Metascore
66

Generally favorable reviews - based on 17 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 17
  2. Negative: 0 out of 17
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  1. Apr 26, 2012
    70
    This is as dynamic a record as Benson has ever made, but trades some of the homespun charm and young hunger of his earlier work for a more expensive-sounding studio sheen.
  2. Apr 24, 2012
    62
    Largely devoid of lyrical texture and detail, the universe conjured by World often feels bland to a fault.
  3. 80
    It reasserts Benson's standing as one of America's greatest songwriters.
  4. Apr 30, 2012
    70
    His fans will lap this up for being another solid Brendan Benson album.
  5. Under The Radar
    Apr 26, 2012
    70
    What makes What Kind Of World Benson's best album since 2002's Lapalco is the varied nature of the songs. [Mar 2012, p.76]
  6. Magnet
    Apr 19, 2012
    70
    To make the perfect album, we suppose, that elusive thing that the beauteous hooks on "The Light of F=Day" and "Met Your Match" certainly makes strides toward. [#86, p.53]
  7. Apr 26, 2012
    70
    Those who credit Benson with the poppier side of the sonic stew cooked up by the Raconteurs can probably make a pretty good case for that notion based on his solo outings, and What Kind of World is no exception.
  8. May 8, 2012
    70
    This thoroughly enjoyable release does include one surprising blast of brass.
  9. Apr 24, 2012
    75
    The new set, Benson's fifth, is as solid as its predecessors.
  10. May 14, 2012
    80
    As far as songcraft is concerned, this may be Benson's most consistent record, and What Kind of World will induce ecstasy in the faithful and shocked delight in newcomers.

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