Solarized
by Ian Brown
Metascore
61

Generally favorable reviews - based on 17 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 17
  2. Mixed: 10 out of 17
  3. Negative: 0 out of 17
  1. Filter
    86
    The entire disc is marked by diversity and ingenuity. [#13, p.96]
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  2. AllMusic
    70
    Stone Roses fans who haven't tracked Brown's musical progress after that band's breakup will find much to love on Solarized, another mini-masterpiece that perfectly balances mood and melody.
  3. Dot Music
    70
    Yet another endearingly eccentric document: one that will largely support his growing reputation as a talented, contrary, and mischievously erratic artiste.
  5. Under The Radar
    70
    The strongest and most ambitious record of Ian Brown's solo career. [#8, p.105]
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  6. PopMatters
    70
    Solarized finds Brown regaining the melodic sense that eluded him on most of [Music Of The Spheres].
  7. Billboard
    70
    Though one can't help but miss the complementing presence of Stone Roses guitarist/songwriter John Squire, "Solarized" is a strong and enjoyable offering from this Manchester icon.
  8. Pitchfork
    61
    There's nothing terribly new to the electro-psych sound he's worked up for himself-- it actually throws back quite a bit to the Roses-- but here he has a clutch of great melodies for him to hang his honey-dipped voice on, and he delivers those nicely.

User Reviews

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User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 26 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 22 out of 26
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 26
  3. Negative: 4 out of 26
  1. RobertB.
    Jun 28, 2007
    10
    In a class of his own!!!!!!
  2. NorthFreedomFighter
    Apr 5, 2005
    9
    This album isn't overly fresh or uniquely original, it isn't going to blow anyone away outright, and it won't likely win any This album isn't overly fresh or uniquely original, it isn't going to blow anyone away outright, and it won't likely win any critics awards, but if you take it for what it is, a solid record made by a man who just has a knack for good sound, I gurantee you will love it. Use it to chill out to, use it to spice up your day, but always realize that this record does what it has meant to do. . . keep you listening.… Full Review »
  3. patc
    Mar 28, 2005
    8
    I loved his first album, then loved his second album, his 3rd was pretty good it had a few decent songs, and this one is #3 on my list, very I loved his first album, then loved his second album, his 3rd was pretty good it had a few decent songs, and this one is #3 on my list, very good album.… Full Review »
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