Yes, apparently they ARE still around. This is the Irish group's sixth album since 1993, and their first with original producer Stephen Street in some time.
LABEL:
MCA
RELEASE DATE:
23 October 2001
DISCS:
1 disc
GENRE(S):
Alternative, Rock
All critic scores are converted to a 100-point scale. If a critic does not indicate a score, we assign a score based on the general impression given by the text of the review. Learn more...
80
Launch.com
Whatever angst might have settled under the surface has been swept clean and in its place a jubilant spiritual quest in is place.
80
Blender
Wake Up... is the set of inspired anthems they needed to deliver in '96. [Oct/Nov 2001, p.103]
70
HOB.com
This record is strictly Music For Adults, with songs about kids and real love and life.... Essentially, it is soothing background music for troubled times.
60
Alternative Press
Marks a slight improvement from 1999's Bury The Hatchet. [Nov 2001, p.79]
60
All Music Guide
So, even if it's wrapped in new clothing, this is essentially a return to basics, and it's a welcome one, since it's melodic, stately, and somber.
60
Q Magazine
Charming, if slight.
58
E! Online
The band sounds strong but derivative of its own best work.
50
Sonicnet
The dearth of memorable melodies ruins the once-successful formula.
42
Entertainment Weekly
It's official: Dolores O'Riordan is rock's most vapid lyricist. [26 Oct 2001, p.125]
The average user rating for this album is 7.8 (out of 10) based on 11 User Votes Note: User votes are NOT included in the Metascore calculation.
bryan a gave it a 9: ive always been a huge cranberries fan, ever since the first album. this one is better than 'bury the hatchet' i guess. i like the melodies more. it sounds simpler too, closer to heart. i like wake up, every morning, and of course analyse. the cranberries rocks!!! i cnt wait for the next album.
anshuman s gave it a 9: simply fantastic. go get it right now.
Nse E. gave it a 9: Excellent! Brilliant, bright happy tunes like 'I only hope' and 'This is the day', beautiful ballads like 'Every morning' and the haunting 'Pretty eyes', the Cranberries back doing what they do best.
wonk wonkle gave it a 5: Hit and miss. A few decent tunes, and some really boring ones. Dolores does have a good, unique voice, but the voice needs stronger music to buttress it.