In Utero [20th Anniversary Edition]
by Nirvana
  • Record Label: Geffen
  • Release Date: Sep 24, 2013
Metascore
90

Universal acclaim - based on 14 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 14
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 14
  3. Negative: 0 out of 14
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  1. Q Magazine
    Feb 4, 2014
    100
    The sound more fully formed than ever. [Oct 2013, p.114]
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  2. Classic Rock Magazine
    Oct 25, 2013
    80
    The highlight is a live DVD, Live And Loud.... When we get down to the demos--which are largely free of vocals--the sound of a barrel being scraped starts to overpower the music. [Nov 2013, p.101]
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  3. Magnet
    Oct 22, 2013
    100
    The album proper already excellently spoke for itself 20 years ago. [No. 103, p.51]
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  5. American Songwriter
    Oct 22, 2013
    100
    Part of what made Nirvana’s final studio album so monumental was everything that made Nevermind a classic--an abrasive retooling of the pop songwriting handbook.
  6. Record Collector
    Oct 14, 2013
    80
    It still shows signs of the snotty punk remnants that Nevermind had buffed from its paintwork. And yet here it is, neatly repackaged and served up with memorabilia shots in a bid to get us on board once more.
  7. Uncut
    Oct 10, 2013
    90
    The official line on In Utero is that it's a raw uncomfortable document of a band in turmoil and a songwriter on the edge. That's partly true, but it's also cathartic, invigorating, full of terrific, scabrous pop songs, and a good laugh to boot. [Nov 2013, p.86]
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  8. The Line of Best Fit
    Sep 26, 2013
    90
    There really is a veritable deluge of ephemera attached to the deluxe editions of this release, so there is certainly plenty for fans and collectors to hunker down over. Be warned though, there is plenty of dross to wade through until you’re able to reveal anything of true value.
  9. Consequence
    Sep 26, 2013
    100
    The 2013 remix is a bit of a wash, if only because the album already sounded great.
  10. Rolling Stone
    Sep 24, 2013
    90
    The LP remains corrosively beautiful.
  11. Clash Music
    Sep 24, 2013
    90
    It’s not as shiny as ‘Nevermind’, nor as raucous as ‘Bleach’; it’s not as sensibly realised as it would have been has DGC had entirely their own way, but nor does it completely kick against Cobain and company’s prior achievements.
  12. Drowned In Sound
    Sep 24, 2013
    100
    It’s a crisp, clear makeover that gives the record a greater definition and focus without piling on the polish, tightening it but toughening it too.
  13. Pitchfork
    Sep 24, 2013
    100
    The new version is in fact more textured and nuanced, but not at the expense of the album's bone-dry, brutalizing crunch. Most of its touch-ups are tastefully unobtrusive and illuminating.

User Reviews

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User Score
9.0

Universal acclaim- based on 243 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 226 out of 243
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 243
  3. Negative: 10 out of 243
  1. Mystichydra
    Sep 13, 2020
    10
    A near flawless album, and made with turbulence, doubt, and true rage. Much has been said about In Utero. Much of it focused on theA near flawless album, and made with turbulence, doubt, and true rage. Much has been said about In Utero. Much of it focused on the behind-the-scenes drama, with Steve Albini's infamous original mix not making the grade and Cobain getting sued over the Heart Shaped Box video regarding copyright infringements.

    Well, the end result of all this sweat and toil is beyond phenomenal. The final compromise with the extra touches Albini hates so much is like the perfect blend of raw authentic angst, and underspoken grunge shmmer. It's easily Nirvana's best record, and it's also the most personal, and Cobain's proudest album. The songs are deep, timeless, emotional, and raw. It's a culmination of so much happening in Cobain's life, and all but Scentless Apprentice (about the book Perfume) are specific reflections of Cobain.

    I am biased as this particular album had great influence on me growing up, and therefore it could be argued I am blinded with nostalgia. However, In Utero is impressive on almost all fronts, and the forever linger of another album hardly burns out or fades away.    … Full Review »
  2. gabriellla13
    Sep 18, 2021
    10
    Amazing, All Apologizes one of the best songs from the lovely Kurt. Miss you!!!
  3. Lopakf
    Jul 18, 2020
    10
    I love this album too. This isn't bad, its really good. I love "Heart shaped box", "All apologies" and "Tourettes". They are just awesomeI love this album too. This isn't bad, its really good. I love "Heart shaped box", "All apologies" and "Tourettes". They are just awesome songs. I really like how this was different compared to nevermind.… Full Review »
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