The Confessions of St. Ace - John Wesley Harding
User Score
8.3 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 4 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 4
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 4
  3. Negative: 0 out of 4

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  1. JoshB.
    Apr 23, 2001
    7
    Same songs live were much more enticing--studio and these arrangements don't capture the charm.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  2. Maribelle
    Oct 26, 2001
    8
    This reminds me a lot of here comes the groom and the name above the title. I am more partial to his acoustic leanings, yet the more produced sound does not detract from his witty and clever revelations-(and anywayhis eloquent lyricist's side always was my favorite slice of Wes)
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  3. JeffreyH.
    Nov 28, 2001
    10
    Catchy melodies, and rhythyms... clever, ultimately open-ended lyrics invite many listenings. Bravo!
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  4. RobbyM.
    Aug 23, 2001
    8
    Possibly Harding's best effort yet! Full of great hooks, and wry song writing. Harding's songwrinting has matured without becoming dull or pretensious.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
Metascore

Generally favorable reviews - based on 8 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 8
  2. Negative: 0 out of 8
  1. Harding has streamlined his lyrics and placed them in taut, soulful settings à la John Hiatt...
  2. Without a doubt the best Elvis Costello record that Costello never recorded.... wistfully irresistible pop confections filled with effervescent melodies and clever lyrical wordplay.
  3. Unfortunately, Harding misses more than he hits.... musically most of the tracks sound forced and untrue.