I've Got Me
by Joanna Sternberg
Metascore
85

Universal acclaim - based on 8 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 8
  3. Negative: 0 out of 8
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  1. Beats Per Minute
    Jul 3, 2023
    86
    Once again, Sternberg’s irrepressible, impossibly human spirit shines through the darkness. This is the ultimate power of I’ve Got Me: the majority of songs here focus on negative experiences, but the feeling coming out the other end of listening to it is one of uplift and renewed resolve to make something of one’s life. It’s what makes the album sound both modern and timeless.
  2. Pitchfork
    Jun 30, 2023
    86
    Sternberg’s deep compassion radiates across I’ve Got Me. By album’s end, they come to feel like a friend—one who’s trying their best not to repeat the same mistakes, but still texts you from their ex’s place in the middle of the night.
  3. Dusted Magazine
    Aug 1, 2023
    80
    The magic of I’ve Got Me comes in the way that brutal sentiment comes dancing in on skittery melody and how coruscating lines conform so neatly to classic song structure. Joanna Sternberg makes tales of betrayal and non-conformity sound like tunes from 1930s black and white musicals, and that’s an accomplishment.
  5. Uncut
    Jul 17, 2023
    80
    A hugely enjoyable, idiosyncratic ride. [Sep 2023, p.37]
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  6. Mojo
    Jun 30, 2023
    80
    Extraordinary. [Aug 2023, p.88]
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  7. The Line of Best Fit
    Jun 30, 2023
    80
    There’s an air of mystery that surrounds Sternberg and their songs – as if you’re encountering someone who is both stronger and more fragile than they appear. It’s this elusive quality that prompts one to visit and revisit this music. As much as Sternberg reveals, that much – and more – roils beneath the surface.
  8. AllMusic
    Jun 30, 2023
    80
    Like a folky, more rough-hewn Blossom Dearie, Sternberg's quavering voice will not please everyone and their musical palette is delightfully out of step with the times, but their candor and warmth of character are universal.
  9. Paste Magazine
    Jun 30, 2023
    80
    The songs on I’ve Got Me start simply, then bloom into playful complexity.

Awards & Rankings

52
#52 Best Album of 2023

User Reviews

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User Score
7.4

Generally favorable reviews- based on 5 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 5
  3. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. AncientAmber
    Jul 3, 2023
    8
    Kinda reminds me of Daniel Johnston in spirit, Joanna Newsom in voice, and a little of Fiona Apple, I think she's at her best when theKinda reminds me of Daniel Johnston in spirit, Joanna Newsom in voice, and a little of Fiona Apple, I think she's at her best when the spotlight is on her weirdness. At times, the topic of her songs is a little unoriginal. This isn't her fault exactly, she is writing honestly, but it was a little less interesting for me.

    A must-listen for anyone into indie folk songwriter stuff.    … Full Review »
  2. Lajaleaa
    Aug 1, 2023
    5
    This is an easy one to discard. Keeping things simple is not precisely the best for this project, and even if I appreciate Sternberg beingThis is an easy one to discard. Keeping things simple is not precisely the best for this project, and even if I appreciate Sternberg being true to herself and her own voice and motive, this glass has enough water to call it half empty. Hope she grows to find her better self, both, personally and musically.… Full Review »
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