Break Up
by Pete Yorn & Scarlett Johansson
  • Record Label: Rhino
  • Release Date: Sep 15, 2009
Metascore
52

Mixed or average reviews - based on 13 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 13
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 13
  3. Negative: 1 out of 13
  1. Paste Magazine
    71
    Between Yorn’s ingratiating tunes, Johansson’s harmonies and the lush, inventive production, Break Up ultimately succeeds in its ambitious goal of capturing the spirit--if not the sound--of the late-’60s musical partnership between Serge Gainsbourg and Brigitte Bardot
  2. Entertainment Weekly
    67
    Johansson's throaty vocals fit Break Up's intimate vibe better than they did on her overly ambitious Tom Waits-covers album. Still, aside from the jangle 'n' twang ditty 'Relator' and remake of Chris Bell's classic 'I Am the Cosmos,' the project never really achieves liftoff.
  3. Alternative Press
    70
    Johansson sounds more in her element in this one, starting off strong with the bittersweat bounce of 'Relator.' The only misfire on Break Up is an overly arty rendition of 'I Am The Cosmos' by Chris Bell of Big Star. [Oct 2009, p.115]
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User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 15 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 15
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 15
  3. Negative: 0 out of 15
  1. HelenJe
    Sep 20, 2009
    10
    Beautiful collection of fresh, unique sounding songs from an amazing talent, Pete Yorn. And he seems to have been able to bring out the best Beautiful collection of fresh, unique sounding songs from an amazing talent, Pete Yorn. And he seems to have been able to bring out the best in Scarlett as well. Love This Album!… Full Review »
  2. RichieF.
    Sep 19, 2009
    9
    This album is plain and simply good music. Pete Yorn and Scarlett Johansson have created a wonderfully enjoyable and, frankly, unique set of This album is plain and simply good music. Pete Yorn and Scarlett Johansson have created a wonderfully enjoyable and, frankly, unique set of nine songs in which they have entitled "Break Up." Although the album doesn't even add up to a full half hour of music, don't underestimate the effects of it. I definitely got the indie-esque feel for the album after about the second listen all the way through, and loved every minute of it. Though it may not be the best album of 2009, it could definitely be a favorite. Give it a few listens and you will see how well Yorn's masterful instrumentals and lyricism mix with ScarJo's organically sexy voice. Ignore the negative reviews and pick this fun duet album up, it may be the best money you spend all week! The top 3 standouts for me include the ultra-fun "I Don't Know What to Do," the catchy "Search Your Heart," and the beautiful "Clean."… Full Review »
  3. AnieR
    Sep 19, 2009
    8
    I feel all the way that gainsbourg spirit on this album. really great i love so much the deepful voice of Miss Johansson.
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