The Messenger
by Johnny Marr
Metascore
69

Generally favorable reviews - based on 34 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 19 out of 34
  2. Mixed: 14 out of 34
  3. Negative: 1 out of 34
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  1. Under The Radar
    Feb 7, 2013
    30
    An album that manages to sound like a blend of every Britpop and Madchester also-ran's 50 shades of beige. [Jan-Feb 2013, p.88]
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User Score
8.2

Universal acclaim- based on 19 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 18 out of 19
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 19
  3. Negative: 1 out of 19
  1. McScary
    Jan 31, 2014
    8
    A lot of sniffy cynicism in the main musical press for this album and I'm mystified. This is a fine piece of work with riffs and hooks onlyA lot of sniffy cynicism in the main musical press for this album and I'm mystified. This is a fine piece of work with riffs and hooks only Johnny could lay down. Listen, Don Van Vliet in the power vocal department he ain't but neither was Jimi Hendrix or Bert Jansch. The guy's unique ability with the guitar overrides any lack of octaves in his voice. Anyway his voice is great on this record. Another critique from the press is the lyrics. Is this because they were hoping for some Morriseyesque whimsical poetry? Had this record been released by a trendy new outfit of 19 year olds the hacks would be raving with 5 stars.… Full Review »
  2. asbks123
    Mar 21, 2016
    8
    Johnny Marr continues to showcase his instrumental brilliance with The Messenger. It's true...the songs are lyrically uninspiring at times,Johnny Marr continues to showcase his instrumental brilliance with The Messenger. It's true...the songs are lyrically uninspiring at times, therefore missing an opportunity to connect with listeners. However, for a lover of high quality guitar work, that can be excused. Fantastic sound! And hey, his vocals aren't too bad either!… Full Review »
  3. a69
    Apr 30, 2013
    10
    Tip top spot of Indie Rock. Has shades of The Jam and New Order about it in places. Doesn't break much new ground, but I wouldn't expect a 50Tip top spot of Indie Rock. Has shades of The Jam and New Order about it in places. Doesn't break much new ground, but I wouldn't expect a 50 year old to do so. Does what you'd want t to do and delivers the goods.… Full Review »
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