Relapse
by Eminem
User Score
8.2

Universal acclaim- based on 1078 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 889 out of 1078
  2. Mixed: 114 out of 1078
  3. Negative: 75 out of 1078

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  1. joeg.
    May 20, 2009
    10
    The best rapper in the world is back! to me the album is everything i hoped it would be and is amongst his greatest!
  2. KevinL
    May 24, 2009
    10
    I say this is a 8 or 9. I just did 10 to counter all those people rating who have never heard this album and rate it a 1 or 0 because they hate Eminem.
  3. HesamS
    May 20, 2009
    10
    The awesome great album ! its perfect as previous em albums and have a lost half thats relapse 2 i cant wait for it. anyway relapse was a best album after MMLP and TES... very nice!
  4. BradR
    May 20, 2009
    10
    Best hip hop album in a long time. Em is back and I love it, this album is pretty dark but it also packs a lot of comedy. Everyone should but this.
  5. BrianD
    May 20, 2009
    10
    I love the new CD, I don't know why so many people don't the accent is okay on most songs so yeah.
  6. MikeD
    May 20, 2009
    10
    Absolute Platinum, Great album, one of the darker ones he's had to date.
  7. RafikY
    May 20, 2009
    10
    Slim Shady is at his best right after being at rock bottom... Each song seems to have been written in one year, it's amazing! Dr Dre has produced some great titles such as Deja Vu, Bagpipes for Baghdad or My Mom. After 4 years waiting, I'm totally satisfied !!!
  8. tacobell
    Jul 2, 2009
    10
    This new album shows his most effort for being sober, return to the music scene and make good music. The songs are the mixing of razor sharp lyrics, vivid humors, haunted nightmares, honest tales and deep emotions. Unlike other artist's music, I found that different people have their own personal favorite Relapse track, not only the one that's been released for a single (which This new album shows his most effort for being sober, return to the music scene and make good music. The songs are the mixing of razor sharp lyrics, vivid humors, haunted nightmares, honest tales and deep emotions. Unlike other artist's music, I found that different people have their own personal favorite Relapse track, not only the one that's been released for a single (which is the best part in my eyes). Dr. Dre's beats are surprisingly catchy and have good replay value, especially when you listened to them with subwoofer. In my opinion, it is one of his best record Eminem should be proud of.… Expand
  9. BhaveshM
    May 20, 2009
    10
    This album is great, classic slim, sweet beats, insane lyrics and polished production quality! Slim is back with the vengeance! Not sure what some of these "critics" are talking about, but if you didn't like slim before you still won't like him now. Album has at least eight quality tracks, and plenty of humor for those who can appreciate it.
  10. GregHundley
    May 25, 2009
    10
    I think this album is breathe of fresh air. Eminem is still the best album and I love who he makes fun of. Eminem raps about drugs, bad parents, and doesn't have to feature T-pain and Akon. Still the best rapper alive.
  11. WesC
    May 20, 2009
    10
    Track to track, it's almost like you're living in the mind of Slim. While the subject matter is definitely not something you are used to listening to, his flow, wordplay and story telling are superb. He is, without a doubt, the best hip hop artist out right now. I can't wait for Relapse 2 to drop here near the end of the year, which I expect will be more like the closing Track to track, it's almost like you're living in the mind of Slim. While the subject matter is definitely not something you are used to listening to, his flow, wordplay and story telling are superb. He is, without a doubt, the best hip hop artist out right now. I can't wait for Relapse 2 to drop here near the end of the year, which I expect will be more like the closing track "Underground."… Expand
  12. VinceG
    Jun 15, 2009
    10
    I love what Dr. Dre did with the beats. He mixed in some new things we're just not used to listening, which I found very interesting. Eminem did his half by creating flows that just couldn't go any better with the music. 10 hands down.
  13. RyanG
    Jun 22, 2009
    10
    This is is great album, I don't know what the hell is wrong with the critics. They must of been listening of too much of those crappy rappers like Souljaboytellem and Lil Wayne.
  14. EvgenyV
    Jun 6, 2009
    10
    This is the ultimate Eminem album, which pleases all the real Eminem supporters. His rhymes are on point and his flow is incredible, the wordplay is fantastic. I love it.
  15. blasblas
    Jun 7, 2009
    10
    Album is great, kinda on the trippy side, but damn he is one of the greatest. "Em" if you read this We all love your music we dont want you to stop but"Family" comes first. so we understand :)
  16. JoshF
    Jul 13, 2009
    10
    As an album its an awesome piece of work, tells a real deep story... lookin' forward to the next album!
  17. D.Tail
    Aug 13, 2009
    10
    F*cking brilliant album and a serious comeback...Next one lose the accent tho slim.
  18. NejcK
    May 19, 2009
    10
    It is very sad some critics are saying that album has no lyrical substance an b.s. like that. It is obvious they didn't really listen to the album... and why do critics write rap album reviews if they don't even like rap. I am a big fan of Eminem and I must admit I didn't really like Relapse the first time I heard it but now after few hearings I am just addicted to this album.
  19. EdwardP
    May 19, 2009
    10
    I don't care what the critics say, this is one of the best albums I've heard in a while. Hopefully, some more positive reviews come in. This is much more than an average album. I mean, people accuse Eminem for being something he isn't anymore, but that didn't stop Rick Ross from getting positive reviews (he wears fake jewelry).
  20. JeffR
    May 19, 2009
    10
    Great album; his flow, rhymes, and delivery are on another level. Lyrically, it's a really good record too. Production is just top-notch.. Overall, an amazing record.
  21. JaffarR
    May 21, 2009
    10
    How can metacritic give it a sleazy 54?? they clearly have something against the artist as 54 is nowhere near how great this album is. its probably the best album of the year. THANKS EM!
  22. Vincentg
    May 21, 2009
    10
    Quality album. The construction of the lyrics and word play unsurpassed by anything else. Subject matter wont be to everyones taste, but to give it bad marks for that is the height of pretension.
  23. MaxS
    May 22, 2009
    10
    I love this album. This is why: First, considering all of his prior albums, The Slim Shady LP, Marshall Mathers LP, Eminem Show, and Encore, with out a doubt, the first three were great, critically praised. The second LP is a already a classic hip-hop album. On the other hand, his fourth release, Encore was just good. It did not stand up to his first three. Now, come back five years I love this album. This is why: First, considering all of his prior albums, The Slim Shady LP, Marshall Mathers LP, Eminem Show, and Encore, with out a doubt, the first three were great, critically praised. The second LP is a already a classic hip-hop album. On the other hand, his fourth release, Encore was just good. It did not stand up to his first three. Now, come back five years later, and drop Relapse: an album / horror film / Steven King novel--whatever you call it--filled with mesmerizing, disturbing imagery, foul wordplay, and more drug use than ever. His lyrics and flow tell us his story of drug addiction, and in multiple aspects, how his world, his foundation was crumbling. This calls for some pretty personal story telling. Then, completely off on another tangent (kind of), he weaves murderous, infectious rhymes in and out of songs like "3am," and the skit "Tonya" leading into the awesome "Same Song & Dance." These few of the numerous "darker" songs portrays his darker half, known as the infamous Slim Shady. I'm excited he's back. And what's even more fascinating is the fact that Em's drug addiction affected Slim Shady too! Will he kill at will?..… Expand
  24. MaxS
    May 22, 2009
    10
    I love this album. This is why: First, considering all of his prior albums, The Slim Shady LP, Marshall Mathers LP, Eminem Show, and Encore, with out a doubt, the first three were great, critically praised. The second LP is a already a classic hip-hop album. On the other hand, his fourth release, Encore was just good. It did not stand up to his first three. Now, come back five years I love this album. This is why: First, considering all of his prior albums, The Slim Shady LP, Marshall Mathers LP, Eminem Show, and Encore, with out a doubt, the first three were great, critically praised. The second LP is a already a classic hip-hop album. On the other hand, his fourth release, Encore was just good. It did not stand up to his first three. Now, come back five years later, and drop Relapse: an album / horror film / Steven King novel--whatever you call it--filled with mesmerizing, disturbing imagery, foul wordplay, and more drug use than ever. His lyrics and flow tell us his story of drug addiction, and in multiple aspects, how his world, his foundation was crumbling. This calls for some pretty personal story telling. Then, completely off on another tangent (kind of), he weaves murderous, infectious rhymes in and out of songs like "3am," and the skit "Tonya" leading into the awesome "Same Song & Dance." These few of the numerous "darker" songs portrays his darker half, known as the infamous Slim Shady. I'm excited he's back. And what's even more fascinating is the fact that Em's drug addiction affected Slim Shady too! Will he kill at will?..… Expand
  25. NavdeepS
    May 22, 2009
    10
    Eminem is back with a serious album about drugs,dope and telling about why he was in hiatus.But this is the best since marshall mathers.
  26. ChuckN
    May 26, 2009
    10
    Eminem back to business! Incredibly deep and thought provoking lyrics. He makes good sounding music have real meaning to it.
  27. JonesMan
    May 27, 2009
    10
    I think this is one of the greatest comebacks , i have ever seen, relapse has the first songs that he has written for like 4 songs on it, yeah of course he has written other songs but then he was a junkie and just had wrote bullshit. But relapse is GOOD , and i like it, and then sales prove it.
  28. dant
    Jun 12, 2009
    10
    Fantastic, lyrically at his best with sick beats to back them up..eminem is finally back.
  29. MarekW
    Jun 23, 2009
    10
    This CD is crazy! Lyrics and flow are world class. Definitely the best Eminem album ever, in my opinion.
  30. DemoineO
    Nov 25, 2009
    10
    This album is lyrical genius.He is still the greatest rapper alive.The way he puts the rhymes together is genius.I spit so I know how difficult it could be there has not been any album that came out in 2009 that has outsold this album.I can wait until relapse 2 come out next year and I am going to buy relapse refill this December.
  31. LucasG
    May 19, 2009
    10
    I really enjoyed the songs are creative and it is equal to before, I like it that way.
  32. ChavoG
    May 19, 2009
    10
    Great album, instant classic.
  33. JordanA
    Jul 27, 2009
    10
    Ok, any rating below an 8 is absolutely ridiculous. The album is great! Very creative. The lyrics are amazing. Every song has a meaning and tells a story. The album puts you in the shoes of the one and only Marshall Mathers. We get his point of view of what he was going through over the past couple of years. The critics need to stop expecting him to put out the "Greatest Album of Ok, any rating below an 8 is absolutely ridiculous. The album is great! Very creative. The lyrics are amazing. Every song has a meaning and tells a story. The album puts you in the shoes of the one and only Marshall Mathers. We get his point of view of what he was going through over the past couple of years. The critics need to stop expecting him to put out the "Greatest Album of All-Time". Lower your expectations for goodness sake. He's not Einstien. What he is though, is the Greatest Rapper of all-time and he is back and will be at the top of hip-hop once again.… Expand
  34. Chris
    Aug 24, 2009
    10
    Eminem comes in 2009 to make things better in hip hop and he's coming with a great album.he begins with his bloody "3 a.m." and continues with the songs "My Mom" and "Insane" which he blames his mothers for for his recent drug abuse and tells us in a genius way about his problems with his stepfather.The lbums has a lot of songs that he explains us what he went through during his Eminem comes in 2009 to make things better in hip hop and he's coming with a great album.he begins with his bloody "3 a.m." and continues with the songs "My Mom" and "Insane" which he blames his mothers for for his recent drug abuse and tells us in a genius way about his problems with his stepfather.The lbums has a lot of songs that he explains us what he went through during his addiction with drugs.He is more honest that anyone would expected.The songs "Deja Vu", "Beautiful" and "Underground" are (for me) masterpieces!!His intelligence and his skills can be seen in these songs.Surely better than Encore, Relapse is an awesome work from Eminem and is sure that fans are going to love it!… Expand
  35. phillipchew
    Sep 16, 2010
    10
    I was so surprised at how much I ended up enjoying this album. The first two singles he released gave me doubt as to how good the album would be, but I was pleasantly surprised when I got the album simply because I was a fan of Eminem since I was in grade school and it ended up only having two songs that sucked. It is his darkest album by far, but it only makes it more exciting. It is theI was so surprised at how much I ended up enjoying this album. The first two singles he released gave me doubt as to how good the album would be, but I was pleasantly surprised when I got the album simply because I was a fan of Eminem since I was in grade school and it ended up only having two songs that sucked. It is his darkest album by far, but it only makes it more exciting. It is the kind of CD that you turn on while you are in the car with loud speakers simply because of the energy it gives you. If you are looking for some fun rap, then you should probably skip this CD, but if you are a die hard Eminem fan, then you will see that this is his greatest work.… Expand
  36. melovesem
    Jan 28, 2011
    10
    IMO This album is Amazing and it is very underrated by fans and critics alike. sure, he used that accent, but his rhymes are dope and he has some good songs.
  37. wazzy
    Aug 25, 2011
    10
    I don't see what all the hate is, people are just assuming because there are a few bad songs on the album he deserves a crappy rate. You may think this album is crap, but I think at this time he is still the Genius he ever was. You've been taking advantage of his music, and of his talent and as his last albums may have shined the brightest you seem to have been blinded.
    I have every eminem    I don't see what all the hate is, people are just assuming because there are a few bad songs on the album he deserves a crappy rate. You may think this album is crap, but I think at this time he is still the Genius he ever was. You've been taking advantage of his music, and of his talent and as his last albums may have shined the brightest you seem to have been blinded.
    I have every eminem album and the songs in relapse have more plays than any other on my ITunes. So before you come on here, spilling your hate on a few songs go back replay an amazing song like Beautiful and you'll be reminded the true talent of the artist.    … Expand
  38. EMINEMFAN11
    Oct 2, 2013
    10
    Oh my gosh! What more is there to say. It's fabulous!!!!! Great songs, great singing, great acting! Loveable to the core! When I first heard this album, I must say, GOOSEBUMPS galore! I was like a walking talking Taylor Abraham.
  39. alireza0fa
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    On of the most underrated albums of all time...
    Just listen to beautiful, deja vu, insane, my darling, hello, crack a bottle to see the lyrical genius of this man. With great production by Dr Dre.
  40. viJilance
    Nov 4, 2013
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Relapse is a sinister lyrical masterpiece. The delivery and flow Eminem gives is somewhat odd, people often refer to his "accent" as annoying. The fact is- Eminem has always used accents, Eminem has always used tone and delivery, and this album may seem a bit like swimming upstream at first, but I assure the content of this album is comical and fairly humorous. As an artist, and a human... this is when Marshall Mathers was in his darkest days. To Marshall's dismay, his best friend and hype man Proof (RIP DeShaun Dupree Holton (October 2, 1973 April 11, 2006) passed away. They were friends in their adolescence, Marshall was distraught, he was lost, he was a confused soul.

    This dark twisted picture that Eminem paints almost seems like a drawing of his alter-ego Slim Shady. But even Slim Shady seems at his lowest, he sounds like he doesn't want to rap anymore, and just zones out on the mic while going auto pilot and just unleash all the that comes to his mind. Serial killing, rape, incest, these are the prevalent themes at the beginning. Eventually it takes a dive into the mainstream, the middle of the album sounds somewhat upbeat and foolish, and as the album comes to a close, you can see a ray of light.

    This album was actually a very essential step in the career of Eminem, and people don't give enough credit where credit is due. Personally I think this album was a masterpiece in a sense that, being a true Eminem fan you really got the jokes about Christopher Reeves sinking in quicksand, and penetrating vagina's with either balloons and popping them, or umbrella's and then opening them.    … Expand
  41. joshootMi
    Nov 5, 2013
    10
    Bottom line it's underrated. Who cares about the accents when the lyrics are so good!? Overall it's a great album with awesome rhymes, memorable beats, and funny skits. Good stuff...
  42. Hypocritics
    Dec 15, 2013
    10
    Im going to go ahead and EXPOSE METACRITIC AS GARBAGE real quick, if anyone wants to stick around...

    Eminem goes unforgiving hard-as-nails in-your-face and mad-as-hell on MMLP1, and Metacritic slams him for being over the top. They claim the classic was a 78, and Yeezus, the ten song experimental embarrassment that Kanye can't get over 3.2 stars on Itunes, is an 85. Ok, fine. He    Im going to go ahead and EXPOSE METACRITIC AS GARBAGE real quick, if anyone wants to stick around...

    Eminem goes unforgiving hard-as-nails in-your-face and mad-as-hell on MMLP1, and Metacritic slams him for being over the top. They claim the classic was a 78, and Yeezus, the ten song experimental embarrassment that Kanye can't get over 3.2 stars on Itunes, is an 85. Ok, fine.

    He lightens up on The Eminem Show, and Metacritic says it's too soft and they've heard it all before. 75.

    He mixes in other artists and dumbs down the "Slim Shady" persona on The Reup, and they absolutely trash it and say he's lost his voice. 50. A 50, supposedly a worse album than IANAHB 2.
    Do You Sense the Bullsh.it Yet.....

    He brings back Slim Shady as violent yet comedic as ever on Relapse, and they say he's forcing the issue. 59.

    He changes his content for the more mature, stays witty, address' his past demons and shows immense growth as an artist on Recovery, and they say he's boring. 63.

    THEN, on MMLP2, he combines Recovery, MMLP, and the Eminem Show in an experimental, mature, hard-as-nails, yet emotional reflection on his career, and they give it a 73. Thats 7 points worse than Teflon Don, by Rick Ross.

    METACRITIC: WHAT THE ACTUAL ARE YOU DOING.    … Expand
  43. relaspe666
    Jan 12, 2014
    10
    My favorite album of all time , I for one actually like the accent's as he's rhyme scheme's are amazing , the darkest album of all time , and went threw hell and back, standout tracks are ... ALL OF THEM !!! A MUST HAVE, a classic, ive been listeing to the album nonstop for almost a year staight now and still not tired of it love it
  44. Emmy
    Apr 5, 2020
    10
    If you love horror movies this album is for you like for real it doesn't get more horror core hip hop than this. Watch out for songs like same song & dance, music box, buffalo bill, stay wide awake just to name a few. The album got a serial killer vibe.
  45. CFP2016
    Apr 2, 2014
    10
    What is everyone's problem with Relapse. My first preview of the album didn't settle with me well but then I heard the albums singles and immediately went onto iTunes and purchased Relapse: Refill (I buy special editions of most albums cause I like the extra content. Songs like We Made You, 3 A.M., Crack a Bottle, Beautiful and Deja Vu really stand out. Basically what I think is if its soWhat is everyone's problem with Relapse. My first preview of the album didn't settle with me well but then I heard the albums singles and immediately went onto iTunes and purchased Relapse: Refill (I buy special editions of most albums cause I like the extra content. Songs like We Made You, 3 A.M., Crack a Bottle, Beautiful and Deja Vu really stand out. Basically what I think is if its so bad than why did it win a grammy for best rap album while encore didn't.… Expand
  46. Bobtinin
    Jan 17, 2019
    10
    'Relapse' is one of the most underrated albums of not only Eminem's career, but of all time. This album was an amazing example of how great storytelling can help create a cohesive album that stands the test of time. His lyrical ability was arguably at its best, while his rapping ability became a lot better in comparison to his previous album as he was now sober. The highlights from this'Relapse' is one of the most underrated albums of not only Eminem's career, but of all time. This album was an amazing example of how great storytelling can help create a cohesive album that stands the test of time. His lyrical ability was arguably at its best, while his rapping ability became a lot better in comparison to his previous album as he was now sober. The highlights from this album were, "3 a.m.", "My Mom", "Insane", "Hello", "Stay Wide Awake", "Old Time's Sake", "Deja Vu", "Beautiful", "Crack A Bottle", and "Underground". You can find even more highlights on his 'Relapse: Refill' release, with "Forever", "Buffalo Bill", "Elevator", "Music Box", "Drop The Bomb On 'Em", "My Darling", and "Careful What You Wish For". The whole album was bolstered by the excellent production of Dr. Dre who helped the album become the masterpiece it is. The final thing to address is the mixed reception this album received. Many people are annoyed by the accents, but I'm certainly not. I feel like it allowed Eminem to create rhymes that would be impossible with his regular accent. It also allowed for better storytelling as he was able to assume the role of the different serial killers who are showcased throughout the album. As for the critics, they were probably just weirded out about what Eminem was rapping about, choosing to ignore his then peak rapping ability and lyrical prowess. Overall, I'm giving this album a 10/10 as I personally love it, and I believe this album to be a cult classic, so many others will probably agree with my score.… Expand
  47. YessirKilla
    Jan 23, 2015
    10
    I'm going to be humming Beautiful and Crack A Bottle for the rest of my life. Thank Eminem for making an album that, in my opinion, is about as good as The Eminem Show.
  48. viettungvuong
    May 20, 2019
    10
    This album is overhated in my opinion. Apart from the accent, the production is excellent, Em's rhyme schemes are really good, his lyrical content is also good
  49. aftermath96
    Feb 4, 2018
    10
    i still love this album to this date, better than encore, i don't see nothing wrong with the accents, the accents are what made this album so special, hello was my least favorite track here, the rest is great, even the refill album
  50. JiggaMan
    Feb 5, 2017
    10
    Relapse took me a few years to get used to. I used to think it was way too disturbing and crude, as though Eminem was trying way too hard to return to his prime "public-enemy' days. That was before I realized that on this album, Eminem gives less **** than ever before and raps on topics no one would ever dare even discuss (e.g. incestual rape, serial killer murders, drinking blood). ItRelapse took me a few years to get used to. I used to think it was way too disturbing and crude, as though Eminem was trying way too hard to return to his prime "public-enemy' days. That was before I realized that on this album, Eminem gives less **** than ever before and raps on topics no one would ever dare even discuss (e.g. incestual rape, serial killer murders, drinking blood). It comes off as weird at first. But with enough listens, it provided me with some insight into the mind of someone who literally does not care what anyone thinks of his dumb accents and weird ass murder fantasies, truth be told, I enjoy hearing about them now - in an odd way-. Deja Vu takes a nice turn towards the end with a truthful reiteration of the stress that has pushed Em back into the drug world/… Expand
  51. Absinth
    Dec 21, 2022
    10
    In my opinion this is one of eminems best. I recommend buying the deluxe edition (Refill). It's a great horrorcore album which has moments of beauty & craziness. The production is almost flawless and still holds up all these years later.

    It's 100% worth your time.

    Recommended tracks: Deja vu, Beautiful, Same song & Dance, Insane.
  52. Vincent1503
    Jul 5, 2017
    10
    By far his best work to date

    rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrtttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt
  53. MalcolmE
    Nov 4, 2018
    10
    i absolutely love the disturbing and eerie vibe aswell as the serial killer theme. People complain about the accents but i find them hilarious. His flow and wordplay is incredible here. This album feels like it brings me into another world for an hour and 16 minutes. Few album does that to me.

    Favorite Tracks: Stay Wide Awake, 3 A.M., Beautiful, Deja Vu, Bagpipes From Baghdad Least    i absolutely love the disturbing and eerie vibe aswell as the serial killer theme. People complain about the accents but i find them hilarious. His flow and wordplay is incredible here. This album feels like it brings me into another world for an hour and 16 minutes. Few album does that to me.

    Favorite Tracks: Stay Wide Awake, 3 A.M., Beautiful, Deja Vu, Bagpipes From Baghdad

    Least Favorite Tracks: Hello, We Made You (But i dont dislike either of them. I find their hook / chorus to be abit dull tho)

    My Rating: 10/10    … Expand
  54. Connorcox1997
    Mar 8, 2019
    10
    When I first listen to Eminem's Relapse, I actually didn't like it the album, however, after a couple more times listening to the album, I actually love the album. It may not be the best album in his career, but Relapse is still entertaining to listen to. I highly recommend it.
  55. Omar-010
    Sep 23, 2018
    10
    Hist most underrated work. The lyrics, content and rhyme schemes make it the greatest horrorcore album of all time.
  56. MX_G
    Aug 1, 2019
    10
    I once was an big Eminem fan (I still have a really corny Eminem shirt lmao) and while this changed over time, because Im not the biggest fan of recovery and mmlp2, I see why people like it, but not me, tho.
    Revival is terrible (besides of Framed, which btw sounds like an throwaway from this project.)
    and Kamikaze is just mediocre and overhyped by sheep like stans. This is just an    I once was an big Eminem fan (I still have a really corny Eminem shirt lmao) and while this changed over time, because Im not the biggest fan of recovery and mmlp2, I see why people like it, but not me, tho.
    Revival is terrible (besides of Framed, which btw sounds like an throwaway from this project.)
    and Kamikaze is just mediocre and overhyped by sheep like stans.
    This is just an Masterpiece, an misunderstood one, even by the artist himself, i cant even describe how I love this gem.T he production is 9/10 - Its just extremely dark Dre beats, which are atmospheric
    and hypnotizing, really dont like the Must be the Ganja snare and some other beats where "just" good )
    the lyrics are 10/10 (probably bis best rhymed Album, just look at stay wide awake)
    It has bangers like Old Time´s Sake, Crack a bottle and Underground
    It has some of his best emotional songs like deja vu and beautiful
    It has some of the best horrorcore songs of all time, not just by Eminem (whilst not being the biggest fan of horrorcore) like 3 a.m., Same Song & Dance and by far the best Stay Wide Awake (every **** syllable rhymes).
    Its merely hated by critics because of its accents, but what most people dont seem to notice, is that its an concept Album about a serial killer version of slim shady, dealing with drug addiction and the accents are part of that weird (Ed Gein like) story.
    It's dark, it's twisted, and it's brilliant. Relapse is one of the smartest things Em's ever done, and no one ever knows it because they focus too much on the accents he pulls.

    Ratings:
    Dr. West - Skit ---/10 (Skits are´nt rated)
    3.a.m 9/10 ( Great Horrorcore with amazing hook)
    My Mom 8/10 (Great Reggea like hook, funny and over the top humor)
    Insane 8/10( The same as I said already on My Mom, btw this track is **** up)
    BFB 10/10( Funny lines bout Mariah, great production)
    Hello 10/10 (Love this Druggy Lifestyle Story)
    Tonya - Skit ---/10 (Skits are´nt rated)
    SS&D 10/10 ( Chilling atmosphere and creepy whilst funny lines, love the creativity here)
    WMD 7/10
    Medicine Ball 8/10 ( Decent IDGAF attitude track)
    Paul - Skit ---/10 (Skits are´nt rated)
    Stay Wide Awake 10/10 (11/10) (Great Rhymes, best hook on the Album, thrilling story)
    Old Time´s Sake 9/10 (My 3rd favorite Dre/Eminem collab)
    Must be the Ganja 5/10 (Em just delivers all lines board, the production isnt great either, its an Emienm Song bout Ganja, do I need to say more?)
    Mr. Mathers - Skit ---/10 (Skits are´nt rated)
    Deja Vu 10/10 (Emotional, Depressing, and cathy hook)
    Beautiful 10/10 ( The Same as Deja VU but with a great sample and alot of rock influenced sound)
    CaB 9/10 ( Great Collab entertaining,but kinda killed the atmosphere of the tracks before.)
    Steve Bergmann - Skit ---/10 (Skits are´nt rated)
    Underground 10/10 ( Wow, what an outro? Best production on the Album, chilling vibes, fast delivered and great lyrics, besides some weird f*ggot lines, not to sure, why Eminem still cant stop, while they dindt bother me on his last Albums, these were just a little bit too far, not quiete sure, if its just to fit, the ken kaniff skit at the end, maybe this parts are from him)

    WOW what an great album that is slept on to often, in my opinion on of the 100 best albums of this milenia so far...
    (maybe top 25)    … Expand
  57. Strike9287
    Jan 4, 2020
    10
    This project comes off to me as insanely creative and one of his better works.
    It has aged beautifully and has some of his best wordplay and flows.
    The production is absolutely phenomenal and the whole project is very fluent and fun.
    It sticks to the topic and stays dark consistently throughout.
  58. Cianlawrence1
    Jan 24, 2020
    10
    This album is so darkly twisted that i think its a masterpiece. Amazing sons throughout the album
  59. ArkodeepSen
    Jan 23, 2020
    10
    Relapse
  60. tuxpingviini
    Sep 3, 2022
    10
    This is Eminem's best album. I don't understand how anyone can dislike it. Eminem's delivery is immaculate on every track, accompanied by some Dr. Dre's best production, and the album keeps a cohesive theme from front to back.
  61. Jr88
    Jan 19, 2020
    10
    A masterpiece in his classe. Horror,flows,crazy ideas and stuff that's only Eminem can think and said.
  62. yoranwillemsen
    Jan 24, 2020
    10
    Goat album. One of his best works. It is pretty underrated and a shame it was trashed when it came out.
  63. Charltonman
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    THE MOST underrated comeback album of all time. Relapse is an absolute masterpiece, and despite a rocky tracklist, it has aged extremely well. The storyline makes this possibly the greatest horrorcore album of all time. The rhyme schemes and flow are unmatched.
  64. slimshady99
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    This album shout every one facking mouth its was pure fire thanks agian em ❤️
  65. ImperialNacho
    Jan 24, 2020
    10
    So much fireeeeeee. lel. Give it a 10 and not a 9 or u have a brain damage.
  66. cgolding
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    This is one of the most underrated Eminem albums out. Just listen to the wordplay and the way he uses that accent to create some of the best rhymes of the decade. Bagpipes from Baghdad is my favourite Eminem song.
  67. Ryanscaggs
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Greatest album ever
  68. JustNed
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Underrated underrated underrated underrated underrated underrated underrated underrated underrated underrated underrated underrated underrated underrated underrated underrated underrated underrated… Expand
  69. ViTRiFY
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    This is my favorite Eminem album out of em all. He bends words well and uses accents which I personally like. Nothing to mention the rhyme schemes are AMAZING!
  70. SlimGary
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    One of the best album ever made. I listen to it since I'm a kid, and I won't stop to! Eminem is GOAT
  71. LaelapsRap
    Jan 23, 2020
    10
    Perfect album. The flow is flawless, the ryhme scheme is out of this world. Love it
  72. Shenossih
    Mar 24, 2020
    10
    This album should already be a classic. It's the last real horrorcore, conceptual, perfect rap album we'll ever hear (since the world turned into PG). Dre's production was increadible, and Eminem was on his best lyrical mind. Never gets old. I hope people will wake up one day.
  73. Bellator06
    Aug 21, 2020
    10
    the concept and production are just amazing , eminem's best work since MMLP , the accents in some songs can be a little off putting but the lyrical content makes up for it , songs like deja vu and beautiful are his best of all time and probably the best rap songs of all time
  74. i-kill-me
    Sep 10, 2020
    10
    Truly masterpiece.3 am,insane,hello,same song and dance,medicine ball,must be the ganja,old times sake,deja vu,beautiful,crack a bottle and underground are my favorites.This album is definitely much better than Recovery,MMLP2 and Revival.Beat,flow and lyrics this album is criminally underrated.
  75. Whippd
    Dec 17, 2020
    10
    Most creative and technical album. Em goes all out. Incredible rhymes, flows and beats.
  76. WarudoDZ
    Sep 4, 2021
    10
    GREATEST ALBUM OF THE HISTORY WITH 2001, THIS ALBUM IS A MASTERPIECE the beats is incredible , is a horror movie in album of EMINEM AND THIS IS NOT FAIL , GOAT
  77. shady159866
    Mar 30, 2022
    10
    Marshall Mathers god 4ever!,no excuse to say,he's the best rapper,why at least 75 characters?
  78. todaywasagooday
    Dec 1, 2022
    10
    Absolute classic by Em. Listening to this in 2022 makes you feel nostalgic but I still hope to see a Relapse 2 one day.
  79. Shac
    Jun 9, 2023
    10
    This is his best version. Subject matter particularly the "psychokiller" stuff is great and interesting
  80. GrantB
    May 20, 2009
    9
    A great album for core fans - a couple of throw away tracks but majority is wonderful. 75% classics. Bagpipes from Baghdad s infectious.
  81. nandishh
    Sep 7, 2009
    9
    Relapse may not be Shady's best album, but by far definitely in his Top 3. All songs except Hello, Must Be The Ganja, Underground, Insane were awesome (my personal opinion). Same Song & Dance & Beautiful & Bagpipes From Baghdad were probably the Top 3 songs off the album. Relapse was kinda way too much on the "Relapse" side, Em should have had a majority of non-relapse/medical issue Relapse may not be Shady's best album, but by far definitely in his Top 3. All songs except Hello, Must Be The Ganja, Underground, Insane were awesome (my personal opinion). Same Song & Dance & Beautiful & Bagpipes From Baghdad were probably the Top 3 songs off the album. Relapse was kinda way too much on the "Relapse" side, Em should have had a majority of non-relapse/medical issue related songs. However the album, in my view deserves a 8.7/10 rating. Em might have been trying to save the best songs for "Relapse 2" - hope R2's a double-album. Relapse did not showcase Eminem's lyrical talent to the fullest. But no doubt, its one of the albums of the year. Metacritic was harsh on Em, but in rating of music albums - with its variety of genres- it is unfair to have a record rated by a single person. The rating committee should comprise of a majority of music critics of the genre of the album and maybe 30% of people form other closely related genres. This will achieve a more accurate and just rating.… Expand
  82. DylanR
    May 19, 2009
    9
    Great album. about 3 filler tracks but a solid return. cant wait till relapse 2.
  83. ArshdeepS
    May 22, 2009
    9
    Slim shady back to the old tactics,but except for a few songs the album is good.
  84. MMe
    Jun 18, 2009
    9
    As with most recent Eminem albums there's certain songs that should be taken in context, and not literally or seriously. The tunes are excellent, love it.
  85. LanceU
    Jun 2, 2009
    9
    I can't stand critics sometimes. Most of them either hate Eminem's guts or hip hop in general. If he would have made a real mature album crying and lamenting about his drug addiction and best friend dying or about KIm they would be saying he's whiny. Can't take the music for what it is, just a raw lyricist that hasn't gotten soft or lost a step. They want him to I can't stand critics sometimes. Most of them either hate Eminem's guts or hip hop in general. If he would have made a real mature album crying and lamenting about his drug addiction and best friend dying or about KIm they would be saying he's whiny. Can't take the music for what it is, just a raw lyricist that hasn't gotten soft or lost a step. They want him to go away but he keeps coming back. I love it. The fly that you can't swat. The biggest artist of this decade. Make a whole page of bad reviews and he still wins. That must really piss people off.… Expand
  86. ZackL
    Jun 29, 2009
    9
    Good, but not his best, and I'm not happy that he's titling his next album Relapse 2.
  87. ariang
    Jun 5, 2009
    9
    Very good album. razor sharp intelligent lyrics and fun to listen to. Dr.Dre's involvement very valuable and helps Eminem to concentrate on what he does best.
  88. BenjaminL
    May 21, 2009
    9
    A reintroduction of Slim Shady in 2009 couldn't be any sweeter. Although I really think the album was more of a 8.6, the song Beautiful and Bagpipes from Baghdad is enough to round up. Em's wordplay and lyricism are crazy; however, the content went a bit too non-sequitor sometimes--all in all, still hilarious.
  89. StevenGn
    May 20, 2009
    9
    I love the album. Em destroys dres beats and its great to see rap revive with ems new album.
  90. ZurraizK
    May 20, 2009
    9
    Great concept album unparalled wordplay by one of the greatest mc's to ever hold the mic kinda pissed that it has a 57 on here though wheres the review by stuff magazine or some of the other european ones???
  91. JosueR
    May 23, 2009
    9
    Awesome album. The return of Eminem is powerful and he's back to reclaim his title. Everyone support him and buy the album. Let's try to get him to 1 million copies sold the first week. This album is way better than Encore. Awesome Em thanks for coming back.
  92. RonK.
    May 25, 2009
    9
    Dre's beats gave Em a chance to concentrate on his lyrics and he is tight on the mic... the content is dark but think what place youd be in after dealing w/ addiction, rehab and the murder of your best friend. This will be an underrated record, stronger then Encore and up there with the 1st 3 in truth but it will be sometime til many see it!
  93. AntonN
    Jun 2, 2009
    9
    This is exactly what HipHop needed! Back to the unique storytelling, the catchy hooks, banging beats and, head scratching wordplay! Eminem came with exactly with what I expected! Definately the best album of the year and one of my top three favorite Eminem albums no doubt!
  94. ShaneD
    Jul 11, 2009
    9
    Relapse has Eminem hitting on all cyllinders dishing out the witty wordplay and complex rhyme schemes over generally exceptional Dr. Dre beats. One can only wish there were a few more serious songs. If the album had a couple more personal recaords it may have been a classic. The general syle seems like a combanation of the MMLP and The Eminem Show.
  95. KgosiP.
    Aug 19, 2009
    9
    Eminem,the rhyme king of all time.big up to that flow you produced in this album!
  96. ShannonN
    May 19, 2009
    9
    The album is sweet thank god for em's original flow it was so needed!!
  97. AlexT
    May 21, 2009
    9
    While Relapse might not be as cunning and catchy as his previous works (minus Encore), Eminem proves that he's still up to the challenge of creating a tight, focused album that delivers great production and talent.
  98. ghostfacekillah
    Dec 3, 2010
    9
    It was a great album, hands down. I really don't understand why so many people hate it. It's a creepy, tingling, funny and horror filled album. Some songs ought to be omitted, but the album in general is just great.
  99. Binki
    Jun 12, 2011
    9
    Stunning album, so underrated. Eminem is still the best after more than ten years. Contains masterpieces such as "Same song and dance", "Deja vu" or "Beautiful".
  100. RonaldOVOXO
    Feb 4, 2012
    9
    I love this CD only song i didnt like Was "Same Song & Dance" Other than that it was the best album of 2009. I dont understand why people didnt like this album it's a classic hopefully eminem will make a Relapse 2 in 2012 or the near future
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Awards & Rankings

3
#3 Most Discussed Album of 2009
5
#5 Most Shared Album of 2009

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
59

Mixed or average reviews - based on 27 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 27
  2. Mixed: 15 out of 27
  3. Negative: 4 out of 27
  1. Entertainment Weekly
    91
    Thankfully, producer Dr. Dre is there to temper the lyrical bloodletting, laying heavyweight hooks over even the most scabrous tales of family disturbia, and setting 'Bagpipes From Baghdad,' Em's inspired riff on rumored ex Mariah Carey, to snake-charming woodwind squiggles.
    Read full review
  2. Los Angeles Times
    60
    It's an impressively focused and clever work. But this music is not transcendent. It's still stuck in Marshall Mathers' muck, his fundamental mistrust of pleasure and love.
    Read full review
  3. Rolling Stone
    80
    By letting Dr. Dre take over the low-end-funk production, and rhyming about things he actually cares about, he comes up with a more painful, honest and vital record than anyone could have expected at this late date, up there with "The Eminem Show" or maybe even better.
    Read full review
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