North
by Elvis Costello
User Score
7.3

Generally favorable reviews- based on 8 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 8
  3. Negative: 1 out of 8

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  1. ChuckR
    Oct 22, 2003
    9
    Few faults to find with this. Repeated listening makes it even more endearing, like the greatest Costello records.
  2. JeanneP
    Oct 8, 2003
    8
    This is a difficult and complex work. It's akin to a ballet or a piece of artwork - at first glance, simple, but the layers of emotion and technical perfection become clearer and clearer.
  3. AndrewR
    Sep 23, 2003
    9
    Costello can hardly be accused of conforming to expectations: this subtle and quietly moving album probably represents the closest he has ever come to optimism. It takes a little time for its intricacies to take full effect, but it's definitely an album that rewards a little patience and effort. Quietly moving, in it's own, introspective way...
  4. samk
    Oct 26, 2003
    4
    A bit of a shocker. Lyrically and musically unappealing, Costello's voice is rudely exposed on this record.
  5. dariusw
    Sep 26, 2004
    10
    My fave EC record of recent years....Sam K is a fool
  6. brufrog
    Nov 5, 2020
    10
    Although not for everyone (many folks just don't like jazz) this is a fabulous album in its genre. Never before has he been more direct about love. He is my favourite singer-songwriter and this is the LP I listen to the most. Think of it as a modern day "In The Wee Small Hours." It's that good. The guest musicians are the best in the business and it shows.

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
68

Generally favorable reviews - based on 15 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 15
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 15
  3. Negative: 2 out of 15
  1. Entertainment Weekly
    100
    Feels like a mash note to autumnal Manhattan. [26 Sep 2003, p.93]
  2. Blender
    70
    It's art music first and pop second. [Oct 2003, p.115]
  3. ShakingThrough.net
    80
    North moves with an inevitable constancy, and could have perhaps benefited from one or two more upbeat tracks. But such consistency is certainly a forgivable flaw, especially when it's done as elegantly and earnestly as presented here.
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