• Record Label: XL
  • Release Date: Feb 22, 2011
User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 930 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 83 out of 930
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this album

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
  1. Jun 24, 2018
    10
    The Thriller of 10s. Iconic and legendary. Great music. Great voice. This album will keep selling for the following years and future generations will see it as a masterpiece.
  2. Jul 8, 2020
    10
    21 is her best album so far and probably the best album of the decade. It's just timeless.
  3. Feb 5, 2012
    9
    It may be a little overrated but Adele and her team did an excellent job with this album. I'd rather hear this playing on the radio than those generic pop songs with lots of autotune and no lyrical content AT ALL. Very well developed though the topic on its lyrics may be a little repetitive, but it's understandable since writing music is what helped her get over her break-up. Very deep andIt may be a little overrated but Adele and her team did an excellent job with this album. I'd rather hear this playing on the radio than those generic pop songs with lots of autotune and no lyrical content AT ALL. Very well developed though the topic on its lyrics may be a little repetitive, but it's understandable since writing music is what helped her get over her break-up. Very deep and emotional. It definitely deserves the awards it has been nominated for. Expand
  4. Dec 16, 2014
    8
    Perfect vocals, and great songs, this is a wonderful album, a mixed of perfect songs, really really lovelly, one of the best albums od the world.
    Highlights: Turning Tables and Rumour Has It
    Lows: Take It All and One and Only
  5. Nov 17, 2012
    8
    Oh, dear reader, I still stand by my belief that Adele is massively overrated. I still believe that the magazines and public idea that Adele is great for
  6. Oct 1, 2012
    9
    I don't understand why some people are giving a low score to this amazing album. The vocals of Adele are absolutely spectacular and the songs in the album are great. An incredibly fantastic album from Adele........
  7. Jun 29, 2011
    9
    Lady Gaga promised us the album of the decade. Unfortunately, she fell a little short, because Adele already had it. The album isn't perfect. It could use a little diversity, but all in all, our twenty-one year-old heroine is well on her way to becoming the next soul queen, up there with Norah Jones, Aretha Franklin, and Amy Winehouse.
  8. Jun 18, 2012
    10
    This album is literally perfection. If you think so otherwise, please take a minute to listen to these songs while reading the lyrics, and understanding the musical arrangement.
  9. Aug 5, 2012
    7
    I'm sorry with saying this, but '21' is overrated. 12 Songs: 6 songs very good, 6 songs only average. Her voice is fantastic, without a doubt. But honestly, this album could've been much better. Some songs are just too sketchy for me. Yeah, there are all sad love songs and that's also a thing that makes the disk a bit boring to me. Only rage against ex lovers that she still loves. Yeah,I'm sorry with saying this, but '21' is overrated. 12 Songs: 6 songs very good, 6 songs only average. Her voice is fantastic, without a doubt. But honestly, this album could've been much better. Some songs are just too sketchy for me. Yeah, there are all sad love songs and that's also a thing that makes the disk a bit boring to me. Only rage against ex lovers that she still loves. Yeah, Miss Adkins, we've got it now. In other cases, only the music makes the song special. Best Songs:
    Turning Tables
    Rolling In The Deep
    Set Fire To The Rain

    Conclusion:
    This album is really good, don't misunderstand me, but you now, with her voice this could've been much better.
    Expand
  10. Dec 21, 2012
    10
    Adele's debut was great but this album is fantastic. Filled with songs - mostly ballads - which make your heart ache and your eyes glisten with tears of how they connect to your life, 21 marks Adele's throne in the heaven of pop music. songs such as Turning Tables and Set Fire To The Rain really make your heart melt whereas Rolling In The Deep, Rumour Has It, and Don't You Remember giveAdele's debut was great but this album is fantastic. Filled with songs - mostly ballads - which make your heart ache and your eyes glisten with tears of how they connect to your life, 21 marks Adele's throne in the heaven of pop music. songs such as Turning Tables and Set Fire To The Rain really make your heart melt whereas Rolling In The Deep, Rumour Has It, and Don't You Remember give you a sudden urge to do something (mostly sing along and try to hit that enormous and amazing note in RITD!). Overall, 21 marks a turning point in Adele's carreer and distinguishes her from other artists such as Celine Dion and Leona Lewis, making her reach summits that are beyond the reaches of others... Expand
  11. Nov 19, 2012
    9
    Unique voice unusual to the industry: a very blues-like female contralto that can belt it like no other. Lyricism is your traditional simplicity, but the music is organic and full of ACTUAL INSTRUMENTS. It's almost like listening to REAL music for once. And let's take a moment to set it in.... 25 million sold. That's more than Maroon 5 in it's lifetime. That's more than Kanye West. That'sUnique voice unusual to the industry: a very blues-like female contralto that can belt it like no other. Lyricism is your traditional simplicity, but the music is organic and full of ACTUAL INSTRUMENTS. It's almost like listening to REAL music for once. And let's take a moment to set it in.... 25 million sold. That's more than Maroon 5 in it's lifetime. That's more than Kanye West. That's more than a lot of people. It's impressive. This one person could bring my faith back into the music industry like Darren Hayes did 10 months later. It's a serious listen to with varying emotion. Some of it does sound very bratty at times, but it's good nonetheless. This is the one of the few times I'd recommend buying the album and being a part of the madness. Expand
  12. Nov 14, 2012
    9
    Thesecond album of Adele reaffirms her fascinating talent, she has beat her skills, the album is better than the first, more mature, more sophisticated, more deep and hard. I love her.
  13. Jan 6, 2013
    7
    21 is a very good album as a whole. But looking at all the acclaim that 21 has garnered for itself, it's not very surprising that it will fall short of many people's expectations.

    Six Grammys aside, was 21 really worth all the media attention; the accolades? The album skilfully deals with one dominant theme in particular; heartbreak. Anger in 'Set Fire to the Rain', sadness in 'Don't
    21 is a very good album as a whole. But looking at all the acclaim that 21 has garnered for itself, it's not very surprising that it will fall short of many people's expectations.

    Six Grammys aside, was 21 really worth all the media attention; the accolades? The album skilfully deals with one dominant theme in particular; heartbreak. Anger in 'Set Fire to the Rain', sadness in 'Don't You Remember', irony in 'Rumour Has It', hopelessness in 'Take it All', revenge in 'Turning Tables', sincerity in 'Someone Like You', so on and so forth. Adele scrutinizes and carefully analyzes the single theme of heartbreak from many different perspectives as she tries to justify each viewpoint. Perfect for sappy little teenagers to quote on Tumblr pretending that it relates to them in one way or another.

    There are some other themes, like in He Won't Go, Lovesong and One and Only, that still deals with love at its most trivial; just barely escaping the topic of heartbreak. But who could claim that these were actually the highlights of the album? Perhaps it was the heartbreaking songs that had put 21 in the limelight, because variety just couldn't have been it. It's great to have an exceptional songwriter every once in a while amidst commercial songstresses like Katy Perry, Rihanna and Britney Spears who barely write their own songs, or Taylor Swift and Carly Rae Jepsen who aren't as deep or intelligent as they might seem to be. But it wouldn't kill her to add in a little variety; spice things up a little, in the hopes that maybe, if she's feeling really creative and inspired, she'll even write songs which are not about love! Love is an evergreen topic a composer can rely on, but if one lets their career evolve around the same damn thing, it won't still be entertaining after a while. Now, she could explore with other genres and try out new things; which she hasn't, even since 19. Lady Gaga has been criticized for being so experimental she's losing her signature sound. Marina and the Diamonds and Lana Del Rey have been criticized over repetitive production in Electra Heart and Born to Die respectively. It's fascinating to know how Adele has escaped the critics in this area.

    Her vocals couldn't have been it either. She performs great live, but so would many other popstars today if all they did was stand in front of a microphone and sing while occasionally throwing shade and being a little profane in a British accent.

    You see, when people hear the word 'Adele', they think of heartbreak and sadness. The plump British girl who can sing. Social acceptance, perhaps. All the assumptions start rolling in that she's had a troubled past full of insecure misfit tragedies.

    I've never mentioned that more often than not, pity might have impaired the general public's impression of the album; what you interpret of what I'm writing is solely up to you. Sympathy may have had a role to play in Adele's respected image, but then again, I'm not pointing fingers. Essentially, there will always be off-stream artists who are better than Adele in terms of songwriting and singing, work even harder, and is just waiting for that big break but never really got by to achieve that. Whether or not one feels that her vocals forgive the fact that Someone Like You becomes the most overplayed song of the decade, or whether or not her songwriting justifies that she can still just stand on stage and still be a good performer; will be different for everyone to judge. But it's hard to deny that 21 will make an ideal playlist as for whoever is facing a difficult time getting over someone, or at least aspire to be in that mood for who knows what. While 21 may not fit into that idealist mold you've created for the perfect album you're seeking for, it's worth a listen or two. Not all would be impressed by her long notes and not everyone would appreciate the attention she's put in the little ideas she's came up with while pondering about love. But every now and then it's bound to come to you as 'almost interesting' or 'nearly relates to me'. I still have 21 on my daily playlist; Don't You Remember, Set Fire to the Rain, I'll be Waiting and Rumour has it being one of the better played songs. Adele stays in my music player as one of the well-played crooners beside Lady Gaga, Lana Del Rey, Bruno Mars and ABBA. Ultimately, whether or not I feel that the album is great will not change the fact that I still choose to listen to it everyday. So occasionally I will skip a few Adele tracks to listen to pretentious, manufactured Korean Pop singles, for pretty faces and a catchy beat are more than enough to grab my attention for a while.
    Expand
  14. Feb 19, 2013
    10
    A great album The singer sang the deepness feeling for her heart ''Rolling in the deep'' and ''someone like you'' are my favourite songs An amazing vocals with wide feeling expressions.
  15. Jun 21, 2014
    10
    For all those stupid people who talked bad about my beautIful Adele : you can all go **** your self **** this album is a 101% the best!!!!!!!!!! Daydreamers hold me
  16. Nov 1, 2013
    10
    This will probably be one of the most well known albums throughout music history. With over 22 million copies worldwide, the stunning vocals and music of this album have left a stain on the Earth that will not be cleaned up for quite a few years
  17. Nov 2, 2014
    10
    This album is flawless. The songwriting is impeccable, and the production is superb. Every person who experienced love and heartbreak in his life can relate to this album. The songs vary from rage (Rolling In The Deep) to sorrow (Don't You Remember) to the state of being hopeful (I'll be waiting) and finally to the phase of forgiveness and moving on (Someone Like You). It's never boring,This album is flawless. The songwriting is impeccable, and the production is superb. Every person who experienced love and heartbreak in his life can relate to this album. The songs vary from rage (Rolling In The Deep) to sorrow (Don't You Remember) to the state of being hopeful (I'll be waiting) and finally to the phase of forgiveness and moving on (Someone Like You). It's never boring, it makes your heart skip a beat with each song. It's a brilliant record. Expand
  18. Jul 23, 2011
    7
    Quite a bit more uneven than her first album, but there's some standouts here for me: "Rolling in the Deep" "Turning Tables" "Someone Like You". What always stands out, even on the less memorable pieces, is Adele's stunning voice: she is one of the most vocally talented musicians out there today.
  19. Oct 25, 2011
    8
    I think Adele is a great vocalist, that will affect and inspire many from now and on! And I can see it in the album!!!Such songs as Rolling in the deep, Someone like you, Turning Tables, Don't you remember and One and only are surely worth to be listed as highlights on the album as they bring such an emotion that you couldn't expect from a 22 year-old woman!The rest is nice but not perfect!
  20. Nov 28, 2013
    10
    One of my favorite artists of all time, soulful, true to herself, genuine, moving, and every track is so enjoyable and wonderful, done with so much respect to original artists when a cover is done I love you Adele!
  21. Dec 19, 2014
    10
    Best album of the decade.                                                    
  22. Feb 28, 2011
    7
    Adele's voice works great throughout the album, saving a couple of the songs which are aren't worthy of her pipes. All in all though, a much needed better return from her first album "19" - which I thought was sappy.
  23. Mar 1, 2011
    10
    This album is amazing! She has completely grew up and i am proud of her. The songs "Someone Like You" and "Turning Tabels" for example, shows how talent she is. To me, this album is 10 out of 10.
  24. Mar 13, 2011
    10
    Adele has a talent that people wish they had. You can't help but fall in love with this album after you listen to it once. Adele is a true artist and you will not be disappointed purchasing 21.
  25. Apr 28, 2011
    9
    The thing about pop music is that it has roots in any genre, and of course, some might appeal for marketing, leaving it all too over-flooded by scheme productions, and some might leave their influential essences on it. In that case, Adele fits perfectly as some bluesy and soul influenced who got a way to make it sound radio friendly and melodically fitting for popular taste. That's whatThe thing about pop music is that it has roots in any genre, and of course, some might appeal for marketing, leaving it all too over-flooded by scheme productions, and some might leave their influential essences on it. In that case, Adele fits perfectly as some bluesy and soul influenced who got a way to make it sound radio friendly and melodically fitting for popular taste. That's what pop's all about, to captivate people with its own, though, commercial style. Well, â Expand
  26. Mar 4, 2011
    10
    This is the best album of this year so far. All of the songs here are well-written and full of emotion that the audience can easily relate themselves to. With an instant classic and Grammy-nominated potential album like 21, I really cannot believe why it got only 76 points. All the mixed reviews are full of hatred and maybe the people who wrote those reviews need to check their definitionThis is the best album of this year so far. All of the songs here are well-written and full of emotion that the audience can easily relate themselves to. With an instant classic and Grammy-nominated potential album like 21, I really cannot believe why it got only 76 points. All the mixed reviews are full of hatred and maybe the people who wrote those reviews need to check their definition of what is called " true music " ! Expand
  27. Jun 19, 2011
    8
    A great change from what we usually see in the charts. "Rolling In the Deep" was a great choice as a first single, as it made me get the album as soon as I could. Love it.
  28. May 25, 2011
    10
    I loved the un-pretentiousness and softness of the album. Love it! Adele has a unique voice, but in a few songs she reminds me on P!nk - and that's not a bad thing!
  29. Aug 14, 2011
    10
    Adele never lets you down. You know, Adele gives you the "clean, high quality, polished" music feeling when you listen. Some songs are ear-worms, some are classics that won't be forgotten. And in this era full of bubbly-pop, Adele is like a refreshment.
  30. Nov 14, 2011
    9
    The albums sound a tad bit repeatitive, but listen to the lyrics and the vocal perfomance and you help to appreciate the album, my standout tracks are Someone Like You, Rolling IN The Deep, Rumor Has It, Turning Table, and the impressive vocal performance of Dont You Remember.
  31. Dec 15, 2012
    10
    21 is absolutely stunning, for me is one of the best albums of all times. Adele has a magnificent vintage voice and her songs are simply amazing. Love songs like Don't You Remember, Someone Like You, Hiding My Heart and One And Only show the incredible capacity of Adele to do lyrics about love, the most beautiful but painful thing in the world. All the songs are brilliantly produced. I was21 is absolutely stunning, for me is one of the best albums of all times. Adele has a magnificent vintage voice and her songs are simply amazing. Love songs like Don't You Remember, Someone Like You, Hiding My Heart and One And Only show the incredible capacity of Adele to do lyrics about love, the most beautiful but painful thing in the world. All the songs are brilliantly produced. I was waiting for a album like for a long time. Adele is in my opinion, one of the best artists ever in the music history. Expand
  32. Feb 23, 2011
    8
    This has to be one of the best albums to come out in a few years!!! Adele is a true artist, someone who writes from her heart and soul! This whole album is perfect to listen to if you're going through a break-up! Just sit back and let those tears flow :) The production on this album is tight! I give it 8/10
  33. Jul 18, 2012
    9
    Absolutely stunning. Though I think there's so much "heartbreaking" topics in the album, Adele's powerful voice really makes the day! The most particular thing is the incredible Adele's capacity to go through different types of styles, as we can see in "Set Fire to the Rain" and "Don't you remember". So far, one of the most incredible albums ever in the 21 st century! (Album's name says it: "21")
  34. Apr 18, 2011
    9
    Adele's previous album â
  35. Oct 20, 2011
    7
    Aside from 21's biggest problem -- its insistence on recycling the same sound throughout its short eleven-track course -- Adele's phenomenal and almost magical voice and lyrical melodrama make this album one of the most enchanting listens of 2011.
  36. Aug 3, 2011
    9
    There's a reason this album has been so popular this year. Lead off single Rolling In the Deep and Set Fire to the Rain show off the raw power of her voice, infusing elements of rock and blues. Meanwhile, songs like Someone Like You showcase her emotional vulnerability (she actually sounds like she's crying). Though those three are the best songs, the other songs are mostly good, too. TheThere's a reason this album has been so popular this year. Lead off single Rolling In the Deep and Set Fire to the Rain show off the raw power of her voice, infusing elements of rock and blues. Meanwhile, songs like Someone Like You showcase her emotional vulnerability (she actually sounds like she's crying). Though those three are the best songs, the other songs are mostly good, too. The middle of the album drags a little bit, since it is very ballad-heavy, but overall very good, and a big improvement over 19. Expand
  37. Aug 29, 2011
    7
    A very soulful and powerful album, mostly revolving around breakup. Adele packs quite a punch with her stunning vocals. It is probably the most moving and touching album of the year... so far.
  38. Sep 25, 2014
    8
    A solid and generally enjoyable album, plenty of easy to listen to songs sung with what has to be acknowledged as a fabulous voice. The curtain raising Rolling in the Deep and closer Someone Like You are by far the highlights. Sandwiched in between these are 9 soul/pop tracks that vary in both quality and originality. I feel the first and final thirds of the album are the stronger partsA solid and generally enjoyable album, plenty of easy to listen to songs sung with what has to be acknowledged as a fabulous voice. The curtain raising Rolling in the Deep and closer Someone Like You are by far the highlights. Sandwiched in between these are 9 soul/pop tracks that vary in both quality and originality. I feel the first and final thirds of the album are the stronger parts with a dull middle section. There are shows of obvious talent in parts while there is also some stuff which I could only describe as lounge music. Not what I'd call an essential record but at the same time very much worth a listen and it really does have some gems on it. "Rolling In The Deep" is a truly great song and has it all - vocals, tune, production - a real anthem. Maybe Adele suffers a little from what I'd call U2 syndrome - talented and deservedly hugely successful but also overplayed to saturation point which makes it difficult to appreciate just how good the songs are after a while. You get to the stage where you become numb to the songs. If she was undiscovered she'd be one of these cult artists. Expand
  39. Nov 14, 2011
    9
    Beautiful voice; powerful and meaningful. All the songs are very heart-warming and touching. However, I found the songs rather repetitive. Other than that, it is a perfect album. The song that stood out to me the most was 'Someone Like You' - such a heart-breaking song. A simple piano accompaniment was a fantastic decision to show off Adele's gorgeous vocals. Great job, keep it up!
  40. Nov 16, 2011
    9
    The 'IT' girl of the year is an unlikely pop princess. Bolstered more by her talents than her looks and 'gimmicks', Adele brings in memories of pop powerhouse 'Dione Warwick', and soulful singer 'Aretha Franklin'. She is essentially the anti-'Lady Gaga'. 21 cemented her place as one of the best singer in the business right now, with some of the best vocal performance in recent memory. OneThe 'IT' girl of the year is an unlikely pop princess. Bolstered more by her talents than her looks and 'gimmicks', Adele brings in memories of pop powerhouse 'Dione Warwick', and soulful singer 'Aretha Franklin'. She is essentially the anti-'Lady Gaga'. 21 cemented her place as one of the best singer in the business right now, with some of the best vocal performance in recent memory. One of the year's best album. Expand
  41. Dec 12, 2011
    9
    One of the best albums of 2011, Great audio quality,mixing & production. I'm a metalhead and audio engineer, this is not really my style of music but it's still a great album with a great production. Haters gonna h8.
  42. Nov 23, 2011
    10
    I "LOVE" this album........
    I think this is the best album i had ever listened to!
    Adele such an inspiration and a great singer as well. Everything about Adele is just wonderful . She really has the talent. Well done Adele ! 21 fabulous album forever â
  43. Dec 30, 2011
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This album has surprised me very positively for the take Adele has on its major themes. Vocally and lyrically, it is a great album as well. Her voice in "Don't You Remember" and "Someone Like You" makes 21 worth listening already. "Rumor Has It" and "Lovesong" are very interesting tracks in terms of experimentation, I'd say. They are responsible for giving the album its most important moments of breathing in a sea of pop/soul-oriented songs. The lyrics are strong at most and very touching in some tracks, especially in "Set Fire to the Rain", "Take It All", and "Rolling in the Deep". Despite being a 100% reflection of a bad relationship, Adele's different approaches to singing her lack of luck in love make this album something one should not ignore. It may sound over the top saying that, but this album sounds as the savior of pop song in 2011, a year with major acts relying too much on how to do whatever on the dance floor, instead of thinking about anything else - not to mention all the auto tune "divas" we were exposed to throughout the year. Expand
  44. Jan 15, 2012
    10
    Without a doubt 21 is a masterpiece. The flowing integrity of the album is simply astounding, starts with the singers breakup, progresses to loneliness, and eventually accepts everything. Rarely does an artist spill their heart onto an album, and make it pleasurable for the listener, it includes up-beat meaningful tunes that pull on emotional cords, all combined with a magical voice.
  45. Jan 23, 2012
    7
    21 is Adele's sophomore album after "19". It is a compilation of love ballads, about Adele's relationship fallout. The album was produced by a number of producers, "Ryan Tedder", being one of them.
    Adele's sophomore attempt is a huge success. Adele showcases the raw, spine-chilling, power of her beautiful voice among tracks like "Someone Like You", "Turning Tables" and "Set Fire To the
    21 is Adele's sophomore album after "19". It is a compilation of love ballads, about Adele's relationship fallout. The album was produced by a number of producers, "Ryan Tedder", being one of them.
    Adele's sophomore attempt is a huge success. Adele showcases the raw, spine-chilling, power of her beautiful voice among tracks like "Someone Like You", "Turning Tables" and "Set Fire To the Rain". Her vocal performance on the 80s rendition-like "Rolling In The Deep" is amazing, and is one of the standouts of the album. Adele's songwriting ability is also to be given a tremendous amount of appreciation. Her heartfelt lyrics on "Someone Like You", and "Rumor Has It" is impressive, and shows her maturity as a songwriter.
    On the other hand, the album's depressing mood may not appeal to everyone, with most of the songs sounding the same, somewhat because of the production. Adele's voice may be the only thing that makes songs like "Rumor Has It", and "He won't Go" listen-worthy.
    Nevertheless, 21 is a great album that features great tracks, but its monotonous themes and depressing mood makes it far less epic than it is made out to be. Adele's third album will be the decider to judge how versatile she is as an artist, or whether she can only stick to the same breakup ballads as "21".
    Expand
  46. Jan 20, 2012
    8
    On her debut '19', Adele sounded like a childish confused brat but on '21' she delivers some really diverse and touching songs, strong, emotional lyrics and her matured, powerful voice. The production is miles ahead of her debut, making this sound more comfortable and less insecure than you could have imagined. Adele's tales of heartbreak are likely to reach out to many, but for now we canOn her debut '19', Adele sounded like a childish confused brat but on '21' she delivers some really diverse and touching songs, strong, emotional lyrics and her matured, powerful voice. The production is miles ahead of her debut, making this sound more comfortable and less insecure than you could have imagined. Adele's tales of heartbreak are likely to reach out to many, but for now we can just celebrate how good a musician Adele has become. Expand
  47. May 19, 2012
    10
    No amount of classy stylish production can hide the power and stunning beauty of the voice here. What a fabulous collection of songs. Even the cover version of the great Cure track is great!
  48. Jul 21, 2012
    10
    Simply amazing the album tells a tale of lost love which is what everybody has felt one time or another the album is master class and from a singer whose voice is so memorising. One of the best albums of all time!
  49. Oct 13, 2013
    10
    21 is an instant classic of an album. Adele has an incredible voice and her talent for songwriting is undeniable. Nobody should ever get tired of any song on this album.
  50. Dec 17, 2014
    9
    Soy un gran seguidor de Amy Winehouse, asimismo, de Adele, la razón de ello es su estilo... Y quien mejor que llevar las riendas del Soul que Amy dejo previamente preparadas que Adele! Tan melodiosa y expresiva! Gran trabajo!
  51. Jul 13, 2013
    8
    Chasing pavements inevitably leads someone somewhere, and in the case of twenty-three year-old Adele it’s taken her to a place everyone’s been to: the alley of broken hearts. Inspired by a devastating break-up the singer’s sophomore record, 21, weaves music and lyrics in such a precise way that the heartache becomes almost vicarious to the listener. Like most songs on her debut album,Chasing pavements inevitably leads someone somewhere, and in the case of twenty-three year-old Adele it’s taken her to a place everyone’s been to: the alley of broken hearts. Inspired by a devastating break-up the singer’s sophomore record, 21, weaves music and lyrics in such a precise way that the heartache becomes almost vicarious to the listener. Like most songs on her debut album, tracks on 21 are produced in a simple and basic manner to allow the vocals to shine through; only this time the album doesn’t sound as optimistic and trend-influenced as 19, which was released months after the enormous success of fellow British singer Amy Winehouse.

    21 doesn’t remind the listener of any other record because, on first listen, the album is too relatable; the brain leaves no space for recollection but for one’s own struggles with love. The (slightly overproduced) mid-tempo “Set Fire to the Rain” sets a battlefield for contradictory emotions and captures the album’s main essence: an exploration of masochistic self-conflicts while attempting to move on from destructive relationships. Partially retrospective (“My hands, they were strong /But my knees were far too weak /To stand in your arms /Without falling to your feet”), the song oscillates between piano-driven verses filled with hope for reconciliation and a lushly-arranged, self-liberating chorus with belting raspy vocals.

    21’s first single, “Rolling in the Deep,” kicks off with a throbbing, threatening beat as Adele marches away from this draining romance. A fusion of epic pop hooks, blues’y rhythms and gospel clap this revenge anthem disavows any chances for ‘making up.’ On “Turning Tables,” an acoustic tune where the piano and strings contribute to the narrative just as much as the evocative lyrics and raw soulful vocals, the singer confirms her final decision (“It’s time to say goodbye to turning tables”).

    Despite the rage portrayed by the invading, aggressive beats and intense vocals in the first few tracks the record’s last song, the piano-and-vocal somber ballad “Someone Like You,” expresses hope for outgrowing the pain. Sounding more vulnerable than ever, Adele travels to the future where she’s forgiven her former lover to say a final bittersweet goodbye.
    Expand
  52. Nov 18, 2013
    9
    This is obviously a better album than her debut effort. The sound is interesting, from the mid-tempo "Rumour Has It" to the piano ballad "Someone Like You". While being very appealing, the album manages to tell a story of a then-21 years old Adele pretty well. Seeing from how well the album is selling (I think no album has sold like this since the age of piracy began), it will absolutelyThis is obviously a better album than her debut effort. The sound is interesting, from the mid-tempo "Rumour Has It" to the piano ballad "Someone Like You". While being very appealing, the album manages to tell a story of a then-21 years old Adele pretty well. Seeing from how well the album is selling (I think no album has sold like this since the age of piracy began), it will absolutely be remembered for decades or even maybe centuries. Expand
  53. May 30, 2014
    10
    "21" marked the transition for Adele from well-known singer to international pop singer, and this album shows you why. The songs are just magnificent and her voice is just breathtakingly beautiful.
  54. Sep 14, 2014
    9
    Adele shows her genius once more in a different way on the album 21. While it is extremely different than 19, Adele releases at least four songs that I consider brilliant (Rumor Has It, Someone Like You, Rolling in the Deep and Turning Tables), as well as what I feel is her best in Rumor Has It. The kind of sound you don't hear from anybody nowadays is present on 21.
  55. Apr 12, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Undoubtedly one of the best albums in history, it is full of lyrics, sounds and transmits feelings that captivate you, in this Adele shows a maturation with respect to her debut 19, this album is the best there is in music and Adele He shows that he has the best voice of his generation as well as his way of composing and giving us the best of music.

    Adele's great performance and success is due to this, which is undoubtedly the best album ever, along with Taylor Swift's Folklore of course.
    Expand
  56. May 30, 2011
    9
    an album full of soul that doesn't rely on hype to be successful. Adele has shown everyone that all you actually need is a voice and a good song filled with emotion and class. one of the best albums of the year and the best voice right now and i'm so glad she received this amount of success.
  57. Feb 3, 2012
    10
    Adele is such a good artist. Beautiful voice and music and she's the 2nd best singer (The Weeknd is the first). I bought this album for my mom and she loved it i checked it out it was one of the best albums of 2011
  58. May 28, 2011
    10
    You will worship this album... in fact, you already are but you don't know. Like a critic said, after listening a few times to the album, you'll feel like you always knew them. This is quite true. If you loved 19, 21 will make you forget it quite fast.
  59. Mar 23, 2011
    10
    Compared to 19, this albumâ
  60. Aug 23, 2011
    8
    Adele. She's truly been a breath of fresh air this year. She's managed to let her slower songs take over peoples playlists in a time where dance songs run rampant. She's managed to bridge the gap and appeal to both young audiences and the older adult audience. Her strong voice and mopey sad love songs ave captivated many. "21" is a really solid album. Adele manages to drag you into her pitAdele. She's truly been a breath of fresh air this year. She's managed to let her slower songs take over peoples playlists in a time where dance songs run rampant. She's managed to bridge the gap and appeal to both young audiences and the older adult audience. Her strong voice and mopey sad love songs ave captivated many. "21" is a really solid album. Adele manages to drag you into her pit of despair. What's remarkable is her ability to get the audience to genuinely understand and feel for her. I do need to point out that she gets screechy a few times (it's noticeable on "I'll Be Waiting.") The standout on the album is most definitely "Set Fire to the Rain." Its one of the greatest songs I've come across this year. Its powerful and epic which makes it the black sheep of the album but it strangely finds it place and fits. Expand
  61. Mar 25, 2012
    7
    Without any incredible sounds, without any incredible video and without any fashion style Adele made a good album, for all the ages. Congrats. ( sorry for my English )
  62. Mar 26, 2012
    7
    Good album. Some of the songs feel a little repetitive on repeat listens. Her silky voice commands attention. But after a while the songs are a bit 'samesy'
  63. Mar 31, 2012
    10
    What a great album.Adele puts her heart and soul into this album.Great songs from Rolling in the Deep to Rumour Has It this is something to hear.21 is a album that you will love.Adele is a amazing singer.This is something you will enjoy and worth your money.
  64. Apr 9, 2011
    10
    Just after listening to it once, I became addicted to the album. Definitely one of my all-time favourites. Songs like 'Rolling in the Deep', 'Someone Like You' and 'Set Fire to the Rain' are main highlights of this album.
  65. Feb 24, 2011
    10
    OK first off.. Amy and Duffy?? wth are you smoking..
    This woman is in a class of her own and a truly rare talent.
    I preordered her latest release and im blown away...It will leave you captivated and wanting more.
  66. Nov 27, 2011
    10
    It's amazing. It's as simple as that. Her voice is so soulful and beautiful, it cannot NOT touch you in some way. The orchestration and the piano suit her perfectly.
    Both her albums are absolute must-buys.
  67. Feb 6, 2012
    10
    Although Foo Fighters' "Wasting Light" was my favourite album of 2011, Adele's "21" crosses, age and gender lines to create a solid album which everyone can enjoy. Her voice is majestic, the lyrical quality is transcendent and the music is catchy as hell. While the Foo's may have made my favourite album, Adele has made the best record of 2011. Great music is BACK.
  68. May 14, 2012
    8
    While it lacks the peculiar charm "19" had, her immensely powerful vocals sweep the floor. Less bluesy and jazzy and more leaning towards Pop, "21" is a step in the right direction despite losing some of the original pep. "21" is less pep, and more sass, which is by no means bad - just different.
  69. Dec 29, 2014
    10
    An album for the grand history of music. Adele continues to shock the world at such a very young age. Her vocals and her insightful and telling storytelling are well-beyond her years. There is a reason why this album saved a declined music industry. We wait in anticipate for your next brilliant year, Adele.
  70. Mar 30, 2011
    8
    The maturity with which she delivers these 11 songs is astonishing, brought to life by her undeniable vocal ability and a commitment to deliver beautifully crafted songs without ever having to resort to calculated melodrama. Adele has without doubt, come of age.

    http://hackskeptic.com
  71. Apr 13, 2014
    8
    It's hard to say that you really really like all the track an album offers you, but this was my case: I've enjoyed and loved them all! At some point they sound a bit like the same in structure or lyrics, but 21 is clearly an album that has to be heard and taken as one of the greatest achievements of 21st century music. Adele (with her brilliant and peculiar voice, her strong feelings andIt's hard to say that you really really like all the track an album offers you, but this was my case: I've enjoyed and loved them all! At some point they sound a bit like the same in structure or lyrics, but 21 is clearly an album that has to be heard and taken as one of the greatest achievements of 21st century music. Adele (with her brilliant and peculiar voice, her strong feelings and the sorrow she constantly expresses) has made a remarkable job. So all the excellent critics are well deserved. We'll be waiting for what's coming next, but I truly doubt that any future material can compare to this one. Expand
  72. Aug 25, 2014
    7
    Even though Adele has left the teenage image behind, embracing a new level of the same concept, 21's catchy singles overshine other very good songs, emphasizing a poorly distributed climax throughout the album (which also gives one the possibility of cutting the album in half without affecting its quality) and enhancing the expectations over the singer for a killer third album.
  73. Oct 4, 2014
    7
    The album is great, lyrically speaking, but instrumentally speaking, the sound isn't so marvelous listening track by track. My favs are the singles, "Rumour has it" and "Turning tables".
  74. May 1, 2015
    10
    Definitivamente mi álbum favorito, todas las canciones tienen una gran calidad vocal, además de una lirica perfecta, me produce muchas emociones, no puedo esperar más por el regreso de Adele
  75. Sep 14, 2015
    8
    Hinário

    Rolling In The Deep
    Rumour Has It
    Turning Tables
    Don't You Remember
    Set Fire To The Rain

    Sequência ótima de faixas, além que não tem músicas ruins no "21"
  76. Jan 28, 2015
    7
    I've overplayed this album and I don't get how it didn't get best reviews (watching her winnig grammys and selling millions with this album) it's the opposite way but at the XXI century, british singer/songwriter Adele gave us her second studio album, 21. In this record she proves her vocal range and good vibes, following her hit single "Rolling In The Deep" and the 2nd "Someone Like You"I've overplayed this album and I don't get how it didn't get best reviews (watching her winnig grammys and selling millions with this album) it's the opposite way but at the XXI century, british singer/songwriter Adele gave us her second studio album, 21. In this record she proves her vocal range and good vibes, following her hit single "Rolling In The Deep" and the 2nd "Someone Like You" you will get this travelling around powerful, classic and deep compositions such as the highlights -Set Fire To The Rain, Rumour Has It and Turning Tables-. Nice production but unfortunately a little basic and boring after 6 songs, the rise of the queen and the surprising fall it seems like unfinished or something like that because it doesn't have a theme, it doesn't have variation but it have 5 songs that can be declined and easily skipped Expand
  77. Apr 28, 2015
    7
    There’s a more mature voice and sound to it, with instantly catchy tracks. Adele has shown more audacity on this record and has collaborated with the right guys at the right time. It might sound less versatile than 19 but it’s also because its music serves its story, her stories actually. Her piano skills are cleverly used on some melancholic songs and her powerful voice makes this albumThere’s a more mature voice and sound to it, with instantly catchy tracks. Adele has shown more audacity on this record and has collaborated with the right guys at the right time. It might sound less versatile than 19 but it’s also because its music serves its story, her stories actually. Her piano skills are cleverly used on some melancholic songs and her powerful voice makes this album something everyone will remember for the next decade at least. The record is charming overall but could have gone deeper with a more detailed exploration of her feelings or a more cohesive track list. It’s still a wonderful mainstream album that dares and that’s creative enough to deserve some awards.

    Best track: Turning Tables
    Exact Score: 8
    Expand
  78. Apr 15, 2015
    9
    This has been a family favorite for 5 years now. Almost always when we drive somewhere our son insist that we listen to "number 5" (Fire to the Rain) or "number 1" (Rolling in the Deep). Those songs have been playing hundreds of times. We just wish there would soon be a new album. :D
  79. Jul 14, 2015
    10
    '21' will stand the test of time. Elegant, classy, passionate, melancholic, graceful, mournful and simplistic, '21' is one of the standout albums of the 21st Century.
    I have no idea why this album has a score of only 76....or why people are giving it a score of less than 9.

    It sold 30 million copies in an age of digital streaming.

    '21'
  80. Nov 10, 2015
    9
    É incrível, assim como o 19. Ela conseguiu ser fantástica nos dois. Vocais e músicas lindas, bem produzido... Maravilhoso! Um dos meus álbuns preferidos, com certeza.
  81. Nov 24, 2016
    10
    Adele 's 21 was my first album I ever bought and it is the best choice I ever made. Adele 's 21 for me is the best album in history. Her album sold over 31 million copies and was certified Diamond. This album is a collection of song that are some of the most beautiful songs ever. Everything Adele releases is just amazing.
  82. Jan 29, 2018
    7
    Although Adele is overpraised (*cough* The Grammys *cough), and overplayed, there are some great songs on this thing.
  83. Sep 9, 2020
    8
    Hearing a voice that grows scratchy and threatens to break and has not been tampered with, has not been slicked over in a studio, a voice that reveals all that can be found within a person and also seems to hold something back, to suggest another truth just behind the veil. Here's hoping that if Adele ever finds true love, she doesn't lose her ability to so convincingly channel heartbreak.
  84. Apr 22, 2018
    10
    É o melhor álbum da linha pop/soul que temos até o momento. Adele se consolidou com todas as honras e méritos como um fenômeno mundial! '21' joga para escanteio a pressão por um segundo álbum, é evidência de que quando há talento, haverá sempre grandes trabalhos. 'Rolling in The Deep', 'Someone Like You' e 'Set Fire To The Rain' conseguiram, de uma só vez, um feito que há muito tempo nãoÉ o melhor álbum da linha pop/soul que temos até o momento. Adele se consolidou com todas as honras e méritos como um fenômeno mundial! '21' joga para escanteio a pressão por um segundo álbum, é evidência de que quando há talento, haverá sempre grandes trabalhos. 'Rolling in The Deep', 'Someone Like You' e 'Set Fire To The Rain' conseguiram, de uma só vez, um feito que há muito tempo não acontece: tornar-se verdadeiros hinos, e que com certeza serão eternamente lembrados. É o melhor trabalho da carreira de Adele, o melhor álbum do ano, tudo o que se pode colocar '21' em primeiro lugar, ele É! Expand
  85. Jul 23, 2020
    10
    21 is one of the best albums of 2011 and subsequently swept the Grammys. Adele proves she can do much more than we expected.
  86. Nov 20, 2021
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. among all albums made by her, it is the only exceptional, without the suspicion of repetitive singing style she mostly exhibiting for about half a decade apart from her debut. Expand
  87. Aug 28, 2020
    9
    Simply an amazing album. I think this album introduced me to alternative years ago.
  88. Apr 8, 2021
    10
    eu não tenho nem palavras para expressar o quão perspicaz e artista a nossa queria Adele foi aqui, sua melodia nesse album é milagrosa e majestosa, com letras de sofrimento e profundas que faz a gente compreender ela perfeitamente a sua dor, sem falar o sucesso estrondoso e merecido esse álbum teve.
  89. Nov 18, 2021
    7
    Overall, «21» shows that Adele is towering in the same landscape where some of her contemporaries have lost all their bearings. Her husky, powerful voice is what keeps you listening, but here's hoping she experiences something besides betrayal before writing her next record.
  90. Nov 19, 2021
    9
    Adele's 21 is absolutely one of the best albums of all time.
    The album spawned one of the world's best known, and most loved songs in 'Someone Like You'.
    Adele once again hits the sweet spot with this record. Amazing.
  91. Feb 27, 2016
    8
    8/10 - "21 is simply stunning. After only a handful of plays, it feels like you've always known it" - BBC Music

    A little bit monotonous in places but if you've ever had your heart broken then you really need this album.
  92. Nov 21, 2015
    8
    Writing a review 4 years later. My initial verdict for this album was a 7, but it's risen to an 8. This is actually a good album and it only gets better with time. Adele is a once-in-generation star and I am proud to have actually witnessed her rise in my lifetime. Though i think 25 is better, this was and still is a hell of an album. Congrats Adele, you deserve it all.
  93. Aug 20, 2018
    10
    Aquí la muestra de que el talento vende sin necesidad de imagen ridícula y asquerosa como cierta payasa que gracias a que llegó este disco empezó su decadencia, como me alegró que esa payasa se quedara sentada mientras este precioso y emocional material se convirtió en el ganador de la noche y en el más vendido de la década
  94. Jan 31, 2016
    10
    Ótimo disco dessa grande artista de potencial para chamar a atenção para o mundo inteiro sem a necessidade de usar seu corpo, polêmicas ou levantar bandeiras para conseguir agradar ao outros. Um disco para ouvir e emocionar.
  95. Nov 11, 2017
    8
    21 is a nice record. It has a few very deep cutting songs but a lot of filler on top of that. This was the peak of Adele's work it is by far her best album because it was so monumental. Most of the singles became #1s and the album sold like hotcakes but other than that it's a pleasant album.
  96. Nov 28, 2015
    10
    Sheer brilliance. Perfection. 21 is hands-down one of the best albums to come out in the last 20 years. Adele's flawless vocals bring to life an emotionally passionate piece of work with strong lyrics, great production, and an awing mystique.
  97. Apr 18, 2017
    10
    This album is a masterpiece. The way she is telling a story about her heart breaking is truly amazing, you can feel her pain in every track. Taking a step away from her roots, 21 is far from a soul album, but still she managed to create something spectacular.
  98. May 29, 2016
    9
    This is a classic piece, just pure singing, pure music; without the computer and technology edits. No artificiality, only originality; authentic music. Adele's vocals are everything along with the melodious production.
    A very different album in the crowd. It has got its own thing. The sentiment of the melodies has been extra oridinarily justified by Adele. The rythm is in good flow, tempo
    This is a classic piece, just pure singing, pure music; without the computer and technology edits. No artificiality, only originality; authentic music. Adele's vocals are everything along with the melodious production.
    A very different album in the crowd. It has got its own thing. The sentiment of the melodies has been extra oridinarily justified by Adele. The rythm is in good flow, tempo is consistent.
    "Rolling in the Deep" is not the best track on the album. It's little over rated. "Rumour Has It" is a wonderful track, especially the bridge part. "Love Song" and "Don't You Remember" are essentially one of the best moments in the album.
    "Take It All" is my personal favourite. Can't express it in words. The perfect music, composition, choir, vocals; everything is just wonderful in this song. And then the comes the best part of the album, the closing track "Someone Like You", the best Adele song of all time.
    In this way Adele "sets fire to the rain"
    Adele's got a talented team. The production is not repetitive. It's so mucical and refreshing.
    Favourite Tracks - Someone Like You, Set Fire to the Rain, Take It All, Love Song, Don't You Remember, Rumours Has It, Rolling in the Deep.
    Jewel of the album - "Someone Like You"
    Expand
  99. Aug 25, 2016
    10
    With every song being delivered with raw talent and emotion and material that is so good, there is not much more to say about this masterpiece of timeless pop.
Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 34 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 26 out of 34
  2. Negative: 0 out of 34
  1. Jun 14, 2011
    80
    Hearing a voice that grows scratchy and threatens to break and has not been tampered with, has not been slicked over in a studio, a voice that reveals all that can be found within a person and also seems to hold something back, to suggest another truth just behind the veil.
  2. Mojo
    Apr 20, 2011
    60
    The Brit School girl undergoes a successful soul-pop makeover. [Feb. 2011, p. 108]
  3. Apr 11, 2011
    70
    On her sophomore album, 21, Adele channels real emotion and blasts through sincere ballads and angry rockers with few missteps.