Untrue
by Burial
  • Record Label: Hyperdub
  • Release Date: Nov 6, 2007
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 472 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 368 out of 472
  2. Mixed: 47 out of 472
  3. Negative: 57 out of 472

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  1. GalenM.
    Jan 15, 2008
    1
    Honestly, I'm so glad to see apparently lots of other people commenting on this that share my same opinion -- this is probably THE overrated "schlop" of the year. Atmospherics may sound kinda cool but they come across flat and just plain dumb when paired with the almost-unlistenable vocal bits. I mean, c'mon, it's so processed and annoying. The beats is what really gets me. Honestly, I'm so glad to see apparently lots of other people commenting on this that share my same opinion -- this is probably THE overrated "schlop" of the year. Atmospherics may sound kinda cool but they come across flat and just plain dumb when paired with the almost-unlistenable vocal bits. I mean, c'mon, it's so processed and annoying. The beats is what really gets me. For one, this is really NOT an album you could dance to and secondly, most important, the beats are almost ALL the same. Seriously, go through the tracks and listen to them and you won't be able to deny. Bad, bad, bad. Ugh. Why the hype? You frickin' got me, that's one thing for sure.… Expand
  2. DanM.
    Jan 15, 2008
    9
    An amazing album. The kind that you can completely get lost in. The only reason I didn't give it a 10 is that I generally don't listen to this type of music and I probably fail to grasp some of the nuances. The simple fact is that it is inexplicable and infectiously beautiful.
  3. OkKo
    Jan 15, 2008
    9
    I think all the posts below mine are made by the same guy just because there can't be so many negative reviews in the row. As for me, I really like this album and it made my top 10 of 2007. It's dark, but in a good way and it's wonderfully mysterious and interesting. The vocal hooks used in the songs are just blissful.
  4. HajeD.
    Jan 15, 2008
    1
    What a noise, terrible. I listen to more than 1500 groups, with a big variation in style, so I am used to listen to a lot, but this album, no, garbage.
  5. clarkf.
    Jan 13, 2008
    10
    If you are musically literate enough to have an appreciation for dubstep, you will find this release to be among the best albums of the year. If you are not (and this site indicates that you are legion), then you will not appreciate the intricacies of the programming, or the mixing, or the engineering. Indeed, you may find the album dull. In this case, give the album to a sophisticated If you are musically literate enough to have an appreciation for dubstep, you will find this release to be among the best albums of the year. If you are not (and this site indicates that you are legion), then you will not appreciate the intricacies of the programming, or the mixing, or the engineering. Indeed, you may find the album dull. In this case, give the album to a sophisticated friend and wait for the new Spice Girls record.… Expand
  6. JOE
    Jan 12, 2008
    10
    great album!!!!!!!!!! the amount of detail that has been lavished on this record is incredible. Stick your headphones on and enjoy........ like listening to someones best kept secret!
  7. boriz
    Jan 12, 2008
    6
    Yeah, this is one horribly overrated release. Its hardly experimental, every track has an identical feel, theres just not enough variation to keep me into this. Chuck it on when your stoned out of your brain at 3am.
  8. BenH.
    Jan 12, 2008
    9
    It may be too dark for most people and not particularly danceable, but this a landmark album. Like itor not, the future of electronic music is dubstep. This album will not be forgotten!
  9. SlinddeeanaJ.
    Jan 11, 2008
    5
    I guess I shouldn't have rated this album yet, but I tought I need to chime in ahead of time. The reviews have been awlful for album of the year. I just picked it up on Zune Marketplace. I will report back in an hour.
  10. JoseR.
    Jan 10, 2008
    1
    I bought this album and really gave it a chance. I even asked my girlfriend if she heard something I wasn't catching. She had the same reaction I had: "Turn this crap off." What is it with these electronic albums that have the same boring sound over and over getting great reviews. Save your money and time. Get In Rainbows or anything by The Kings Of Leon if you want to hear good music!
  11. Michael
    Jan 10, 2008
    9
    Lots of kids here. Ignore them. Great album.
  12. LuisB.
    Jan 10, 2008
    10
    Honestly have not been able to stop listening to this album. I have forced myself to stop listening to it because I believe its becoming an obsession. Usually it might take a couple listens before I get into an album, this one from my first listen I have not been able to stop. Absolutely haunting.
  13. PlatA.
    Jan 10, 2008
    10
    Dubstup ftw
  14. ScottH.
    Jan 10, 2008
    9
    I can understand why some folks have been bashing this album. They don't get it. They're stuck in a musical rut. An open mind can appreciate the simplicity and unbelievable fluidity to the songs on Untrue. It is one of the most complete albums I've heard. From start to finish this is a great record.
  15. MikeB.
    Jan 10, 2008
    1
    highly over rated and un impressive music
  16. neils.
    Jan 10, 2008
    9
    kind of like endtroducing, timeless and selected ambient works 1 and 2 mashed together, filtered to death and served in a nice tea to someone on a comedown. i like it.
  17. DavidB
    Jan 9, 2008
    9
    I'm surprised by the wildly differing opinions this album is generating. I'd never call it a technical masterpiece, but there is something rushing through the whole album, the way the beatless interludes are timed perfectly between the longer songs, the way the samples are often twisted in a way that suggests someone choking back tears, the way so many emotive synth washes are I'm surprised by the wildly differing opinions this album is generating. I'd never call it a technical masterpiece, but there is something rushing through the whole album, the way the beatless interludes are timed perfectly between the longer songs, the way the samples are often twisted in a way that suggests someone choking back tears, the way so many emotive synth washes are undercut by the echoing sample of spent shells hitting the ground. Burial hit a nerve. Honestly, I don't think this album will necessarily age well, but for 2007 it's gorgeous.… Expand
  18. JimB
    Jan 9, 2008
    6
    My first initial listen to this album (on line) was pretty positive. However, after having purchased it, subsequent listens diminished my first favorable impressions. Now, I DO "like" the album, but it HAS been ridiculously over-rated. I really like it's "dark and isolated urban atmosphere", but it all sounds kind of repetitive after a few listens. The title track is amazing, but the My first initial listen to this album (on line) was pretty positive. However, after having purchased it, subsequent listens diminished my first favorable impressions. Now, I DO "like" the album, but it HAS been ridiculously over-rated. I really like it's "dark and isolated urban atmosphere", but it all sounds kind of repetitive after a few listens. The title track is amazing, but the single, "Archangel" is kind of annoying. So, for me, "Untrue's" inconsistencies were frustrating, because it DOES have some great moments on it.… Expand
  19. RM
    Jan 9, 2008
    9
    There's been three electronica albums in 2007 which have had critical acclaim but an extreme mix of views from users. Now perhaps The Field and Stars Of The Lid were a tad overrated (7 or 8 out of ten material rather than 9 - certaintly not 1 though). But this is one I think they have got spot on, a good old 9. Why? Well I know the rave scene in cities. I think it's very There's been three electronica albums in 2007 which have had critical acclaim but an extreme mix of views from users. Now perhaps The Field and Stars Of The Lid were a tad overrated (7 or 8 out of ten material rather than 9 - certaintly not 1 though). But this is one I think they have got spot on, a good old 9. Why? Well I know the rave scene in cities. I think it's very impressive that an album has managed to combine house music (from the ravescene) with arty IDM/ambient elements, taking the positives from both. Ultimately I find this a very effective, moody-provoking album which takes some getting used to. Pity not everyone can appreciate it - this album has a context which some will get and others won't.… Expand
  20. HexS
    Jan 9, 2008
    0
    Another release for music snobs only. They give bonus points for being obscure and having bad sound quality.
  21. SheaE.
    Jan 9, 2008
    10
    I wish some of you guys could appreciate this album is as much as me. The backlash here is astonishing for such a beautiful album.
  22. PaulM
    Jan 9, 2008
    10
    I guess either you get it or you don't. Absolutely brilliant, hypnotic, otherworldly, beautiful...
  23. JeremyT
    Jan 8, 2008
    9
    To all those low scoring user reviewers of this album who are confusing critical reviews and personal taste... Just because an album gets great reviews doesn't mean you are going to like it. And if you don't like it, that doesn't mean the reviews are wrong. Perhaps it's just a genre or style that you personally don't like or understand. That's why critics get To all those low scoring user reviewers of this album who are confusing critical reviews and personal taste... Just because an album gets great reviews doesn't mean you are going to like it. And if you don't like it, that doesn't mean the reviews are wrong. Perhaps it's just a genre or style that you personally don't like or understand. That's why critics get paid - because they have the experience and knowledge to distinguish between quality and dross even in genres they might not personally like.… Expand
  24. NateB
    Jan 8, 2008
    9
    I don't think this album is meant to be danced to, although someone out there is probably doing it. I also don't think this is really supposed to be an experimental album either. What this album achieves is listenability. Turn it on and it becomes the soundtrack to your drive, your walk, your relaxing evening at home. The music conjures haunting, albeit gloomy, cityscapes alive I don't think this album is meant to be danced to, although someone out there is probably doing it. I also don't think this is really supposed to be an experimental album either. What this album achieves is listenability. Turn it on and it becomes the soundtrack to your drive, your walk, your relaxing evening at home. The music conjures haunting, albeit gloomy, cityscapes alive with sound and emotion. If you aren't into electronic/atmospheric music, then don't waste your time. But, if you are or think you might be, then check out Untrue and see how good it can be.… Expand
  25. ManuelP
    Jan 8, 2008
    10
    great album!
  26. BrandonD
    Jan 8, 2008
    8
    I can understand why people wouldn't like this album, I wasn't too sure of it at first either. After a while, it definitely grew on me. Not exactly the best album of the year, but a great effort nonetheless.
  27. dezv.
    Jan 8, 2008
    8
    Very good album. If you're bored by all that lame guitarpop, folksy pretense and tuneless r&b/hiphop, this is homecoming.
  28. JohnS
    Jan 7, 2008
    9
    After seeing the high scores Dizzee Rascal received, and how much I dislike Dizzee Rascal's music, I was expecting a similar reaction to Burial, especially after the harsh criticism dished on it by other users. But lo and behold, I actually agree with the critics for once, this is a quality album. Not for everyone of course, but for anyone that's been out all night, and has After seeing the high scores Dizzee Rascal received, and how much I dislike Dizzee Rascal's music, I was expecting a similar reaction to Burial, especially after the harsh criticism dished on it by other users. But lo and behold, I actually agree with the critics for once, this is a quality album. Not for everyone of course, but for anyone that's been out all night, and has found themselves still up in the morning listening to music, this is your soundtrack. In some ways it actually reminds me of Goldie, but much more streamlined and modest than Goldie ever was. This is just a lo-fi dark little masterpiece.… Expand
  29. AdamB
    Jan 7, 2008
    4
    I just don't understand the hype - there is nothing original or 'beautiful' about it. It's dull, end of story.
  30. KalebS
    Jan 7, 2008
    5
    If you're looking for a relaxation CD, you've just found one. If you're looking for interesting, inspired dubstep, look elsewhere, because Untrue is monotonous, dull and repetitive. Quite possibly the most overrated album of the year.
  31. MikeG
    Jan 6, 2008
    1
    Horrible album, cannot dance to it nor can be enjoyed as experimental. If you want dance listen to LCD soundsystem and daft punk. If you want experiment listen to panda bear or Black Moth Super Rainbow. I don't understand why people like this album.
  32. petes
    Jan 4, 2008
    4
    It is overrated completely. it is boring and oldfashioned..just good for dancing..i a certain way it feels melancholic
  33. markp.
    Jan 4, 2008
    2
    Hell, really, come on guys pretty dull methinks (a polite term for having one's head stuck up one's backside for 70 minutes)
  34. TedQ.
    Jan 3, 2008
    1
    Best album of the year? What a crock. I've listened to it, I honestly have. It's pretentious and dull as I expected. There is no artistic value I could find in sparse sound scapes.Don't buy the hype.
  35. gnomars.
    Jan 3, 2008
    5
    Remember "trip-hop"? Nothing really new here that wasn't done 10 years ago. I just can't listen to this stuff anymore...boring.
  36. HaterH
    Jan 2, 2008
    4
    This may be the greatest dubstep album of all time.
  37. m-dubber
    Jan 2, 2008
    0
    That people actually like this crap says alot about how unbelievably stupid the human species is. This "album" if you want to call it that, is just a bunch of computer noises thrown together on a CD. It just disgusts me that I am part of the same species that actually like this abomination.
  38. JimD.
    Jan 2, 2008
    5
    way overrated, metacritics rating system is bollocks to be honest.
  39. AaronM
    Jan 1, 2008
    9
    Beautiful. Filled with all the dirt, grime, and grim lovelorn beauty of back alley London. Speaks wonders about city life away from the rich and famous.
  40. ThomasK
    Dec 31, 2007
    3
    Not very good. Almost every song sounds the same. Moody atmospherics, a decent beat, and a sample of someone singing the same phrase over and over again. That just about sums up every track on the album. How this crap could beat out Panda Bear, Battles, Radiohead, or even The Field for highest rated album of the year is beyond me.
  41. MichaelH.
    Dec 31, 2007
    2
    People who are tempted to buy this based on the reviews here: Imagine yourself walking into a trendy clothing store for 18-24 year olds. A store where people say "like" a lot, and always have their faces pressed up against cellphones. This is the soundtrack that's playing over the stereo. The same trendy drum riff repeated for an hour. Bland and inoffensive, but with all the People who are tempted to buy this based on the reviews here: Imagine yourself walking into a trendy clothing store for 18-24 year olds. A store where people say "like" a lot, and always have their faces pressed up against cellphones. This is the soundtrack that's playing over the stereo. The same trendy drum riff repeated for an hour. Bland and inoffensive, but with all the trappings of 'cool' and 'edgy'! It's modern elevator music, just what you want to listen to at home.… Expand
  42. ManuelP
    Dec 24, 2007
    10
    great album!
  43. DoctorR
    Dec 18, 2007
    1
    This is a terrible album, it might as well have the first track on repeat for the whole thing. It annoys me how this can be rated so well, maybe i don't understand dub-step enough. Then again I don't have to understand linkin park to know that their music is terrible too.
  44. ElliotK
    Dec 18, 2007
    0
    UGH... my god this album is by far the most overrated album of the year... along with field, and MIA... really disappointing its getting all this undeserved recognition.
  45. ButtMan
    Dec 18, 2007
    10
    Album of the year easily. this shit is amazing and original and endlessly listenable. The production is phenomenal, tweaky brilliance, solid atmosphere, unf.ckwithable!!!!! burial is genius, no doubt. A+, five stars, 10.0, flawless victory!
  46. TomH.
    Dec 18, 2007
    10
    Possibly the best album of 2007 for me, better than his debut, namely because it has homeless on which is a brilliant song.
  47. JimT.
    Dec 18, 2007
    6
    The album is decent but not great. Its something that DJ Shadow, Massive Attack, Unkle, etc have all done better.
  48. MikeC.
    Dec 18, 2007
    10
    Best album of the year - get some head phones on and turn it up!
  49. JohnJ.
    Dec 18, 2007
    10
    Best album of the year!
  50. TylerF.
    Dec 17, 2007
    8
    So Pitchfork, Popmatters, and BBC aren't good enough for you?
  51. Alans
    Dec 17, 2007
    1
    This is the highest rated album on metacritic? Music sure has fallen under hard times if Burial's Untrue 'masterpiece' is the best album of the year. It does make a good lullabye for babies in need of sleep, however.
  52. GilC.
    Dec 17, 2007
    9
    This is a good album, very innovative, great rhythms and a very good concept, sounds like UNKLE to me on some parts, the only thing I have to complain in that all songs begin with the same voice-pitched-echoed pattern, listen to it very closely and you'll know what I mean. Giving it the title of album of the year is exaggerated.
  53. SteveC.
    Dec 16, 2007
    5
    Nothing overly exciting, ok in parts, not ok in other parts, here is fence, me sit.
  54. ZachW.
    Dec 16, 2007
    5
    I simply don't get it I guess.
  55. AnonymousCoward
    Dec 16, 2007
    9
    Let's get a couple of things straight here: First, anyone claiming they can make music as beautiful as this on their laptop is a troll, plain and simple, because they obviously cannot or we would already be aware of them. Second, this album is for electronic fans -- more specifically, those with very particular, even peculiar tastes. This album will by no means be the best for Let's get a couple of things straight here: First, anyone claiming they can make music as beautiful as this on their laptop is a troll, plain and simple, because they obviously cannot or we would already be aware of them. Second, this album is for electronic fans -- more specifically, those with very particular, even peculiar tastes. This album will by no means be the best for EVERYONE, but the fact that it is the best for ANYONE means its ranking is justified, if not deserved. Metacritic's ranking system isn't necessarily about making judgments of who had the best album of the year, as that is a question is wholly unanswerable by any crowd of individuals with vastly differing tastes. Metacritic merely ranks them based on the reviews they've received, and most every fan of this genre has proclaimed it to be positively stellar. And to be honest, I am glad it was at the top, because I have been thankful ever since for being exposed to Burial. As for the album itself, I personally find it to be fantastic, although by no means revolutionary.… Expand
  56. RyanL
    Dec 14, 2007
    10
    I think those that are panning this album are just not comfortable with the format of the music. Maybe I'm wrong, and they are all just dubstep purists, but I doubt it. It is nice to see something a little more unconventional like this cross over into popular consciousness. That being said, this album is gorgeous, definitely more euphoric than his previous one. Archangel is so I think those that are panning this album are just not comfortable with the format of the music. Maybe I'm wrong, and they are all just dubstep purists, but I doubt it. It is nice to see something a little more unconventional like this cross over into popular consciousness. That being said, this album is gorgeous, definitely more euphoric than his previous one. Archangel is so emotional, track of the year, I think.… Expand
  57. AlanR.
    Dec 14, 2007
    10
    Hmmm.... 13 reviews and its still 91. Looks like good taste is contagious. Don't let the prudes dull your appreciation for subtle music.
  58. Ree
    Dec 14, 2007
    9
    Hauntingly emo and beautiful, but I'm still on the fence as to whether this is merely clever, or a true advancement in the sub-genre. Burial is almost there. I think album #3 will (hopefully) answer this question. Burial is almost there. I just cannot figure out exactly where there will be.
  59. ToddW.
    Dec 13, 2007
    7
    This is a great album, deserving of the praise it's been getting. However, it's not the best of 2007; it's not even in the Top 10. That designation belongs to the following: Deerhoof - 'Friend Opportunity;' Panda Bear - 'Person Pitch;' Liars - 'Liars;' Animal Collective - 'Strawberry Jam;' White Stripes - 'Icky Thump;' This is a great album, deserving of the praise it's been getting. However, it's not the best of 2007; it's not even in the Top 10. That designation belongs to the following: Deerhoof - 'Friend Opportunity;' Panda Bear - 'Person Pitch;' Liars - 'Liars;' Animal Collective - 'Strawberry Jam;' White Stripes - 'Icky Thump;' Justice - 'Cross;' Radiohead - 'In Rainbows;' Bruce Springsteen - 'Magic;' LCD Soundsystem - 'Sound of Silver,' and the best album of 2007, The National - 'Boxer.' 'Boxer' was a grower. I'll admit to not particularly caring for it at first. However, as of today I realize it's light years ahead of everything else made this year.… Expand
  60. AntonyH.
    Dec 13, 2007
    10
    Odd comments on here about the reviews. It has top marks from the Guardian and The Observer two national broadsheet newspapers in the UK and Pitchfork so thats hardly just fanzines now is it! Also who cares where the reviews come from, it someone has an opinion about it what makes it less valid than say Rolling Stone or the NME? If people are passionate enough to write reviews then its a Odd comments on here about the reviews. It has top marks from the Guardian and The Observer two national broadsheet newspapers in the UK and Pitchfork so thats hardly just fanzines now is it! Also who cares where the reviews come from, it someone has an opinion about it what makes it less valid than say Rolling Stone or the NME? If people are passionate enough to write reviews then its a record that inspires passion. Don't like it. Get off your arse and go and pen a negative review to provide so balance. Stop moaning from the side lines. Its a top record and gets better which each listen, headphones a must.… Expand
  61. PerspicaciousCritic
    Dec 12, 2007
    8
    I agree with Paul C, who gave this album a respectable 7 out of 10. I listened to every track on Burial, then listened to it again to see if I was missing anything that merited a perfect 10 score. And although I can see why critics would fall out of their chair over the filmic soundscape, the album sounds samey throughout and for me can only be tolerated after a couple listens. And while I agree with Paul C, who gave this album a respectable 7 out of 10. I listened to every track on Burial, then listened to it again to see if I was missing anything that merited a perfect 10 score. And although I can see why critics would fall out of their chair over the filmic soundscape, the album sounds samey throughout and for me can only be tolerated after a couple listens. And while I don't disagree with most of the professional reviews, and while every track is thought out and noodled over, and while there are no fillers on this album, Burial is missing that emotive magic, making it an 8 out of 10 at best. In the electronic / alternative / indie genre, Radiohead's In Rainbows wins top honours this year.… Expand
  62. TomJ.
    Dec 11, 2007
    2
    The only reason this is ranked so high is that, if you look, very few serious media journals even bothered to review it. The whole album sounds like a Korg sampler demo, with even less honest emotion. Crap Sandwich!
  63. TequilaD.
    Dec 11, 2007
    2
    Dark sounds dun make good Albums. Same beats all the time never mind.
  64. PaulC
    Dec 11, 2007
    7
    This is a good album, and certainly much better than The Field, but to have this ranking as the best album of the year is mental. Unlike The Field, this album is definitely something fun to listen to, and each listen The Burial grow on you. However, what kind of world do we live in where this kind of music could possibly be the best album of the year? There's nothing here. There are This is a good album, and certainly much better than The Field, but to have this ranking as the best album of the year is mental. Unlike The Field, this album is definitely something fun to listen to, and each listen The Burial grow on you. However, what kind of world do we live in where this kind of music could possibly be the best album of the year? There's nothing here. There are definitely groups out there putting out better albums than this--Radiohead, Arcade Fire, and The National to name three.… Expand
  65. MrL
    Dec 11, 2007
    8
    Chris B....if you can do as well as Burial, I suggest you do it.
  66. JoeH.
    Dec 11, 2007
    10
    The amazing thing about this record is that while it sounds like nothing I've heard before, it always feels like home. Somehow, without any real lyrics to speak of, Burial's music seems to evoke countless narratives. At times heartbreaking; at others full of hope. Archangel is easily one of the best tracks of the year.
  67. LennyR
    Dec 10, 2007
    10
    If you have any appreciation for electronic music, this is your Physical Graffiti or Highway 61 Revisted. Those of you who are not understanding what's great about it are certainly entitled to your opinion, but anyone with any familiarity with Garage, Dub, Dubstep, or even post-Mezzanine Trip-Hop will be able to understand how perfect this album is.
  68. Bss
    Dec 10, 2007
    10
    Best album of the year, hands down. Forget that the drum tracks get somewhat repetitive, music is all about creating patterns for crying out loud. This is a late-night album - listen to it when you are alone in the dark. Only then can the mood that it captures so perfectly strike you the deepest. People feel threatened by this kind of creativity; it's new (and NO, Future Sound of Best album of the year, hands down. Forget that the drum tracks get somewhat repetitive, music is all about creating patterns for crying out loud. This is a late-night album - listen to it when you are alone in the dark. Only then can the mood that it captures so perfectly strike you the deepest. People feel threatened by this kind of creativity; it's new (and NO, Future Sound of London does not sound like this!), and it sounds a bit strange at first. It grew on me quickly, as it will to anyone willing to give it a chance.… Expand
  69. MikeH
    Dec 10, 2007
    0
    Sorry, I cannot listen to this - AT ALL!
  70. blak000K
    Dec 10, 2007
    8
    A solid electronica album. There are 2-3 tracks that I simply can't get enough of. If you're into more upbeat, progressive beats, then this is not for you -- it has a more relaxed tone to it. "Untrue" is something you listen to on a lazy afternoon or while cruising the road at night.
  71. AndrewH
    Dec 9, 2007
    9
    It's impossible to hear it's genious on first listen.
  72. RickW
    Dec 9, 2007
    9
    Near perfect. A groundbreaking album. This just gets better with every listen. It may not be for everyone! Why do the muppets who don't like 'repetitive beats' or 'synthesisers' buy dance music??!!!
  73. EricM.
    Dec 8, 2007
    8
    "Entroducing" fans heed! Same sound different perspective!
  74. AlexO
    Dec 8, 2007
    9
    Hey chris b apparently you cant make nice sounds on your laptop because you don't have a 91 rated album. I'm not a big fan of electronica but somehow this album seems to me a wonderful masterpiece. It's less about the beats than the interesting sonic textures presented to us.
  75. KevinS
    Dec 8, 2007
    8
    Actually, reviewers can rate an album at whatever they want to, and why? Because they can. Because they are music reviewers for publications, and you're not. And considering this is actually a far above average album that manages to capture and reimagine dubstep in some intriguing and incredibly engaging ways.
  76. k-whale
    Dec 7, 2007
    10
    I'm in agreement with the critics thus far: Album of the year. Stunning.
  77. DevinG
    Dec 7, 2007
    5
    I really don't get all the hype, not only for this album, but for numerous "electonic" albums this year. What am I missing?
  78. hansenp.
    Dec 7, 2007
    8
    Nirv... justice and lcd soundsystem should never be used as superiors to anyone. i know that all of the indie-tight-panted kids are into them for tnow, but in 10 years time, i guarantee they will hardly be remembered outside of the same kids. to some people lcd is just a sad knock on post punk funk that was developed by certain ratio in the 80s, and justice is a novelty actfor folks who Nirv... justice and lcd soundsystem should never be used as superiors to anyone. i know that all of the indie-tight-panted kids are into them for tnow, but in 10 years time, i guarantee they will hardly be remembered outside of the same kids. to some people lcd is just a sad knock on post punk funk that was developed by certain ratio in the 80s, and justice is a novelty actfor folks who were too young to really get into daft punk the first time around. burial will exist beyond the hip time line because it appeals to more than the just that factor. and just so all of you are aware, radiohead likes, and possibly loves this record. seeing is how you are all so firmly planted up yorke's backside, i am sure this will more than likely alter your opinions immediately. burial is not any more hyped than any of the crap that is equally, or to a greater degree, hyped that has been brought up as superior by any negative posters below. Get a grip.… Expand
  79. RodM.
    Dec 6, 2007
    10
    fantastic!
  80. LanceT.
    Dec 6, 2007
    10
    This album is spooky and beautiful at the same time. You can listen to it while you are trying to relax or when you want to have a pick me up. It's quite wonderful.
  81. JoaoD.
    Dec 6, 2007
    6
    This album is just nice to listen, but that's all. I can't find a single piece of genius in this album that exceeds electronic music standards.
  82. ChrisB.
    Dec 6, 2007
    2
    I can make nice sounds with my laptop and a synthesizer as well. This is some serious trash. What is wrong with you people who rated this so high? Its almost unlistenable.
  83. huh
    Dec 6, 2007
    1
    I love songs that all have the same beat!!! Pump and Dump for cargo records
  84. AlexR
    Dec 6, 2007
    9
    The album feels deeply personal. Dark and brooding, behind driving percussion (or not) and equally dark and brooding beats, this is one of the great records of 2007. Also, Radiohead is way more art rock than electronica any day.
  85. 100100100100
    Dec 6, 2007
    8
    I wish certain critics would stop throwing 100 scores around.
  86. Morheilio
    Dec 6, 2007
    9
    It takes a few listens, but soon reveals itself as a brilliant album.
  87. Nirv
    Dec 6, 2007
    4
    This is the type of album you put on for your Asian girlfriend so she can get to sleep quicker. That's all it is. You don't seriously listen to this stuff because it's no LCD Soundsystem, it's no Justice, and it's no, and as much as I dislike them, Radiohead.
  88. EthanB.
    Dec 6, 2007
    6
    Its a little repetitive.
  89. DavidA
    Dec 6, 2007
    10
    A fantastic record. Max M, you are out of your mind.
  90. BenJ.
    Dec 6, 2007
    2
    Dreary, and so inoffensive it might as well be used now to soundtrack a whole series of adverts.
  91. MR
    Dec 6, 2007
    9
    like massive attack in the 90s, this is the voice of urban britain a decade later
  92. JA
    Dec 5, 2007
    10
    "Untrue" sounds more real and true than all the other music I've bought this year. It's got me hooked.
  93. [Anonymous]
    Dec 5, 2007
    10
    I knew Burial would do better than his first album, but I wasn't expecting something this great. Nothing is better than listening to this album late at night driving in the city. Truly beautiful soundscapes with hypnotic beats.
  94. RogerS.
    Dec 5, 2007
    9
    There is something going on these days. I think the Avalanches started this new sound. The rave DJ's are being replaced by bands. LCD Soundsystem, The Field, Simian Mobile Disco, Daft Punk, The Battles and now Burial. This CD is new music in a boring Bruce, Britney, REM, or Celion Dion world. It's like Enigma but going into winter 2007/2008 it's peaceful. No more war music There is something going on these days. I think the Avalanches started this new sound. The rave DJ's are being replaced by bands. LCD Soundsystem, The Field, Simian Mobile Disco, Daft Punk, The Battles and now Burial. This CD is new music in a boring Bruce, Britney, REM, or Celion Dion world. It's like Enigma but going into winter 2007/2008 it's peaceful. No more war music from rap. Check out "Archangel", it just might be a hit...ah shit they don't even swear. Music is evolving into a kind of Brian ENO/Kraftwerk thing. The lyrics are minimal and the message is upbeat. Even if it is, "Good to be alone". I found myself in this new phenomenon and the kids are rebelling against the punk, metal, rap, pop and what ever has come before. This is fresh but started years back. This will be playing in a coffee house somewhere right now. Something to create dreams for a new generation. "In McDonalds" was so simple. "Untrue" sounds like another hit formula but relaxing chill out beats. Never get's up uptight to lie....untrue. The way I feel inside because your lie? The way way I feel inside in a song. If you like music you'll like this one. I guess the only complaint is it sounds like Retro-1997. The rave scene is over but there is something about an unknown DJ that makes music. Weren't Kiss unknown musicians hidden behind masks before they made it? I'm listening to "Raver" track 13 with the hiss, pitch, samples over dubs and tempo. Ahhhhh what a stressless CD. It's good fuck music if there ever was.… Expand
  95. ChuChu
    Dec 5, 2007
    9
    Don't listen to the haters. This is a solid album full of atmosphere.
  96. ErdalG.
    Dec 5, 2007
    10
    Well this is my first ever post here and no album in the past several months warrants it more than Untrue. I'm not even a fan of electronic music in general, but the mood of this album along with the selection of vocals combine to form a sound that really must be heard. In other words, this is an album that transcends the genre. Every lover of music should give it a listen and see Well this is my first ever post here and no album in the past several months warrants it more than Untrue. I'm not even a fan of electronic music in general, but the mood of this album along with the selection of vocals combine to form a sound that really must be heard. In other words, this is an album that transcends the genre. Every lover of music should give it a listen and see what they think.… Expand
  97. Josh
    Dec 5, 2007
    0
    The rating system makes little sense. Please consider the fact that more obscure albums like this receive far fewer reviews (11 in this case) and are generally reviewed by sources that already have a bias towards a particular genre of music. Note that for this album you will not see any reviews from major newspapers, etc. On the other hand, Radiohead's latest album received 40 The rating system makes little sense. Please consider the fact that more obscure albums like this receive far fewer reviews (11 in this case) and are generally reviewed by sources that already have a bias towards a particular genre of music. Note that for this album you will not see any reviews from major newspapers, etc. On the other hand, Radiohead's latest album received 40 reviews, including many from large and reputable sources. Despite the fact that it wasn't even one of my top 3 favorite Radiohead albums, I would place a wager that it's better than Burial. Some of you might remember that a similar event happened a few months ago when an album by "The field" appeared at the top of Metacritic's charts. However, upon hearing that album I was extremely disappointed.… Expand
  98. Sarah
    Dec 4, 2007
    10
    I do not always like to see electronica albums topping the best albums list given there are so few of them relative to everything else. But this one really is quite something.
  99. AlexO.
    Dec 4, 2007
    10
    Absolutely amazing album. It's sparse but very beautiful, a truly unique song.
  100. StephenM.
    Dec 4, 2007
    3
    Surely one of the most overestimated electronic releases in many a moon. Future Sound of London were doing this sort of thing with more skill, panache, and conviction over a decade ago. The fawning critical reception over this trifle is just baffling!
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Awards & Rankings

2
#2 Best Album of 2007
6
#6 Most Discussed Album of 2007
22
#22 Most Shared Album of 2007

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
90

Universal acclaim - based on 23 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 22 out of 23
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 23
  3. Negative: 0 out of 23
  1. BBC collective
    80
    Burial has concocted a noir-ish sound that’s as powerful as it is atmospheric.
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  2. Drowned In Sound
    90
    What gives this album more depth is the focus, the rolling symmetry and cinema.
    Read full review
  3. Dusted Magazine
    80
    That emptiness tempts a listener in, and puts you in its place--you, in a sense, step into the record’s point of view. This invitation to intimacy is a powerful move that most club music is simply incapable of.
    Read full review
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