Wasting Light
by Foo Fighters
  • Record Label: RCA
  • Release Date: Apr 12, 2011
User Score
8.8

Universal acclaim- based on 237 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 222 out of 237
  2. Mixed: 10 out of 237
  3. Negative: 5 out of 237
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  1. Ricko
    Dec 21, 2011
    7
    Not a bad album but a bit disappointing considering how much DG hyped it up. With Butch Vig on board expected more. A lot of it is heavy rock by numbers and lacks some of the classic tracks they've had on previous albums.
  2. j30
    Sep 28, 2011
    7
    A nice addition to their already strong collection of songs. Disappointing in the fact that on the cover it says that it's recorded in Dave Grohl's garage. To me, that means the LP is going to have a raw feel like their self-titled debut. White Limo is the closest song to come to that promise. Butch Vig has a knack for over-polishing records (see Nevermind), but none the less a strongA nice addition to their already strong collection of songs. Disappointing in the fact that on the cover it says that it's recorded in Dave Grohl's garage. To me, that means the LP is going to have a raw feel like their self-titled debut. White Limo is the closest song to come to that promise. Butch Vig has a knack for over-polishing records (see Nevermind), but none the less a strong album. Don't get me wrong Nevermind would get a 10 if I were to rate it, but compared to the rest of Nirvana's records, that feels the most polished.… Expand
  3. axelkoch
    Oct 8, 2012
    6
    They have gone too heavy with this album, in my opinion. I liked their songs like 'Wheels', 'Big Me' or 'Long Road To Ruin' better. There is a handful really cool songs (exactly the 5 singles are my top 5 here! I really haven't seen something like this before!) on here and I also have to say, I enjoyed the album, but it's just their worst one yet, I think (even if critics say the directThey have gone too heavy with this album, in my opinion. I liked their songs like 'Wheels', 'Big Me' or 'Long Road To Ruin' better. There is a handful really cool songs (exactly the 5 singles are my top 5 here! I really haven't seen something like this before!) on here and I also have to say, I enjoyed the album, but it's just their worst one yet, I think (even if critics say the direct opposite). It's a good rock CD, but they can do better.… Expand
  4. MusicGuyMack
    Mar 31, 2022
    10
    While their most iconic songs may lie elsewhere in their discography (although there are still plenty of hits to go around here), never have Foo Fighters sounded more consistently anthemic and fist-pumpingly life-affirming than on "Wasting Light," with livewire instrumentation, soaring singalong choruses, and lyrics rooted in themes of redemption, hope for the future and an unabashed loveWhile their most iconic songs may lie elsewhere in their discography (although there are still plenty of hits to go around here), never have Foo Fighters sounded more consistently anthemic and fist-pumpingly life-affirming than on "Wasting Light," with livewire instrumentation, soaring singalong choruses, and lyrics rooted in themes of redemption, hope for the future and an unabashed love for life combining for a listening experience that captures the band at the height of their powers.

    Choice Cuts: "Rope," "Dear Rosemary," "Arlandria," "White Limo," "Walk"

    (RIP Taylor Hawkins, 1972-2022)    … Expand
  5. RonaldOVOXO
    Mar 6, 2012
    9
    I regret doubting Foo fighters. This is there best work in a long time. There bringing back rock ever since hip hop took the food chain. Foo Fighters should of won Album of the Year @ the Grammy's but it didnt. You know i'll be listening to this album for years
  6. geedup
    Jul 1, 2012
    9
    There is a reason why Cobain said Dave Groel one of the most talented muscians he'd known and Foo Fighters is proof of that statement. This album is another quality release from the group in a genre of clutter and crap. I can easily listen to this entire CD from track 1 to the last track and like all of the songs. Favorites include "Rosemary", "Back and Forth" and "Burning Bridges." WouldThere is a reason why Cobain said Dave Groel one of the most talented muscians he'd known and Foo Fighters is proof of that statement. This album is another quality release from the group in a genre of clutter and crap. I can easily listen to this entire CD from track 1 to the last track and like all of the songs. Favorites include "Rosemary", "Back and Forth" and "Burning Bridges." Would love to see them in concert.… Expand
  7. Hackskeptic
    Jun 20, 2011
    9
    There's a point during the Dave Grohl interview on the excellent documentary "Back & Forth" where he reflects on Foo Fighters position in contemporary music with brutal candour. Invited to play at an awards ceremony he said "with all the boy bands, girl bands, dance acts, rappers and solo pop artists here does anybody know who we are, or are we the only "rock" band they know?" Grohl fullyThere's a point during the Dave Grohl interview on the excellent documentary "Back & Forth" where he reflects on Foo Fighters position in contemporary music with brutal candour. Invited to play at an awards ceremony he said "with all the boy bands, girl bands, dance acts, rappers and solo pop artists here does anybody know who we are, or are we the only "rock" band they know?" Grohl fully understands that the dreaded decline of rock music in popular culture has meant that even mainstream acts struggle to maintain commercial impact, and his band is one of a handful that carry the flag for an art form that means nothing to a large proportion of the music buying public. If the daylight is fading for a once dominant genre, then the fighting spirit of the Foo's and their determination to fire an urgent rallying call instead of just "Wasting Light" has resulted in their best recording in years.

    Musically, the album has modest ambitions, trading on the big noise, hard and fast grunge/rock songs that built the foundations for their rise to prominence with the self titled debut and 1997's excellent "The Colour & The Shape". They play to their strengths, and this is aided by the re-introduction of guitarist Pat Smear who plays blasts of rhythm with un-compromising vigour. "Nevermind" producer Butch Vig keeps the arrangements simple, tempering the instrumental sound when Grohl needs to deliver more intense vocals and then increasing the layers to dynamic levels which burst through to some of the most potent choruses of the Foo's career.

    The outstanding opener "Bridge Burning" may carry the signature frenetic rhythms of old, but the chorus carries the flow of QOTSA's "Go With The Flow". "White Limo" may be the most anarchic punk/metal track the band have ever created, but the joy of Grohl's distorted screams and the band's instrumental velocity is that they actually sound half their age, and in turn take the listener with them. "Rope" begins as pretty much standard fayre but as the song develops to the instrumental bridge Taylor Hawkins delivers one of his most skilful performances to highlight the guitar solo that accompanies him. Bob Mould's welcome vocal/guitar return for the melodic rock of "Dear Rosemary" reminds everyone how much Husker Du and Sugar influenced Foo Fighters and many other bands from the era. Both "Arlandria" and "These Days" are perfect examples of how Grohl continues to find a memorable chorus to fit the tempo of the song. It's true to say that after many years he now finds it easier to talk about Kurt Cobain and Nirvana's legacy, and on listening to "I Should Have Known", the inclusion of Krist Novoselic's thudding bass and the reflective lyrics that seem unforgiving for a true talent wasted, there's still a sense of sorrow, guilt and misunderstanding. The closer, "Walk", is as stirring as any of the great stadium anthems the band have recorded, and begs single release.

    As the light begins to fade on the great era of rock music, and we finally succumb to processed rhythms, pro tools, samples, ass shaking and karaoke pop idols, at least Foo Fighters have delivered a late clarion call to remind us that all is not lost, and "Wasting Light" will be remembered as one of their greatest performances. http://hackskeptic.com    … Expand
  8. ricco94
    Mar 9, 2013
    10
    That's for sure the best record by Foo Fighters. And it is also the best album of 2011, with R.E.M.'s Collapse Into Now. The sound is very good and I think Walk is one of their best song ever. Foo Fighters are most of the present of rock. Very well done!
  9. Scraper
    Feb 12, 2012
    3
    Another in a long list of formally phenomenal rock bands that is lightyears past their expiration date. If you're rocking out to this album it's purely because you haven't heard that much music yet or you listen to music as background to your commute. I'd tell you what I think this album lacks, from the glossed-up production that Grohl said was going to be really raw but wasn't to theAnother in a long list of formally phenomenal rock bands that is lightyears past their expiration date. If you're rocking out to this album it's purely because you haven't heard that much music yet or you listen to music as background to your commute. I'd tell you what I think this album lacks, from the glossed-up production that Grohl said was going to be really raw but wasn't to the totally unoriginal everything but I won't get into that. I'll just let you know, from one fan to another fan, this is an album you're embarrassed you liked at one point five or six years down the road because you're not a teenager anymore and your horizons have been broadened.… Expand
  10. Charlyrockstar
    Apr 14, 2014
    10
    The album of the year, a great album Foo Fighters never decepcioned the fans, album of the year 2011, I hope that the next album is good Fighter till the end
  11. LeoDiCaprioFan
    Apr 25, 2016
    10
    OH MY DAYS, this album slapped me hard right on the face and gave me a bare mark on my face. This album is a head banging, rocking awesome album I've ever heard in my life. I don't even know what to say anymore, This album is just great. I think you should buy this essentially, it's really up to you.
  12. TastyJamProject
    Apr 12, 2011
    10
    "Wasting Light" is an amazing album, and solidifies the Foo Fighters as rock gods. The full out, balls-to-the-wall scale of the album is at once ferocious and also open hearted; we can hear Dave sing his heart out on "I Should Have Known" and have our face pummelled by "White Limo" in the same listen. Although "Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace" is and always will be my favourite Foos"Wasting Light" is an amazing album, and solidifies the Foo Fighters as rock gods. The full out, balls-to-the-wall scale of the album is at once ferocious and also open hearted; we can hear Dave sing his heart out on "I Should Have Known" and have our face pummelled by "White Limo" in the same listen. Although "Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace" is and always will be my favourite Foos album, Wasting Light is a very, very close second, and with its focused sound blows the equally epic "Colour and the Shape" away. Overall, an amazing album from a maturing mammoth that deserves a listen. Oh, and the analog recording does make a difference. The music sounds ALIVE.… Expand
  13. TheGorilla
    May 14, 2011
    10
    I was so enjoying this album. i didn't skip any track cause, every single one is awesome. I'm a fan of Foo Fighters since their In Your Honor album, sadly, but i think that they're better than ever. A must buy album. If you're a huge fan of rock, than this is it.
  14. Kernzzi
    Apr 21, 2011
    10
    rarely have i been so enthusiastic about an album as i have been for Wasting Light. easily the best record i have listened to in the last couple years. can't give it anything but a straight 10/10. well done boys you are well and truly back to your best. keeping rock alive since 1995!
  15. nicrax96
    Jun 27, 2012
    9
    one of the best foo fighters albums in recent memory every single song is worth to hear and pretty much single material. also for the first time in foo's history it feels like a masterpiece
  16. mattchumon
    Jun 23, 2011
    8
    Second best Foo Fighters album after Colour and the Shape. This album just made me feel all warm and nostalgic for old Foo. Even Pat Smear is back! No its not a game changer or innovative. Just solid rock and roll for the album's entirety. Something that hasn't been produced by Dave Grohl since well, the Colour and the Shape. Good work boys!
  17. NKOAS
    Nov 17, 2012
    8
    The Foo Fighters churned out this gnarly LP in a garage, and with it claimed the title of the best rock band of 2011. Granted, being the best rock band in 2011 is like being the best athlete at a performing arts high school. It
  18. jakerthetaker
    Jun 22, 2011
    10
    One of those albums where every song on it is good. The album has its own general style, while at the same time each song is different. This is my favorite foo fighters album
  19. WheelzFourReelz
    Jan 4, 2015
    9
    Wasting Light was made for one goal and one goal only; to produce some awesome and straightforward rock music. And in my opinion, the album absolutely succeeded.
  20. gruenjr
    Apr 17, 2011
    10
    This is a tremendous album (beyond that statement, I'm not sure a new Foo fan will understand my review). Within the history of Foo Fighters albums, "Wasting Light" holds a very complicated place. It pulls the band even further away from the post grunge aesthetic, a pull that began with "Echoes." But "All My Life" was a foreshadow for this record. And "White Limo" reminds me a lot ofThis is a tremendous album (beyond that statement, I'm not sure a new Foo fan will understand my review). Within the history of Foo Fighters albums, "Wasting Light" holds a very complicated place. It pulls the band even further away from the post grunge aesthetic, a pull that began with "Echoes." But "All My Life" was a foreshadow for this record. And "White Limo" reminds me a lot of "Wattershed." And Pat Smear is back in the band. "Wasting Light" dabbles much, much less with pop rock sensibilities. But not completely (see "Back and Forth"). Certainly it's the band's seventh album in its 16 year career, but "Walk," "Times Like These," and "These Days" make the album feel wiser and more serious than anything Foo Fighters has ever done. But not completely (seen the "White Limo" video?). For as much as there is on "Wasting Light" that makes it so different from earlier Foo albums, there's almost as much that proves it hasn't fallen far from the band's tree. Great songs that kick butt from a band that enjoys kicking your butt.… Expand
  21. BobaFett666
    May 27, 2011
    8
    The best Foo Fighters album ever made. Bridge is Burning, Rope and Arlandria are the songs I enjoy the most. Arlandria gets me thinking about being the most famous bounty hunter in the galaxy and how I just want to like, you know, chill out sometimes and not be so badass all day.
  22. govi
    Apr 24, 2011
    9
    is alright. In my opinion Foo's first CD is their best. It is raw with great sequence in it..giving it a 9 because Grohl uses same and similar lyrics than other previous albums.
  23. lususgreene
    May 6, 2011
    8
    I am not that much of a FF fan, I generally find thier songs drag on. Clearly this band had peaked with "The color and shape" and would never live up to it's potential. Or would they? Wasting Light is the BEST FF album ever. No question. This band has found a voice, Grohl is writing better songs, I still think he could use to shorten them...but this is a good solid album. This album isI am not that much of a FF fan, I generally find thier songs drag on. Clearly this band had peaked with "The color and shape" and would never live up to it's potential. Or would they? Wasting Light is the BEST FF album ever. No question. This band has found a voice, Grohl is writing better songs, I still think he could use to shorten them...but this is a good solid album. This album is likely to rank as the happy surprise of the year for me. Here is hoping that this signals a new and better era of FF music.… Expand
  24. SammyMFHutch
    Feb 17, 2012
    9
    Really good album. My favorite songs are Dear Rosemary and Alandria. Only complaint is that These days and Walk sound similar.Still great though White Limo is really hard. Pretty sweet it was made in Dave's garage,which even makes it more badass
  25. NIntendoFan94
    Aug 6, 2012
    9
    This album is absolutely sweet. My favorite songs in this album is Walk, Rope and Bridge Burning. Sounds like I would recommend this album to someone.
  26. lpfan2000
    Dec 3, 2012
    9
    My favorite Foo Fighters album since The Colour and the Shape, Wasting Light is the only hard rock album I have liked since One-X (2006). Its raw and very catchy, I love the aggression of almost every song on this albums, White Limo comes into mind when I say aggression. My fav songs are Walk and Bridge Burning, which rank up with Everlong and My Hero as my favs by the band.
  27. JohnnyMercyside
    Aug 19, 2011
    8
    "Wasting Light" is the Foo Fighters seventh album, following up Echoes, Silence, Patience and Grace, released four years ago. The lead singer Dave Grohl, and Pat Smear, who plays lead and rhythm guitars are former members of grunge rock band Nirvana, and the bass player for Nirvana Krist Novoselic, also has a cameo in the track "I Should Have Known". Since Nirvana, the Foo Fighters have"Wasting Light" is the Foo Fighters seventh album, following up Echoes, Silence, Patience and Grace, released four years ago. The lead singer Dave Grohl, and Pat Smear, who plays lead and rhythm guitars are former members of grunge rock band Nirvana, and the bass player for Nirvana Krist Novoselic, also has a cameo in the track "I Should Have Known". Since Nirvana, the Foo Fighters have grown by leaps and bounds as one of the biggest rock bands worldwide. In 2009, the band released a "Greatest Hits" album, and this is their first effort since then. The album clocks in at 47 minutes and 11 tracks, which is about average for a Foo Fighters album.
    We start with â    … Expand
  28. YizuzFF
    Jul 14, 2017
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Considered to be the best album of all his discography, in this album you should know how to defend in the market and in his way, with the same sound so crude and great they have always had, accompanied by relaxing parts in some songs, if it is true that The acoustic seen in "In Your Honor" and adapted to "Echoes, Patience, Silence, Grace" with themes like "Statues" has been lost a lot in this album, returning to the most primitive and rock Foo Fighters in its beginnings, But that does not mean that it is an album of pure shouts, since with songs like "These Days" or "Walk" feels the above mentioned but more primitive, without a doubt, his best album, each song have the same quality and frequency that the others without exception, and with an impressive bonus track, should have much more attention than it currently has in my opinion, this return to the primitive and violent I love, every rock lover should listen, although the cl Hoop, do not put it as the best rock album in the world, I think I'm already going something higher.… Expand
  29. TheVirus
    Apr 16, 2011
    10
    The foo's are officially back on track with this brilliant album.
    Filled with raw rock intensity that their last few albums slightly lacked. Not bad for an album taped in a garage
  30. brianjeremy
    May 1, 2011
    9
    Quite simply, this album really rocks from start to finish and if you are at all interested, you need to pick it up. There's not a bad track on it. Waisting Light is the first Foo Fighters album since the Color and the Shape that seems to hit all the right notes at the right time but without sounding like a sellout. Walk, Times Like These, Rope, White Limo and These Days are 5-starQuite simply, this album really rocks from start to finish and if you are at all interested, you need to pick it up. There's not a bad track on it. Waisting Light is the first Foo Fighters album since the Color and the Shape that seems to hit all the right notes at the right time but without sounding like a sellout. Walk, Times Like These, Rope, White Limo and These Days are 5-star great in my book.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

28
#28 Most Discussed Album of 2011
23
#23 Most Shared Album of 2011

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 37 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 28 out of 37
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 37
  3. Negative: 0 out of 37
  1. Mojo
    May 16, 2011
    80
    Wasted Light finds Foo Fighters at their boldest, their most vivid. [May 2011, p.101]
  2. Q Magazine
    May 16, 2011
    80
    The defining album of his career, Wasting Light is the sound of Dave Grohl putting his whole life in context. [May 2011, p.110]
  3. Billboard.com
    Apr 29, 2011
    81
    Recorded in the garage of frontman Dave Grohl's home in Encino, Calif., the 11-song set is an explosive, high-octane burst of rock energy from a 16-year-old band that is tightly honed and righteously raw.
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