Make Believe
by Weezer
  • Record Label: Geffen
  • Release Date: May 10, 2005
User Score
6.0

Mixed or average reviews- based on 325 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 183 out of 325
  2. Mixed: 45 out of 325
  3. Negative: 97 out of 325

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  1. BradM.
    May 23, 2005
    0
    A five year old could write "Beverly Hills." It might be the worst single of the year. It's the kind of song that 14 year olds trying to learn guitar will take to their instructors. These guys once wrote fun songs like "The Sweater Song" and "Surf Wax America." What happened? The only thing that seems to be keeping this band in the spotlight is River's geek glasses. "Oh Rivers, A five year old could write "Beverly Hills." It might be the worst single of the year. It's the kind of song that 14 year olds trying to learn guitar will take to their instructors. These guys once wrote fun songs like "The Sweater Song" and "Surf Wax America." What happened? The only thing that seems to be keeping this band in the spotlight is River's geek glasses. "Oh Rivers, you're so....sensitive and bookish." What a pile.… Expand
  2. J.Charreaux
    May 22, 2005
    7
    Great drummer, good singing and production. The guitar solos show joy and abandon, but for a band supposedly so obsessed by perfect pop, they come off as bland and uninspired as when I first saw them in L.A. right before and right after they got signed. The first CD suceeded due to a combination of contributors that never appeared on subsequent releases.
  3. WesD
    May 22, 2005
    2
    I give it a 2 only because I saw a stripper dance to "Beverly Hills." Ever since, my appreciation for the tune has grown a bit. I thought Maladroit was horrid, but it didn't prepare me in the least for how disappointing this album is. Those who think it is similar to the first two albums in sound at all just aren't listening.
  4. eduardom
    May 21, 2005
    10
    One of the best records I've ever heard, each one you will love this record a year from now, that's a promise, I love it already cuz' I understand that Weezer does the best pop in the world, I am just gonna say that you should remember the feeling you had when you first heard Pinkerton, tell me don't you love it right now ;-)
  5. BillS
    May 20, 2005
    4
    Rob J, Pinkerton and the blue album were excellent records. It has nothing to do with nostalgia. Make Believe is mostly a boring, generic record. It's not in the same league as the first two weezer releases.
  6. jon
    May 18, 2005
    0
    Could honestly be one of the worst things ever recorded. It makes you wonder if all their old stuff was as good as you thought it was when you were in middle school.
  7. RobJ
    May 18, 2005
    6
    This new Weaver album is neither as great nor as terrible as people claim. It
  8. ThomasP
    May 18, 2005
    9
    At first listen, Make Believe threw me off and I was somewhat dissapointed. After about thirty passes, I believe that this could be the best Weezer to date. Make Believe is a very complex and deep release that seems to favor some of the best Beatles releases. Funny enough, the best material on the release is towards the end of the CD - Tracks 10-12 are pure genious.
  9. ElDuderino
    May 18, 2005
    0
    I remember a small scene from the Simpsons where Homer and Flanders were in Vegas, and their hotel marquee read that the entertainment was a Moody Blues cover band, whose opening band was the Moody Blues. After this crap-heap of an album, that scene serves as an analog for the future of Weezer.
  10. carlos
    May 17, 2005
    5
    umm not so good, kinda playing.
  11. SteveG
    May 17, 2005
    4
    Disappointing, considering the buildup. Mostly generic, awful grade-school poetry lyrics.
  12. JesseJ
    May 17, 2005
    0
    Sigh::: Poor Weezer...since when did they get a computer program to write their songs? Trust me folks, there's nothing here. Don't waste your money.
  13. JesperM
    May 16, 2005
    9
    This album is neither what I expected nor what I hoped for. It is something else, and it gave me a hard time at first. But it still remained fixed in my CD-player. Now I really, really like it. The bad reviews all to me seem nothing but "this band is not doing what I want them to do. How dare they!" I remember the abandoned concept for the Beverly Hills video (suggested by Brian This album is neither what I expected nor what I hoped for. It is something else, and it gave me a hard time at first. But it still remained fixed in my CD-player. Now I really, really like it. The bad reviews all to me seem nothing but "this band is not doing what I want them to do. How dare they!" I remember the abandoned concept for the Beverly Hills video (suggested by Brian Bell)where the band is given an extreme makeover, and their appearances all change - except for Rivers Cuomo. He looks just the same as before, because, said Bell, "Rivers is not allowed to change." Says it all, really. Give the man a break and listen.… Expand
  14. SteveW
    May 16, 2005
    10
    I think some people are overanalyzing this release. It is a great combination of Weezer's new sound and the self deprecating honesty of Pinkerton and the Blue Album. If you're looking for another Pinkerton or Blue Album, you might be disappointed but if you look at this with a more open mind, you'll find that Weezer hasn't lost a step at all.
  15. Aussie
    May 16, 2005
    8
    It's decent Weezer. It sound really weird at first, but you a few listenings are required in order to discover the Weezer in Make Believe. Good album overall. Not what I expected though.
  16. PetterA
    May 16, 2005
    9
    whats the fuss. It´s a great album if you dont search like a dog to find problems. Just go with the flow man!!!
  17. GreggyP.Wild
    May 15, 2005
    8
    Where is all the negativity coming from? I was into Weezer way back in the early 90's and fell in love with their first album. Their last 2 discs did absolutely nothing for me at all. Way too commercial and middle of the road stuff, guys. This is the quirkiest and most entertaining album since Pinkerton. I don't buy Weezer albums for crappy middle America radio hits like Hash Where is all the negativity coming from? I was into Weezer way back in the early 90's and fell in love with their first album. Their last 2 discs did absolutely nothing for me at all. Way too commercial and middle of the road stuff, guys. This is the quirkiest and most entertaining album since Pinkerton. I don't buy Weezer albums for crappy middle America radio hits like Hash Pipe, I buy them for original, quirky, sometimes heart breaking songs like The Other Way, Perfect Situation, This Is Such A Pity and Peace. A very good album, not great but nowhere near terrible. p.s. Pitchfork is probably the worst source for album reviews on the planet. They haven't been right about a single album since 1997 and The Verve's Urban Hymns.… Expand
  18. BenH
    May 15, 2005
    8
    Francis is right, just listen to it again. It is by no means Pinkerton and not even Blue, but it beats out maladroit and green. I think that people just can't handle Weezer adjusting their musical style and thats too bad. This is a very good album that will come more alive every time you listen to it. -One note to the guys at Metacritic: Its not fair that some bands metascore is Francis is right, just listen to it again. It is by no means Pinkerton and not even Blue, but it beats out maladroit and green. I think that people just can't handle Weezer adjusting their musical style and thats too bad. This is a very good album that will come more alive every time you listen to it. -One note to the guys at Metacritic: Its not fair that some bands metascore is lowered due to cheap sarcastic internet reviews, I say throw those out.… Expand
  19. ColleenD
    May 15, 2005
    8
    Cleaner, yes, but all of Weezer's albums have taken drifts of to other tunes. "We Are All On Drugs" is a standard song on the album, all of their albums have one. Its one of those songs - "Can you say teenie bopper single?". Catchy and only three cords. The lyrics are simple, Cuomo never takes it to an extreme where I can tell what he is thinking, which bothers me. But, that also Cleaner, yes, but all of Weezer's albums have taken drifts of to other tunes. "We Are All On Drugs" is a standard song on the album, all of their albums have one. Its one of those songs - "Can you say teenie bopper single?". Catchy and only three cords. The lyrics are simple, Cuomo never takes it to an extreme where I can tell what he is thinking, which bothers me. But, that also keeps me wanting more and after their long hiatus, I was thrilled to buy this album and hear what Cuomo has been doing this time. None of the songs are as catchy as their previous albums, they almost seem as if they belong in one of those Disney movies, where you hear the sound but ignore the corny message to it. Overall, this album has its ups and downs. There isn't enough emotion in the lyrics but it has grown since Weezer's previous albums.… Expand
  20. JosiahR
    May 15, 2005
    0
    unbelievably horrid
  21. JasonB
    May 15, 2005
    0
    Utterly Bad! I say use this CD as a coaster!
  22. EdK
    May 15, 2005
    10
    oh my god. you guys dont get it. this is an amazing amazing record. only thing i can complain is the lyrics. the melodies are just great man. and it's certainly an improvement for weezer adding more depth and increasing their song lengths. not to mention the guitar solos. woohoo. you guys gotta give it a second listen! i cant stop playing the cd man.
  23. RickB
    May 14, 2005
    10
    I think "Make Believe" is a great album. It shows Weezer's musical versatility.
  24. JamesW
    May 14, 2005
    2
    Stinks.
  25. FrankW
    May 14, 2005
    0
    I have a friend who was crying by the second song and just turned it off. He had listened to the two best songs of the album. They just grew progressively worse. The album wouldn't be quite as bad as it is if it was completely instrumental (not saying that the songs are decent because the just plaing aren't), but Cuomo's lyrics are so disgustingly bad they might have failed I have a friend who was crying by the second song and just turned it off. He had listened to the two best songs of the album. They just grew progressively worse. The album wouldn't be quite as bad as it is if it was completely instrumental (not saying that the songs are decent because the just plaing aren't), but Cuomo's lyrics are so disgustingly bad they might have failed in a high school poetry class. For troubled inner city kids. With learning disabilities. People who argue this album's merits have never listened to a good song in their entire life.… Expand
  26. frankd
    May 14, 2005
    10
    stop to always referring to blue album and pinkerton because this is a GOOD album, best song is the last one.
  27. FlynnN
    May 13, 2005
    4
    People who like this record just don't get it.
  28. ChrisF
    May 13, 2005
    9
    Great album, lyrically it's a bit weak. but oh well.
  29. VincentGallo
    May 13, 2005
    0
    We can't let Weezer get away with this shit.
  30. FrancisF
    May 13, 2005
    8
    Listen to it again. Then you will know whats going on.
  31. VincentC
    May 13, 2005
    0
    I also agree with Pitchfork. Weezer have always gotten by on the kind of goodwill generated by this imagined notion that they are somehow underdogs or anti-establishment heroes, despite all evidence to the contrary. Every Weezer fan since Pinkerton has been aware of this, yet we've always given Rivers the benefit of the doubt, because despite the fact that we knew that in his heart I also agree with Pitchfork. Weezer have always gotten by on the kind of goodwill generated by this imagined notion that they are somehow underdogs or anti-establishment heroes, despite all evidence to the contrary. Every Weezer fan since Pinkerton has been aware of this, yet we've always given Rivers the benefit of the doubt, because despite the fact that we knew that in his heart his earnest goal was to be a bloated rock star, the music continued to speak to us, to give us a glimpse into his human thoughts and feelings. Well, seeing Hugh Hefner in the new video completely changed all that for me (oh yeah, and the music stinks, too). If this is what Rivers was striving to be all this time, then so be it. They've lost me completely. I am no longer a Weezer fan, and will forget I ever was one.… Expand
  32. thomb
    May 13, 2005
    3
    Why bother?
  33. fredfred
    May 13, 2005
    2
    it Sucks
  34. MarkCh
    May 13, 2005
    4
    One of the biggest musical disappointments I've had. For me, Cuomo had previously managed to write perfect pop songs wrapped up in guitars that didn't sound like they were polished to a high sheen in the studio. Not always the most deep of lyrics but then that was never the point. I never questioned Cuomo's songwriting ablity as the quality of output had been strong over One of the biggest musical disappointments I've had. For me, Cuomo had previously managed to write perfect pop songs wrapped up in guitars that didn't sound like they were polished to a high sheen in the studio. Not always the most deep of lyrics but then that was never the point. I never questioned Cuomo's songwriting ablity as the quality of output had been strong over the last 4 albums (and check out those brilliant b-sides and rarities like Jamie) but then this...I've read in a few other reviews that the songwriting sounds lazy and I couldn't agree more. It seems that he has resorted to creating a Weezer template to avoid writers block or something. There are some truly awful moments on here - This Is Such A Pity being once of the worst offenders. Twee Cars rip-off was the first thought in my mind upon first listening and then the vocals begin to grate half way through the first "chorus" (i use that term loosely here). Surely an aberrition? Unfortunately not. The album does not improve - not even with repeated listening. Weezer always managed to write classic pop songs with just the right amount of unpredictability to throw off any expectations (just the right deviation at the right time in a chord sequence). I reckon Rivers could knock this stuff out in his sleep...and from the sounds of it he probably did. A real shame.… Expand
  35. PMHthehook
    May 13, 2005
    8
    This album made me laugh...I'm not sure if that's what I expected though. I would give it a 5 but "This is such a pity" is so good that made the cut for me, so I'm giving a solid 8 to this weird record. I also enjoyed "frek me out", "peace", "the damage in your heart", "pardon me". "my best friend" is laughable. "beverly hills" and "perfect situation" are way too juvenile This album made me laugh...I'm not sure if that's what I expected though. I would give it a 5 but "This is such a pity" is so good that made the cut for me, so I'm giving a solid 8 to this weird record. I also enjoyed "frek me out", "peace", "the damage in your heart", "pardon me". "my best friend" is laughable. "beverly hills" and "perfect situation" are way too juvenile for a suposedly mature band. the rest is pretty much average weezer stuff. Anyway, as I said "this is such a pity" is great...sometimes I expect jeff lynne singing "here is the news" after the intro, which is amusing. hahah so 80ish.… Expand
  36. jingg
    May 13, 2005
    10
    people who hate make believe just don't get it. one has to be a really sensitive weezer fan to truly appreciate make believe. it's full of many subtleties that you just have to discover on your own. it's a real grower of an album, but once it has taken root, you can't help but love it to bits. at first, many might comment on the seemingly trite and simplistic lyrics. i people who hate make believe just don't get it. one has to be a really sensitive weezer fan to truly appreciate make believe. it's full of many subtleties that you just have to discover on your own. it's a real grower of an album, but once it has taken root, you can't help but love it to bits. at first, many might comment on the seemingly trite and simplistic lyrics. i think rivers had a purpose for writing the lyrics as such. if you take them as a whole with the arrangements and melodies, you'll discover the real depth of these songs.… Expand
  37. MattE
    May 12, 2005
    9
    I think all the people giving this album terrible reviews are just listening once, shutting off their ears halfway through the album, and throwing it over their shoulders. If you give it 3-4 listens, you'll realize that this music simply says more than any =w= album since "Pinkerton."
  38. RodC
    May 12, 2005
    9
    I don't know what Weezer fans are griping about. Cuomo sings more earnestly on this record than he has since Pinkerton. Just because it's not about the same content, does not mean it's not full of emotion. And the notes he hits on this record...that is classic Weezer. It's what made songs like Waiting on You and Devotion such treasured B-sides. And that is overall what I don't know what Weezer fans are griping about. Cuomo sings more earnestly on this record than he has since Pinkerton. Just because it's not about the same content, does not mean it's not full of emotion. And the notes he hits on this record...that is classic Weezer. It's what made songs like Waiting on You and Devotion such treasured B-sides. And that is overall what impresses me with this CD, that and the embarrasing earnestness, I mean he is pouring his soul out. It's very gripping and he is really brave to put his feelings on the line like that. But just because it's not Pinkerton and it's not about girls across the sea, the fans want to rake Cuomo over the coals. Earnestness is Earnestness regardless of what it's talking about. In some ways it's even more emotional than Pinkerton, and way more personal. The only reason this CD doesn't get a 10 is that Beverly Hills and My Best Friend are not very good songs, but then all of Weezers old CD's only had 10 songs, so this comes out perfect. Please let the idiots at Geffen release stuff that sounds like Weezer or even release "This is such a Pity". That will be such a big hit. I predict top ten and it will make them a household name. Please Geffen do not drop the ball on this brilliant, catchy record.… Expand
  39. JoeM
    May 12, 2005
    10
    One of the best weezer albums since pinkerton, and the blue album. Make Believe has recaptured the emotion that the last two albums lacked. And musically speaking, its the most impressive, and experiemental sound they've come up with yet. By the way, the last guy who talked about RS saying Pinkerton was the worst album of 96, they know that was the stupidest thing they ever said, and One of the best weezer albums since pinkerton, and the blue album. Make Believe has recaptured the emotion that the last two albums lacked. And musically speaking, its the most impressive, and experiemental sound they've come up with yet. By the way, the last guy who talked about RS saying Pinkerton was the worst album of 96, they know that was the stupidest thing they ever said, and they know now its one of the most important alternative rock album of the 90s… Expand
  40. JohnL
    May 12, 2005
    9
    This is a more mature weezer with a fresh revival sound. The songs are nearly as catchy as the blue and green albums, but the words are deeper and far more thoughtful, even haunting.
  41. nickm
    May 12, 2005
    8
    'Make Believe' keeps me listening through almost the entire C.D. except about two songs over and over again. It doesn't keep me obssesed like "Hot Fuss" by The Killers, but it is still a good alblum. This is a step in the right direction for weezer. Best Songs: Beverly Hills, This is such a Pity, Perfect Situation. Worst Song: Freak Me Out
  42. ReubenG
    May 12, 2005
    10
    This is by far Weezer's best effort since Pinkerton. Will it kickstart a new genre for bands like Pinkerton did for emo? Most likely not, but it does re-establish the fact that Weezer are once again a influential premier rock band (whose best days are no longer behind them.)
  43. JebJ
    May 12, 2005
    0
    I remember clearly when I was a child and my great-grandfather (who lived with us at the time) was forced by some invisible demon to walk down the driveway and tap on the mailbox every morning for 2 straight minutes in failed attempts to get the ringing in his ears to cease. He equated the mailbox with his ringing in his ears which in effect was simply a symptom of an impending stroke he I remember clearly when I was a child and my great-grandfather (who lived with us at the time) was forced by some invisible demon to walk down the driveway and tap on the mailbox every morning for 2 straight minutes in failed attempts to get the ringing in his ears to cease. He equated the mailbox with his ringing in his ears which in effect was simply a symptom of an impending stroke he would suffer. Simply put, this album is awful. Anyone who says that it isn't hasn't yet heard the album.… Expand
  44. JoshS
    May 12, 2005
    10
    I look at the other review and wonder if we're listening to the same cd. Ever since green they haven't had the same feeling, but MAKE BELIVE really brings them back up. You can tell it is more like their first two albums than green and maladroit. Green for a solo repeats the chrous over and over, while BELIVE has awesome solos, like in the begining of perfect situation. They I look at the other review and wonder if we're listening to the same cd. Ever since green they haven't had the same feeling, but MAKE BELIVE really brings them back up. You can tell it is more like their first two albums than green and maladroit. Green for a solo repeats the chrous over and over, while BELIVE has awesome solos, like in the begining of perfect situation. They have brought back the acoustic and mellower songs in Damage in Your Heart, Freaked out, Hold Me, and Haunt you Everyday. And in Freaked out they use a harmonica similar to In the garage on blue. Weezer has made a great cd, not perfect but really great, and people should stop complaining about vomiting. Pitchfork is probably 1 out of th 15 reviews that actually flamed the album, so dont let one review change your opinion.… Expand
  45. JonS
    May 12, 2005
    0
    I knew this album was not going to be good when I first heard "Beverly Hills". Then I heard "we are all on drugs" and "my best friend". It was then I realized that Weezer has done something truly aweful. Just now, when I was walking home from class I passed some frat guys on their balcony with thier shirts off blasting "beverly hills" and drunkenly screaming the lyrics. ughhhhh. The I knew this album was not going to be good when I first heard "Beverly Hills". Then I heard "we are all on drugs" and "my best friend". It was then I realized that Weezer has done something truly aweful. Just now, when I was walking home from class I passed some frat guys on their balcony with thier shirts off blasting "beverly hills" and drunkenly screaming the lyrics. ughhhhh. The pitchfork review is dead on.… Expand
  46. JoeG
    May 12, 2005
    2
    Wow, this is just plain bad. Stop holding on to these guys being what they used to be. They are simply ordinary and crappy now. Where do I start-The lyrics are plain horrible and simple. I have no songwriting talent and may be able to write better than this crap. The music is even worse. Not a single guitar riff worse remembering. nothing cool at all. It really seems like these songs were Wow, this is just plain bad. Stop holding on to these guys being what they used to be. They are simply ordinary and crappy now. Where do I start-The lyrics are plain horrible and simple. I have no songwriting talent and may be able to write better than this crap. The music is even worse. Not a single guitar riff worse remembering. nothing cool at all. It really seems like these songs were put together in 30 minutes. Do not buy, you will be sorry… Expand
  47. RobA
    May 12, 2005
    8
    This album has a few faults (e.g. "We Are All On Drugs"), but it's still a very good release, and stands up on repeated listenings. We should all just be happy this band even still exists! A reviewer who says a new cd makes him retroactively hate an artist's exceptional catalogue really can't be taken seriously. Ignore the critics pandering to the sarcastic set, and pick up This album has a few faults (e.g. "We Are All On Drugs"), but it's still a very good release, and stands up on repeated listenings. We should all just be happy this band even still exists! A reviewer who says a new cd makes him retroactively hate an artist's exceptional catalogue really can't be taken seriously. Ignore the critics pandering to the sarcastic set, and pick up this cd if you're a Weezer fan.… Expand
  48. KS
    May 12, 2005
    10
    Some of you guys are so silly... it's a rock album by a popular band. It's fun to listen to. The musicianship and production were obviously a focus and something they wanted to be proud of. Get over the 90s and put it in the proper context. Some of the songs are showing a trend toward a modern indie rock sound that remembers its roots. Sounds fun and promising.
  49. RyanA
    May 12, 2005
    8
    I am really surprised at how scathing some of the reviews for this album are. I feel its better than Green and certainly Maladroit. Perhaps Weezer are being punished for getting such great reviews on their last, relatively poor album. I guess people just don't like the ballads, but lyrically this is the best and most honest Rivers has been since Pinkerton, though maybe people need I am really surprised at how scathing some of the reviews for this album are. I feel its better than Green and certainly Maladroit. Perhaps Weezer are being punished for getting such great reviews on their last, relatively poor album. I guess people just don't like the ballads, but lyrically this is the best and most honest Rivers has been since Pinkerton, though maybe people need for him to write songs about lesbians and Japanese girls touching themselves in order to see that.… Expand
  50. attaboy
    May 12, 2005
    0
    so absolutely atrocious. worse than pitchfork wrote. i am shocked there are still people who will like a weezer album on the basis of it being a weezer album. jesus, it's so bad.
  51. LawenceP
    May 12, 2005
    1
    Everything their first two LP's were.........Yeah right! This is trash!
  52. AdamS
    May 12, 2005
    8
    Although not blue or pinkerton, this is an excellent stand alone ablum that I would probably enjoy more if I didn't have to compare it to the two previous masterpieces. Light years beyond green and Maladroit.
  53. MatthewM
    May 12, 2005
    0
    I would have been better prepared for the boring songwriting of this album if it had been titled "Weezer Sings Songs From Junior High Poetry Class." Unless you are in a junior high poetry class, you're heart will break when the once-creative Cuomo sings, "How is your heart little darling? I didn't mean to get so mad. Let me just hold you closely. How did things get so bad?" Mad I would have been better prepared for the boring songwriting of this album if it had been titled "Weezer Sings Songs From Junior High Poetry Class." Unless you are in a junior high poetry class, you're heart will break when the once-creative Cuomo sings, "How is your heart little darling? I didn't mean to get so mad. Let me just hold you closely. How did things get so bad?" Mad and bad, eh Rivers? My personal favorite low is the atrocious cliche "taller than a mountain, deeper than the sea." How this painfully trite disc was ever concocted by the poet behind "Pinkerton" is beyond me. Anyone spotting Rivers Cuomo's talent should notify the proper authorities: 1-800-MB-BLOWS.… Expand
  54. PeterV
    May 12, 2005
    6
    Huge disappointment....The worst Weezer album yet. Although the Pitchfork review is too negative.
  55. DaveB
    May 12, 2005
    8
    What a great love it or hate it release...not groundbreaking, but a nice collection of great pop songs. What else did you expect from Weezer -- an album that sounds like Arcade Fire? I have to agree with Rob Sheffield, and it's not just because he wrote that hilarious Shakira bit a while back. I enjoy it, too, what else can I say -- "Beverly Hills" = dumb, funny, weird, just like the What a great love it or hate it release...not groundbreaking, but a nice collection of great pop songs. What else did you expect from Weezer -- an album that sounds like Arcade Fire? I have to agree with Rob Sheffield, and it's not just because he wrote that hilarious Shakira bit a while back. I enjoy it, too, what else can I say -- "Beverly Hills" = dumb, funny, weird, just like the actual city.… Expand
  56. MarkD
    May 12, 2005
    3
    Devastatingly bad album, only about 2 great songs. It breaks any knowledgable weezer fan's heart that rivers didn't put more effort into this. I agree totally with Pitchfork. I can't stress how bad it was for this band when Matt Sharp left. And after listening to both The Rentals, and Weezer's two greats I can say that it was better when Matt was helping Rivers write, Devastatingly bad album, only about 2 great songs. It breaks any knowledgable weezer fan's heart that rivers didn't put more effort into this. I agree totally with Pitchfork. I can't stress how bad it was for this band when Matt Sharp left. And after listening to both The Rentals, and Weezer's two greats I can say that it was better when Matt was helping Rivers write, or at least containing his huge ego --which has destroyed his music. I'll always listen to the first two albums, their Bsides and a couple off Maladroit. and I'll probably give RIvers another chance, but nextime I'll be expecting nothing above the level of Taking Back Sunday.… Expand
  57. GaryM
    May 11, 2005
    8
    'Make Believe' is not Blue or Pinkerton. If you want it to be those albums, don't bother listening as it will never meet your lofty standards. On its own, though, 'Make Believe' is a fine album with at least six songs which are EXCELLENT and the rest of which is very good (except Freak Me Out, which I don't care for.) The lyrics aren't as good as 'Make Believe' is not Blue or Pinkerton. If you want it to be those albums, don't bother listening as it will never meet your lofty standards. On its own, though, 'Make Believe' is a fine album with at least six songs which are EXCELLENT and the rest of which is very good (except Freak Me Out, which I don't care for.) The lyrics aren't as good as Pinkerton but the music is very solid and Rivers can shred. And back by popular demand, Rivers writes personal songs again, only to be trashed by you people. He can't win for losing. Very good album. Worth picking up for Perfect Situation, This is Such A Pity, Haunt You Every Day and The Other Way.… Expand
  58. mikem
    May 11, 2005
    1
    This album is probably the worst disc of this decade so far, but it is not the worst that i have ever heard. too bad guys.
  59. Josh
    May 11, 2005
    0
    Totally awful. Every song is formulaic--they take a trite sentiment and repeat it over and over. All of the lyrical magic I expect from Weezer is gone. I still love Blue, PInkerton, and Maladroit, though.
  60. JoshB
    May 11, 2005
    7
    Wow, people are being really harsh. This is a good, solid album. I'm a life-long Weezer fan and I am quite pleased. I hope you naysayers remember that this is how people reacted to Pinkerton when it came out. Now look at the legend that is that album. Who know what may happen?
  61. BillP
    May 11, 2005
    10
    Where do you folks get off attacking Rivers and his new album. What is so bad about it I wonder.... I THINK IT ROCKS YOUR SOCKS OFF!
  62. BrianM
    May 11, 2005
    3
    This band has fallen hard and fast from their Pinkerton-days, getting worse with each passing album. The lyrics are totally absurd and doesn't speak to me at all. This album is awful.
  63. LizzieW
    May 11, 2005
    8
    Some really nice songs, and a lot better than some of the recent albums. The album's like Marmite - some love it, some hate it. I love it.
  64. MaxK
    May 11, 2005
    8
    Make Believe isn't there best Cd, but it is good. And for people giving it bad reviews not every cd, like pinkerton, can be perfect.
  65. JoeBriefcase
    May 11, 2005
    3
    I think the record is merely low level mediocre (with the bottom falling out), not as godawful as the Pitchfork review states. We don't read Pitchfork for bland status quo reviiews. You can expect bile and wit, or veneration and profundity, sometimes independent of the artist and the album. There's a lot of personal in that review. But we're talking about Weezer, not I think the record is merely low level mediocre (with the bottom falling out), not as godawful as the Pitchfork review states. We don't read Pitchfork for bland status quo reviiews. You can expect bile and wit, or veneration and profundity, sometimes independent of the artist and the album. There's a lot of personal in that review. But we're talking about Weezer, not Pitchfork. And I think Weezer has always been oversold. They were never much more than a guitar pop band that had a good hook now and then and a personality that apparently was highly lovable a few years ago and seems less appealing now. With so many good bands these days, their star doesn't shine so brightly. I don't have to sell my soul or wait 4 years for Weezer if I want to hear some crunchy chords. There are good bands releasing records every day. Not so back when Pinkerton came out. I didn't buy it. If I loved the copy I've gave a spin to I might have gone to get it. But no need. I doubt I'll ever play it again. This band was always a 5 or 6 even at their best, and this record is definitely not their best.… Expand
  66. AndrewW
    May 11, 2005
    9
    I loved this album, I will not rate it a 10 because it is in fact not the Blue Album. However, this CD is like a great girlfriend, reminds you of what you fell in love with (Blue/Pinkerton) while giving you new reasons to fall further in love every day. Perfect Situation is one of their top songs ever and should be on everyone's IPod.
  67. ClintB
    May 11, 2005
    8
    If you are a Weezer fan, and not just a "blue album" or "pinkerton" fan, you would enjoy it. However, if all you like is the albums I listed above, you may not enjoy it as well. I love the Blue Album and Pinkerton as much as anyone..but you have to think...Most of the songs on the Blue Album were written well over a decade ago, Weezer has grown up some more. I think Make Believe is well If you are a Weezer fan, and not just a "blue album" or "pinkerton" fan, you would enjoy it. However, if all you like is the albums I listed above, you may not enjoy it as well. I love the Blue Album and Pinkerton as much as anyone..but you have to think...Most of the songs on the Blue Album were written well over a decade ago, Weezer has grown up some more. I think Make Believe is well rounded; it has some older-sounding songs, and a little bit differant stuff too. Anyone who says this ruins "everything Rivers Cuomo has ever done" is a moron. He grew up some more. That happens you know...… Expand
  68. DanK
    May 11, 2005
    5
    I expected more from a comeback album. Compared to the likes of Pinkerton and the Blue album which i stil love to listen to now, this album is much like Maladroit in having jsut a few decent tracks. My fave track on the album is "perfect Situation" even though he seems to run out things to say by the time the chorus kicks in. The track "This is such a Pity" pretty much sums up the album I expected more from a comeback album. Compared to the likes of Pinkerton and the Blue album which i stil love to listen to now, this album is much like Maladroit in having jsut a few decent tracks. My fave track on the album is "perfect Situation" even though he seems to run out things to say by the time the chorus kicks in. The track "This is such a Pity" pretty much sums up the album for me in that it is a damn pity! We can only hope their next album if they do one, is an improvement. Don't get me wrong i don't think its tragic, just aint no pinkerton!… Expand
  69. MattG
    May 11, 2005
    4
    The problem with this album isn't that it's awful. It's not. It's really, really not. However, it is so mediocre when compared to Weezer's past records it's heartbreaking. Even Maladroit and the Green Album has shining moments of creativity and good old fashioned rock in songs like "Burndt Jamb" and "Hashpipe". All Make Believe has are unsightful and The problem with this album isn't that it's awful. It's not. It's really, really not. However, it is so mediocre when compared to Weezer's past records it's heartbreaking. Even Maladroit and the Green Album has shining moments of creativity and good old fashioned rock in songs like "Burndt Jamb" and "Hashpipe". All Make Believe has are unsightful and uninspired whines set to standard chords. Such a disappointment from a such a talented band.… Expand
  70. KevinG
    May 11, 2005
    7
    okay so it's not lyrically up to standard or not breaking any ground but it's still damn infectious (as per usual great hooks) been humming it all day and for me thats makes it more than an average album
  71. NicolasC
    May 11, 2005
    8
    Not as good as blue different from Pinkerton better than green and the same as maladroit = Good album
  72. KoenDeCrock
    May 11, 2005
    0
    I can't believe this!!! This is sooooooooo bad it makes me wish metacritic allowed negative scores. Of course, "Beverly hills" was a good indicator for how bad this album was going to be, but believe it or not, it is one of the "best" songs on the album. weezer is going into Def Leppard territorium with this album, an ancient long forgotten land that noone has dared to thread since I can't believe this!!! This is sooooooooo bad it makes me wish metacritic allowed negative scores. Of course, "Beverly hills" was a good indicator for how bad this album was going to be, but believe it or not, it is one of the "best" songs on the album. weezer is going into Def Leppard territorium with this album, an ancient long forgotten land that noone has dared to thread since the end of the eighties.… Expand
  73. MarkW
    May 11, 2005
    2
    Dull. Bad. I really enjoyed the harder polished edge of Maladroit, as it struck me as a creative step forward... I was really looking forward to Make Believe, and have been soundly disappointed. The songs are too simplistic, and the edge is gone. Even Beverly Hills seems like a forced effort. Worst =w= by far.
  74. SaeedG
    May 10, 2005
    7
    A bit better then Maladroit, has some great songs on it but does have a few howlers. Highlights: Perfect Situation, This is Such A Pity, The Other Way Skip: Beverly Hills, Freak You Out
  75. KevinM
    May 10, 2005
    10
    Amazing. i think its a great step forward for weezer and is in the same league as the first 2 records. I can't see where some of the mixed reviews are coming from.
  76. MattK
    May 10, 2005
    8
    It's a really good album. I think it has a lot of the strengths of all their other albums. Different but classic weezer at the same time. Fits right in there with there solid catalog.
  77. matthews
    May 10, 2005
    10
    I would have to give this album because it just blows the last 2 albums out of the water. Giving it a zero is just ignorant, I am unsure if these people have even heard the album. Also Pinkerton was named wosrt album of 1996 but we all know that Pinkerton was not critically acclaimed until later. But the main point, the cd is a fine example of what a cd should consist of, the highs are o I would have to give this album because it just blows the last 2 albums out of the water. Giving it a zero is just ignorant, I am unsure if these people have even heard the album. Also Pinkerton was named wosrt album of 1996 but we all know that Pinkerton was not critically acclaimed until later. But the main point, the cd is a fine example of what a cd should consist of, the highs are o so high and the lows are few if any.… Expand
  78. HollisH
    May 10, 2005
    0
    Just simply awful. Kinda like if a computer tried to write a power-pop album.
  79. drewe
    May 10, 2005
    1
    perhaps the most interesting facet of the weezer 'legacy' is the polarity with which their later albums have been received. the blue album and pinkerton are almost unanimously hailed as classics. however, starting with the green album, weezer's albums have seemed to elicit two responses: glowing praise and utter disgust. the division of weezer's fan base over these perhaps the most interesting facet of the weezer 'legacy' is the polarity with which their later albums have been received. the blue album and pinkerton are almost unanimously hailed as classics. however, starting with the green album, weezer's albums have seemed to elicit two responses: glowing praise and utter disgust. the division of weezer's fan base over these albums makes sense. the blue album was an album of good pop music. it was accessible enough to appeal to a wide audience, yet clever and catchy enough to satisfy music elitists. pinkerton was not so immediately successful, though in time it earned due praise for its raw emotion and honesty (it stands as my all-time favorite album). however, the green album and maladroit lacked the elements that made the first two releases so special. the green album had some catchy melodies, but its songs were so sterilized and watered down that it was hard to take weezer seriously. maladroit was an even worse failure, allowing rivers to indulge his guitar-god fantasies at the expense of any real substance. to weezer's loyal fan base, these albums stood up against their earlier work. to the rest of us, these albums represented perhaps the greatest musical letdown we'd ever known. where the green album and maladroit had some saving graces, 'make believe' has next to none. here rivers seems to regard cliche and generality above emotion and expression. most of this album's songs seem much more fit for pre-teen journals than the author of some of rock's greatest anthems. the one bright spot on the album is 'perfect situation,' which serves as, if anything, a taunting reminder of weezer's former selves. the rest of the album is bland and boring and, for a fan whose obsession with pop music is strongly rooted in weezer's early work, the equivalent of betrayal. have some decency, boys.… Expand
  80. JackJ
    May 10, 2005
    10
    Unbelievably good album.
  81. RandyK
    May 10, 2005
    0
    Weezer played it way too safe, and the result is INCREDIBLY bland and boring. A cd that doesn't deserve to be placed next to my copies of Blue and Pinkerton. The Pitchfork review is spot on.
  82. SethWilson
    May 10, 2005
    1
    I don't mean to make over generizations or be one of those people who gives things a zero just because they hate a band. I really like weezer. but this album just sounds lazy and makes me wonder about the 70+ songs that didn't make the album. Are these the brilliant songs that Rivers wants to hide away, or are they even more lackluster than these? the lyrics are juvenile and, I don't mean to make over generizations or be one of those people who gives things a zero just because they hate a band. I really like weezer. but this album just sounds lazy and makes me wonder about the 70+ songs that didn't make the album. Are these the brilliant songs that Rivers wants to hide away, or are they even more lackluster than these? the lyrics are juvenile and, quite frankly, BS. You can tell they have no real basis in true emotions and could have been written by a 12 year old's basement band. Even the production is off base, which is surprising from someone like Rick Rubin. Perhaps I expect too much... but this is just very disapointing and almost insulting.… Expand
  83. SteveS
    May 10, 2005
    9
    Well just as i suspected alot of people are voting to soon. I belive u have to listen to a album over 10 times before u label it shit. I remember when pinkerton first came out everybody hated it. Then they actually started to listen to it and now its along with blue for the 2 best albums. I believe this album is good so far and if you keep on listneing to it you will understand it more Well just as i suspected alot of people are voting to soon. I belive u have to listen to a album over 10 times before u label it shit. I remember when pinkerton first came out everybody hated it. Then they actually started to listen to it and now its along with blue for the 2 best albums. I believe this album is good so far and if you keep on listneing to it you will understand it more and appreciate cuomo's work more. no its not a blue album but most bands change and you have to change with them.… Expand
  84. markt
    May 10, 2005
    9
    The pitchfork review makes me mad. 4? Are you kidding?
  85. J.L.Perez
    May 10, 2005
    8
    While not their best this is still a fun album thats good to listen too.
  86. BenA
    May 10, 2005
    10
    Don't listen to the snobby Pitchfork cronies. So what if the prissy indy in-crowd doesn't accept weezer. This album rules. The lyrics are laughably bad by themselves but the songs are so brilliant it makes them shine. I love this album. It makes me so happy. Weezer is back and they are dorky as ever. A+
  87. JustinS
    May 10, 2005
    8
    I like the return of Rivers' emotion. I do not, however, like the brief retreads into unintelligent pop (We Are All On Drugs, Best Friend, Freak Me Out). Other than those tracks though, this album is amazing, especially with its hybrid Pinkerton-Blue songs (Pardon Me, The Other Way, Perfect Situation, Peace). Overall a great album and worthy of the Weezer name.
  88. ShaneM
    May 10, 2005
    0
    I have a ticket for the Philly show I bought on Ebay for $65 but after hearing Make Believe I don't even want to go. Actually, I changed my mind - I do want to go....so I can hurl the new album at Rivers as soon as they play the any song off the new album....
  89. ElliotR
    May 10, 2005
    9
    I enjoy it.
  90. DaveS
    May 10, 2005
    0
    everytime i hear this album it makes me want to vomit. I also can't believe that Rolling Stone is calling it great and comparing it to Pinkerton... last time I checked, Pinkerton was named "worst album of 1996" by RS
  91. ryanb
    May 10, 2005
    0
    Absolutely brutal. The Pitchfork review sums up my thoughts nicely, though I'd like to add the song "Hold Me" smells strongly of "I Started A Joke" by the Bee Gees.
  92. JamesJ
    May 10, 2005
    10
    Weezer have it spot on. Great songs with feeling. Different from their previous albums, but in this case change is good. Their best since the Blue album.
  93. DaveD
    May 10, 2005
    9
    A new direction for =w=. I think "Perfect Situation" is an incredible song. Pitchfork you can't trust...They gave Fiery Furnaces a good rating, for Christ's sake. I'm a long time fan of =w=, and after the last two, I am well satisfied by this album. Though I do agree with pitchfork about the "diarrhea" thing...I had the same thought. But I will say that "Haunt You Everyday" A new direction for =w=. I think "Perfect Situation" is an incredible song. Pitchfork you can't trust...They gave Fiery Furnaces a good rating, for Christ's sake. I'm a long time fan of =w=, and after the last two, I am well satisfied by this album. Though I do agree with pitchfork about the "diarrhea" thing...I had the same thought. But I will say that "Haunt You Everyday" reclaims the weezer tradition of closing an album epically strong - a bar raised high by Only in Dreams and Butterfly.… Expand
  94. BrianneG
    May 10, 2005
    10
    Whether the lyrics are passionate, trite, or simply ironic, Weezer's strengths rely on their cohesive sound and familiar formula. Hopefully, non-Weezer fans will enjoy it as much as I do.
  95. DevinB
    May 10, 2005
    0
    The scathing, hateful Pitchfork review is right. This is not just an awful album, it's so jaw-droppingly, impossibly bad that it retroactively destroys the enjoyability of everything Rivers Cuomo has ever done. Pinkerton was one of my favorite albums as a kid. However, I've been so traumatized by Make Believe that I can no longer listen to it without curling my toes in horror. I The scathing, hateful Pitchfork review is right. This is not just an awful album, it's so jaw-droppingly, impossibly bad that it retroactively destroys the enjoyability of everything Rivers Cuomo has ever done. Pinkerton was one of my favorite albums as a kid. However, I've been so traumatized by Make Believe that I can no longer listen to it without curling my toes in horror. I hope you're happy, River. You've finally, definitively ruined your legacy.… Expand
  96. JulianK
    May 10, 2005
    9
    not to feed off of my original bias as a weezer fan, but this disc is just great. It's a step in a different dirrection for weezer just like the other 4 were. i'm very impressed with the crafting of these songs, very mellow and powerful at the same time.
  97. JamesK
    May 10, 2005
    10
    Most underappreciated album of all time. This album is amazing.
  98. AaronE
    May 10, 2005
    10
    F'n awesome! Its neither worse, better or equal to their previous material. make believe just is.
  99. Rowdy
    May 9, 2005
    0
    They've come a long way..........and the road they've traveled has been a steep downhill one.
  100. AlexS
    May 9, 2005
    2
    Man, this is worse than the last 2 efforts. For me, anyway, weezer haven't been the same since bassist Matt Sharp's departure from the group.
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Awards & Rankings

9
#9 Most Discussed Album of 2005
86
#86 Most Shared Album of 2005

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
52

Mixed or average reviews - based on 25 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 25
  2. Mixed: 10 out of 25
  3. Negative: 8 out of 25
  1. Entertainment Weekly
    67
    Weezer's most conventional disc... a cleaner-sounding record heavy on way-earnest power ballads. [13 May 2005, p.85]
  2. Rolling Stone
    80
    A breakthrough for Weezer... Cuomo's songs are his most plaintive and brilliant since Pinkerton. [19 May 2005, p.74]
  3. Pitchfork
    4
    Sometimes an album is just awful. Make Believe is one of those albums.
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