• Record Label: Vagrant
  • Release Date: Sep 17, 2013
Metascore
72

Generally favorable reviews - based on 22 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 16 out of 22
  2. Negative: 0 out of 22
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  1. Q Magazine
    Jan 27, 2014
    60
    Rather than radical reimaginations, Lanegan serves up tweaked arrangements within the original frameworks. [Oct 2013, p.105]
  2. Sep 24, 2013
    60
    A covers record will probably never pique interest in the way that a fresh batch of new material will. But for those who do take the risk, fans and the curious alike, Imitations is a touching, tasteful and rewarding listen that will not disappoint.
  3. Mojo
    Sep 19, 2013
    60
    As ever, Lanegan's voice is solemn and affecting, emphasising the melancholic sentiments of the material. [Oct 2013, p.91]
  4. 60
    Up there with Cash’s ‘American’ series this is not. But 48-year-old Lanegan is a classy bastard, so he just about gets away with it.
  5. 60
    His own sepia baritone summons some of that warmth on versions of “Solitaire”, “Autumn Leaves” and “You Only Live Twice”.
  6. Sep 12, 2013
    60
    It's lightweight stuff, and the artier items on the list don't add ballast. Taken as the simplest of pleasures, though, Imitations succeeds on anyone's terms.
User Score
7.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 4 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 4
  2. Negative: 0 out of 4
  1. Sep 17, 2013
    7
    This is the 2nd collection of covers that Mark Lanegan has released, the previous set being 1998's more blues & soul inflected 'I'll takeThis is the 2nd collection of covers that Mark Lanegan has released, the previous set being 1998's more blues & soul inflected 'I'll take care of you'. It's his easy listening album, It's a bit like his version of Rod Stewart's great american songbook album though don't let that put you off! For the most part it's pretty good, there being the only occasional misstep. His voice is in fine form throughout, and there is a melancholic edge to most of the songs (of course!) Nice orchestration & use of strings in the background.
    There is an excellent version of Nancy Sinatra's 'You'll only live twice' & Frank Sinatra's 'Solitaire'. A song I'm not too keen on is his cover of Mack the Knife, some songs are just untouchable, even for Mark Lanegan!! But at least he tries to keep things interesting. If you like this and haven't heard 'I'll take care of you' do yourself a favour & buy/download that also. Altogether an enjoyable detour.
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