The Illusion Of Progress
by Staind
  • Record Label: Atlantic
  • Release Date: Aug 19, 2008
Metascore
53

Mixed or average reviews - based on 8 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 8
  3. Negative: 1 out of 8
  1. AllMusic
    60
    Ballads have always been his forte, a convenient vehicle for his quivering sensitivity and accidental melodicism, yet it's still startling how slow The Illusion of Progress unfolds, as Staind rarely muster the energy to move beyond midtempo even when they deign to crank up their amps for anthems of mild alienation or vague inspiration.
  2. Rolling Stone
    50
    Most of the time, though, the band sticks to its comfort zone, with songs that proceed through a sequence of genre clichés as Lewis howls out woe-is-me's and lists of grievances.
  3. Los Angeles Times
    50
    One formula replaces another and another.
  5. Q Magazine
    40
    This solid--if unspectacular--sixth managed a very respectable Number 3 (on the Billboard charts). [Nov 2008, p.107]
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User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
7.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 25 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 20 out of 25
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 25
  3. Negative: 3 out of 25
  1. Sherry
    Sep 7, 2008
    9
    Staind rules period. No matter what, it always platinum. LOVE YOU GUYS!
  2. TWard
    Sep 7, 2008
    10
    Not the same old hard staind, but Lewis' amazing voice and the bands better than average music makes this cd one of the best rock albums Not the same old hard staind, but Lewis' amazing voice and the bands better than average music makes this cd one of the best rock albums out there.… Full Review »
  3. CurtW.
    Aug 29, 2008
    9
    I like the new direction the band has taken. They went into the studio with the intention of making a heavy album and walked out with this. I like the new direction the band has taken. They went into the studio with the intention of making a heavy album and walked out with this. The band would be selling out if they wrote music to appease "metal heads" instead of writing from the heart. I applaud the new approach and wish them the best.… Full Review »
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