Kaleidoscope Heart
by Sara Bareilles
  • Record Label: Epic
  • Release Date: Sep 7, 2010
Metascore
68

Generally favorable reviews - based on 8 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 8
  3. Negative: 0 out of 8
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  1. Rolling Stone
    50
    Bareilles veers between fellow pianists Alicia Keys and Regina Spektor, avoiding either's extremes.
  2. PopMatters
    40
    Although Kaliedoscope Heart was probably intended to prove Bareilles' staying power, it only confirms suspicions that in some years, she'll be as remembered as Michelle Branch, or Tracy Bonham, still making music, but without any of the mass appeal they once enjoyed.

User Reviews

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User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 31 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 25 out of 31
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 31
  3. Negative: 4 out of 31
  1. Miranda
    Sep 15, 2010
    10
    There are very few albums that I can listen to from beginning to end and enjoy every song. Little Voice was one such album, so I had highThere are very few albums that I can listen to from beginning to end and enjoy every song. Little Voice was one such album, so I had high hopes for Kaleidoscope Heart. Sara did not disappoint! The album begins with a one minute acapella snippet that serves as a tribute to the album's namesake. It's haunting and beautiful and perfectly shows Sara's gift for intricate yet subtle harmony. There is a smooth transition into the next song, "Uncharted," which I'm calling right now to be her second hit single from this album. "Gonna Get Over You" has a 50's doo wop feel mixed with an upbeat, bouncey beat. "Hold My Heart" begins with a strong piano and blossoms into a powerful ballad fueled by very raw, honest lyrics. "King of Anything" is a throwback to "Love Song" in that it's driven by lyrics that give a big middle finger to drone music execs trying to force Sara into a typical pop mold. As with "Love Song" she succeeds in getting her point across to her label through lyrics that double as ones that can still be easily identified with by scored lovers all while maintaining a catchy hook and feel good music. Very impressive. "Basket Case" has a slight Alanis Morisette feel to it with a background harmonica, simple, straight forward singing, and self exposing lyrics. "Not Alone" has a bluesy, breezy vibe that makes it hard to sit still. Sara sings it with cool confidence, which is understated just enough to keep it from being cocky. The album ends with "Bluebird," a gorgeous, tearjerker that is filled with emotion and beautiful vocals. Overall, Sara once again produces an honest, moving album that seems to effortlessly put the other stereotypical poppy girls who get the majority of airplay in their proper place. Kudos!… Full Review »
  2. beomie
    Jul 7, 2021
    10
    Get Over You alone deserves a 10, Sara is an amazing singer and songwriter. This album takes you to another world, really, listening to itGet Over You alone deserves a 10, Sara is an amazing singer and songwriter. This album takes you to another world, really, listening to it makes you feel like dancing along with fairies in Neverland or walking through a magic forest. I love this album and I love Sara as an artist, just incredible (and underrated).… Full Review »
  3. iamtrent424
    Dec 11, 2010
    7
    I love Sara. This album is good. I love the sound to her songs on this album. Very good song writing. very good folk-pop album. One of myI love Sara. This album is good. I love the sound to her songs on this album. Very good song writing. very good folk-pop album. One of my favorite album of the year. Her last album was also good. If you love this album you will like her other album. I think ever body should listen to her.… Full Review »
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