Metascore
80

Generally favorable reviews - based on 32 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 27 out of 32
  2. Negative: 0 out of 32
  1. The problem, however, is that [El-P]'s work is often too deliberated and too dense to work on levels other than the intellectual.
  2. If you're into nodding your head and scratching your head at the same time, Dead is for you.
  3. El-P's progressive beats here are full of driving, distorted drum sounds and rough samples; futuristic b-boy shit that walks a fine line between funky and grating.
  4. "I'll Sleep" isn't supposed to be easy listening, but it shouldn't be this hard, either.
  5. Mojo
    60
    El-P's portentous delivery lacks poetics. [May 2007, p.110]

Awards & Rankings

User Score
8.7

Universal acclaim- based on 58 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 52 out of 58
  2. Negative: 4 out of 58
  1. johnnyb.
    Jun 12, 2007
    10
    I would call el-p ahead of his time, but I don't think time will ever catch him.
  2. Aug 1, 2019
    9
    The dark and masterfully layered production is what makes this album able to stand the test of time. Over 10 years later and it still sucks meThe dark and masterfully layered production is what makes this album able to stand the test of time. Over 10 years later and it still sucks me in every time I put it on. Certainly an album that is greater as a whole than as a sum of parts. Full Review »
  3. Mar 5, 2016
    10
    El-P knows how to construct beats and display raw lyricism. he does that again on here. this one is another awesome piece of work hesEl-P knows how to construct beats and display raw lyricism. he does that again on here. this one is another awesome piece of work hes crafted. this is up there with his past works. Full Review »