Layers
by Royce da 5'9"
Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 6 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 6
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 6
  3. Negative: 0 out of 6
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  1. HipHopDX
    Apr 22, 2016
    84
    Layers is an album of tremendous depth and skill, and shines a light on Royce 5’9” as multifaceted artist.
  2. PopMatters
    Apr 25, 2016
    80
    While Layers is not filled with party bangers or catchy, memorable hooks, Royce uses his album as a platform to create a dialogue with his audience.
  3. XXL
    Apr 22, 2016
    80
    Six albums deep on the solo tip, Royce’s introspective side clearly shines through on Layers.
  5. AllMusic
    May 13, 2016
    70
    The heavy-hitting social commentary of "America" is an example of Royce in the spotlight and exceeding expectations.
  6. Exclaim
    Apr 22, 2016
    70
    Layers is a great step forward, a glowing promise on his next album, his ambitions will be fully realized.
  7. Pitchfork
    Apr 22, 2016
    64
    The album ends strong, from "America" to closer "Off," but much like most of Royce’s solo catalog, there aren't many songs on Layers that really reward replaying or close listening.

User Reviews

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User Score
8.1

Universal acclaim- based on 22 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 17 out of 22
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 22
  3. Negative: 1 out of 22
  1. ViTRiFY
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Classic. The lyricism is out of the this world. He truly might be the best rapper alive.
  2. Cypher_ATL
    May 16, 2016
    7
    This was one of the better Royce solo albums, but I feel that he could’ve given us a tad better during arguably the prime of his great career.This was one of the better Royce solo albums, but I feel that he could’ve given us a tad better during arguably the prime of his great career. I love the rhymes he spits over the thought-provoking subjects, but I felt that the production was hit or miss. This is an enjoyable album for die-hard Nickel fans, and I feel that this album was one of the more personal projects for him intended for his fans that have been by his side since the beginning. My favorite tracks off the projects were Layers, Tabernacle, and Pray. These songs remind me of the greatness that was brought to the table in PRhyme, but has a sense of a new era in Royce’s career.… Full Review »
  3. Moodmuzik
    Apr 22, 2016
    10
    Royce one of the best lyricist out there. Ageing like fine wine.
    Royce one of the best lyricist out there. Ageing like fine wine.
    Royce one    Royce one of the best lyricist out there. Ageing like fine wine.
    Royce one of the best lyricist out there. Ageing like fine wine.
    Royce one of the best lyricist out there. Ageing like fine wine.    … Full Review »
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