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Krystal Image
Metascore
86

Universal acclaim - based on 6 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 6 Ratings

  • Summary: The second full-length release for the London-based singer-songwriter who recorded mostly in his bedroom and was influenced by a recent breakup.
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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 6
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 6
  3. Negative: 0 out of 6
  1. 100
    Krystal manages to be many things at once. It is often devastating, yet also darkly humorous – even in the most depressing circumstances, Maltese is able to recognise the comedy of it all. A step forward and a look back to where he came from, this is one of Britain’s most magical songwriters at his enchanting best.
  2. 80
    Heavier than his last offering, this is an album that sees Maltese dissect his psyche during a particularly rough time, and lay it out on a plate. Matt Maltese is an artist bursting with true musicianship and this record demonstrates the versatility that underpins his enormous talent.
  3. Q Magazine
    Nov 19, 2019
    80
    Smart, affecting and rich in melody, Krystal reveals Maltese to be very much the full ticket. [Jan 2020, p.110]
  4. Mojo
    Nov 21, 2019
    80
    Matt Maltese's second album persists with velveteen schmaltzy AOR; like yacht rock on a budget. His graceful croon, though, is more jaded this time, combining with the hollowed-out production for a deluxe dose of remorse. [Jan 2020, p.84]
  5. Nov 18, 2019
    73
    Krystal may not be as charming or musically distinctive as its predecessor, but if a breakup has left you with nothing to do but “curl up and die,” then Matt Maltese’s second album is the calming, pillow-crying record you need.
  6. Nov 18, 2019
    70
    At the end of the day, what Matt Maltese does best is conjure kitchen sink dramedies. And with ‘Krystal’, his ability to do that is as strong as ever. The melodies feel more like accompaniments to the stories; a canvas on which to paint. But the wry yet heartbreaking lyrics that accompany it shows an artist who has grown. As enviably funny as ever, but this time a little more self-aware.
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2 out of 2
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 2
  3. Negative: 0 out of 2
  1. Jun 4, 2022
    10
    "long baths podcasts im crying when im smashed" thats all you need to know!
  2. May 23, 2022
    10
    this album is truly wonderful. every single song brings me so much comfort from its homely and comfy production. the songwriting is simple andthis album is truly wonderful. every single song brings me so much comfort from its homely and comfy production. the songwriting is simple and yet incredibly effective with some of the best lyrics i've ever seen coming from this album. i just love it lol Expand