User ratings in Music are temporarily disabled. More info
  • Record Label:
  • Release Date:
Ben Image
Metascore
71

Generally favorable reviews - based on 4 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
tbd

No user score yet- Awaiting 2 more ratings

  • Summary: The first full-length solo studio release from Seattle rapper Macklemore in six years features guest appearances from Sarah Barthel of Phantogram, charlieonnafriday, Collett, DJ Premier, Vic Daggs II, Livingston, Jackson Lee Morgan, Morray, NLE Choppa, Tones And I, and Windser.
Buy Now
Buy on
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2 out of 4
  2. Negative: 0 out of 4
  1. Mar 21, 2023
    90
    Altogether, Ben feels like the first time Macklemore has truly let listeners into his inner world, showcasing his underrated lyrical skills and enough varied production to keep the album moving forward toward a hopeful finish.
  2. Mar 21, 2023
    70
    Surprisingly, it finds him mellowed out, focused, with a newfound interest in subtlety and even subtext. ... Ben is handily his best album. It’s a midcareer downshift from an artist who desperately needed it.
  3. Mar 21, 2023
    60
    The struggle of the wealthy and talented white rapper was never especially sympathetic. And on Ben, his trials are mostly internal, the enduring struggle of man to find meaning and leave a legacy. This Macklemore is likely the most honest version we’ve seen to date.
  4. Mar 21, 2023
    48
    Despite some solid songwriting about addiction and mortality, Macklemore’s comeback album still experiences the same struggles with corniness and over-sincerity that torpedoed him from a household name to an afterthought, leading to a mixed bag that’s more admirable than actualized.
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 0 out of
  2. Mixed: 0 out of
  3. Negative: 0 out of