User Score
7.2

Generally favorable reviews- based on 6 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 6
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 6
  3. Negative: 1 out of 6

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  1. MatthewA.
    Dec 6, 2009
    7
    The bad reviews only cite that fact that Hudson "sold out" and give zero deference to the actual songs. Yea, there are some questionable production choices (as NME, the nadir of music journalism, notes, the main problem is the autotone), but Hudson is still a fantastic composer and lyricist. That still shines through on most of these songs. Not even close to as good as his last album, and The bad reviews only cite that fact that Hudson "sold out" and give zero deference to the actual songs. Yea, there are some questionable production choices (as NME, the nadir of music journalism, notes, the main problem is the autotone), but Hudson is still a fantastic composer and lyricist. That still shines through on most of these songs. Not even close to as good as his last album, and would have been a homerun if West were not involved, but still a fine album. Expand
  2. Feb 1, 2013
    8
    This album is excellent. The risky combination of acoustic guitar riffs, synthesised overtures, deep bassy beats, and Hudson's emotional voice pays off greatly, resulting in some amazing songs. The album is filled with deep, meaningful lows and roaring, climatic highs. A hidden gem.
Metascore
63

Generally favorable reviews - based on 8 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 8
  2. Negative: 1 out of 8
  1. It’s a talent for smallness in spite of showy surroundings, an Englishness that’s as convincing as anything Jamie T, Mike Skinner or Lily Allen has produced, infiltrating the upper echelons of the American music establishment.
  2. Pretty much every song on Straight No Chaser is a future pop anthem of powerhouse proportions.
  3. Plenty of time is wasted on auto tune, to the detriment of almost all the album's vocals.