You Are The Quarry
by Morrissey
Metascore
72

Generally favorable reviews - based on 31 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 23 out of 31
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 31
  3. Negative: 0 out of 31
  1. Uncut
    60
    Flares dazzlingly on initial contact, but dims a little. [Jun 2004, p.92]
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  2. Q Magazine
    40
    Those looking for the kind of soaring poetry that defined The Smiths will surely be depressed by lyrics that are often boringly solipsistic and prosaically worded. [Jun 2004, p.106]
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  3. The Guardian
    40
    But just when he seems more relevant than ever, Morrissey has somehow contrived to make an album that sounds incredibly dated.
  5. The A.V. Club
    60
    Only when Morrissey's wickedly funny side emerges does Quarry find moments worthy of sharing shelf space with his finest.
  6. The New York Times
    50
    At this level of lyric artistry, these warmed-over arena rock backdrops are a waste.
  7. Dot Music
    60
    For a handful of decent Morrissey songs – and, it must be said, some of his best ever vocal performances – we should be grateful. Ultimately though, for all these tantalising reminders of greatness, "You Are The Quarry" still feels like a man unnecessarily trapped by the limitations of his band and the extent of his loathing.
  8. Stylus Magazine
    50
    Of course, anyone expecting a new Smiths album from this was always going to be disappointed. However, anyone expecting a good album from it is going to be disappointed as well.
  9. New York Magazine (Vulture)
    40
    Quarry doesn’t have great songs, just not-so-clever quips.

Awards & Rankings

39
#39 Most Discussed Album of 2004
68
#68 Most Shared Album of 2004

User Reviews

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User Score
8.7

Universal acclaim- based on 91 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 81 out of 91
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 91
  3. Negative: 2 out of 91
  1. EndaM
    Mar 14, 2007
    10
    Absolutely excellent. I often return to this record and have SUCH a soft spot for it even now.
  2. Alfie18
    Feb 6, 2023
    10
    Fantastic Album full of poetic lyrics and fabulous vocals as usual. One of his best albums. Very hard to find a bad song on this.
  3. wiredude
    Aug 22, 2021
    10
    I adore this album for so many reasons. It's one of his best. I have a personal connection to the transformative "I Have Forgiven Jesus" andI adore this album for so many reasons. It's one of his best. I have a personal connection to the transformative "I Have Forgiven Jesus" and have such boundless love for Morrissey for this song alone. Irish blood American heart this I'm made of. it adapts well. will never marry… Full Review »
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