The Spade
by Butch Walker
Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 6 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 6
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 6
  3. Negative: 0 out of 6
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  1. PopMatters
    Oct 7, 2011
    90
    The Spade feels like Butch Walker has stopped his numerous genre exercises--as entertaining as they've been--and finally wrote an album that is entirely in his own voice. What's even more amazing about it is that it completely works.
  2. AllMusic
    Aug 30, 2011
    80
    The lyrics still focus on Walker's own little world--the girls he's known, the drugs he's done, the trouble he got into as an '80s wild child--but Spade feels broader, fuller, more collective than those words suggest.
  3. Absolute Punk (Staff reviews)
    Aug 29, 2011
    80
    His latest release with the Black Widows, the pop-tinged, rock-and-roll based The Spade, is a collection of reasons why. It's tough to imagine why any band or artist would pass over a chance to work with Walker after hearing this release.
  5. Alternative Press
    Aug 26, 2011
    80
    The high points are among the most fun songs Walker's recorded.
  6. Slant Magazine
    Sep 12, 2011
    70
    The Spade is a riotous album that recalls '80s-era Springsteen and Mellencamp, and Walker is smart enough to know not to take any of it too seriously.

User Reviews

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User Score
8.3

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
  1. Awestlakemusic
    May 16, 2012
    10
    Butch's best release to date, constantly evolving and finding his own. The Spade has so much to offer; From the modernized rock songsButch's best release to date, constantly evolving and finding his own. The Spade has so much to offer; From the modernized rock songs reminiscent of the 80's such as "Summer of 89" and "Day Drunk" to the softer "Closest Thing" and "Sweethearts" this album will not leave you disappointed.… Full Review »
  2. Bobrock
    Aug 31, 2011
    10
    Butch puts his best retro-rock hat on for his second release with the Black Widows. Rooted deep in garage rock and heartland oldies, TheButch puts his best retro-rock hat on for his second release with the Black Widows. Rooted deep in garage rock and heartland oldies, The Spade is a flawless mix of Tom Petty's raucous side and Elvis Costello's biting lyrical wit. Guitars and gang vocals turned up, hooks and melodies everywhere. A true testament to Walker's ability to write clever songs with huge stuck-in-your-head choruses.… Full Review »
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