Life For Rent
by Dido
  • Record Label: Arista
  • Release Date: Sep 30, 2003
Metascore
69

Generally favorable reviews - based on 12 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 12
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 12
  3. Negative: 0 out of 12
  1. AllMusic
    80
    The appeal of Life for Rent is what makes Dido appealing -- she's unassuming and gentle, but her songs are so melodic and atmospheric they easily work their way into the subconscious, and the records are well-crafted enough to be engaging on repeated plays.
  2. PopMatters
    90
    This record seems to outweigh the previous album in terms of quality and depth.
  3. Mojo
    70
    Easy listening with just enough unease to tease. [Nov 2003, p.125]
    All this publication's reviews
  5. Rolling Stone
    70
    Life for Rent isn't groundbreaking, but it has its own kind of integrity.
  6. Entertainment Weekly
    75
    Dido's sharp lyrical point of view gives her otherwise routine chill-out music focus. [3 Oct 2003, p.72]
    All this publication's reviews
  7. Blender
    80
    The emotional terrain is much more treacherous here, and more rewarding for it. [Oct 2003, p.114]
    All this publication's reviews
  8. E! Online
    75
    That's not to say that it's bad--it's just that the radio-friendly chanteuse's lightweight fusion of beats and folk songs is sleepy and barely discernable from one track to the next.

Awards & Rankings

79
#79 Most Discussed Album of 2003
94
#94 Most Shared Album of 2003

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 77 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 64 out of 77
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 77
  3. Negative: 10 out of 77
  1. johnb
    Feb 14, 2004
    7
    The new album by Dido, 'Life for Rent' is definitely not as good as her debut. Perhaps the previous release was just too close to The new album by Dido, 'Life for Rent' is definitely not as good as her debut. Perhaps the previous release was just too close to perfect to be easily surpassed. However, judged by its own standards, this is a good album to listen to. I somehow get the feeling that this album could be seen as a precursor to an even better attempt (her possible 3rd album). In other words, her best work is yet to come; this will not be it. The songs are well written (based on simple themes) and yes (that was the word which eluded me. Perhaps the aim here was beauty in simplicity) The beats are gentle; sound textures smooth, almost seamless. However, the songs border on being monotonous with one essential ingredient missing - (variation - which 'No Angel' despite its generic melancholy mood; did have, in terms of style.) I think that the acid test for her will be whether she can do a good 3rd album and go beyond that to prove that she is not just something of a fad. The album could have been worse, however; it does have its moments.… Full Review »
  2. raVen
    Dec 7, 2003
    7
    Enjoyable. Title track is really good. But since it in many ways resembles her first, don't expect any newness.
  3. MichaelH
    Oct 4, 2003
    8
    Dido follows in a long line of talented Irish singers,( Sinead O'Connor, Dolores O'Riordan, and the Coors to some degree) with a Dido follows in a long line of talented Irish singers,( Sinead O'Connor, Dolores O'Riordan, and the Coors to some degree) with a beautiful voice. That the album is minimalistic to showcase this may come off to some as dull or boring. For those that have grown tired of all the new artist with overproduced, oversung, and overdubbed voices, (pick one!), it's refreshing to hear such a wonderfull sound. This may not have all of the hooks that the first album had, but with such little choices out there, it is still a nice counterbalance to the other "pop" garbage shoved in front of us. Sit back, listen and enjoy. … Full Review »
See all user reviews »