Camp
by Childish Gambino
User Score
7.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 235 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 185 out of 235
  2. Mixed: 34 out of 235
  3. Negative: 16 out of 235
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  1. VanZizek
    Mar 6, 2023
    6
    I asked for an album, not a comedy. Not a bad album but if this had been all Donald Glover could do... he would have kept it to himself, he doesn't know when to take himself seriously.
  2. oscar7d
    Dec 5, 2022
    6
    This album is raw. More of a showcase of ideas than a constructed piece like his later efforts. There are some songs here which are genuine and stand to show Childish Gambino's writing prowess, but most of the project comes off as tacky and over-exaggerated. Camp relies on lines which shock the listener, and while early teens can bump this as much as they want, it stands out to me as aThis album is raw. More of a showcase of ideas than a constructed piece like his later efforts. There are some songs here which are genuine and stand to show Childish Gambino's writing prowess, but most of the project comes off as tacky and over-exaggerated. Camp relies on lines which shock the listener, and while early teens can bump this as much as they want, it stands out to me as a corny introduction to a great rapper.… Expand
  3. JamesJennings
    May 2, 2022
    7
    Didn't age well, but I still had a good time. The last track is easily the best. Fantastic. You see me sucks though.
  4. Hendo250
    Apr 6, 2021
    7
    this album is a 7 this album is a 7 this album is a 7 this album is a 7 this album is a 7
  5. master_sebo
    Jun 6, 2020
    10
    Camp wasn't my first time with Childish Gambino's music, but it got me so shocked and pleasantly marvelled like no other Glover's project I had already listened to made me feel. As it is further explained in the ending track, Camp is neither a mainstream hip hop album where the artist raps about the hood and gang life, nor a sophisticated concept album. It is voluntarily a record whereCamp wasn't my first time with Childish Gambino's music, but it got me so shocked and pleasantly marvelled like no other Glover's project I had already listened to made me feel. As it is further explained in the ending track, Camp is neither a mainstream hip hop album where the artist raps about the hood and gang life, nor a sophisticated concept album. It is voluntarily a record where Gambino vents his pent-up feelings, his thoughts about girls, schools, friends, family, and every single thing that made him struggle throughout his life so far. It's a debut album, so you would expect some roughness, some musical unripeness, but what you get is something that is filled with peaceful songs whose melodies hide raw lyrics, songs with boosted sounds that immediately get you in an angry or exasperated mood. There's not a fictional enemy, there's not the depiction of the battle between the artist and some non-existing machine that eventually prevents him from succeeding in life. It is the simple description of the mind of a tormented boy, and while the concept behind the record refers to a summer camp trip made by a pre-adolescent, the thoughts and feelings vented are stressed in relation to different phases of life. Not all the tracks are perfect (I didn't quite enjoyed LES, and Backpack has not got a high level quality), but the surprise Camp made me feel is definitely worth the highest vote that can be given.… Expand
  6. Shaymooose
    Aug 17, 2019
    4
    (DELUXE VERSION)
    This albums very weird for me, the songs I love I REALLY love, and the songs I hate I REALLY hate. Gambino comes across really whiny on this whole Album. Whatever, it's his Debut.

    Best Tracks:Freaks and Geeks, Heartbeat, Bonfire, Kids, All the Shine, Letter Home, Not Going Back.
    Worst Tracks: Outside, Firefly, Backpackers, LES, Hold You Down, You See Me,
  7. C_dot
    Dec 3, 2018
    8
    Gambino's debut project is definitely one of the better debuts in modern hip hop. Camp is a fresh sound relative to the music released at the same time.
  8. satchelp
    May 8, 2018
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Camp is certainly noteworthy as a debut project from Donald Glover, or Childish Gambino, the multitalented performer who has released an album, directed a TV show, and starred in an upcoming Star Wars movie. This album is diverse in its various sounds, and Gambino shows great versatility through his singing and rapping abilities. I think this album is very good, especially through the utilization of a narrative of growing up throughout the album. Some consider the music itself sub-par, and many discredit Camp for that exact reason, but if you listen to the narrative behind the music, it proves to be much more than just Childish Gambino's attempts at imitating Kanye West's sound. Music these days is often made for the radio and to gain popularity through a catchy sound, and while Gambino does this, as one would be expected to do in a debut album to gain attention, but his ability to maintain a narrative despite a few tracks seeming less serious and centered around being radio hits. At the end of the album's final track, That Power, Gambino tells a story of his adventures at a summer camp and meeting a girl. This story concludes the album and leads into his next album in a way that tells an entire story of growing up. Camp left me wanting more of this story, as Gambino ends the album on something of a cliffhanger, but not without diving into the topics of race, family, love, friends, belonging, and the struggles that come with all these. Many albums these days dive into a topic or maybe a few or are just full of songs that aspire to become hits and bring the artist fame and success. Childish Gambino did not make this album for the fame, but to tell a story, which is a lost value in music these days. Glover's background as a writer is evident in this project, as he tells many stories within the main narrative he provides. This is not an album without its flaws, though. Some of the music is repetitive and there is truth behind some opinions of the music not being genuinely unique or groundbreaking, but Glover still makes those songs in question worth the listen. In all, take the hate and hype behind this album with a grain of salt. Listen to the songs, good or bad, in order, and listen for the story and themes behind the entire album. Donald Glover has definitely made a name for himself as whatever medium of art he tries his hand at over the last 10 years or so, and it is with good reason. This album is part of his claim to fame, and I think to be a noteworthy album from the early 2010's. Overall, I'd give this album an 8.5/10.… Expand
  9. TMMT
    Dec 15, 2016
    3
    I am a very big Donald Glover fan, however this one he just didn't deliver. Songs like heartbeat come off as a bad Kanye/Drake impersonation (to me at least) and I struggle to take much of the content seriously. Was disappointed by this album, however he has certainly shown growth and improvement in his more recent releases.
  10. brockcheese
    Dec 3, 2016
    7
    A pretty solid debut album, Gambino shows that he can match flow and lyrics to any mainstream rapper. However, one major downside is that his own insecurities strangle a lot of his deeper messages and truths.
  11. Cephern
    Jan 8, 2015
    10
    I love CAMP. I think its better than most albums. Dont get why so many hate him. I think its because he writes in a creative way. He does not need to have big hotshot rappers to be interesting. He is corky, honest about his emotions and really creative. Cant believe Pitchfork gave him 1.6 and rapper a like 2 chainz gets 7. Sick world we live in. Love him, hope I get to see him live one day. I
  12. ben_zo77
    Jul 31, 2014
    7
    It's rough around the edges, but it's clear that Gambino has worked hard at his craft. Also, the production is, at times, inconsistent with Gambino's lyrics, and the one-liners get tiring. The lyrics, while not terribly insightful, are carefully constructed. It's laughable to call this album a classic, though.. Overall, Camp is a good (but definitely not great) album. ~ 7.4/10

    Best    It's rough around the edges, but it's clear that Gambino has worked hard at his craft. Also, the production is, at times, inconsistent with Gambino's lyrics, and the one-liners get tiring. The lyrics, while not terribly insightful, are carefully constructed. It's laughable to call this album a classic, though.. Overall, Camp is a good (but definitely not great) album. ~ 7.4/10

    Best track: "Backpackers": the flow, the beat
    Other notable tracks: "Fire Fly", "Bonfire", "L.E.S." & "You See Me"    … Expand
  13. r0tan0rtan
    Jun 25, 2014
    4
    I WANTED YOU TO KNOW, WHENEVER YOU ARE AROUND, I CANT SPEAK I CANT SPEAK!!!!

    MY HEARTBEAT MY HEARTBEAT

    MAN, f**k YOU N****... FU** YOU Ni**A!

    least favourite track: heartbeat
  14. jaxmcgraw
    Apr 15, 2014
    3
    People who like Childish Gambino usually do not understand that there is more to music than subject matter, emotion, and talent. Sure Gambino brings so much to the table when it comes to the talent and reaching on deeper subject matters. This album is similar to a teenager's diary. There are some lessons to learn from camp, but there are so many issues with camp. First of all it soundsPeople who like Childish Gambino usually do not understand that there is more to music than subject matter, emotion, and talent. Sure Gambino brings so much to the table when it comes to the talent and reaching on deeper subject matters. This album is similar to a teenager's diary. There are some lessons to learn from camp, but there are so many issues with camp. First of all it sounds like Nickleback produced this album. The beats are artificial, weak, and simple. There is no doubt that the strings are maximized to create beautiful moments, but there is no texture in the beats. Also, there is no texture in his lyrics. He throws simple lines that are weak, underwhelming, and easy to understand. Gambino is funny at times, but every time he is about to make lyrical jabs, he drops a line like “I got a girl on my arm dude show respect/ something crazy and Asian: Virginia Tech." To be honest, I really do not want to continue on the abundance of lines that make me want to massage my temples. Gambino is different, but not as different as he thinks. What I cannot stand is that he only looks at the surface when it comes to music and race. Gambino and his fans are the type of people that listen to mainstream alternative bands and look at all rap the same. This album is a complete joke and I do not want to explain more, but I will credit this album with teaching the concepts of maturity and hatred in a tense and bittersweet way that can be beautiful at times. But in all honesty I do not enjoy listening to this album. I have mad respect for Donald Glover and everything he does, but he needs to have more of an understanding on race, humanity, life, and music to make a product that has sustainable quality.… Expand
  15. Airjunior23
    Mar 5, 2014
    8
    Have to give this an 8 because though the album is good, its a bit 'try hard'. Its dope nonetheless and the music is new and refreshing. The flow is a bit unpolished but is on track to get better no doubt.
  16. WorstReviews
    Jan 19, 2014
    7
    There is a lot of potential from Childish Gambino. Donald Glovers production and lyrics provide a suprising and actually really good debut hip-hop album. I don't think I would ever see such a nerd and different type of person provide such an emotional and outlandish album. The album suffers from odd placement and a generic rapper standpoint (but still manages to do it better) and it's justThere is a lot of potential from Childish Gambino. Donald Glovers production and lyrics provide a suprising and actually really good debut hip-hop album. I don't think I would ever see such a nerd and different type of person provide such an emotional and outlandish album. The album suffers from odd placement and a generic rapper standpoint (but still manages to do it better) and it's just fun. Potential. 7/10 Good.… Expand
  17. SolidMantis
    Nov 10, 2013
    10
    This album is simply amazing. I just found about Childish Gambino recently, and I've been loving his music ever since. This album gets a 10/10 from me. I can't wait for his next album.
  18. glasses1
    Nov 1, 2013
    10
    Donald Glover is literally everywhere, with writing on 30 Rock, 1/5th of Derrick, and Community. If you listened to his earlier mix tapes starting with "Sick Boi", you can tell that his rhymes and themes in music are maturing, as he is. Camp was a classic rap album with much more to it than you'd expect with many classic punchlines with a completely fresh style of rap thats not completelyDonald Glover is literally everywhere, with writing on 30 Rock, 1/5th of Derrick, and Community. If you listened to his earlier mix tapes starting with "Sick Boi", you can tell that his rhymes and themes in music are maturing, as he is. Camp was a classic rap album with much more to it than you'd expect with many classic punchlines with a completely fresh style of rap thats not completely deprived like others. A hidden gem for hip-hop fans. Watch out for Because the Internet, coming out next month. Give it a chance… Expand
  19. Onlyslightly
    Aug 4, 2013
    9
    Childish Gambino is the greatest rapper of all-time. This album isn't even his best, but it's still absolutely amazing. I want to give this album a ten, since it's the only Gambino on Metacritic, but I'll refrain and give it a nine, which is about what it actually deserves.
    Production: 7/10
    Lyrics: 10/10
    Presentation: 10/10
    Flow: 8/10
    Overall: 9/10
  20. blogfirstlast
    Jul 24, 2013
    7
    It's a damn good album, but I feel like a little girl listening to it. I mean this stuff is really weak. From the lyrics to the beats. While they are good, they are a little soft and the fact that it's like that for almost every song, makes it a bit harder to like. However Donald's squeaky voice fits these beats and it makes Camp a pretty enjoyable release.
  21. KeiFresh
    May 5, 2013
    10
    Honestly one of the greatest albums, no the greatest album i have ever heard in my lifetime with a unique rap style and sound to his music it may make you never listen to mainstream again.
  22. Cobweb
    Apr 20, 2013
    10
    This is a fantastic album. Seriously. Just listen to it. It's utterly brilliant, ranging from heartbreaking ("All the Shine") to hilarious ("You See Me") to just straight-up badass ("Bonfire"). There are a few songs where he delves into typical hip-hop subjects, but he does it so extraordinarily well that even people who don't like those topics will enjoy it.
  23. Eon2323
    Feb 23, 2013
    10
    Camp proves to be a fresh take on interesting and sometimes subversive topics while adding a bit of his comedic flow to the mix. I definitely enjoyed listening to this album and I expect music just as great as this is the near future.
  24. BluIsGOAT
    Oct 5, 2012
    10
    Great album! the production and lyrics are awesome. While a few lines can be considered "corny" the rest of the album is strong enough to overlook that. Can't wait for Gambino's next official album.
  25. axelkoch
    Sep 19, 2012
    9
    Actually one of the top 5 rap albums ever released. Glover is an awesome rapper and he shows that in every single moment of the album. You have to admit, that it's most of the time about the same stuff: his childhood and that he showed it to all of his haters. But rap technically this is great! 'Bonfire' is one of the very best rap songs I know and I'm looking straight forward to his nextActually one of the top 5 rap albums ever released. Glover is an awesome rapper and he shows that in every single moment of the album. You have to admit, that it's most of the time about the same stuff: his childhood and that he showed it to all of his haters. But rap technically this is great! 'Bonfire' is one of the very best rap songs I know and I'm looking straight forward to his next studio album!… Expand
  26. theslenderman
    Aug 1, 2012
    9
    To be honest I didn't have high expectations for this album, but after a listen through I realized that Donald Glover can really rap, to listen to topics in songs like racial intolerance, growing up in the projects, working hard, and lyrics that relate to his experience with racial groups not accepting him, about losing people close, and family, I find my self rather enjoying the album.itTo be honest I didn't have high expectations for this album, but after a listen through I realized that Donald Glover can really rap, to listen to topics in songs like racial intolerance, growing up in the projects, working hard, and lyrics that relate to his experience with racial groups not accepting him, about losing people close, and family, I find my self rather enjoying the album.it deviates from a lot of rap today, dont get me started about how its on the other side of the spectrum if young money is on one side. its genuine music that has had effort put into it, and it shows. Good Work.… Expand
  27. Tranquilbez22
    Jul 19, 2012
    9
    Probably one of my favourite hip-hop acts at the moment. Childish Gambino aka Communitys Donald Glover releases his first album and man is it awesome. His flow, his lyrics and his ability to rap and he raps HARD! Take Lil Wayne, remove the auto-tune and add better lyrics and Presto it's Childish Gambino. His Debut album Camp is a must have if you love hip-hop and also have a nerdy sense ofProbably one of my favourite hip-hop acts at the moment. Childish Gambino aka Communitys Donald Glover releases his first album and man is it awesome. His flow, his lyrics and his ability to rap and he raps HARD! Take Lil Wayne, remove the auto-tune and add better lyrics and Presto it's Childish Gambino. His Debut album Camp is a must have if you love hip-hop and also have a nerdy sense of humour (me of course). GO BUY IT NOW!!!!!… Expand
  28. PaperbagWriter
    Jul 1, 2012
    5
    Overrated album for sure. Some catchy songs, my favorite is Fire Fly. Lyrics are terrible and cheesy, cringe-worthy, but the music is quite good. I love Donald Glover on Community love his stand ups, but his music not so much. It's cool that he's trying things though and taking risks.
  29. burneyburnside
    Jun 23, 2012
    10
    fantastic laid back rap album . fresh new beats and new style. he can rap make beats and preform comedy well. If your looking for an non hardcore but still good album this one would be a good choice. one of the most underrated rap albums of 2011
  30. JoshuaStDenis
    Jun 5, 2012
    10
    Absolutely brilliant. Camp provides his best work yet, mixing amazing beats, original lyrics, and nerdy references into one brilliant album. The studio quality track along with his major label debut provide good new music to attract new fans to the wonder that is Childish Gambino.
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Awards & Rankings

23
#23 Most Discussed Album of 2011
9
#9 Most Shared Album of 2011

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
69

Generally favorable reviews - based on 27 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 27
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 27
  3. Negative: 1 out of 27
  1. Mojo
    May 31, 2012
    80
    The identity-crisis themed Camp trumps through whip-smart intelligence, comic brio and bristling malign intent. [Jan 2012, p.90]
  2. Under The Radar
    Jan 19, 2012
    70
    The star here is Glover's malleability, as he can move from a club banger such as "Heartbeat" to something as sensitive as "All the Shine," a plaintive, yearning song about his own shortcomings. [#39, p. 75]
  3. Expert Witness (MSN Music)
    Jan 4, 2012
    91
    It's less surefire than Culdesac. But it's more satisfying emotionally.
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