always cry when I listen to it… Expand
  55. LaValeh
    Mar 14, 2021
    10
    Just perfection. It's my favourite album of Adele, the one that i'm most conected with, i't just perfect and i love it
  56. 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.
  57. Manueldavid29
    Apr 12, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Undoubtedly one of the best albums in history, it is full of lyrics, sounds and transmits feelings that captivate you, in this Adele shows a maturation with respect to her debut 19, this album is the best there is in music and Adele He shows that he has the best voice of his generation as well as his way of composing and giving us the best of music.

    Adele's great performance and success is due to this, which is undoubtedly the best album ever, along with Taylor Swift's Folklore of course.    … Expand
  58. romelrxl
    May 15, 2021
    10
    A stunning album throughout. Well produced and well written. Rumour Has It 's bridge elevates it from a 9 to a 10.
  59. trucvo1203
    Nov 17, 2021
    10
    Nice album, Adele is really a talented artists, Her music is just music, that's enough
  60. kieruhl
    Oct 12, 2021
    10
    amazing amazing amazing amazing
  61. enderblaizer
    Nov 17, 2021
    10
    Simply this album remain legend, even some of the songs from this album have minimal production but she still nailed it and loved it
  62. AlexisS21
    Nov 16, 2021
    10
    Solo una palabra puede describir este álbum: ARTE. Tiene lo necesario para destruir y volver a armar tu corazón.
  63. matheuxsc
    Nov 17, 2021
    10
    Esse com certeza é o álbum da carreira, não tem uma música ruim, tudo nele é minuciosamente perfeito e aclamado por todos.
  64. edpzap
    Nov 19, 2021
    10
    Her best album so far. It's timeless and every song has the power to stand on its own
  65. Fabri_canavero
    Jun 25, 2022
    10
    21
    Es más que el álbum de los "corazones rotos", es la demostración definitva del poder vocal y lírico de una gran artista. Es uno de los mejores álbumes del siglo, sin duda. En cada track del álbum uno se encuentra una nueva propuesta, si bien la mayoría son baladas, cada una está lo suficientemente bien producida e interpretada para no caer en la monotonía auditiva.
    Es un festival de    21
    Es más que el álbum de los "corazones rotos", es la demostración definitva del poder vocal y lírico de una gran artista. Es uno de los mejores álbumes del siglo, sin duda. En cada track del álbum uno se encuentra una nueva propuesta, si bien la mayoría son baladas, cada una está lo suficientemente bien producida e interpretada para no caer en la monotonía auditiva.

    Es un festival de creatividad, es un verdadero evento musical. Es un álbum muy maduro. Un trabajo inigualable.

    21, es el número del siglo al que dejó marcado para la historia de la industria.    … Expand
  66. IvanHielo
    Nov 20, 2021
    10
    Una obra maestra, el poder y emoción que transmite Adele en este álbum es sublime, gracias a este álbum conocí a Adele, el más grande de este siglo
  67. disguiseinchaos
    Nov 24, 2021
    10
    A masterpiece. Her best album yet.I still remember listening to it for the first time and knew it was an instant classic.
  68. Jerald16
    Jul 17, 2022
    10
    Well no Doubt that this is the best Album of Adele right
  69. camis-inha
    Aug 20, 2022
    10
    bebezinha linda perfeita icone dona de mim te amooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
  70. adeleisnumber1
    May 6, 2023
    10
    One of the best albums of all time with some of the best songs of all time on it. Adele will take you on an emotional rollercoaster but will also make you want to belt the songs out with her.
  71. yohandre
    May 28, 2023
    10
    The storytelling in this album is just spectacular, most of the songs are really underrated but it doesn't make it less of an album because this is what you call a masterpiece.
  72. FranciscoVargas
    Jul 10, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. El mejor álbum de la década de los 2010's y el más vendido del siglo, que decir de el. Simplemente espectacular… Expand
  73. cornfloury
    Aug 16, 2023
    10
    This is such an amazing album... no wonder this is the best selling album of the 21st centuries and the 2nd best selling album from a female artist.
  74. 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.
  75. LeadBox
    Apr 28, 2011
    9
    The thing about pop music is that it has roots in any genre, and of course, some might appeal for marketing, leaving it all too over-flooded by scheme productions, and some might leave their influential essences on it. In that case, Adele fits perfectly as some bluesy and soul influenced who got a way to make it sound radio friendly and melodically fitting for popular taste. That's whatThe thing about pop music is that it has roots in any genre, and of course, some might appeal for marketing, leaving it all too over-flooded by scheme productions, and some might leave their influential essences on it. In that case, Adele fits perfectly as some bluesy and soul influenced who got a way to make it sound radio friendly and melodically fitting for popular taste. That's what pop's all about, to captivate people with its own, though, commercial style. Well, â… Expand
  76. 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")
  77. RuanCSC
    Apr 18, 2011
    9
    Adele's previous album â
  78. 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........
  79. SnowDay
    Jun 29, 2011
    9
    Lady Gaga promised us the album of the decade. Unfortunately, she fell a little short, because Adele already had it. The album isn't perfect. It could use a little diversity, but all in all, our twenty-one year-old heroine is well on her way to becoming the next soul queen, up there with Norah Jones, Aretha Franklin, and Amy Winehouse.
  80. dudeperson
    Aug 3, 2011
    9
    There's a reason this album has been so popular this year. Lead off single Rolling In the Deep and Set Fire to the Rain show off the raw power of her voice, infusing elements of rock and blues. Meanwhile, songs like Someone Like You showcase her emotional vulnerability (she actually sounds like she's crying). Though those three are the best songs, the other songs are mostly good, too. TheThere's a reason this album has been so popular this year. Lead off single Rolling In the Deep and Set Fire to the Rain show off the raw power of her voice, infusing elements of rock and blues. Meanwhile, songs like Someone Like You showcase her emotional vulnerability (she actually sounds like she's crying). Though those three are the best songs, the other songs are mostly good, too. The middle of the album drags a little bit, since it is very ballad-heavy, but overall very good, and a big improvement over 19.… Expand
  81. 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!
  82. Ukwwhoitiz
    Nov 14, 2011
    9
    The albums sound a tad bit repeatitive, but listen to the lyrics and the vocal perfomance and you help to appreciate the album, my standout tracks are Someone Like You, Rolling IN The Deep, Rumor Has It, Turning Table, and the impressive vocal performance of Dont You Remember.
  83. 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
  84. Wellbag
    Dec 12, 2011
    9
    One of the best albums of 2011, Great audio quality,mixing & production. I'm a metalhead and audio engineer, this is not really my style of music but it's still a great album with a great production. Haters gonna h8.
  85. victormedina
    Dec 30, 2011
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This album has surprised me very positively for the take Adele has on its major themes. Vocally and lyrically, it is a great album as well. Her voice in "Don't You Remember" and "Someone Like You" makes 21 worth listening already. "Rumor Has It" and "Lovesong" are very interesting tracks in terms of experimentation, I'd say. They are responsible for giving the album its most important moments of breathing in a sea of pop/soul-oriented songs. The lyrics are strong at most and very touching in some tracks, especially in "Set Fire to the Rain", "Take It All", and "Rolling in the Deep". Despite being a 100% reflection of a bad relationship, Adele's different approaches to singing her lack of luck in love make this album something one should not ignore. It may sound over the top saying that, but this album sounds as the savior of pop song in 2011, a year with major acts relying too much on how to do whatever on the dance floor, instead of thinking about anything else - not to mention all the auto tune "divas" we were exposed to throughout the year.… Expand
  86. 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
  87. 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
  88. BaltimoreFreak
    Nov 14, 2012
    9
    Thesecond album of Adele reaffirms her fascinating talent, she has beat her skills, the album is better than the first, more mature, more sophisticated, more deep and hard. I love her.
  89. 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!
  90. 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
  91. official_jrizz
    Sep 14, 2014
    9
    Adele shows her genius once more in a different way on the album 21. While it is extremely different than 19, Adele releases at least four songs that I consider brilliant (Rumor Has It, Someone Like You, Rolling in the Deep and Turning Tables), as well as what I feel is her best in Rumor Has It. The kind of sound you don't hear from anybody nowadays is present on 21.
  92. madmaddssen
    Apr 15, 2015
    9
    This has been a family favorite for 5 years now. Almost always when we drive somewhere our son insist that we listen to "number 5" (Fire to the Rain) or "number 1" (Rolling in the Deep). Those songs have been playing hundreds of times. We just wish there would soon be a new album. :D
  93. 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.
  94. 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
  95. 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.
  96. 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
  97. 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
  98. Tranvanhuycat
    Aug 29, 2020
    9
    Dẹo j mà dẹo ghê vậy...im ỉm k nhạc k lời....may ra cho bà con thiên hạ đi chứ
  99. tjtkahfi
    Aug 28, 2020
    9
    Simply an amazing album. I think this album introduced me to alternative years ago.
  100. secreta192125
    Sep 28, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Es impresionante, un disco lleno de sentimientos que te puedes identificar desde el inicio hasta el fin. Sumamente maduro para una chica de 21 años… Expand
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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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