User ratings in Music are temporarily disabled. More info
Paper Airplane Image
Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 23 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
8.1

Universal acclaim- based on 8 Ratings

  • Artist(s): Alison Krauss, Union Station
  • Summary: Alison Krauss brings a bluegrass feel to rock with the help of Union Station, her first album with them since 2004's Lonely Runs Both Ways.
Buy Now
Buy on

Top Track

On the Outside Looking In
You close the door in front of me, I wait patiently outside And as the minutes tick away I feel the anger rise And who's the object of my rage, and... See the rest of the song lyrics
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 18 out of 23
  2. Negative: 0 out of 23
  1. Apr 12, 2011
    90
    Paper Airplanes features a stellar set of songs that should continue to expand upon Alison Krauss' already-great reputation.
  2. Mojo
    May 18, 2011
    80
    A craftsman-tough album about decision times. [May 2011, p.106]
  3. 80
    The first Union Station album since 2004 is, as usual, something to treasure.
  4. Dec 7, 2011
    80
    Paper Airplane is very polished -- pristine, even -- but there isn't an extra thing on it. It feels organic and authentic, allowing plenty of room for the emotional power in these songs to come forth.
  5. Apr 15, 2011
    77
    Austere and melancholy, dealing mostly with heartbreaks and farewells with a modicum of hope, new album "Paper Airplane" still conveys the rich and understated beauty that's always been the group's trademark.
  6. Under The Radar
    Jun 8, 2011
    70
    Paper Airplane is Alison Krauss & union Station at its absolute best. [May 2011, p.88]
  7. May 19, 2011
    50
    Bluegrass songbird rises from the ashes of Albion with 11 impeccables beginning with the breathtaking title track and equally stilling "Lie Awake."

See all 23 Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 5
  3. Negative: 1 out of 5
  1. Apr 13, 2011
    10
    The leading single, "Paper Airplanes", is genius and a total masterpiece!!! The song is so good, pure, simple and cool. And her voice...herThe leading single, "Paper Airplanes", is genius and a total masterpiece!!! The song is so good, pure, simple and cool. And her voice...her voice is so clear, pure and angelic. Really, angelic is the only word to describe her voice. it's difficult to find a voice like hers...angelic but really can sing and has a 'base' for her vocal.

    Song-wise, although I like "please Read The Letter" more, but it's still pretty good!

    Grammy favorite!!!
    Expand
  2. Apr 23, 2013
    10
    This album is so intimate and mysterious, that you will caught yourself thinking of this album from time to time. And when the last note isThis album is so intimate and mysterious, that you will caught yourself thinking of this album from time to time. And when the last note is reached at the last song, it's a completely awe. Amazing. One of the best country albums I've ever had the pleasure to listen. Long live to Alison Krauss & Union Station!! Expand
  3. Apr 13, 2011
    10
    A long overdue and real stunning cd. They venture into down tempo minor chords where others dare tread and the result grabs you. As always,A long overdue and real stunning cd. They venture into down tempo minor chords where others dare tread and the result grabs you. As always, impeccable production and acoustic performances. One of their best. Expand
  4. May 14, 2011
    10
    Alison Krauss and her colleagues in Union Station are all consummate professionals and their music is impeccable. Alisonâ
  5. Sep 3, 2011
    3
    Alison is the greatest singer of Bluegrass that exists today. I pride myself
    as being her #1 fan, I adore her and her voice. Her "Paper
    Alison is the greatest singer of Bluegrass that exists today. I pride myself
    as being her #1 fan, I adore her and her voice. Her "Paper Airplanes" CD
    was sadly a big disappointment. It didn't do justice to anything she
    has produced before. Nothing special about any of her songs on
    this CD. 3 out of 10
    Robert
    Expand