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Hugo
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Hugo Image
Metascore
87

Universal acclaim - based on 8 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
8.7

Universal acclaim- based on 10 Ratings

  • Summary: The third full-length release for British rapper Loyle Carner features guest appearances from John Agard, Athian Akec, Olivia Dean, Wesley Joseph, and JNR Williams.
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Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 8
  3. Negative: 0 out of 8
  1. The Observer (UK)
    Oct 24, 2022
    100
    Like Michael Kiwanuka, Carner’s first two albums were occasionally terrific but his third is a masterpiece.
  2. The Line of Best Fit
    Oct 21, 2022
    90
    A clear cut statement on what it feels like to be alive in these troubling times from an artist who is carefully cementing himself as one of the most compelling and earnest young talents.
  3. DIY Magazine
    Oct 21, 2022
    80
    On ‘hugo’, Loyle Carner proves his willingness to take risks and it pays off. While it feels like we’re still waiting on a total knockout from him, his lyrical progress and appetite for new sonic territories on ‘hugo’ suggests he’s verging ever closer.
  4. New Musical Express (NME)
    Oct 21, 2022
    80
    Sonically, it’s his most polished record yet. London producer kwes delivers a soulful, melancholic sound that helps Carner move from dynamic, multi-syllabic storytelling to a more honest, reflective voice.
  5. The Telegraph (UK)
    Oct 21, 2022
    80
    No tracks are particularly surprising from a production point of view, but it’s the affecting lyrics which have always been Carner’s strength. ... The newfound sharpness in Carner’s delivery has brought a much-needed grit to this album – it’s exciting.
  6. musicOMH.com
    Nov 3, 2022
    80
    It’s introspective and understated while never failing to get its message across. He may not receive the accolades and acclaim that the likes of Stormzy or Dave garner, but Hugo is more proof that Loyle Carner is one of the foremost names in UK rap and hip-hop.
  7. Clash Music
    Oct 21, 2022
    80
    The truth is that in matters of injustice, anger is one of our most powerful tools and with it ‘Hugo’ showcases an essential part of the depth and criticality Loyle Carner possesses as an artist.

See all 8 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 5
  3. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. garpar
    Oct 22, 2022
    10
    AOTY contender from top to bottom. Every track gets better with each listen.
  2. hannahwashere
    Mar 30, 2023
    10
    One of the best albums of 2022. Everything here works, the production and lyrics are sensational. Loyle Carner is such an important artist andOne of the best albums of 2022. Everything here works, the production and lyrics are sensational. Loyle Carner is such an important artist and he has outdone himself with hugo.… Expand
  4. Caseysc1
    Nov 8, 2022
    10
    Such a beautiful album from start to finish. Loyle Carner might just be the most underrated artist at the moment.
  5. Longlivesis
    Nov 20, 2022
    10
    Loyle has really out done himself on this one. All killer, no filler. The 10 tracks scope so many different sonics and lyrically he touches onLoyle has really out done himself on this one. All killer, no filler. The 10 tracks scope so many different sonics and lyrically he touches on many different topics, all with serious and eloquent intent. It’s a masterpiece in rhythm and poetry.… Expand
  6. Fuerstenberg
    Aug 18, 2023
    9
    With his third studio album "hugo" Loyle Carner reaches unprecedented heights that remind you how good hip-hop can be. Unlike itsWith his third studio album "hugo" Loyle Carner reaches unprecedented heights that remind you how good hip-hop can be. Unlike its predecessors, "hugo" comes without any big singles like "Damselfly" or "Ottolenghi". Instead the record as a whole is a beautiful masterpiece.

    Carner's lyrical content demonstrates some of his finest and best work to date. The laid-back and mellow production with elements of jazz perfectly support Carner's vocals at all times. Perhaps the best 34 minutes of music of the year.

    My favorites are "Hate", "HGU", "A Lasting Place" and "Speed of Plight".

    ~ Fürstenberg
    August 18, 2023    … Expand

Awards & Rankings

25
#25 Best Album of 2022

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