Funplex
by B-52s
Metascore
64

Generally favorable reviews - based on 26 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 26
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 26
  3. Negative: 3 out of 26
  1. Blender
    60
    Best enjoyed in the privacy of home. [Apr 2008, p.76]
  2. AllMusic
    60
    Nothing here is as gripping or as perfect as "Rock Lobster," "Private Idaho," or "Love Shack," and the songs that are borderline filler get pushed into one big forgettable lump towards the end of the album.
  3. The Guardian
    60
    They may not sound as weird and novel as they did on 'Rock Lobster,' but they can still sing 'Keep This Party Going' with some credibility.
  5. Slant Magazine
    60
    Funplex neither redefines nor sullies the band's sterling legacy, which is probably close to a best case scenario.
  6. NOW Magazine
    60
    So instead of rehashing Cosmic Thing for an ill-fated comeback banking on nostalgia, guitarist Keith Strickland learned Pro Tools, bought some electro records and voila: the B-52’s have a contemporary dance-rock record. Startlingly, this works.
  7. Observer Music Monthly
    60
    The first album by the B-52's in 16 years sees the Georgia trash-pop veterans keep dull maturity at bay with 11 paeans to partying, space, deviant sex and sly protest politics .
  8. Q Magazine
    60
    It's good to have them back. [Apr 2008, p.102]
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  9. Drowned In Sound
    60
    Funplex then: a bit like that school re-union. Good for a few hours’ reminiscing every once in a while but over-familiarity will only breed contempt.

Awards & Rankings

99
#99 Most Discussed Album of 2008

User Reviews

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User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 37 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 30 out of 37
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 37
  3. Negative: 5 out of 37
  1. JamesK.
    Apr 7, 2008
    10
    Just so so so much better than we had any right to expect after 16 years away. For my money it's better than anything they've done Just so so so much better than we had any right to expect after 16 years away. For my money it's better than anything they've done since Wild Planet. If you don't like the B-52s just deal with it and move on. If you do like them you'll love this. BTW it's great to have Cindy back!… Full Review »
  2. TinaC.
    Apr 5, 2008
    9
    I'm a fan of the Bs from years back and I had concerns that Funplex would be tired. I was wrong. This is an excellent album, made all I'm a fan of the Bs from years back and I had concerns that Funplex would be tired. I was wrong. This is an excellent album, made all the better for Cindy's return. There are a couple of weaker tracks, but you get that on all albums. On the whole, this is excellent and I hope lots of people get to enjoy it.… Full Review »
  3. Bruce
    Apr 2, 2008
    10
    Infectous, fun, and featuring some of the best melodic hooks and harmonies Kate and Cindy have ever generated. It's too easy to miss the Infectous, fun, and featuring some of the best melodic hooks and harmonies Kate and Cindy have ever generated. It's too easy to miss the point of the B-52s and disregard their talent for making some of the most exuberant party anthems the past thirty years have seen. The more I spin this album, the more I fall wholeheartedly for its undeniable charm and sheer catchiness. Nothing but love for Funplex.… Full Review »
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