User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 1313 Ratings

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  1. JohnJ.
    Jun 22, 2010
    9
    Em has matured, I really enjoyed his old stuff, and I believe this album shows that he still has it, and his new style still has mainstream appeal. I believe the next album will be even closer to MMLP/SSLP style work. This album accurately reflected his experiences over the past few years, and critics don't seem to appreciate it. Most believe 25 to life is about Kim LOL. Great album, Em has matured, I really enjoyed his old stuff, and I believe this album shows that he still has it, and his new style still has mainstream appeal. I believe the next album will be even closer to MMLP/SSLP style work. This album accurately reflected his experiences over the past few years, and critics don't seem to appreciate it. Most believe 25 to life is about Kim LOL. Great album, his third best in my opinion, maybe fourth. The next one will be even better I hope. Production seems a bit loose, but lyrics are tight as ever, 9. Expand
  2. MarkK.
    Jun 22, 2010
    8
    Despite the criticism above, I was actually really surprised by the album. Definitely better than the 'Relapse' album released in 2009. Whilst 'Relapse' contained only 1 or 2 songs I liked (mainly because of the resemblence with older songs), 'Recovery' brought me 6 to 7 songs that got me back into the old-school Eminem-vibe. I understand that he barely says Despite the criticism above, I was actually really surprised by the album. Definitely better than the 'Relapse' album released in 2009. Whilst 'Relapse' contained only 1 or 2 songs I liked (mainly because of the resemblence with older songs), 'Recovery' brought me 6 to 7 songs that got me back into the old-school Eminem-vibe. I understand that he barely says anything he hasn't said already on his previous albums, but that's honestly the only lyrics I want to hear coming from his mouth. It's a shame that the beats on some of the tracks are a bit messy. Overall though, an awesome follow-up to Eminem's older work with the same amount of energy and lyrical wordplay. Expand
  3. DavidN
    Jun 23, 2010
    2
    An obvious attempt to get the pop fans back on side. The promotion behind this album is mecca. The content is typical: MM whining about everything then denying it, all to the sound of dreary, looping beats. I want to be impressed, not shocked.
  4. RobY
    Jun 22, 2010
    9
    I'm a lackluster eminem fan, and I typically tend to agree with Pitchfork, but it would seem PF and some of these other critics. His last two releases have been boring and uninspired. Recovery is his answer to those releases and he answers triumphantly. This album will eventually be regarded as one of the best, if not the best, of his career. Don't buy into the negative hype and I'm a lackluster eminem fan, and I typically tend to agree with Pitchfork, but it would seem PF and some of these other critics. His last two releases have been boring and uninspired. Recovery is his answer to those releases and he answers triumphantly. This album will eventually be regarded as one of the best, if not the best, of his career. Don't buy into the negative hype and hegative critical trends. It's not popular to like Eminem among critical circles right now, but this album may well prove his masterpiece. It's that good! Expand
  5. WillO
    Jun 22, 2010
    8
    Great album, much better than Relapse and Encore. That's one thing that automatically turns me away from the critics. On metacritic, both Encore and Relapse have higher ratings than Recovery somehow. Encore was his worst album by far and it got a 64? Really. Well this album has Eminem showing the skill he has. No one can match him lyrically. His flow, metaphors, everything is miles Great album, much better than Relapse and Encore. That's one thing that automatically turns me away from the critics. On metacritic, both Encore and Relapse have higher ratings than Recovery somehow. Encore was his worst album by far and it got a 64? Really. Well this album has Eminem showing the skill he has. No one can match him lyrically. His flow, metaphors, everything is miles ahead of most artists. G.O.A.T. Expand
  6. TomS.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Truly amazing album. It's his 2nd best behind MMLP for me. There's only one song on this I skip (W.T.P.), the rest are gold. Em is so far ahead of everyone else out there lyrically, it's not even funny. A few guys come close (Black Thought/One Be Lo/Nas), but Em's flow, complex rhyme schemes, and metaphors are second to none.
  7. ChrisD.
    Jun 22, 2010
    8
    Not quite up there with the Eminem show, his best album, but much closer than his last two albums.
  8. BenW
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Amazing album, any critic that tells you different is just dissing it to get attention. I've been a long time fan, this is some of his BEST WORK! my only complaint is that So Bad did not fit in with the rest of the album, it was probably originally slated for the album back when it was called Relapse 2, because it definitely felt more like a Relapse song, but this could've been Amazing album, any critic that tells you different is just dissing it to get attention. I've been a long time fan, this is some of his BEST WORK! my only complaint is that So Bad did not fit in with the rest of the album, it was probably originally slated for the album back when it was called Relapse 2, because it definitely felt more like a Relapse song, but this could've been the only Dre Produced song he had available that he could fit closest with the album. So Bad is still a great song don't get me wrong tho! 25 to Life is probably my favorite song on the album. Expand
  9. ChrisW.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Amazing album, very clever to use himself as a mirror for the world.
  10. Edwin
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Umm...why is the Entertainment Weekly score an 8.3 if it indicates a B+ on the review? Wouldn't that be more like an 8.7-8.9?
  11. TJP.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Awesome album. Keep up the good work EM!
  12. DésiréeM.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    I had high hopes for Eminem's newest album. And he surpassed them. For preparation I whipped out all his old albums (luckily all digital) and wallowed in an infinite Eminem overdose. At the same time i got into his newer collab projects with Lil Wayne or Drake to get prepared for the newer sounds. And Recovery was right what I wanted. I wanted the dirty, seductive Marshal, I wanted I had high hopes for Eminem's newest album. And he surpassed them. For preparation I whipped out all his old albums (luckily all digital) and wallowed in an infinite Eminem overdose. At the same time i got into his newer collab projects with Lil Wayne or Drake to get prepared for the newer sounds. And Recovery was right what I wanted. I wanted the dirty, seductive Marshal, I wanted the cocky Em and the spittin' Shady. And I got it all and more! There is a new side. I don't have a name for it yet, but it is the honesty and bravery that got me most in this album. I *love* the new rocky guitar and drum sounds, I like the grittiness, I like the female and male hooks (Kobe Honeycutt aka Kokilla on 'Talkin' 2 Myself'') and unusual paths he walks ('Cinderella Man'). I am endlessly pleased with this album. I haven't bought a CD in a long time, but this was so worth it. Expand
  13. LollyP
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    All time classic album. I enjoy listening to this more than even the Marshall Mathers LP.
  14. WR
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Hands down Eminem's most lyrical album. From the content to the punchlines, everything in this album is hands down thought provoking, interesting to listen to, and emotional, at the right times.
  15. LeonardS.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    This is a great album. One of the best albums to come out in a long while. Judging by the way I love it more the more I listen to it, I think in two years it might be considered a classic. I'm sure it's going to break some records. Definitely up there with Eminem Show and Marshall Mathers LP! Will take a couple of listens before you get every line, punchline, metaphor, crazy This is a great album. One of the best albums to come out in a long while. Judging by the way I love it more the more I listen to it, I think in two years it might be considered a classic. I'm sure it's going to break some records. Definitely up there with Eminem Show and Marshall Mathers LP! Will take a couple of listens before you get every line, punchline, metaphor, crazy rhyme. And be ware, he uses the word "antidisestablishmentarianism" in one of the song. Amazing. The emotion is back. The witty lines are back. In fact, Eminem is back! It will definitely win Rap Album of the Year, probably Album of the Year, at the Grammies! Expand
  16. IvanB.
    Jun 22, 2010
    4
    Disappointing really... It seems he's so eager to prove he's a bad ass he just rages across the whole album. The thing about rage is that it gets old after a while. If you listen to his earlier albums he's got a good combination of comedy, light hearted songs, just plain silly songs, and then the serious raging songs... it's what makes them great, you get to experience Disappointing really... It seems he's so eager to prove he's a bad ass he just rages across the whole album. The thing about rage is that it gets old after a while. If you listen to his earlier albums he's got a good combination of comedy, light hearted songs, just plain silly songs, and then the serious raging songs... it's what makes them great, you get to experience different beats and dynamics... this album is all serious and rage with some below average love songs sprinkled in it. You get tired of listening to Eminem scream and growl his way through the album... after a while you just dont feel it... feels empty and almost like he's just gliding through the convoluted beats. Some of the tracks you have to listen really hard to understand what he's saying because the beat is overwhelming his voice, that is not EM's style... the em we all know and love thrives on simple beats, perfect enunciation, and clear rapping. Expand
  17. GieunC.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    A superior delivery in all technical categories as well as subject matter that is much more captivating than his previous two releases. These critics reviews actually have me baffled, as to rate this lower than Encore or Relapse, with material that is (arguably) superior to The Eminem Show is simply hipocritical. One of the greatest emcees of the twentieth century has won back a fan.
  18. ryans.
    Jun 23, 2010
    10
    This has to be My favorite album from Eminem. This entire album exceeds Relapse in every way. Amazing, keep it up Em.
  19. KelK
    Jun 23, 2010
    6
    Best I've heard from Em in a while, but the overall sound is a been there done that. Still I would suggest a giving the record a listen.
  20. BrianB
    Jun 23, 2010
    10
    HE IS BACK. the metacritics dont know or understand, they are stuck in their addictons, But Eminem surpassed his addictions and thus he is way above these critical freaks of nature. Em i get you man, get it up bro its a daily battle to remain real in the midst of all these talkers.
  21. MichaelB
    Jun 23, 2010
    9
    Don't listen to the critics, especially not jayson greene at pitchfork, this album is one of the better albums I've heard in the past couple years, certainly eminem's best since the eminem show.
  22. JamesK
    Jun 23, 2010
    0
    Honestly, Eminem has once again succeeded in making me embarrassed to listen to hip-hop. His lyrics are filled with hate and shame that he has no reason to have. Seeing the user score for this album makes me disgusted as well. Has the real hip-hop really died?
  23. AdamD
    Jun 23, 2010
    10
    His best in years. Right behind The Marshall Mather's LP and The Eminem Show in terms of quality.
  24. HogHead
    Jun 23, 2010
    10
    This was a thoroughly entertaining album from start-to-finish. I guarantee that critics will eventually realize this for the classic it is, but as with The Marshall Mathers LP, its genius will take its time to be recognized. Packed with humourous, witty lines (So Bad, W.T.P.), combined with crazy lyrical firebombs (Almost Famous, No Love) and introspective, heartfelt tracks (Going Through This was a thoroughly entertaining album from start-to-finish. I guarantee that critics will eventually realize this for the classic it is, but as with The Marshall Mathers LP, its genius will take its time to be recognized. Packed with humourous, witty lines (So Bad, W.T.P.), combined with crazy lyrical firebombs (Almost Famous, No Love) and introspective, heartfelt tracks (Going Through Changes, You're Never Over), Recovery is a brilliant addition to Eminem's catalogue that comes across as a mature Eminem Show 2. Great stuff, Marshall. You're 'On Fire'. Expand
  25. AJ
    Jun 23, 2010
    9
    A near perfect album, his best in years. At first I wasn't impressed, but now I love it more every time I listen to it.
  26. CalebR.
    Jun 23, 2010
    1
    His rapping sounds extremely forced. His flow is no longer 'fluid.' The choruses are incredibly cheesy/cliche/corny. He needs to stop singing. This is the public's perception of rap. This is far from authentic rap - this is more pop music then rap - but the masses will end up thinking this is rap because they are uninformed/don't really know much about music in His rapping sounds extremely forced. His flow is no longer 'fluid.' The choruses are incredibly cheesy/cliche/corny. He needs to stop singing. This is the public's perception of rap. This is far from authentic rap - this is more pop music then rap - but the masses will end up thinking this is rap because they are uninformed/don't really know much about music in general. This is a corporate product made to make 'mad bank' ect. Expand
  27. gurjb
    Jun 23, 2010
    9
    Not the biggest eminem fan but i can fully understand why this is being labelled a classic. His lyrical ability can stimulate the imagination and one song to the next on this recovery album sees the listener indulge in a vast array of emotions and the music also allows relation to eminems music especially 'Love the way you lie' its a great album but one downpoint is instead of Not the biggest eminem fan but i can fully understand why this is being labelled a classic. His lyrical ability can stimulate the imagination and one song to the next on this recovery album sees the listener indulge in a vast array of emotions and the music also allows relation to eminems music especially 'Love the way you lie' its a great album but one downpoint is instead of passion on many tracks of the album it tilts to aggression which deters its effect,but never the less a great rap album for 2010 and with eminems and drakes albums both getting great approval it shows how much hip hop has grown with two completely different albums but both great and both hip hop. Expand
  28. HumayunM
    Jun 24, 2010
    10
    Probably one of the best album that he has came out with. The Critics need to realize that he is getting old and he will not rap about his hate for Moby.
  29. kb9h2opolo
    Jun 24, 2010
    9
    Awesome except for a few tracks "meh" songs --> no love, your never over, seduction, wtp and talkin to myself... Awesome tracks--> love the way you lie, almost famous, cinderella man, space bound, cold wind blows, 25 to life, wont back down Good not great--> not afraid, going through changes, so bad, the bonus track and on fire.
  30. MattM
    Jun 25, 2010
    10
    Best album since the Mathers LP and one of the best hip hop albums in recent years. Can't remember when the last time I couldn't stop listening to an album over and over again, Great job EM keep up that killer sh*t!!!
  31. JDDubbleya
    Jun 26, 2010
    9
    Great album. Wordplay and lyricism is by far at the top of the game, and possibly top of his game. The content vaires from what were used to from Em, but he has been through a lot and he has matured and come out on the other side. Generally good production but not great. The production of the album is in my mind what makes it a 9 and not a 10.
  32. triagemc
    Jun 26, 2010
    10
    Not one of these critics would know a hot verse or a sick metaphor if it slapped their wife...u want radio hits and 'fun' turn on the radio. you want to set ur speakers on fire listen to em's recovery...an album for rappers. any true emcee is mindblown by this album. not one track on here that doesnt have at least a couple lines that just make you look at your boys and say Not one of these critics would know a hot verse or a sick metaphor if it slapped their wife...u want radio hits and 'fun' turn on the radio. you want to set ur speakers on fire listen to em's recovery...an album for rappers. any true emcee is mindblown by this album. not one track on here that doesnt have at least a couple lines that just make you look at your boys and say are you SERIOUS?? ems #1 in the game and everbody gotta step it up if they wanna stay wit im. proud to call myself a lifeling shady fan after this one. Collapse
  33. GarryV.
    Jun 27, 2010
    10
    One of his best albums to date, just to name a couple of amazing songs including his colaborations with lil wayne, rhianna and Kobe on 'No Love', 'Love the way you lie' and 'Talking to myself'! I think eaisly the best album of the year and going to easily be one of Eminems best ever.
  34. idrisa
    Jun 28, 2010
    10
    These critics are insane..how could you like drake cd better than this one....eminem delivered on this record i think it is tied for his second best work the eminem show..now this cd is on track to selling 700,000 in its first week out Go em!
  35. YianniH.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Eminem successfully recovers. Great album. Tied for his third best ever. The critics are very wrong on trashing such a brilliant album. THE BEST: No Love, Space Bound, Almost Famous, Talkin 2 Myself THE WORST: W.T.P
  36. AndrewS
    Jun 22, 2010
    9
    Near perfection, return to the top, modern, great beats and samples, new producers, current flavour, a true classic.
  37. GreggK.
    Jun 22, 2010
    9
    Much better than last CD. Tight rhymes and hooks. Nice flowin Em.
  38. ColinH
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    This album is sick. His best in years. Everyone who hates on it just can't accept the fact that Em is now in his mid 30s and no longer feels the need to rap like he did when he was in his mid 20s. His music and his disposition is maturing and I believe its for the better. Keep it going Shady.
  39. OvaisM
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    His most emotional and serious album and this is the eminem I prefer.
  40. JasonA
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Amazing album, it's so nice to get something completely different yet remarkably familiar. Very impressed, eminem is back in true form.
  41. PeterL
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    This is his best album since The Eminem Show. Eminem remains at the top of his game showing off his incredible lyricism and how he is untouchable on a mic with this album. His last album was mediocre, but still blew away most of what hip hop released in the past year. This album solidifies his place as a legend in hip hop. A+!
  42. MattD
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    I have no frickin idea how the hell this got such a low score. This ,as well as all of em's other albums, was an amazing album where he expresses his passion for loving the game and his love for his kids and the loss of his best friend as well as the usual ima f*****g kill you attitude on a few of the songs but his clean and sober return has been a great one, and haters should just I have no frickin idea how the hell this got such a low score. This ,as well as all of em's other albums, was an amazing album where he expresses his passion for loving the game and his love for his kids and the loss of his best friend as well as the usual ima f*****g kill you attitude on a few of the songs but his clean and sober return has been a great one, and haters should just stop hating on him just because he speaks his mind. Expand
  43. JakeA.
    Jun 22, 2010
    9
    The majority of negative reviews for this album seem to be production based. I like that the lyrics seem to be the central thesis on this album. I guess if kanye produced this people would have been freaking out. much better than his last two.
  44. JosueR.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    This is definitely one of Eminem's best albums. Relapse, to me, was actually really good. Though, I saw so many flaws in his last record, you can barely spot any on this one. Some flaws include, producers weren't as strong on some songs, but other than that this album is near perfect. Eminem shows that his lyrical voice is still there. He showcases his abilities more than his This is definitely one of Eminem's best albums. Relapse, to me, was actually really good. Though, I saw so many flaws in his last record, you can barely spot any on this one. Some flaws include, producers weren't as strong on some songs, but other than that this album is near perfect. Eminem shows that his lyrical voice is still there. He showcases his abilities more than his past two albums. It's great to have him back. He's sober, but angry and hungry to take the rap game back. Welcome back Slim, you deserve to be titled "The Greatest Rapper Alive" Not only did he go out and experiment with different styles, he succeeds. He reaches out with his emotional lyrics. He's more mature and is still strong. I disagree with Slant Magazine and Pitchfork since they even gave the Marshall Mathers LP low scores. It's sad, but Eminem doesn't care about critics, he care about his fans that'll never get tired of him. Expand
  45. OvaisM.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    An emotional. album with some genious humor.
  46. DavidM.
    Jun 22, 2010
    9
    All in all lives up to the hype, now with the bonus tracks (actually very very dope indeed and not just fillers) it's a pretty amazing album!
  47. JohnS.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    An incredible album that gives an unprecedented look into the mind of one of the greatest rappers out there.
  48. DanJ.
    Jun 22, 2010
    2
    Sloppy, self-indulgent, incoherent garbage; so far away from a return to form it makes me want to cry.
  49. ollys
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Completely blew me away. I'm not even that huge a fan up to this point, but I gave this one a few listens and it's mind boggling how good it is. It might sound odd but this is in my top 5 of the year, along with Janelle Monae, High Violet, American Slang and Teen Dream by Beach House. What an odd top 5 of this year to date, but that's mine.
  50. HansS
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Eminem is back. This is album is in par with The Eminem Show. This is coming from someone who despised Encore and Relapse. The critics are just haters, half of them wouldn't appreciate good rap if Jesus delivered it himself. I AM SO HAPPY WITH THIS ALBUM!!!!
  51. NickR.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    This album joins the Slim Shady LP and The Marshall Mathers LP as Classic Rap Albums.
  52. ZachQ.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    I still don't understand the low scores the so-called "critics" gave this. This album covers so many different subject matters and brings together elements of vintage Eminem that we saw during his SSLP, MMLP, and TES era. We have the songs that are for demonstration of his ability to incorporate complex rhyme schemes and syllables in his deliver (Cold Wind Blows, On Fire, So Bad, I still don't understand the low scores the so-called "critics" gave this. This album covers so many different subject matters and brings together elements of vintage Eminem that we saw during his SSLP, MMLP, and TES era. We have the songs that are for demonstration of his ability to incorporate complex rhyme schemes and syllables in his deliver (Cold Wind Blows, On Fire, So Bad, Untitled, No Love), songs about his drug addiction and rock bottom state of internal combustion (Talkin 2 Myself, Going Through Changes, Space Bound), songs that exemplify his comeback and return to strength and clarity (Not Afraid, Cinderella Man, Won't Back Down), his distraught relationship with hip-hop (25 to Life), of course the track with Rihanna which is a story about a destructive relationship where the narrator is a spouse abuser (Love the Way You Lie) and finally the dedication track to his fallen friend Proof (You're Never Over). The only weak track is W.T.P. which basically just pays homage to his white trash roots and can't be penalized for that. He pays appropriate attention to all subjects that are relevant not just to Eminem himself but his fans as well. His rhyme schemes and delivery on his flow is nearly flawless. Line-for-line is nearly perfect minus a VERY few number of sub-par lines (which in today's state of rap you're more likely to fit the tolerable lines of your average rap album on one hand). Even the songs that deal with the same subject matter take a vastly different scope. Take the drug addiction songs for instance: Going Through Changes deals with his rock bottom state and how quickly he spiraled out of control following one tragedy after another, ending with his post-addiction state where he reaches clarity as a person. Talkin 2 Myself is a reflective piece where he addresses how he was filled with jealousy and envy and the faults and failures of his previous albums. Space Bound is a creative track where the first two verses he speaks to his addiction/drug as if it were a real person with the final verse replying to Em as a real person upon his decision to get clean. Think of it as a psychedelic version of "Stan". Three sons on the same subject each taking on different scopes. The production may not be vintage Eminem but for the subject matter it is appropriate. This is not the same Em from SSLP or MMLP because his state of mind is different so the atmosphere of the album needs to be equal to that and retain it. Low scorers missed the point completely just as they did nearly ten years ago when MMLP received some of the same scoring only for them to come back and call it a classic. Expand
  53. JoeS.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    This, in my mind, is the most honest and solid Eminem album he has released.
  54. MarkF.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    This album is pure hip hop. wasnt made for the critics, but the fans and he pulled through.
  55. LiamR.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Amazing... Maybe the best album ever?? Do yourself a favor if you still love true hip-hop buy it!!
  56. TrentL
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    This album is awesome; best album of the year so far and one of his best album I give this album a 9.5/10 . all the songs are awesome. some critics understand that this album is really good.
  57. JaredY.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    One of Em's best albums, definitely better than relapse. One of my personal all time favorites.
  58. BlazeM.
    Jun 22, 2010
    9
    Very good album. It's not often that 8 or so songs off one album make it to my ipod. There are some songs that don't capture my attention quite as well, but the overall experience is fairly strong due to: Going Through Changes, Seduction, Space Bound, Cinderella Man, 25 to Life, Almost Famous, Love the Way You Lie, and Untitled.
  59. AndrewH
    Jun 22, 2010
    9
    I don't understand some of these reviews so far. I have listened to the Album twice. the guy from the Guardian couldnt even get the lyrics right ffs!. I feel as though the genre of Hip-Hop, should be reviewed by actual Hip-Hop enthusiasts, because the reviewers so far, seem to be confused to what Hip-Hop and this Album actually represents. 'Recovery' The songs, for most I don't understand some of these reviews so far. I have listened to the Album twice. the guy from the Guardian couldnt even get the lyrics right ffs!. I feel as though the genre of Hip-Hop, should be reviewed by actual Hip-Hop enthusiasts, because the reviewers so far, seem to be confused to what Hip-Hop and this Album actually represents. 'Recovery' The songs, for most parts definately fall into place with the Album Title. And lyrically, Eminem strikes as desperate to get the fans back on his side, after at least 4 years living in his own little world. And even though there is something like an unwritten Law into a Rapper to NEVER show his weakness, This Album tells a story of his 'Recovery' and also His struggles. Songs like 'Not Afraid', 'Love the way you lie', FT Rihanna, 'Talkin to myself', ft Kobe, '25 to life' , 'space bound' and Expand
  60. JacobD
    Jun 22, 2010
    8
    Eminem is back! After the two disappointments in Encore and Relapse, I'm glad to say that Eminem is back, although he has changed a lot. It seems Slim Shady has disappeared (at least for now) which will without a doubt turn of a lot of fans, this is not another Slim Shady LP or Marshal Mathers LP. Style-wise it's more like The Eminem Show, but not really AS good. The album has a Eminem is back! After the two disappointments in Encore and Relapse, I'm glad to say that Eminem is back, although he has changed a lot. It seems Slim Shady has disappeared (at least for now) which will without a doubt turn of a lot of fans, this is not another Slim Shady LP or Marshal Mathers LP. Style-wise it's more like The Eminem Show, but not really AS good. The album has a couple of themes, Eminem's love life, his relationship to Hip/hop and apologies to fans. His rhymes and flow is almost back to the class of the old Eminem, which is good. Overall I really really like the album, but there are a few bad things about it. Eminem sings on a lot of the choruses, and it's painfully bad, his rapping is good, singing horrible. The tracks themselves are not perfect either, tracks like Talkin' 2 myself, Not Afraid, Space Bound, 25 to life and surprisingly Love The Way You Lie (featuring Rihanna) are in my opinion the best, while Won't Back Down (where P!nk does the chorus) and W.T.P are the worst, and they are really bad. The rest of the songs are a mix of average and above average to good. It's a very honest Eminem, and I think his new style suits him, although it's bound to turn a lot of people, his older fans, off. I hope we will see more of the vintage Eminem in the future, but I'm glad to say that Eminem has recovered! Expand
  61. Ridith
    Jun 22, 2010
    7
    The album is good in the sense that it has good songs, such as '25 to life', 'so bad', 'won't back down', 'space bound', and of course 'not afraid', but when eminem said he's gonna go back to his best form, this album doesn't come close...seriously, consider The Marshall Mathers LP or The Eminem Show...this album ain't The album is good in the sense that it has good songs, such as '25 to life', 'so bad', 'won't back down', 'space bound', and of course 'not afraid', but when eminem said he's gonna go back to his best form, this album doesn't come close...seriously, consider The Marshall Mathers LP or The Eminem Show...this album ain't close to those landmarks. Expand
  62. LindsayM.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Honestly I do believe critics are biased in writing reviews to persuade some buyers not to buy a particular album. Like the critics rate Drake's Thank Me Later so high it's sickening. No artistic value on that album and just an album covered in hype that people will not remember this time next year. Clearly this is not Eminem's best album but it is DEFINITELY his best album Honestly I do believe critics are biased in writing reviews to persuade some buyers not to buy a particular album. Like the critics rate Drake's Thank Me Later so high it's sickening. No artistic value on that album and just an album covered in hype that people will not remember this time next year. Clearly this is not Eminem's best album but it is DEFINITELY his best album since 2002's The Eminem Show. Gone are the annoying accents used all over Relapse. Gone is Eminem always putting out an album with a song about how much he hates his mother. Gone is the same tired, formulaic and predictable production of his past sole producer, Dr. Dre. Here is the Eminem album you always wanted, but never got... Until now. Eminem works with a handful of talented Hip Hop producers, most notably Just Blaze and DJ Khalil, along with Havoc, Jim Jonsin and Boi-1da. His rhymes are blazing fast with clever and humorous wordplay, he apologizes to his fans for letting them down, and he stays focused throughout. If you are an Eminem fan, you may be divided over the change of style (if you are negative, then that proves you are a biased Eminem fan), but if you are a HIP HOP fan, you will love Recovery. Expand
  63. BobL
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Return to form for Eminem, much better than the cliched and empty Relapse.
  64. chada.
    Jun 22, 2010
    9
    Great album Better hooks and more polished production and it would be a classic! A must have for any true Eminem fan Skillful metaphors and fierce wordplay culminate Eminem's best effort since 2002 A Must-buy.
  65. SpencerG.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    In his top 3 albums for sure. Also, it's the best album of the year hands down!
  66. laki
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Most of these 'reviews' have got it all wrong. em is back to doing what he does best, expressing himself. whether you dig the content of his lyrics or not, he's got that same fire he had earlier in his career. the beats on this album are sick. i don't get why some reviews consider it 'inconsistent'. i consider this album his most consistent of his career. Most of these 'reviews' have got it all wrong. em is back to doing what he does best, expressing himself. whether you dig the content of his lyrics or not, he's got that same fire he had earlier in his career. the beats on this album are sick. i don't get why some reviews consider it 'inconsistent'. i consider this album his most consistent of his career. there's not one bad song here, earlier albums have a few tracks that i skip, but not this one. that's consistent to me. the lack of dre is a GOOD thing. i felt that the dr. / em combo was getting tired and formulaic. working with other producers has kept things fresh, not inconsistent. the album does offer variety, and versatility. there are aggressive songs, emotional songs, funny songs, etc. and each one is performed with that classic em enthusiasm that was lacking on the last two albums. this might be his best work to date. i'm disappointed in these reviews, and i will not trust any review i read anymore. i heard this album. let me stress the word ALBUM and NOT 'collection of singles'. i think that may be why the critics say it is inconsistent. it's because they forgot how to appreciate a full rollercoaster ride of an ALBUM. not every track has to sound exactly the same. don't get spoiled by the current state of the music industry that focuses on individual singles. ALBUMS do exist and this is one of them. this album is for his fans who understand his work and his progression, not for some schmuck reviewer who listens to a ton of other crap. Expand
  67. ThomasM.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    This album is a masterpiece. Space bound, almost famous, and The near death experience of Going Through changes... That songs sends Chills down my spine. If that song doesn't Touch you then you have no soul. Please support This cd by buying it. Let him know that We, his fans know that he is back!
  68. JusL
    Jun 22, 2010
    9
    Best Rap Album in Years, How is Drakes and BOB's piece of a shit albums rated better than eminem's latest recovery album on this web site. All i have to do is laugh. He is 100 bars above any one else in the game. Just imagine if dre produced this whole album it would have been one of the greatest of the last two decades. too bad he didnt and that is the only downfall of this Best Rap Album in Years, How is Drakes and BOB's piece of a shit albums rated better than eminem's latest recovery album on this web site. All i have to do is laugh. He is 100 bars above any one else in the game. Just imagine if dre produced this whole album it would have been one of the greatest of the last two decades. too bad he didnt and that is the only downfall of this album it doesn't have dre's prefection. Expand
  69. BrentK
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Remember Eminem? Well, of course you do
  70. MikeS.
    Jun 23, 2010
    10
    Absolutely amazing album. What a come back. I want to shake Eminem's hand and congratulate him for all of his hard work and success. Not since The Eminem Show has rap been so well done. You know there's something wrong in the world when Drake's Thank Me Later album scores almost as well as The Marshall Mather's LP. Screw the critics, they don't know anything about Absolutely amazing album. What a come back. I want to shake Eminem's hand and congratulate him for all of his hard work and success. Not since The Eminem Show has rap been so well done. You know there's something wrong in the world when Drake's Thank Me Later album scores almost as well as The Marshall Mather's LP. Screw the critics, they don't know anything about rap. Eminem is still the king of hip hop and the best at what he does. This album will be another classic to add on to his prestigious list of accomplishments. BUY THIS ALBUM AND SUPPORT ARTISTS WHO DESERVE IT. Expand
  71. Lukasz
    Jun 23, 2010
    8
    Better than Relapse and Encore but TSSLP, TMMLP, TES are still the best.
  72. AlexP.
    Jun 23, 2010
    8
    Not his best album, but considerably better than relaspe. His flows back, and beats are different but refreshing. Keep it up eminem.
  73. AndrewT.
    Jun 23, 2010
    10
    This album is so sick it going to be a number one seller for sure.
  74. darrylt.
    Jun 23, 2010
    10
    Great album eminem is back,he clearly put alot of heart into this album, most of them critics that have slated the album must be jealous of his comeback or maybe they cant get over all there own problems or addictions. haters i think there called.
  75. RobbieO.
    Jun 23, 2010
    10
    The Album is one of the best hes ever done. Hes finally gotten back to his roots and lost that accent that riddled Relapse.
  76. Jeff
    Jun 23, 2010
    9
    This is one of Eminems best albums vy far, his intensity, and lyrics are reminiscent of the MMLP, his metaphors on this album are ridiculous, noone evern close to his level of wordplay, its one if not his most honest personal album, I actually thought Relapse was one of his best albums, lyrically it was amazing, but when you hear Recovery, he elevates to a whole new level. These so called This is one of Eminems best albums vy far, his intensity, and lyrics are reminiscent of the MMLP, his metaphors on this album are ridiculous, noone evern close to his level of wordplay, its one if not his most honest personal album, I actually thought Relapse was one of his best albums, lyrically it was amazing, but when you hear Recovery, he elevates to a whole new level. These so called critics don't know shit when it comes to lyrics, Its true, no matter how awesome an album is, he still will never ever get the props he deserves, "On Fire" he talks about that to some degree. Overall a fantastic album that any hip hop fan should buy, cuz like he has said so many times before, he's back!! Expand
  77. DanielO
    Jun 24, 2010
    8
    Good album, bit too apolegetic.
  78. Schmidty15
    Jun 24, 2010
    7
    Big fan of Pitchfork.com but man...they blew it on their review. The only thing holding this album from being a true classic are EM's corney sing-songy choruses. Lyrically, I'm not sure if I've ever heard EM spit with so much conviction. Rejoice Slim Shady fans....he's back!
  79. BrandonT.
    Jun 24, 2010
    10
    Album is dope. Em keep killing them.
  80. MullardS
    Jun 24, 2010
    10
    This is the only cd ive listened to over the last 2 weeks. some of the beats (So Bad), themes (WTP, Wont Back Down), and hooks (Youre Never Over, On Fire) arent always on point, but lyrically, Recovery is unparalleled in hip hop right now. 25 to Life, Talking 2 Myself, Almost Famous, and Love the Way You Lie are perfect examples of Eminem at his best across a wide range of genres. By This is the only cd ive listened to over the last 2 weeks. some of the beats (So Bad), themes (WTP, Wont Back Down), and hooks (Youre Never Over, On Fire) arent always on point, but lyrically, Recovery is unparalleled in hip hop right now. 25 to Life, Talking 2 Myself, Almost Famous, and Love the Way You Lie are perfect examples of Eminem at his best across a wide range of genres. By taking out a couple of fillers and redoing some hooks, there is a perfect CD within the lengthy Recovery. I give a 10 because even though its slightly flawed, it's some of the best music in today's hip hop. Expand
  81. Nejc
    Jun 24, 2010
    10
    It's just amazing how great album Recovery is after all the disappointments in the last 5 years. Although I really liked Relapse. This one is just on another level.
  82. JamesS.
    Jun 25, 2010
    9
    Great album...I'm sick of the funny, joking, waste of time Eminem has filled some albums with. This is real from top to bottom.
  83. MikeG
    Jun 25, 2010
    9
    Sick album. Don't understand what the critics are talking about. He got criticism for shallowness, but he talks about losing his best friend, picking up from his drug struggles, and compares how he felt about hip hop then and now. There is actual meaning behind his lyrics. No clue how drake can get a better rating by complaining about how hard it is to be rich & famous (something Sick album. Don't understand what the critics are talking about. He got criticism for shallowness, but he talks about losing his best friend, picking up from his drug struggles, and compares how he felt about hip hop then and now. There is actual meaning behind his lyrics. No clue how drake can get a better rating by complaining about how hard it is to be rich & famous (something literally none of his listeners can relate to) with mediocre lyrics when eminem actually talks about different authentic problems with incredibly complex rhyme schemes. Excellent album and one of his best. Expand
  84. TommyK
    Jun 25, 2010
    9
    This album has shown why Eminem is on the level of the all time greats. His records evoke different emotions and with great variety. Unlike his last album "Relapse" this album isn't in a accent. This complements the subject matter of the raps. He mainly raps about his deceased best friend Proof from D12, his struggle with drugs, and his comeback to rap.
  85. Noirling
    Jun 25, 2010
    9
    I don't understand music critics, I suppose, because this album is excellent. There were at least 5 songs on it that I would deem hit worthy. The rest were 4 and 3 star quality. It's time to get off the HATE EMINEM bus, people. This stuff is touching and tight. Peep it.
  86. PeyotrS.
    Jun 26, 2010
    9
    What I love about this album, and Eminem in general; is his self-awareness. He realizes his last two albums were shit; he knows he's white trash, and he's never unnerved to admit it. I love his boldness. Sometimes I do resent the fact that he's almost overly vulgar, but it gives it a raw feeling, and he's unabashed by it. The beats and chorus are very "pop" oriented, What I love about this album, and Eminem in general; is his self-awareness. He realizes his last two albums were shit; he knows he's white trash, and he's never unnerved to admit it. I love his boldness. Sometimes I do resent the fact that he's almost overly vulgar, but it gives it a raw feeling, and he's unabashed by it. The beats and chorus are very "pop" oriented, but it doesn't detract at all from his overwhelming talent as an MC. I previously had no interest in Eminem before I'd listened to this album, but I felt a real genuine sense of sentimentality; that's not too overbearing, and a sense of escape from his floundering career that can be described as nothing but inspiring. Expand
  87. JakeSnake
    Jun 28, 2010
    10
    It's interesting how the average review by critics is 61%, while the average review from fans is 92%. Most of the negative reviews I read hardly focused on the album at all, in fact it was painfully obvious that the writer had a personal hatred for Eminem. They didn't talk about the beats, the lyrics, the concept, all they did was throw personal attacks at Eminem and try to say It's interesting how the average review by critics is 61%, while the average review from fans is 92%. Most of the negative reviews I read hardly focused on the album at all, in fact it was painfully obvious that the writer had a personal hatred for Eminem. They didn't talk about the beats, the lyrics, the concept, all they did was throw personal attacks at Eminem and try to say he's irrelevant, that he's a weak parody of what he was in the early 00's, basically a bunch of hate speech toward him as a person. In reality this album is a lyrical masterpiece. Every single verse is incredible, and his flow is better than ever. He spits intricate rhymes with such speed and precision that most rappers probably couldn't even repeat them. Also, he went in a different direction musically. The beats and hooks on this album sound like nothing Eminem has done before, it's very respectable that he is moving forward with his music and NOT trying to re create what he had going on early last decade. I guess the critics trashed this album so much because if you don't like Eminem, you HATE Eminem. He is so famous, he continues to be the best selling artist in the world 11 years after he came out... I mean, his haters must be getting really really sick of it. Unfortunately, writing horrible reviews and personal attacks about him will not make him stop, and seeing as his fans are loving recovery, there is no end in sight for your frustration, sucks doesn't it? Expand
  88. NoahD
    Jun 28, 2010
    10
    Eminem has always made it crystal clear that pleasing his critics is the last thing he aims for when applying his trade in the studio. With the majority of the above critiques blasting this album, we begin to understand why he feels this way. It has never been more evident that his fans get what the critics don't. Mike S. said it best: when the critics are left to compare Eminem to Eminem has always made it crystal clear that pleasing his critics is the last thing he aims for when applying his trade in the studio. With the majority of the above critiques blasting this album, we begin to understand why he feels this way. It has never been more evident that his fans get what the critics don't. Mike S. said it best: when the critics are left to compare Eminem to his past self it's obvious he is in another stratosphere altogether. This album cements Em's legacy as the greatest rapper alive. I firmly believe that critics will change their tune years from now and come around to the reality that all of Em's are already aware of. Expand
  89. ChaseB
    Jun 22, 2010
    9
    This is definitely a great album. Yes, it's true that his lyrics seem to stumble about in some places, but on the whole, it is a great record, and a grand return to form by THE master rapper.
  90. BigB.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Back to being the emiem of old. Great album!
  91. JohnD.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Critics are dumb, you can feel the passion in this album.
  92. BenP
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Art critics are like second rate philosophers, they don't only NOT take part in the creation of anything, but the whole of their contribution is not even to inject new ideas into the cultural landscape, just deconstruct and complain about the people who do...this album is by no means perfect, but the reason eminem has such a loyal following is because his flow, creativity and energy Art critics are like second rate philosophers, they don't only NOT take part in the creation of anything, but the whole of their contribution is not even to inject new ideas into the cultural landscape, just deconstruct and complain about the people who do...this album is by no means perfect, but the reason eminem has such a loyal following is because his flow, creativity and energy are like a narcotic, through the highs and lows of every song, every album, there is an innate magnetism that is impossible to ignore...the newness that is so very lacking in rap/hip hop these days, and no second rate hack that writes for some cheap entertainment rag is going to every convince me otherwise. Expand
  93. merr
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    These critics are shit. This album is not only fantastic in its realm of beats and musical composure but also in the emotion that is put into this album. I have followed Eminem and been a fan since his first album. I did not have a general care for his previous album (Relapse) but this album literally blew me out of the water. Every song seems to be conveyed with such emotion that I can These critics are shit. This album is not only fantastic in its realm of beats and musical composure but also in the emotion that is put into this album. I have followed Eminem and been a fan since his first album. I did not have a general care for his previous album (Relapse) but this album literally blew me out of the water. Every song seems to be conveyed with such emotion that I can feel myself. He is fantastic artist and a fantastic lyricist. I believe that with the beats, lyrics and combination of all these aspects, makes this Eminem's best album yet. It is UNREAL. Expand
  94. MaryT
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    This is obviously the best Eminem album since the Eminem Show. I don't know what these critics were listening to. A 2.8 on Pitchfork? Really? That is an obvious troll attempt. Slant also slammed The Marshall Mathers LP, so their review doesn't surprise me. This album should be high 70s through mid 80s, not low 60s like it is now. My other criticism is that there are many This is obviously the best Eminem album since the Eminem Show. I don't know what these critics were listening to. A 2.8 on Pitchfork? Really? That is an obvious troll attempt. Slant also slammed The Marshall Mathers LP, so their review doesn't surprise me. This album should be high 70s through mid 80s, not low 60s like it is now. My other criticism is that there are many positive reviews from major magazines that haven't been included in the Metacritic ratings. This seems like an obvious bias to negative reviews if they don't add these reviews later. Expand
  95. VegardM
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Critics gonna hate! What counts is what the people think, and 9.4/10 is not that bad! ;) It is also deserved. The album is flawless!
  96. MarcusE
    Jun 22, 2010
    8
    Solid album - far superior to relapse. Honest, introspective, creative, catchy and just plain fun.
  97. JesusR
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Best album I've heard this year. Eminem has now become a trendsetter... He basically brought all different kinds of elements into this album, and if you're music fan and not necessarily an Eminem fan, you would really appreciate the hard work he's done for this album.. Highly recommended.
  98. BrandonF
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Amazing Album. Check out Space Bound, Almost Famous, Going Through Changes, and Love the Way You Lie. Your mind will be blown.
  99. NeT.
    Jun 22, 2010
    10
    Love how the critics are smashing this amazing album... It's one of the best things I've ever heard. Eminem reestablishes his love for hip-hop and music. The tracks are fire. Screw the critics, if you're a true hip-hop/ Eminem fan this album does not disappoint. Either way, I know what's going to be in my CD player for months. Good night, radio.
  100. robert
    Jun 22, 2010
    9
    Eminems best since TES. The best hip hop record of the year. Seduction, Cinderella Man, 25 to life, and Talkin to Myself rank among Eminems best. Flow is insane, Beats (especially DJ KHalils and Just Blaze) are hot. Once again you get to hear Eminem outrap Lil Wayne. The Proof tribute You're never over is long overdue, but worth the wait. The secret track is produced by Havoc, and is Eminems best since TES. The best hip hop record of the year. Seduction, Cinderella Man, 25 to life, and Talkin to Myself rank among Eminems best. Flow is insane, Beats (especially DJ KHalils and Just Blaze) are hot. Once again you get to hear Eminem outrap Lil Wayne. The Proof tribute You're never over is long overdue, but worth the wait. The secret track is produced by Havoc, and is a good sign of things to come. Another classic, by one of the best. Expand
Metascore
63

Generally favorable reviews - based on 28 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 28
  2. Negative: 4 out of 28
  1. No matter how cleverly he's rhyming, which varies, he could use subject matter beyond married-to-the-game and his traditional obsessions. But with Shady in the shadows, rarely are these themes lifted by Em's long-recessive sense of play.
  2. Much of Recovery centers around such themes as romantic devotion and anxiety, but the resulting material rings unsurprisingly hollow.
  3. Sadly, a piecemeal approach to production (Dr Dre has just one credit) leaves the album lacking an abiding mood and drowning in fashionable soft-rock samples.