Metascore
68

Generally favorable reviews - based on 17 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 17
  2. Negative: 0 out of 17
  1. Somehow, it just might be the pop album of the year.
  2. For an album I approached ready to shrug off as sheer novelty, its humor and candor give it a fair amount of staying power.
  3. 'Has Been' is just about as far as you could possibly get from your regular solo offering and as such arrives as one of the year's most strangely captivating albums.
  4. It may not be an album that's as funny or timeless as The Transformed Man, but Has Been is every bit as bizarre.
  5. It's that sobering confessional quality that gives the album an unexpected dose of depth and grace.
  6. Shatner oversees some surprisingly tuneful turns.
  7. Under The Radar
    70
    Fun, sad and oddly affecting... [a] highly enjoyable album that will catch you off guard. [#8, p.112]
User Score
8.7

Universal acclaim- based on 40 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 36 out of 40
  2. Negative: 2 out of 40
  1. Aug 11, 2016
    10
    If there is one album that truly deserves the full-on vinyl treatment in a glorious gate-fold, and Shatner-tastic splatter colored wax, thisIf there is one album that truly deserves the full-on vinyl treatment in a glorious gate-fold, and Shatner-tastic splatter colored wax, this is it! It's a shame that this has not happened yet. The depth of the lyrics, the perfect timing of the delivery, and the guest stars - EXQUISITE! I just keep biding my time, knowing that eventually Jack White or some other visionary (Jello Biafra are you listening?) will pick up the gauntlet and make this happen. Then, all will be right, once again, with the Earth! But seriously, the entire album has such a feeling of life, its experiences and the weight and joy it can bring. Perfectly played. 10 outta 10! Full Review »
  2. Jul 4, 2012
    7
    I bought this record after hearing his version of Common People with Joe Jackson. Pulp's original version was always one of my favourite songsI bought this record after hearing his version of Common People with Joe Jackson. Pulp's original version was always one of my favourite songs so I was surprised at how much I enjoyed the version on this record. It's a fantastic opening and really is a whole new reintereptation of the track. The rest of the album is surprisingly good. I never imagined I'd enjoy a William Shatner record but the songs are all pretty clever and the collaborations are really good. That's Me Trying (with Ben Folds), Familiar Love and Together (with Lemonjelly) are the other highlights for me. Listen to it with an open mind and you'll find moments to enjoy. Full Review »
  3. May 1, 2011
    10
    I listen to this album at least once a week. It is surprisingly good, and a breath of fresh air. I don't care whether it is cool or not, butI listen to this album at least once a week. It is surprisingly good, and a breath of fresh air. I don't care whether it is cool or not, but I do know that it sounds good, it has great song writing, Ben Folds should be heartily congratulated for his efforts here. Full Review »