This Unruly Mess I've Made
by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis
User Score
6.2

Generally favorable reviews- based on 153 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 87 out of 153
  2. Mixed: 32 out of 153
  3. Negative: 34 out of 153
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  1. TimW001
    Feb 28, 2016
    7
    This album is filled with some good songs and a few completely unforgettable tracks. Fantastic production from start to finish and also incredible features (KRS-One, Melle Mel, chance the Rapper, Idras Elba). The Train, Light Tunnels, Downtown, Buckhot, Kevin, Growing Up, St Ides, are all great songs and worth listening. Not as strong, thoughtful, or fun as 'The Heist'. Many people willThis album is filled with some good songs and a few completely unforgettable tracks. Fantastic production from start to finish and also incredible features (KRS-One, Melle Mel, chance the Rapper, Idras Elba). The Train, Light Tunnels, Downtown, Buckhot, Kevin, Growing Up, St Ides, are all great songs and worth listening. Not as strong, thoughtful, or fun as 'The Heist'. Many people will give this album a low rating because a lot of people hate Macklemore, but in reality it's an decent album.… Expand
  2. proterospongia
    Feb 26, 2016
    6
    As the title indicates, The Unruly Mess I've Made is messy and sounds a little confused. Lyrically, it is more well-centered than The Heist: Macklemore has some undeniable talent. Musically, the album sounds even more bland than their previous work: Ryan Lewis production may be well-executed, but it's boring and conventional. Although the album is a genuine effort, the duo is better atAs the title indicates, The Unruly Mess I've Made is messy and sounds a little confused. Lyrically, it is more well-centered than The Heist: Macklemore has some undeniable talent. Musically, the album sounds even more bland than their previous work: Ryan Lewis production may be well-executed, but it's boring and conventional. Although the album is a genuine effort, the duo is better at being fun than they are at being political.

    Best Tracks: Light Tunnels (feat. Mike Slap), White Privilege II (feat. Jamila Woods)    … Expand
  3. CosmicPaint
    Feb 28, 2016
    6
    Macklemore and Ryan Lewis' sophomore album reaches to be great but ended up being something much more subdued. Following the aftermath of their success with The Heist, Grammy wins and infamously "robbing" Kendrick of Best Rap Album, Macklemore confides in us the struggle to identify the voice he has within the hip hop community as a white man, a theme that starts from the opening songMacklemore and Ryan Lewis' sophomore album reaches to be great but ended up being something much more subdued. Following the aftermath of their success with The Heist, Grammy wins and infamously "robbing" Kendrick of Best Rap Album, Macklemore confides in us the struggle to identify the voice he has within the hip hop community as a white man, a theme that starts from the opening song Light Tunnels and ends with White Privilege II. As a concept, this would make for the album he needed to prove to the rap community that he is someone worth listening to, but sadly fizzles while meandering through others ideas present on this record.
    Before getting into it too much, let me just say that Ryan Lewis' production is the highlight of this album. To contrast much of the seriousness that Macklemore brings, he balances a warmth that is reminiscent of some of his work off the VS EP, while heavily improving upon the composition seen in the Heist, notably the inclusion of guitars and other strings, using the latter to invoke a cinematic feel at times.
    This album's strength lies in those moments where Macklemore is introspective, on songs such as Growing Up ft. Ed Sheeran, St. Ides, and Kevin ft. Leon Bridges, where he channels the rage left off from Otherside, a song off the VS EP. However, songs such as Let's Eat, and Brad Pitt's Cousin give the listener whiplash as the tone suddenly changes from contemplative on the previous track to "hey don't be too serious!". It's these songs that cheapen the album that I could do without, but it wouldn't be a Macklemore album without these moments.
    The stand out track for me Buckshot, with features from DJ Premier and KRS-One. The beat goes hard from the start, obviously a throwback to old school east coast hip hop. It's this exploration of Macklemore's roots and new sounds that should have been focused on more than anything else.
    Speaking of DJ Premier and KRS-One, this album had some amazing feature artists, from YG to Anderson .Paak, whose album "Malibu" I really enjoyed. And how the heck did he get Idris Elba on a track? Unfortunately, he failed to use the features properly in any song, as each artist trudged through whatever Macklemore wanted to have done. Chance the Rapper, usually the one to have fun, feels stiff in Need to Know, and Anderson .Paak barely gets a verse! What a waste.
    My final thoughts on this album, is that it really was unruly mess. It lacks coherence from track to track, but only by Ryan Lewis' production does it somehow mesh sonically. In truth, this album is not meant for the avid hip hop head, but it doesn't mean it was misguided by any means. What I find remarkable about Macklemore is his ability to draw in listeners and start a conversation. This album is meant for newcomers to the hip hop genre, and this album serves as a gateway to understanding the hip hop community and the struggles that originated this genre of music and its culture. If it makes the audience uncomfortable, Macklemore has done his job, and that's what he does so well.    … Expand
  4. sevo1334
    Feb 28, 2016
    8
    I saw many reviews saying how bad the album is, I disagree with this but then again music is a very opinionated topic, some will like this album and some will not.

    Firstly I would like to point out that this album in nothing like 'The Heist', I felt like there was a perfect balance of funny and ridiculous songs mixed with serious songs like 'A Wake', with their new album I find the same    I saw many reviews saying how bad the album is, I disagree with this but then again music is a very opinionated topic, some will like this album and some will not.

    Firstly I would like to point out that this album in nothing like 'The Heist', I felt like there was a perfect balance of funny and ridiculous songs mixed with serious songs like 'A Wake', with their new album I find the same thing but it doesn't have the same spark as 'The Heist', don't get me wrong I think this album is something great and special, what I really like about Macklemore and Ryan Lewis is that they produce music that's different to the same things we hear on the radio daily and they have done it again with this album.
    Pros:
    - The songs have great lyrics and the beats are great, a joy to listen to especially if you own equipment with powerful bass.
    - As I said the music is unique in my opinion and that comes as a massive pro for me.
    - There are some really good and funny songs in the album, I suggest checking out 'Dance off'.

    Cons:
    - As good as the album is, I don't think that it has the same balance and spark that the previous album did, the previous album had many songs that I enjoyed over a long period of time, songs such as 'Thrift Shop' and 'Castle' but I feel this album does not have that same level in it (if that makes any sense).

    That was the only con I found but unfortunately for me that was a big one as I really enjoyed the style of the previous album which made me give it an 8/10 but this doesn't mean that you shouldn't check it out, I think this album is worth every penny.

    Good Job to Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, some great work went into this album and it totally paid off.    … Expand
  5. Xaviale
    Feb 28, 2016
    9
    Once, you reach success as an artist you gain an ability to do more of what you really want. This album doesn't have an epic epiphany like The Heist although it feels like Macklemore really expanded his horizons with this album.

    It has its upbeat tracks and of course it more somber and serious topic tracks. We don't need another Heist album. I feel like this album was much needed    Once, you reach success as an artist you gain an ability to do more of what you really want. This album doesn't have an epic epiphany like The Heist although it feels like Macklemore really expanded his horizons with this album.

    It has its upbeat tracks and of course it more somber and serious topic tracks.

    We don't need another Heist album. I feel like this album was much needed from Macklemore.    … Expand
  6. hp20047
    Feb 10, 2018
    6
    Honest, and, while the songs and beats themselves are as good as the Heist (with the exception of Growing Up feat. Ed Sheeran, probably my favorite Macklemore song), the honest (and sometimes amusing, like in Let's Eat) lyrics make up for that.
  7. wrognibene
    Feb 26, 2016
    7
    Macklemore and Ryan Lewis' sophomore album together falls short of the fun-factor from "The Heist," but still features plenty of brilliantly scored pieces of poetic justice. Overall, Ryan Lewis shows once again that he can create music that adds to someone's words and not the other way around, and most of the time, Macklemore steps up to the plate.

    Unfortunately, this time around, they    Macklemore and Ryan Lewis' sophomore album together falls short of the fun-factor from "The Heist," but still features plenty of brilliantly scored pieces of poetic justice. Overall, Ryan Lewis shows once again that he can create music that adds to someone's words and not the other way around, and most of the time, Macklemore steps up to the plate.

    Unfortunately, this time around, they don't always hit the mark. The lyrics are more overtly political, and we lose a little of that subtlety that made songs like "Same Love" and "Thin Line" easy to listen to but heavy to think about. There are at least three songs that deal with Macklemore's struggle to understand his place in Hollywood and his frustration with fame and entertainment culture.

    That's not to say it's all as extremely self-aware as "White Privilege II" (an impressive, albeit long-winded piece). Last summer's hit "Downtown" remains just as fun as the first time we heard it, the hilarious "Let's Eat" is both satirical and catchy, and "Growing Up" is a powerfully introspective piece about being a young parent, with excellent backup vocals by Ed Sheeran.

    It won't have as many plays as "The Heist," but "This Unruly Mess I've Made" is definitely worth more than one listen.    … Expand
  8. tlbetz
    Feb 27, 2016
    10
    This is a fantastic album, and I cannot stop listening to Light Tunnels, Dance Off, and Need to Know. Kevin ft. Leon Bridges is an incredibly deep song about addiction and a lot of people will definitely be able relate to it.
  9. fidasek
    Feb 26, 2016
    10
    TUMIM is missing some of the catchiness The Heist offered, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing. This time, whole album is more serious while it remains easy to listen with some parts that will stay in your mind for some time. It kinda reminds me of RAM from Daft Punk with the way TUMIM is built. It also has a lot of variety, features some old school, some modern, some pop-like songs andTUMIM is missing some of the catchiness The Heist offered, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing. This time, whole album is more serious while it remains easy to listen with some parts that will stay in your mind for some time. It kinda reminds me of RAM from Daft Punk with the way TUMIM is built. It also has a lot of variety, features some old school, some modern, some pop-like songs and while some of the songs may seem redundant on their own, it adds that ridiculousness and corniness to whole LP that Macklemore is known for. So if you are looking for some damn funny songs with sweet tones and liked The Heist, you may not like TUMIM. It's not that album that makes you think "wow I like rap and hip hop" as The Heist, and I don't even think it was Macklemore's aim this time. TUMIM to me is an album that is done for his fans and is honest and comes directly from his heart.… Expand
  10. Jonas17
    Feb 27, 2016
    10
    This really is an amazing album. Especially 'Light Tunnels' and 'Let's eat' are very good and funny aswell. The whole album has a catchy sound and contains a lot of humor. But there are also some emotional songs like 'Kevin' and 'White Privilige' . A 9 out of 10 for me
  11. nirvanafreak
    Feb 27, 2016
    7
    Favourite Songs: Downtown, White Privilege II, St. Ides, Buckshot, Let's Eat
    Least Favourite Songs: Brad Pitt's Cousin, Dance Off
    After 4 years of studio album silence, independent rapper Macklemore has finally returned with 'This Unruly Mess I've Made'. When I was listening to it for the 3rd of 4th time I was still trying to figure out how much I enjoyed the overall project. It was    Favourite Songs: Downtown, White Privilege II, St. Ides, Buckshot, Let's Eat
    Least Favourite Songs: Brad Pitt's Cousin, Dance Off
    After 4 years of studio album silence, independent rapper Macklemore has finally returned with 'This Unruly Mess I've Made'. When I was listening to it for the 3rd of 4th time I was still trying to figure out how much I enjoyed the overall project. It was strangely very hard because there's tracks I almost hate (Brad Pitt's Cousin), a lot of tracks that are just ok and a handful of tracks that I love- mostly the singles released beforehand. It's hard to pin point the album into one category because it can go from funk pop to piano balladry but I think uplifting might be the best word for it. It's by no means a fun project, as for every fun song that doesn't take itself too seriously there's a very sad, socially conscious song, although Macklemore does seem to see the light at the end of the tunnel (no pun intended) on the more depressing songs. He's still an average MC but he gets his point across very well and in the final track he almost shoots down any criticisms that might be thrown at the song or album which is probably why it's 8 minutes long. I enjoy some of the novelty songs in the track list but they're too often the records downfall. I love the humour on 'Let's Eat' and his defiant cry of "I LOVE FRIED **** is weirdly very satisfying but the topics in 'Dance Off' have been explored by the duo before and it's production is annoyingly commercial. There's another novelty song 'Brad Pitt's Cousin' which is downright terrible mostly because of the trashy chorus. Overall, this album is a bit of a mess but it has some amazing songs on and I'm still happy for their success as they are still somehow independent artists. Better Than Previous Project?: Yes Try This If You Like: Surf by Donnie Trumpet & The Social Experiment    … Expand
  12. mc_ryn
    Mar 1, 2016
    0
    ARE THEY EVEN RELEVANT ANYMORe................................................................................................................................
  13. Dan_Yew
    Mar 2, 2016
    0
    Awful album. This real Unruly Mess They've Made. One of the worst albums of 2016, Charlie Puth's Nine Track Mind is ahead.............................
  14. cdsmusicchart
    Feb 26, 2016
    5
    Macklemore and Ryan Lewis' 'This Unruly Mess I've Made" falls short of their debut collection 'The Heist', largely due to a lack of wow factor and absence of a strong stand out single. Unlike 'Heist', which soared on the wings of soulful guest vocals and balanced verses, this album is tired. It's bloated and uninspired. Essentially it's a tri-mash between a collection of popular songs,Macklemore and Ryan Lewis' 'This Unruly Mess I've Made" falls short of their debut collection 'The Heist', largely due to a lack of wow factor and absence of a strong stand out single. Unlike 'Heist', which soared on the wings of soulful guest vocals and balanced verses, this album is tired. It's bloated and uninspired. Essentially it's a tri-mash between a collection of popular songs, 'Heist' and a kiddie album lacking in lyrical depth.

    At its soulful and genuine points it impresses, but flounders in its chunky lyricism and overtly political content. A decent effort but ultimately disappointing from a duo that spawned the multi platinum stylings seen on their much more creative debut.    … Expand
  15. Huraxdax
    Feb 27, 2016
    9
    I'm truly impressed with this Record. Right when I played the first song, it captivated me. Not only do I appreciate the smart and thoughtful lyrics, I also think that the usage of less electric-sounding beats and melodies that go more in the direction of classical R&B fits perfectly and makes this Album sonically cohesive.
    The first song, Light Tunnels featuring Mike Slap stood out to me    I'm truly impressed with this Record. Right when I played the first song, it captivated me. Not only do I appreciate the smart and thoughtful lyrics, I also think that the usage of less electric-sounding beats and melodies that go more in the direction of classical R&B fits perfectly and makes this Album sonically cohesive.
    The first song, Light Tunnels featuring Mike Slap stood out to me especially. The idea of sharing the experience of an award ceremony in a song is something I haven't seen yet. And it works well as Macklemore himself seems to have experienced the events he's rapping about.
    Obviously, White Privilege II is already iconic. This 8 minute long masterpiece of a hip hop song about racism and the black-lives-matter movement has so many levels and details and changes inside itself and that makes every second of it worth listening - over and over again.
    But songs like Let's Eat featuring XP show that not everything about the Record is deep and serious. Let's Eat is a positive-sounding tune about not caring about one's weight but instead enjoying life.

    All in all i'm in love with Macklemore's new album and i'm sure it will rise to great success.    … Expand
  16. ronniethaman
    Feb 28, 2016
    7
    Imo, The Heist was a great album. But unfortunately for me, TUMIM doesn't quite live up to what The Heist was. While I do think this is still a good album, it's kept from being a great album by what seems to be 2 of the worst hip hop songs this year so far, Dance Off and Let's Eat, along with some songs that contain some of his worst and corniest lines to date. "I'm so low that my scrotumsImo, The Heist was a great album. But unfortunately for me, TUMIM doesn't quite live up to what The Heist was. While I do think this is still a good album, it's kept from being a great album by what seems to be 2 of the worst hip hop songs this year so far, Dance Off and Let's Eat, along with some songs that contain some of his worst and corniest lines to date. "I'm so low that my scrotums almost dragging up on the concrete." I grab my ankle and pull it up, and do that thing where I move my butt." "What if I actually read an article? Actually had a dialogue?" Macklemore still shows the lyrical skill of a spitter on some tracks, but the album can reach extreme levels of corny, and it also comes off as a bit preachy like the songs Need To Know and parts of Light Tunnel's which I thought were both of the better songs of the album. His preachiness almost reminding me of Hopsin a bit. (Who I am not a fan of at all...) The album's higher points are really the more exciting tracks like Light Tunnel's, Downtown, Brad Pitt's Cousin, Buckshot, and even Kevin which touches on the over-prescription of drugs in America and his friend Kevin who died from being a drug addict, as well as macklemore who was an addict himself and has such a soulful chorus from soul singer Leon Bridges. While I do like the album's more introspective parts like need to know which had a fantastic chance the rapper verse and arguably better than his verse on The Life Of Pablo, growing up and st. ides, ryan lewis just falls short on the instrumental side with these tracks. the heist had some really fantastic tracks on there, them being wing$, and same love, that sounded interesting along with there being a great message. Only Kevin really did that for me on this album. overall this is a good album, but the instrumentals needed improvement, and Macklemore needs to stop with the corniness of his songs.

    Fav Songs: Light Tunnels, Downtown, Brad Pitt's Cousin, Buckshot, Kevin, Need to Know, White Privilege 2.
    Least Fav Songs: Dance Off, Let's Eat, Bolo Tie, The Train    … Expand
  17. tpab
    Feb 26, 2016
    3
    Is time to stop macklemore. People who say he is different are ignorant. His "white privilege" is nine minutes of torture and him trying to be black. His song Downtown obviously was similar to uptown funk by mark ronson. He was a one or two-hit wonder and should have stayed that way.
  18. ericchristt
    Feb 27, 2016
    10
    Not sure how these idiotic critics didn't like this album. Maybe they haven't listened to enough rap? Because this is one the greatest albums this year. You can tell they spent time to produce a album that tells so much about themselves. Every song can be listened to on repeat for hours.
  19. cameronlow
    Feb 26, 2016
    9
    I definitely can appreciate conscious hip hop with great beats (with no drama/PR stunts and NO autotune). The guests on the album compliment macklemore and ryan lewis quite well.
  20. andrefariabr
    May 6, 2016
    0
    "you're elvis, you're miley, you're iggy azalea" really? how dare you to be so HYPOCRATE? talking about equality and now, dissing a dead man and two girls? FOR REAL? MISOGYNY AS HELL.
  21. SchroederRock
    Apr 2, 2016
    6
    Macklemore and Ryan Lewis don't recapture the magic of their big coming out party on The Heist. Instead, This Unruly Mess I've Made is a back-and-forth between catchy raps and meddling melodies that have musical backings that come off unruly and just all-over-the-place - all of which made enjoying this album a bit tougher than I would have expected. "Light Tunnels", "Downtown" and "DanceMacklemore and Ryan Lewis don't recapture the magic of their big coming out party on The Heist. Instead, This Unruly Mess I've Made is a back-and-forth between catchy raps and meddling melodies that have musical backings that come off unruly and just all-over-the-place - all of which made enjoying this album a bit tougher than I would have expected. "Light Tunnels", "Downtown" and "Dance Off" are easy favorites, showcasing the allure that made Macklemore such a big name a couple years back. "Kevin" is an old-school funk/gospel-march cut that carries a lot of cool for how subtle it is. "Growing Up" brings in the big name for the album: Ed Sheeran, and has a lot of that Sam Smith groovy soul vibe. But then there's cuts like "Buckshot" which drone and come off more dreary or boring than anything else. Macklemore and Ryan Lewis are more interested at times at forcing a message across in such serious tones when their best talents shine bright when the mood is more fun and witty. See "White Privilege", a big political-correctness gut-checker that lasts 8 mins, 46 sec. and phases through a few different song styles. That's not to say it isn't likable, but this pair is pretty bent on making big statements even if those statements have a place in the music. They don't always translate to meaningful songs like this duo did with "Same Love". Some people will still find a lot to love on This Unruly Mess I've Made, but others like myself will probably find a little more disconnect with the album. There's not as much immediacy to its likability, not as much of the big flash that gets backed with iron-clad writing and production. If The Heist would have been Macklemore & Ryan Lewis' debut, this would have been their sophomore slump. The good news is that this isn't actually a slump, just a less-impressive showing from an artists that prides himself in having something to say, having a love for his local scene and keeping things mostly independent from the big music labels.… Expand
  22. heisenbergsfan
    Aug 24, 2016
    0
    I cannot stand Macklemore. His first album was fine just because some of its singles were catchy and charming. That is completely missing here and all we get are some bland and forgettable "rap" tracks.
  23. Cypher_ATL
    Mar 4, 2016
    6
    This album as a whole sums up to one word for me: average. This is an average album, nothing terrible, nothing amazing, but it’s definitely a middle of the road project. I was very interested with how Macklemore was going to approach up to this project as, especially after the release of White Privilege II, but what I got was what I expected which was a decent album. I don’t really askThis album as a whole sums up to one word for me: average. This is an average album, nothing terrible, nothing amazing, but it’s definitely a middle of the road project. I was very interested with how Macklemore was going to approach up to this project as, especially after the release of White Privilege II, but what I got was what I expected which was a decent album. I don’t really ask much of Mack, but I am definitely pleased with Ryan Lewis’ production on this project. My favorite songs on the album are Need to Know, Buckshot, and Bolo Tie, I thought those three hit very hard compared to the others, and in my eyes were standout tracks. The three lackluster songs on this album on the other hand in my opinion were Let’s Eat, Brad Pitt’s Cousin, and Dance Off. Although I enjoyed listening to Dance Off, I feel that the song is just completely pointless and has no value compared to the rest of the album.… Expand
  24. swagkonyjohnson
    Mar 15, 2016
    5
    Macklemore and Ryan Lewis' 2nd album, This Unruly Mess I've Made, a follow up to their 2012 album The Heist, is a valiant attempt at consciousness and humor, but unfortunately, it's also an extremely corny one.
  25. LADYGAGAGreece
    Feb 29, 2016
    10
    When I first listened to "The Heist" it instantly became one of my favorite albums and I could never imagine that this killer duo would make a better record to be honest. I just have to say "This Unruly Mess I've Made" proved me so so so wrong!
  26. OurEntity
    Mar 28, 2016
    2
    Gotta be honest this album was a disappointment. Love the meanings in this songs it's the execution that lacks. He's just talking over the beat. Besides Downtown the only song I enjoyed was Dance Off
  27. allineed
    Mar 19, 2016
    8
    It's a good album, not as good as "The Heist", but it is still good. In these last years, rap has become more and more commercial, even many rap songs have pop features so it is noteworthy Macklemore & Ryan Lewis don't need that to make a good rap song. I really like the indie-rap touch and some topics of this album. There are funny songs and serious/mature songs.
    Definitely, my favorites    It's a good album, not as good as "The Heist", but it is still good. In these last years, rap has become more and more commercial, even many rap songs have pop features so it is noteworthy Macklemore & Ryan Lewis don't need that to make a good rap song. I really like the indie-rap touch and some topics of this album. There are funny songs and serious/mature songs.
    Definitely, my favorites are "Growing Up", "Light Tunnels", "The Train", "White Privilege II", "Dance Off", "Kevin" and "Spoons"; and my least favorite song is "Let's Eat".

    Stop hating and enjoy the music!    … Expand
  28. Khazak
    Feb 26, 2016
    9
    Modern and Forward Thinking, TUMIM really pulls off something incredible, its slightly sloppy, naive or childish in some parts but just as to be expected by a Macklemore album. But the true appeal and greatness of this album is its grasp on current affairs and its dedication to tackling serious social problems. Macklemore and Ryan Lewis join the leagues of other hip hop and rap artistModern and Forward Thinking, TUMIM really pulls off something incredible, its slightly sloppy, naive or childish in some parts but just as to be expected by a Macklemore album. But the true appeal and greatness of this album is its grasp on current affairs and its dedication to tackling serious social problems. Macklemore and Ryan Lewis join the leagues of other hip hop and rap artist which have also tried to tackle such events, but with their own touch. Ryan Lewis yet again delivers smashing and powerful beats and rhythms which are just beautiful. Truley a very well crafted album, and definitely worth the wait.… Expand
  29. erreelesiete
    Mar 3, 2016
    9
    A surprinsingly diverse album that shows the duo's search for finding new sounds and themes. A truly worthy album of your time and attentions. Tracks like Light Tunnels, Downtown, Dance Off and of course White Privilege II are must hears.
  30. TyrionLannister
    Mar 8, 2016
    8
    i love macklemore, this is a good album great songs very nice lyrics..........................................................................................
  31. Xtiangunther
    Sep 14, 2016
    10
    People will look back and realize how much they missed on this. This is a GREAT album. As a fellow Seattleite, I can tell you, Macklemore and Ryan have zero interest in pretending they are something they are not. They are Seattleites. We are earnest, relatively well-educated idealists here. The REAL pretension is those who cast negative reviews on ANY artist with anything constructive toPeople will look back and realize how much they missed on this. This is a GREAT album. As a fellow Seattleite, I can tell you, Macklemore and Ryan have zero interest in pretending they are something they are not. They are Seattleites. We are earnest, relatively well-educated idealists here. The REAL pretension is those who cast negative reviews on ANY artist with anything constructive to say, unless it is cloaked in malaise (U2 is another example that critics love to hate). As a fellow musician, I can tell you, almost no critic could even dream of creating an album of such depth and breadth, honesty and talent as is contained here. The choirs, the arrangements, the global spice from the US South, the Middle East, MoTown, England, etc. are epic. The lyrics are fresh and deep. Yes, he sings "I want to be Hugh Jackman/ you know jacked, man”. Had snoop sung it, it'd be declared 'genius', only underscoring Macklemore's points about bigoted double-standards and hypocrisy. Hipster rubbish rags such as "TinyMixTapes" (gee, talk about pretentious) declaring the music 'not good' only prove they are unworthy of anyone's attention. This Album sores with great variety and intelligence. "Downtown" is perfect pop-genius, glorifying the moped (SO Seattle!!!) where motorcycle's usually are referenced. "St. Ides, with its twangy guitar lick loop, laments Seattle's condo-ification and rapid rise that threatens all the emerald City means to so many. I could go on and on, Black Lives matter reflections, Michael Jackson tinged dance raps, raging against unbridled Capitalism's destruction, the absurdity of fame and Grammy-award posturing -this is amongst the best thinking-person's hip hop, set to GREAT MUSIC.… Expand
  32. deguz6
    Sep 17, 2016
    10
    Great album. Great content. Love the song Kevin. Please keep doing your thing Macklemore. I made this account just to give you a positive review. I listened to both albums back to back many times, great, inspirational albums. I'm really tired of rappers with drug, money, and violence themes gathering so much praise, makes no sense. Lyrically and creativity wise, not many are on thisGreat album. Great content. Love the song Kevin. Please keep doing your thing Macklemore. I made this account just to give you a positive review. I listened to both albums back to back many times, great, inspirational albums. I'm really tired of rappers with drug, money, and violence themes gathering so much praise, makes no sense. Lyrically and creativity wise, not many are on this your... tiramisu… Expand
  33. arascic
    Feb 18, 2017
    7
    It's a nice album overall. It deals with interesting and relevant topics like the music industry and the hypocrisy of the Grammy's. It talks about drug abuse especially prescription based ones (Xanax for anxiety, Adderall for focus and Ambien for sleep, as Mack put it himself), he talks about obesity and the culture of food porn in America, then he shuts some hater mouths together with YGIt's a nice album overall. It deals with interesting and relevant topics like the music industry and the hypocrisy of the Grammy's. It talks about drug abuse especially prescription based ones (Xanax for anxiety, Adderall for focus and Ambien for sleep, as Mack put it himself), he talks about obesity and the culture of food porn in America, then he shuts some hater mouths together with YG in order to wrap things up talking about racial issues on White Privilege II. However, though the themes are very important and relevant I feel that Macklemore should have approached majority of them in a more thoughtful manner, because when listening I feel like he's really just scratching the surface and doesn't really go any deeper than the rest of us in our thinking. I did compare this to Lamar's TPAB since you can call both of these records as "conscious" and I admire Kendrick's style of addressing important issues much more than Macklemore because Kendrick is careful in picking the topics, and then gives it a lot of lot of thought, creates an amazing concept, and then executes the concept both lyrically and sonically in a flawless manner. Hell, even J Cole did one track where he addressed some politics in a more thoughtful way than Mack. I'm not trying to diss Mack, but If he wants to make these types of records and not just chug out pop hits, IMHO he will need to do a lot of homework studying those that did it before him. Anyways, I do recommend you give this album a listen through.… Expand

Awards & Rankings

39
#39 Most Discussed Album of 2016
65
#65 Most Shared Album of 2016

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
59

Mixed or average reviews - based on 17 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 17
  2. Mixed: 10 out of 17
  3. Negative: 1 out of 17
  1. PopMatters
    Mar 24, 2016
    50
    Though This Unruly Mess I’ve Made is decent, its biggest failing lies in its quality control. For every good song, there are two mediocre and/or forgettable ones next to them.
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  2. Pretty Much Amazing
    Mar 18, 2016
    50
    “Kevin” and “White Privilege II”, obvious attempts to spark political discourse, see an artist not afraid to speak his mind. It makes meme-chasing moments like “Brad Pitt’s Cousin” and “Dance-Off” all the more forgettable.
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  3. RapReviews.com
    Mar 15, 2016
    75
    Despite some lyrical flaws here and there, it still shines.
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