Modern Times
by Bob Dylan
  • Record Label: Sony
  • Release Date: Aug 29, 2006
User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 289 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 245 out of 289
  2. Mixed: 23 out of 289
  3. Negative: 21 out of 289

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  1. aurelios
    Sep 14, 2006
    9
    muy bueno , mejora con cada escucha, sin rabia sesentera pero se degusta como un vino de reserva, saboreando cada detalle.no tiene un 10 porque sino que ¿le pondriamos a blonde on blonde?.
  2. sbsb
    Nov 12, 2007
    9
    Not the greatest work of Dylan, but certainly a very good album. Dylan never gets old.
  3. mhmusicnmovies
    Sep 7, 2010
    9
    Not as great as Love and Theft, but Modern Times is a hell of a record. Dylan continues to let us know that he is back; quite a fun album. The times may be a changing but Bobby manages to stay his brilliant self
  4. Vampire25
    Jan 29, 2014
    9
    An accessible record with master class song-writing, Dylan has never failed at writing a great song. His vocals are painfully gruff, and commands your attention with each track. It's a patient listen, took me a few times to really feel it, and delve my way through each track.

    All In All, Modern Times is a great record, and another one of Dylan's masterpieces. A-
  5. Ricko
    Nov 28, 2017
    9
    The song "Spirit on the Water" says everything about what this album is - "You think I'm over the hill, You think I'm past my prime, Let me see what you got..." Dylan emphatically proves he's still got plenty in the locker here. Following on strongly from "Love and Theft", this is up there with the master songwriters best work from the last 30 years. 10 tracks of the highest calibre andThe song "Spirit on the Water" says everything about what this album is - "You think I'm over the hill, You think I'm past my prime, Let me see what you got..." Dylan emphatically proves he's still got plenty in the locker here. Following on strongly from "Love and Theft", this is up there with the master songwriters best work from the last 30 years. 10 tracks of the highest calibre and country blues at it's best. His vocals are surprisingly good as an extra bonus on this and the backing band he has here play a stormer as well. For me, this is the last great album Dylan has produced and the last essential one.… Expand
  6. manolissporidis
    Oct 1, 2006
    8
    maybe not a masterpiece, but definitely an album you can listen to again and again. a perfect musical companion for autumn, winter, spring and summer to come, dylan & band enjoy music like noone else and they show it here!!
  7. WadeT
    Oct 3, 2006
    8
    Modern Times like a wise grandfather talking to his grandchildren, at times exciting, at time depressing, but always undeniably impressive while still not cool. Dylan's most impressive quality is his acceptance of his place as a senior statesman in music whose goal seem to be about maintaining quality as opposed to creating a new energy. Therefore this is not his best record, nor is Modern Times like a wise grandfather talking to his grandchildren, at times exciting, at time depressing, but always undeniably impressive while still not cool. Dylan's most impressive quality is his acceptance of his place as a senior statesman in music whose goal seem to be about maintaining quality as opposed to creating a new energy. Therefore this is not his best record, nor is it attempting to be, but the kids none-the-less would be wise to listen.… Expand
  8. lfollows
    Aug 30, 2006
    8
    This is a solid album, indeed continuing from where Love and Theft left off--albeit, a whole five years later. This seems to be Dylan's twilight years style. Who knows what will come next! I give this an eight because an eight is a damn good score. But it's not as good as his greatest. It's just a good follow-up to everything else. The band does sound top notch by the This is a solid album, indeed continuing from where Love and Theft left off--albeit, a whole five years later. This seems to be Dylan's twilight years style. Who knows what will come next! I give this an eight because an eight is a damn good score. But it's not as good as his greatest. It's just a good follow-up to everything else. The band does sound top notch by the way--better than the digital dullness of Time Out of Mind (although the songs are not as intense or moving), and with a little more instrumental variation than Love and Theft .(The songs are the same genres as far as I can tell.) The things I do not like about this fine album (as with Love and Theft and other Dylan releases) is that the band is never allowed to cut loose. Such a fine ensemble of musicians, but are basically relegated to repetative riffing and all too short solos. I know these are "Bob Dylan" songs, but I would just love to hear a one-minute guitar or keyboard solo to complement these songs--or even some taking turns! Actually there is one stretch of that on this CD but I would love to hear more from these guys. The instruments all sound warm and vintage, and really get some good grooves. Allowing a little more freedom from the band would definitely put this release in classic territory. All in all, it is a good effort from the aging master. I hope he has something more eye-opening coming up next--with more soloing and without so much of a wait!… Expand
  9. kamil
    Dec 3, 2006
    8
    Old king with third very good album. Modern Times is not so vital and funny like masterpiece from 2001 Love And Theft, but form, craft and feeling is in right place.
  10. GDiaz
    Oct 28, 2006
    8
    This is one of Bob's best albums, but I disagree with both 10 and 2 reviews. It is not a masterpiece, but you really cannot dismiss it as "forgettable". I have seen that people single out certain tracks, and my pick as the best are Workingman's Blues #2, Nettie Moore and of course, Ain't Talkin'. That song is wonderful. Some people think this album should be another This is one of Bob's best albums, but I disagree with both 10 and 2 reviews. It is not a masterpiece, but you really cannot dismiss it as "forgettable". I have seen that people single out certain tracks, and my pick as the best are Workingman's Blues #2, Nettie Moore and of course, Ain't Talkin'. That song is wonderful. Some people think this album should be another Blood on the Tracks, but no t even Dylan could top his masterpieces. The lyrics are direct and great, the musicians are top notch, and Bob uses his strained voice to good effect. He may not have a beautiful voice, but he knows how to use it, and that is what makes a good singer, and what made Blonde On Blonde such a thrill in its times.… Expand
  11. BruceH
    Sep 1, 2006
    8
    Like a favourite old pair of slippers, bus-pass Bob is something you can slip into of an evening and feel good about the world and yourself. His 21st c. voice is a compelling mixture of frailty and authority. 'When the Deal goes Down' and 'Nettie Moore' are amongst his best songs ever.
  12. ChadM
    Sep 1, 2006
    8
    Great album. What can you say. It's Dylan and he seems to be hitting his stride again. I think this is a better effort than love and theft, which was solid in it's own right. Great mood music, a must have for any moderate Dylan fan.
  13. ToddW
    Sep 27, 2006
    8
    Dylan never ceases to amaze. His albums still can make you laugh, cry, think, and try all at once. While I'm not steeped in the musical genres that he samples with aplomb, it's comforting to know that someone still cares enough about his craft to entertain AND educate. There's too little of that in today's "What Have You Done for Me Yesterday?" culture.
  14. jw
    Oct 13, 2006
    8
    (8.5) Really good. Not "Love and Theft" good, but good. But a note on protest songs: Our political climate is such that the center has completely dropped out. And, given that Dylan is known for going out of his way to avoid categorization, it shouldn't be a shock that he includes only the most opaque references to current events. It's a non-move that can be seen as political, (8.5) Really good. Not "Love and Theft" good, but good. But a note on protest songs: Our political climate is such that the center has completely dropped out. And, given that Dylan is known for going out of his way to avoid categorization, it shouldn't be a shock that he includes only the most opaque references to current events. It's a non-move that can be seen as political, commercial, and musical savvy. (The music DOES matter, after all). However, no honest assessment of this album will yield the word "brave." At present there is a 9,000 pound, bazooka wielding elephant in the room, and Hendrix, Ochs, Joplin, and Lennon are all gone. This is a bad time for our last best voice to be M.I.A. ...Of course I'm 24 and have not yet reached that shade of jade.… Expand
  15. Dave
    Aug 28, 2006
    8
    Dylan is clearly an extremely talented guy. I'm not sure how someone hears stuff like this and describes it as "lame." Anyone who appreciates great poetry and great, timeless music will appreciate this record.
  16. ImanL
    Aug 29, 2006
    8
    Not bad but not "Love And Theft" -doesnt peak high enough and the last song isnt epic high enough. Even "Knocked Out Loaded" had "Brownsville Girl"...
  17. JoeG
    Aug 30, 2006
    8
    Man, it's good, but it ain't THAT good. It's ridiculous to even say that because this album is so far one of the year's best, but some of these reviews are going overboard with their praise. I'm sorry, but any album with a sappy, excruciating ballad like "Beyond the Horizon" can NOT be a masterwork. "When the Deal Goes Down" is a bit too syrupy, and the album as a Man, it's good, but it ain't THAT good. It's ridiculous to even say that because this album is so far one of the year's best, but some of these reviews are going overboard with their praise. I'm sorry, but any album with a sappy, excruciating ballad like "Beyond the Horizon" can NOT be a masterwork. "When the Deal Goes Down" is a bit too syrupy, and the album as a whole sounds a bit too tentative. Having said that, Dylan's crooning ain't bad, and the lyrics are often good, even great. Dylan shows plenty of humor as well as some occasional pain, occasional longing...and he gets pretty spooky on that last song, "Ain't Talkin'." And while the band could show a little more confidence, maybe a little more boldness in their playing, the arrangements are fairly pleasant and enjoyable. A fairly good album, it can be an excellent album IF you're in the right mood...but beware of the hype.… Expand
  18. DrewR
    Aug 30, 2006
    8
    Dan W is very right. lets not forget who wrote this album, Bob Freewheelin' Dylan.
  19. AlexF
    Sep 20, 2006
    8
    Yeah, its a good album and I'm happy to see Bob back on the top of the charts; however, at no point will I find myself with one of these tunes infectiously running through my head. At no point will I unconsciously learn all the lyrics to a song, simply by repeated listens. Much of this is like his previous album in terms of tone and style. One of the better albums released in the Yeah, its a good album and I'm happy to see Bob back on the top of the charts; however, at no point will I find myself with one of these tunes infectiously running through my head. At no point will I unconsciously learn all the lyrics to a song, simply by repeated listens. Much of this is like his previous album in terms of tone and style. One of the better albums released in the last few months, but by no means a classic on par with Blood on the Tracks or Blonde on Blonde or even his late-90's surprise, Time Out of Mind.… Expand
  20. AKish
    Aug 28, 2006
    8
    let's be realistic folks.
  21. joshs
    Aug 29, 2006
    8
    Modern Times is a fitting end to the trilogy, and may be the weakest of the three. Still, it's a nice, mature album from the master songwriter. His band plays well also. Not quite as good as his two prior releases, that certainly could change for me with further listening though.
  22. IanC
    Aug 31, 2006
    8
    I think it's an amazing feat that Dylan has made an album this good nearly 50(!) years into his career, but 10? Instant classic? Among the ranks of Highway 61 Revisited and Blood on the Tracks? C'mon.
  23. TheDaveHimself
    Jul 15, 2011
    8
    Bought this album while living in California. Every time "Spirit on the Water" comes on, I'm taken right back to those highways that flow into San Francisco Bay. From beginning to end, this is what you've come to love about Dylan. His homage to earlier music is dead on and some of these gems could have been pulled from the 1920s. "Workingman Blues #2" is another highlight and "Ain'tBought this album while living in California. Every time "Spirit on the Water" comes on, I'm taken right back to those highways that flow into San Francisco Bay. From beginning to end, this is what you've come to love about Dylan. His homage to earlier music is dead on and some of these gems could have been pulled from the 1920s. "Workingman Blues #2" is another highlight and "Ain't Talkin'" is already being hailed as another great Dylan work. Pick it up.… Expand
  24. BiffD
    Oct 26, 2006
    7
    Sounds a little bit too much like Leon Redbone on the slow ones
  25. madsl
    Aug 28, 2006
    7
    a strong effort from the veteran master! it does not contain a single moment of pure brilliance but it is definitely a cohesive album with a great sound and some of the best singing of dylan's career...now that's something!
  26. SimonG
    Aug 28, 2006
    7
    I have the feeling that we are dealing with the Emperor's New Clothes a little here. Whilst I *like* this a lot, be reasonable, this ain't no Blood On the Tracks or earlier. Those records changed the world. This is merely a pleasant listen from a respected bard.
  27. DanW
    Aug 29, 2006
    7
    If this is a 10, where would that put Blonde on Blonde and Highway 61? at 15? Let's get a grip, folks!
  28. ReubenF
    Dec 18, 2006
    7
    A sentimental favourite for Bob Dylan fans who can rejoice that this album represents an excellent return to form. However, in my opinion it does not deserve to be in the top 10 for the year.
  29. All_ButTrU4
    Oct 17, 2022
    7
    Third in his successful late career renaissance this controversially constructed album sits comfortably amongst his '97 landmark time out of mind and its '01 sequel love and theft. Its bluesy balladry makes it some of his easiest work to listen to. Cited as a wholly self penned masterpiece questions of credit arose in reference to lyrics and melody which legally were nil and void due toThird in his successful late career renaissance this controversially constructed album sits comfortably amongst his '97 landmark time out of mind and its '01 sequel love and theft. Its bluesy balladry makes it some of his easiest work to listen to. Cited as a wholly self penned masterpiece questions of credit arose in reference to lyrics and melody which legally were nil and void due to the age of the original work. This doesn't tarnish this album though. Modern Times like a wise grandfather talking to his grandchildren, at times exciting, at time depressing, but always undeniably impressive while still not cool. Dylan's most impressive quality is his acceptance of his place as a senior statesman in music whose goal seem to be about maintaining quality as opposed to creating a new energy. Therefore this is not his best record, nor is it attempting to be, but the kids none-the-less would be wise to listen… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

3
#3 Best Album of 2006
14
#14 Most Discussed Album of 2006
75
#75 Most Shared Album of 2006

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
89

Universal acclaim - based on 29 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 28 out of 29
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 29
  3. Negative: 0 out of 29
  1. Uncut
    100
    Love And Theft was quite unlike any other pop album--apart, that is, from Modern Times, its direct and audacious sequel. [Sep 2006, p.72]
  2. Entertainment Weekly
    100
    Intriguing, immediate, and quietly epic, Modern Times must rank among Dylan's finest albums.
    Read full review
  3. The Guardian
    80
    It's hard to hear Modern Times' music over the inevitable standing ovation and the thuds of middle-aged critics swooning in awe. When you do, you find something not unlike its predecessor, Love and Theft.
    Read full review
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