The Instigator
by Rhett Miller
  • Record Label: Elektra
  • Release Date: Sep 24, 2002
User Score
8.6

Universal acclaim- based on 7 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 7
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 7
  3. Negative: 0 out of 7

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  1. S.E.Johnson
    Oct 3, 2002
    5
    If you love the song "Oppenheimer" from the Old 97's Fight Songs album, then you will love the new Rhett Miller. It is poppy and happy, even when trying to be sad. It rings a little empty without the rockin backing guitars and vocals from the rest of the guys in Old 97's. Overall, I found it to be boring and repetetive.

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
70

Generally favorable reviews - based on 14 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 14
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 14
  3. Negative: 1 out of 14
  1. CDNow
    80
    Miller explores his usual subjects -- getting out of places and into relationships -- with more unusual touches.
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  2. Magnet
    30
    Shallow and superficial. [#56, p.101]
  3. Pitchfork
    69
    Miller offers more than enough quality material here to justify stepping out on his own: what he's occasionally lacking in energy, he largely makes up for with craft.... That said, it's unlikely to instigate much beyond some afternoon head-nodding, and even some of Miller's fans will be somewhat put off by the album's borderline MOR sound.
    Read full review
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