Brutalism
by Idles
  • Record Label: PTKF
  • Release Date: Mar 10, 2017
Metascore
88

Universal acclaim - based on 6 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 6
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 6
  3. Negative: 0 out of 6
Buy Now
Buy on
  1. Drowned In Sound
    Dec 18, 2017
    90
    Brutalism has lost none of its bite and stands peerless as a staggering album of unmatched sincerity and self-assuredness.
  2. AllMusic
    Dec 11, 2017
    90
    It's the razor-sharp precision of his words that allows for effective interlocking with the rest of the band, so much so that they seem to move through each song as a combined force of nature, matching tight yet crunchy instruments to the poignancy of every syllable.
  3. The Line of Best Fit
    Mar 16, 2017
    90
    Idles are one of the most exciting British bands right now and Brutalism is proof.
  5. Uncut
    Mar 16, 2017
    80
    A rare rock record with the rage, urgency, wit and shattering of complacency usually found in grime. [Apr 2017, p.32]
    All this publication's reviews
  6. DIY Magazine
    Mar 16, 2017
    80
    Raging at full throttle, IDLES’ debut is as dirty as it is messy. An exhilarating escape along frenzied rhythms and powerhouse rhythms with a ferocious commentary for guidance, Brutalism is as vital as it is volatile.
  7. PopMatters
    Mar 16, 2017
    80
    Brutalism is bracing, caustic, and relentless from the speed-tweaked industrial drum beat that lights the fuse of “Heel Heal” to the final confessions of “Slow Savage” at the end. It is also one of the more clever and articulate rock records you will hear this year.

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 65 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 60 out of 65
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 65
  3. Negative: 4 out of 65
  1. sidd667
    Jan 4, 2023
    9
    Awesome! This album it's intense and chaotic in so many ways. Joe Talbot sings like a angry dog barking, Bowen and Kiernan follow the sameAwesome! This album it's intense and chaotic in so many ways. Joe Talbot sings like a angry dog barking, Bowen and Kiernan follow the same sound of anarchy, Devonshire have a strong sound of bass and Beavis plays drums like there's no tomorrow.… Full Review »
  2. Joyasanactofres
    Dec 28, 2021
    10
    This is a wonderful post-punk record. The guitar work and performance are relentless and invigorating. I love the lyrics too which are oftenThis is a wonderful post-punk record. The guitar work and performance are relentless and invigorating. I love the lyrics too which are often indirect but well-thought-out. Like the song "well done" which satirizes how society imposes these common standards onto others. I find this album intriguing and overall refreshing.… Full Review »
  3. Ricko
    Jul 12, 2019
    8
    Pounding drums and bass driving everything. Harshly distorted chainsaw guitars cutting away. Vocal chords being shredded. A violent sound thatPounding drums and bass driving everything. Harshly distorted chainsaw guitars cutting away. Vocal chords being shredded. A violent sound that catches you with lyrics that melt the heart and preach love, peace and unity. All these elements combine to produce one of the finest genuine punk albums in years. Arguably a better album than it's breakthrough follow up "Joy As An Act of Resistance". "Mother", "Faith in the City" and "Rachel Khoo" are all standout tracks but this collection of songs works very well as a whole. Great stuff.… Full Review »
See all user reviews »