Beat the Champ
by The Mountain Goats
  • Record Label: Merge
  • Release Date: Apr 7, 2015
Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 24 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 22 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 24
  3. Negative: 0 out of 24
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  1. NOW Magazine
    Apr 8, 2015
    60
    The lyrics are the album's strong suit, and for the first time ever Darnielle will be releasing them with the album, allowing for easy dissection.
  2. DIY Magazine
    Apr 13, 2015
    40
    Overall Beat the Champ will no doubt prove a hit with die-hard Mountain Goats fans, however as a standalone album it lacks a coherent sound.

User Reviews

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User Score
8.1

Universal acclaim- based on 24 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 23 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 24
  3. Negative: 0 out of 24
  1. Scottview
    Apr 19, 2015
    9
    Great album. Not quite everything's a winner, but it's highlights are undeniable. This album has great song writing that goes hand in handGreat album. Not quite everything's a winner, but it's highlights are undeniable. This album has great song writing that goes hand in hand with suitably crisp and warm instrumentals to successfully create a variety of different and involving soundscapes.

    Unless you're bitter from having been stabbed in the eye with a foreign object, it's an easy recommendation.    … Full Review »
  2. wl8291
    Aug 7, 2015
    4
    Let me begin by saying that I think our good ol' Johnny D is one of the best lyricists of our generation... and, that being said, I really andLet me begin by saying that I think our good ol' Johnny D is one of the best lyricists of our generation... and, that being said, I really and truly wanted to fall in love with this album, it's always so exciting when you learn there is a new Mountain Goats album to fall into... but, as fairest a shot I gave this album, I can't say that this one worked for me... while I typically think his music pales in comparison to his lyrics, I would say that this album greatly differs, as the music is only slightly more thoughtful than the seemingly more gratuitous words Mr. Darnielle decides to use this time...… Full Review »
  3. ElroyRosenberg
    Jun 13, 2015
    8
    This album, whilst perhaps not the most exciting or rivetingly-experimental album out there, has well-written songs aplenty. The songs rumbleThis album, whilst perhaps not the most exciting or rivetingly-experimental album out there, has well-written songs aplenty. The songs rumble along nicely, brilliantly written and performed, and you don't have to think too much about them. Also, don't underestimate how difficult it is to write lyrics this good when your subject matter is limited to wrestling.… Full Review »
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