Circus
by Britney Spears
  • Record Label: Jive
  • Release Date: Dec 2, 2008
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 638 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 528 out of 638
  2. Mixed: 42 out of 638
  3. Negative: 68 out of 638

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
view
per page
  1. juanselopez340
    May 13, 2023
    10
    Tiene buenas canciones que saca lo mejor de ella pero está muy subestimado
  2. Mizuki_San19
    Jan 16, 2023
    8
    I would give Circus a 10 because of their exclusive and unreleased tracks.
    But, this album feels more like a compilation of discarded tracks (maybe from Blackout) than a brand new album; there's no consistency between the tracks and the main topic of the album, circus.
    Don't get me wrong, all of the songs are amazing, I just think they could've tried harder giving the tracks a proper    I would give Circus a 10 because of their exclusive and unreleased tracks.
    But, this album feels more like a compilation of discarded tracks (maybe from Blackout) than a brand new album; there's no consistency between the tracks and the main topic of the album, circus.
    Don't get me wrong, all of the songs are amazing, I just think they could've tried harder giving the tracks a proper order, or simply discarding tracks that had little or nothing to do with the theme of the album.
    In fact, an unreleased track sounds way more like "Circus" than the "mosaic jelly" they chose to be part of the album (I'm talking about "Dangerous")
    Resuming: It could be a 10, but it reminds me to a mosaic jelly, so I'm giving it an 8.    … Expand
  3. rxffy
    Dec 26, 2022
    10
    Her second best album (after Blackout), i grew up with “Womanizer” “Radar” and “If U Seek Amy”
  4. someonewhocares
    Sep 7, 2022
    9
    Circus proves to be way better than Blackout could ever be. Songs like "Mmm Papi", "Lace and Leather", "Womanizer", and "Circus", as well as "If U Seek Amy", are quinessential Brtney Spears hits. The vocals are intensely autotuned and somtimes stiff, but who wouldn't already know that Britney isn't a singing person.
  5. fr_kennedy
    Jul 29, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A ressignificação da carreira, um álbum muito luminoso. A artista que melhor trabalhou com temática circense.… Expand
  6. dakeliaa
    Feb 5, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This was a huge HIT! A successful comeback and a follow up after BLACKOUT, this was a real success, that aimed her career to the peak once again!… Expand
  7. Amruk
    Dec 29, 2021
    9
    The album begins with an iconic "Womanizer". I always admired its heavy electropop production, and its intro is just so fitting. I really love every element of this song, even though it might not be cool for everyone. I also adore its lyrical content. "Circus" has this slight touches on the guitar string - it's pretty dope. Besides that, lots of things happen in that song to createThe album begins with an iconic "Womanizer". I always admired its heavy electropop production, and its intro is just so fitting. I really love every element of this song, even though it might not be cool for everyone. I also adore its lyrical content. "Circus" has this slight touches on the guitar string - it's pretty dope. Besides that, lots of things happen in that song to create perfection! After two bangers we have a little slowdown called "Out from Under", which is a really emotional ballad with good vocal performance by Ms Spears!
    "Kill the Lights" is a descend track, this time bringing famous Danja on the track, Britney shows how she can control a mic in the verses. And it's so cool to hear sucha middle finger into paparazzi, tell 'em Brit! "Shattered Glass" begins with a gorgeous intro, followed-up by another set of empowered Britney vocals. I love how dark this track is! Next is another iconic track - "If U Seek Amy" - this time middle finger is pointed out to media. I adore this track, it's very nostalgic to me, especially its angelic intro which gives me a taste of powdery pink cake.
    "Unusual You" is the darkest cut here! It's so athmospheric, lush, and beautiful. It has this haunting sounds mixed with a beautiful piano line, synths, and twinkles. I hope she got that unusual angel. Shame its release has been cancelled, it would've been a hit! Now were going into more hangover territory with "Blur", but again with a really haunting production!
    "Mmm Papi" is lewd and funny, I adore this track so much for how much fun Britney had during the creation of this track. The next track, "Mannequin", is pretty dope and has cool guitars! "Lace and Leather" starts with a nice string line and changes later into sucha power pop with an infectious chorus! The album officially ends with "My Baby", a subdued ballad with adorable vocals and set of lyrics. Subtle instrumentation can be however boring for some.
    Now, some bonus tracks! And, oh boy, this album has a lot of them. "Radar" from Blackout sounds okay here, especially knowing that Circus was supposed to be just Blackout with four new songs. The song itself is really infectious! "Rock Me In" is a cool and fun electro pop rock. "Phonography" is another lewd entry, this time phone-related and much darker than "Mmm Papi". And hey, ain't it weird that Britney released songs about love/sex surrounding relics od the past? (Yes, I'm looking at you "E-Mail My Heart") The last bonus track I'd cover will be "Quicksand". Oh my god, this song is so goregous, this simple biano ballad turned into electropop banger with Lady Gaga vocals is so dope!
    In conclusion, Circus is just a banger (minus "My Baby" of course). It is well-crafted album, but more lighter and not Britney as its obviously better predecessor Blackout. Still she nailed it!    … Expand
  8. PrThKi
    Nov 19, 2021
    9
    Brilliant album from Britney Spears.
    Very solid tracklist, including 'Womanizer' which is one of her best songs.
  9. Kijhy
    Mar 19, 2021
    7
    77/100
    iconic !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  10. PEDROMFR
    Feb 28, 2021
    6
    The first half of this album makes us believe that Britney's fully back to the pop game, and then the other half is, somehow, a disappointment similar to most Blackout's tracks. Nevertheless, it´s notable that her vocals are more clear and ambitious, and I think we've never had an album more personal than this one from Britney. It´s really a shame that you can feel so clearly the changeThe first half of this album makes us believe that Britney's fully back to the pop game, and then the other half is, somehow, a disappointment similar to most Blackout's tracks. Nevertheless, it´s notable that her vocals are more clear and ambitious, and I think we've never had an album more personal than this one from Britney. It´s really a shame that you can feel so clearly the change from the middle of the album. It´s not THE COMEBACK, yet.… Expand
  11. Milojuan
    Sep 17, 2020
    10
    El lado B de blackout es la luz al final de Túnel con sus problemas personales logró crear arte
  12. p_cs
    Aug 29, 2020
    9
    A really good album by Mrs Britney Spears, I give him a 9 because for me the order tracklist is a bit mess, but I love all the songs.
  13. maquisl
    Jul 24, 2020
    9
    The definition of a perfect comeback. She doesn't takes any risks but she still releases an almost perfect pop album.It sounds a bit like Blackout but it's original at the same time and it has the best bonus tracks of Britney's career.
  14. pdrmcd
    May 5, 2020
    7
    I have mixed feelings about this album. From Womanizer to Unusual You, we get incredible songs, with amazing production, vocals and lyrics. Blur is okay. It doesn't have the "replay effect" on us, but still a great song. However, we get into a dive in we listen to Mmm Papi, which for me, it's one of the worst songs I've ever heard. Totally unnecessary. The last songs are tiring, and weI have mixed feelings about this album. From Womanizer to Unusual You, we get incredible songs, with amazing production, vocals and lyrics. Blur is okay. It doesn't have the "replay effect" on us, but still a great song. However, we get into a dive in we listen to Mmm Papi, which for me, it's one of the worst songs I've ever heard. Totally unnecessary. The last songs are tiring, and we start listening wishing to get to the end as fast as possible. Phonography, which is not available in the ordinary version is a very good song that should totally be invested. It was kinda sad for me, because the first 7 songs are so great, with classical anthems as Circus and Womanizer, but the end of the album seems a little messy.… Expand
  15. infsai
    Mar 27, 2020
    9
    Another pretty good Britney album with many dark dance jams! However "My Baby" breaks whole feel of an album for me. Anyway this is my second favorite album of Britney, only behind Blackout.
  16. Xun1996
    Jan 28, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I love the album my favorites:
    If u seek amy
    Circus
    Out from under
    Shattered Glass
    Unusual you
    Womanizer    … Expand
  17. Tiburtiino
    Jan 10, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. At Circus britney he made an incredible comeback and showed that his name will always be relevant. He indulged in the production of the album and made an extremely iconic tour. It is one of my favorite albums.… Expand
  18. AJSF316
    Sep 26, 2019
    8
    Circus was the begining of the not-risky-albums by Spears after the whole new experience that Blackout brings to Pop music.
    But also, was the right direction in Spears' career by that time. Thanks to Circus Britney shows the whole industry she is and will be the Princess of Pop.
    Some skip songs were include, but very solid material like Unusual You and Kill The Lights makes the album a    Circus was the begining of the not-risky-albums by Spears after the whole new experience that Blackout brings to Pop music.
    But also, was the right direction in Spears' career by that time. Thanks to Circus Britney shows the whole industry she is and will be the Princess of Pop.
    Some skip songs were include, but very solid material like Unusual You and Kill The Lights makes the album a good listen.    … Expand
  19. Jann_Junx
    Aug 31, 2019
    10
    Circus mantuvo el ritmo de su antecesor Blackout, pero con su toque especial, haciéndolo destacar e incluso siendo uno de los mejores álbumes de Spears para la mayoría.
  20. Bruck8
    Jun 8, 2019
    10
    Underappreciated.
    One of the few Britney albums that has slower songs and ballads on it.
    a Great Record.
  21. lovehate
    Jan 31, 2019
    10
    Pure pop, LOVE it! Best comeback ever! Unusual You and Circus are career highlights.
  22. Smallbigthings
    Nov 15, 2017
    8
    Nostalgic classical pop. She moved a whole world while she was active and her music still plays in my speakers from time to time. Sure the music is simple but that does not stop my body from moving when hearing her hits. Circus is a good album that deserves the 8/10 score.
  23. Felipecritic
    Oct 21, 2017
    7
    Um bom álbum pop, responsável por trazer Britney ao topo das paradas novamente, além de uma das turnês mais lucrativas da década de 2000, um super espetáculo pop.
  24. jaencarlosg25
    Jul 29, 2017
    9
    Very interesting album. More mature Britney without losing sex-appeal. This album marked her comeback with a #1 on Billboard both important charts... Hot 100 & BB 200. Congrats, Brit.
  25. Heychrystin
    Jul 26, 2017
    10
    Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon Icon
  26. JonasCroft
    Jul 23, 2017
    10
    This album continues the legacy of Blackout, but in an unusual way. We can really feel the sadness, the kindness, the madness, and the fun times, a whole personality. This album it's really a Circus.
  27. LuizSimmer313
    Feb 9, 2017
    10
    Com certeza Circus é um álbum marcante na carreira de Spears. Marca uma nova etapa na sua vida, e mostra que amadureceu, de canções profundos á canções dance, como o sucesso 'Womanizer'
  28. LipeFireworks
    Jan 28, 2017
    10
    O melhor album de Britney com certeza, faixas com Out From Under, Shattered Glass, Blur, Lance and Lather tinham muito potencial pra ser single, esse album é sim melhor que seu antecessor "Blackout"
  29. owenrw89
    Dec 10, 2016
    7
    Hiring producers Bloodshy & Avant, Max Martin and Danja - who've all helped Britney create her greatest past works - was a very clever idea indeed. OK, so it lacks the style and power of 'Blackout', but it reconnects Britney with her youth, her fun. 'Blackout' quietly demanded attention, were as Circus asks for it outright.
    She's not there yet, but she's certainly on the return to her pop throne.
  30. lordemusic
    Dec 1, 2016
    2
    "Blackout" seemed like it signaled a more club-orientated path for Spears, like Madonna or Kylie Minogue, but Circus is a hodgepodge of pop themes that never really finds a face."Blackout" seemed like it signaled a more club-orientated path for Spears, like Madonna or Kylie Minogue, but Circus is a hodgepodge of pop themes that never really finds a face.
  31. victorcarter
    Nov 21, 2016
    5
    Definitely not as exposing as the title suggests. Exposure aside :I'll give Radar a straight up zero because it also was on Blackout (Seriously Britney? How did you think this was a good idea?). Mmm Papi gets an undeniable 1 out of ten, as it is one of her biggest FFS moments so far. About the rest, Circus was really good, i liked Womanizer, and the rest songs just fail to stick out.Definitely not as exposing as the title suggests. Exposure aside :I'll give Radar a straight up zero because it also was on Blackout (Seriously Britney? How did you think this was a good idea?). Mmm Papi gets an undeniable 1 out of ten, as it is one of her biggest FFS moments so far. About the rest, Circus was really good, i liked Womanizer, and the rest songs just fail to stick out. Overall an average to just fine record.… Expand
  32. MateusClemente
    Oct 20, 2016
    9
    One of her best albums ever! Close enough to the old and classic pop sound. Britney got everything right in it, from the cover to the singles choice. Definitely a great piece of work!
  33. Kauanzanatts
    Sep 11, 2016
    9
    this(and glory)is the best album of my diva and queen britney spears i am a bigggggggggggg fan of her and this is the most strong but is really underrated album of her, that shows songs like circus,unusual you etc... that show britney vocal skills and a pop star skills like womanizer that is her 2 big hit of all time, this album is really underrated album and deserves much more
  34. gabrielfobia
    Sep 10, 2016
    7
    This album has some great moments, but a great part of the unknown songs for most of people is just there for filling the blanks. I, personally, highlight Out From Under as a very personal track which really spoke to me about what Britney has been through in the past 2 years.
  35. sixinch
    Aug 30, 2016
    1
    One of the worst albums of the year thus far. It shows absolutely no artistic growth, the lyrics are elementary, and the vocals are non-existent. All in all, a terrible album. Collapse
  36. prayyoucatchme
    Aug 30, 2016
    1
    Spears' sophomore album, which was critically one of her best, and featured the self-titled single that everyone and their mothers know. The album is headlined by such songs as Oops...I did it again, Stronger, and Lucky, with each one reaching the top 15 in the US Billboard 100 charts. Though those songs were popular, and I think they are catchy, the album does have its flaws. (I can't getSpears' sophomore album, which was critically one of her best, and featured the self-titled single that everyone and their mothers know. The album is headlined by such songs as Oops...I did it again, Stronger, and Lucky, with each one reaching the top 15 in the US Billboard 100 charts. Though those songs were popular, and I think they are catchy, the album does have its flaws. (I can't get no) Satisfaction is a word-for-word cover of the original Rolling Stones song, and it just comes off as awful personally. Also, the last track on the album, Dear Diary, is very, very stupid, in my opinion. Buy it to relive some nostalgia, but be aware this is the early 2000's, and bubblegum pop is just as cheesy as you thought it was. Collapse… Expand
  37. billobo1
    Aug 27, 2016
    6
    The follow-up to "Blackout" isn't bad. It's not good either, though. In 3 words, lack of inspiration. Despite the amazing, killer singles it produced and the "Blackout" almost song, "Kill the Lights", this album has no direction. Most songs sound like demos. Do they have potential to be great? Sure! Did they evolve like that? No, not really. Its surprisingly large number of forgettableThe follow-up to "Blackout" isn't bad. It's not good either, though. In 3 words, lack of inspiration. Despite the amazing, killer singles it produced and the "Blackout" almost song, "Kill the Lights", this album has no direction. Most songs sound like demos. Do they have potential to be great? Sure! Did they evolve like that? No, not really. Its surprisingly large number of forgettable ballads doesn't really help either. It can'be called bad, because it isn't a let-down or a flop. Truth be told though, it is no masterpiece either.… Expand
  38. lipeeh1398
    Aug 26, 2016
    10
    Realmente grande, um album que seguiu a reta o nome do mesmo, todas as musicas são muito bem elaboradas, nem todas, mas muitas estão excelentes, o destaque para unusual You, Out From Under, Shatered Glasses e If U Seek Amy que são as perolas do album.
  39. lukeparkes26
    Jul 15, 2016
    8
    "Circus" provides more lighthearted moments than "Blackout," and it has those sassy, sexy, sultry moments, too. I love the fun, upbeat tracks, such as "Circus," If You Seek Amy," and "Phonography," and I love the softer, vulnerable ballads, such as "Out From Under," "My Baby," and "Unusual You," and I love the songs that mix things up: "Shattered Glass" and "Quicksand."
  40. QueenBritney
    Mar 25, 2016
    10
    amazing album the best album of 2008 she did her thing on this album it was really her comeback album she nailed it with Circus and Blur and the album is timeless.
  41. tulho21
    Mar 10, 2016
    9
    Um dos melhores albuns que eu já ouvi da Ms. Spears, muitos que dizem que ela morreu em 2004, mas esse album provou como uma verdadeira rainha retorna
  42. TheusOk
    Mar 5, 2016
    10
    Best album jjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjj
  43. sayaam
    Feb 1, 2016
    10
    Britney's most flawless venture into the realm of pure pop in almost a decade (having worked with hip hop and dance on the two records prior to this) didn't disappoint. Full of sexy, high power jams that become instant classics on the first listen - this album has every track worthy of being a hit and accentuates her powerful dominatrix side as well as some of her most meaningful balladsBritney's most flawless venture into the realm of pure pop in almost a decade (having worked with hip hop and dance on the two records prior to this) didn't disappoint. Full of sexy, high power jams that become instant classics on the first listen - this album has every track worthy of being a hit and accentuates her powerful dominatrix side as well as some of her most meaningful ballads of her career.… Expand
  44. Tonyo
    Jan 30, 2016
    7
    Album fourre-tout, pot-pourri de la pop où l'excellent (Mannequin, Circus, Out From Under) côtoie le moins bon (Blur, Mmm Papi, My Baby). Album du retour, bien mené par le premier single Womanizer.
  45. Evyan2002
    Jan 25, 2016
    10
    Circus is by far the best Britney Spears album there is to date. You have hit songs like womanizer, circus, kill the lights and radar. Britney's other songs are great too. 10/10
  46. JesusRT
    Oct 13, 2015
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The best comeback ever.................................... Amazing!!!!!!!!!!
    BS i love you baby XOXOXOXOXOXOXXOXOXOXOXOXXO.
    Circus Womanizer, Unusual You, Blur, Amnesia, Quicksand, If u seek amy, Phonography and out from under and shattered glass and Lace n leather the best.    … Expand
  47. DanielSaldanaG
    Oct 11, 2015
    8
    It's a good album but it looks like it's divided in two parts, because from the middle to the end has really weak tracks that take away the strength of the album. However, it has hits, and good hits, since Circus and If U Seek Amy have a perfect production and an excellent performance.
  48. Clubsocial
    May 4, 2015
    1
    Katy Perry bursts back onto the scene with her amazing second album that is full to the grim of the tongue-in-cheek atmosphere that got herkhkkjhjghjbnnnnn
  49. PinkFriday
    Sep 6, 2014
    9
    Esse é o álbum da "volta por cima" de Britney. Depois de raspar a cabeça, beber, fumar, e ir para a clínica de reabilitação, e todos acharem que sua carreira estava acabada, voltou com tudo com o single Womanizer e o álbum Circus, um album pop muito bom e divertido. Acertou em cheio! As melhores faixas são "Circus" "Blur" e "Unusual You".
  50. caiotemon
    May 14, 2014
    9
    This album is FANTASTIC. It's funny like no other she has ever released and every track stands out in it's own way. Unusual you was, for me, the best track on the album and one of the best of her entire carreer(too bad it wasn't released as a single :( ), and the others follow up to this.
  51. breathesp
    Dec 13, 2013
    10
    melhor album pop melhor album pop melhor album pop melhor album pop melhor album pop melhor album pop melhor album pop amoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
  52. AgustinS
    Oct 21, 2013
    10
    Definitely one of Britney's most underrated albums. People compare it too much to Blackout (her most overrated album), I personally enjoy it a lot more than Blackout, we actually get to listen to her real voice and there is more musical variety (electronic songs, dance songs, ballads, etc.). I'd say it's my second favorite Britney album, after In The Zone.
  53. BWETMatangi
    Aug 6, 2013
    6
    "If U Seek Amy" will always be one of my favorite Britney songs. Other good songs include "Mmm Papi" and "Womanizer". A great CD if you like happy pop music.
  54. LanaDelRey
    Mar 24, 2013
    10
    Womiazer, Circus, Kill The Lights, If U Seek Amy, Unusual You, Papi, Lace And Leather!
    Damn Perfect!
  55. inof
    Mar 4, 2013
    9
    if not her best then one of her best albums ever.!!! Songs like ''Circus'' Womanizer'' ''If U Seek Amy'' ''Mannequin'' ''Shattered Glass'' make you wanna dance..but on the other hand, ballads like ''Out from under'' ''My Baby'' or Unusual You'' are so so beautiful...
  56. dreammusic
    Nov 7, 2012
    10
    Britney at her best returns and has made a helluva comeback with Womaniser and Circus... A must listen Although tracks like Blur and My Baby are slightly away from the direction of the album, it glues together perfectly with peppy tracks like If U Seek Amy and Mmm Papi :-P
  57. Matheus_
    Sep 23, 2012
    5
    Although the album is the first step of a re-invention period for the singer, "Britney" is, still, a childish-like album. Despite from some of the songs (such as "I'm a Slave 4 U" and "Boys"), the rest of the album is too girly even for Britney's style. The tentative to achieve a more feminine and adult sound transforms into a sensation of "how would that be like if the Neptune hadAlthough the album is the first step of a re-invention period for the singer, "Britney" is, still, a childish-like album. Despite from some of the songs (such as "I'm a Slave 4 U" and "Boys"), the rest of the album is too girly even for Britney's style. The tentative to achieve a more feminine and adult sound transforms into a sensation of "how would that be like if the Neptune had produced the whole thing?", since they were responsible for the two mentioned songs. From what it should have been, the album is just a wannabe.… Expand
  58. Parera_Starr11
    Jun 29, 2012
    9
    Britney's second best cd released thus far. Good production and well put together. The album transitions very well as each song flow right into the next. It also contains her best ballad (Out From Under) since "Everytime". Though "Circus" and "Mannequin" are the best tracks on the cd.
  59. GagaForGhibli
    May 29, 2012
    10
    Simply 100% Perfect Album And Singles
    This Is The 1st Britney Album That Should Get A Perfect 10/10!
    Great Album!
  60. Juliakay337
    May 25, 2012
    4
    The album as a whole is not terrible. Britney gets it right on the singles "Womanizer", "Circus", and even "If U Seek Amy" manages to be likable, despite it's awful lyrics. However, the songs that are bad are really, really bad. "Mmm Papi" is inexcusably awful, with Britney obnoxiously singing lines like "Now see I'm Mami, and that make you Papi, and that makes us Luvi!". Her ballad "MyThe album as a whole is not terrible. Britney gets it right on the singles "Womanizer", "Circus", and even "If U Seek Amy" manages to be likable, despite it's awful lyrics. However, the songs that are bad are really, really bad. "Mmm Papi" is inexcusably awful, with Britney obnoxiously singing lines like "Now see I'm Mami, and that make you Papi, and that makes us Luvi!". Her ballad "My Baby" is among the other offenders on the album, a sickeningly sappy track about her children that she apparently wrote herself. I would recommend downloading a few of the songs, but buying the entire album would be a mistake in my opinion.… Expand
  61. RIProo
    Apr 7, 2012
    9
    How to make a great album?? Ask to Britney Spears! After her dark period Britney gets back with a simply fantastic album, "Circus". Funny and engaging, when you listen this album you feel like in another world, like in a "Circus", because you feel a lot of feelings in the same moment and so you are confused but also charmed. Best Songs? "Womanizer", "If U Seek Amy", "Kill the Lights" andHow to make a great album?? Ask to Britney Spears! After her dark period Britney gets back with a simply fantastic album, "Circus". Funny and engaging, when you listen this album you feel like in another world, like in a "Circus", because you feel a lot of feelings in the same moment and so you are confused but also charmed. Best Songs? "Womanizer", "If U Seek Amy", "Kill the Lights" and "Out From Under".... Great Job, Princess! ( sorry for my English )… Expand
  62. Zone111
    Mar 23, 2012
    10
    Circus is great album, not her best but still good enough for 10!
  63. paulgreen
    Feb 24, 2012
    9
    I have only two words - oh yes !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  64. RogerSmith97
    Dec 23, 2011
    8
    Overall Circus In My Opinion Is Fine!
    The Best Tracks Are: Circus, Womanizer, Out from Under, If U Seek Amy, Unusual You, And Lace And Leather... I Hate KILL THE LIGHTS!
  65. rxqueen
    Dec 13, 2011
    8
    not her best, but certainly not a bad album. clearly put together just as she was recovering from the downward spiral her life was on in 2007. even so, this album is too 'clean' and lacks the gritty feeling that 'Blackout' had. some forgettable songs, but still a solid pop album. 'Shattered Glass', 'Mannequin', and "Kill The Lights" are stand-out tracks.
  66. LucaISlandDJ
    Sep 12, 2011
    10
    Maybe not the right follow up to Blackout and to be honest Circus went too easy about the sounds (Blackout is darker) but at least this is a great album. Womanizer is the best single on the album! Circus, Kill The Lights, If U Seek Amy, Unusual You and Blur are great tracks too! Out from Under and My Baby are sweet ballads.
  67. Kaleido
    Sep 10, 2011
    8
    A collection of soft, circus-themed songs that after a while may sound dull but will always be anthems ("Womanizer", "If U Seek Amy"). Loving "Mmm Papi" and "Lace and Leather" aswell.
  68. musicisallineed
    Aug 7, 2011
    7
    The ultimate comeback album? For the most part yes. This record offers far more than any of her previous records, track after track you can almost smell the production and care that's been undertaken, it's almost a powerful album in parts that see's Britney return to pop form, leaving her so called "urban" past behind her. The only parts of the album that lack come from Britney herself, orThe ultimate comeback album? For the most part yes. This record offers far more than any of her previous records, track after track you can almost smell the production and care that's been undertaken, it's almost a powerful album in parts that see's Britney return to pop form, leaving her so called "urban" past behind her. The only parts of the album that lack come from Britney herself, or rather lack of Britney. A face can fit and a legacy can go on, but by studio album number six there's only so little the actual artist can be involved in the writing and production and voice for that matter without staring to offend her fans and critics.… Expand
  69. owenrw2889
    Jun 22, 2011
    7
    POSITIVE - The album is actually very good. I wasn't sure what to expect as initially the album appeared rushed, it just sort of appeared. But the album as a whole i personally think is her best to date. Starting with 'Womanizer' as the open track i crossed my fingers that the following tracks would match the success in production and sound, and i must say they did. It's sounds veryPOSITIVE - The album is actually very good. I wasn't sure what to expect as initially the album appeared rushed, it just sort of appeared. But the album as a whole i personally think is her best to date. Starting with 'Womanizer' as the open track i crossed my fingers that the following tracks would match the success in production and sound, and i must say they did. It's sounds very clean, very polished. Certain tracks such as 'Unusual You' were unexpected and a breathe of fresh air. 70% of this album is pretty much as good as pop music can get.
    NEGATIVE - Certain tracks are obviously filler tracks 'Mmm Papi', 'My Baby' and 'Mannequin' fall flat compared to rest of the album. I was slighty confused how these tracks were on the full version and better and even more exciting tracks such as 'Phoneography' and 'Amnesia' were bonus tracks. The album at times also has a typical it will do feel about it, 'Lace and Leather' for example, although one of my favourite tracks, it just could have been so much more. OVERALL - A very good album that is certainly worth purchasing, if your a Britney fan or not. Not quite 100%, but by far an achievment in the Britney catalogue.    … Expand
  70. iamanicon
    May 24, 2011
    8
    Womanizer, If You Seek Amy , Unusual You and Kill The Lights almost block out the vile My Baby and Mmm Papi which would have been better replaced with the bonus tracks. Radar is a great song. But by the time it was released as a single (June 2009) Britney lovers had already got the message when we heard it a year and a half earlier.
  71. alex945
    Mar 25, 2011
    7
    Is a good album, but much less Blackout.Le best songs are: Womanizer, Circus, Out From Under, My Baby, Mmm Papi and Shattered Glass. We expected more from this album, after the excellent Blackout.
  72. OfficialCarlo
    Nov 26, 2010
    6
    Circus is disappointing although it contains some standout tracks but most tracks are mediocre. I love how catchy and danceable "Womanizer", "Circus", "If U Seek Amy" and etc. But there is less singing and some tracks are boring like "Blur" and "Kill the Lights."
  73. DiiThomas
    Sep 4, 2010
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Britney is back, his album deserves note 10,
    The two ballads, "Out From Under" and "My Baby" are perfect! The album is mature and the songs are the best!    … Expand
  74. NoahH
    Jun 17, 2010
    0
    Most likely her worst album yet, very uninspiring. Lacks a great amount of creativity and vision.
  75. SantixRdeCh
    Jun 11, 2010
    8
    I loved some of the songs. It's nice.
  76. KennethP
    Jan 31, 2010
    7
    Classic... Britney deserves to be the ringleader But be honest some of the songs is not danceable.
  77. StellaL
    Dec 30, 2009
    10
    It's very addicting and danceable...circus, womanizer, If U Seek Amy are the best tracks, but there are many more that are worth listening to. If you love dancepop, then this is an album to have. Not one of Britney's best, but it's one of the most played on my itunes. Good job, Brit!
  78. BillyI
    Jun 7, 2009
    10
    Well Ms Spears you are certainly back and this albums proves it. You are really the comeback queen with this amazing new album full of pop-dance tracks each could be a single. Your best work to date without a dout. A+++
  79. JoshuaS
    Apr 25, 2009
    10
    One of her best albums yet. A range of moods shown on this album. Although auto tuner is used on some songs, her voice still sounds natural and fairly powerful on most of them. She's (almost) back to her best. Good job Brit!
  80. DaleO
    Apr 25, 2009
    8
    This was a solid effort by Britney and her team, and the album does hold together very well. The album is full of catchy anthems which are guaranteed hits no doubt, but the album does have one or two tracks that seem to drag on a bit. A problem that wasn't seen on her sleek & sexy predecessor Blackout.
  81. RichieF
    Mar 29, 2009
    10
    This is Britney Spears's actual come-back album. With brilliant hooks and a master production, you cannot go wrong with this album. She has gained a new fan in me by creating this masterpiece! Standout tracks include the beautifully wonderful "Unusual You" and the hook infused "Kill the Lights!"
  82. J.M
    Mar 24, 2009
    10
    In my opinion her best album to date. There are no pointless songs that were tossed in just to fill the slots, every song has a purpose to make this a brilliant album.
  83. anonymousN.
    Mar 21, 2009
    10
    Britney's personal life may be a circus of its own, but with this Circus, she proves once again that she can shove aside the paparazzi and the rumors for long enough to make a successful, poppy, and infectious dance album. Best tracks are Circus, If U Seek Amy, Womanizer, Shattered Glass, and Kill The Lights.
  84. ChrisS
    Mar 19, 2009
    0
    Terrible and horrible album.
  85. MarliseG
    Mar 19, 2009
    0
    Awful and terrible album. No more words to described it.
  86. HayroC
    Mar 19, 2009
    0
    Are you kidding? this album is so horrible!
  87. JavierM
    Feb 23, 2009
    10
    Great cd!!! It's the come back perfec for an artist like Britney!!! I love the songs "If you seek Amy" y "Mmmm papi". Pure pop!!. Britney's the best!!!
  88. efgsgfsgs
    Feb 19, 2009
    7
    For a pop album it has several great tracks, several good tracks, and the rest sounds like filler. Its not bad, not great. If she wrote more songs it could only help.
  89. SophieL.
    Jan 11, 2009
    10
    Love this album - a few of the tracks are slightly dry in the middle (unusual you, blur and mmm papi) but generally another Britney classic. Tracks such as womanizer, circus and if u seek amy show Britney at her best. A different sound from her "crazy" and "baby one more time eras", more electro-pop than bubblegum, but no less enjoyable.
  90. JamesB.
    Jan 5, 2009
    10
    I love it. Amazing!
  91. JuanF.
    Jan 4, 2009
    10
    Easy, breezy, fun, pure pop.
  92. christianp.
    Jan 4, 2009
    10
    I think this is a cool album...ang my fave from this album is If you seek amy(say it fast).
  93. JoshPinder
    Jan 3, 2009
    10
    Britney is at the top of her game with this fabulous Circus album, it's a mesmerising powerhouse of an album that more than earns being titled the greatest album of 2008. Womanizer,Circus,Out From Under,Kill The Lights,if You Seek Amy,Shattered Glass,Unusual You,Mmm Papi,Mannequin,Lace & Leather,My Baby,Rock Me In,Phonography and Amnesia are nothing but fantastic...all of which Britney is at the top of her game with this fabulous Circus album, it's a mesmerising powerhouse of an album that more than earns being titled the greatest album of 2008. Womanizer,Circus,Out From Under,Kill The Lights,if You Seek Amy,Shattered Glass,Unusual You,Mmm Papi,Mannequin,Lace & Leather,My Baby,Rock Me In,Phonography and Amnesia are nothing but fantastic...all of which should be released as singles for sure.… Expand
  94. SeanC.
    Jan 2, 2009
    10
    Great album! Unusual You is the stand out track here!
  95. TiaS.
    Jan 2, 2009
    10
    This is Britney Spears' absolute best album. With songs like ''Unusual You'', ''If U Seek Amy'', ''Womanizer'', ''Circus'', and ''Kill The Lights'' it's no wonder as to why this album went straight to #1 on the Billboard.
  96. HuanC.
    Dec 26, 2008
    9
    This is definitely not perfect as no album ever will be perfect but as pop music comes along this is the best offer our not-so-great-vocally Britney Spears can dish out on the table for us to enjoy. Just like a buffet, with sweets, meals and light appetizers to entertain us consistenly is what 'Circus' offered and it definitely done justice to her comeback carreer!!! As her one This is definitely not perfect as no album ever will be perfect but as pop music comes along this is the best offer our not-so-great-vocally Britney Spears can dish out on the table for us to enjoy. Just like a buffet, with sweets, meals and light appetizers to entertain us consistenly is what 'Circus' offered and it definitely done justice to her comeback carreer!!! As her one of the biggest fan in Malaysia I say Britney...you'll be the best pop iconic music till forever.… Expand
  97. MkayK.
    Dec 26, 2008
    7
    'Circus' is a well-rounded album, overall. Certain tracks stand about above many other. Namely the first 7 tracks on the album. Songs like 'My Baby' are disappointingly chosen over an excess of bonus tracks which didn't make it onto the album. The addition of 'Radar' from Blackout is also disappointing. Although with that, the album returns to earlier 'Circus' is a well-rounded album, overall. Certain tracks stand about above many other. Namely the first 7 tracks on the album. Songs like 'My Baby' are disappointingly chosen over an excess of bonus tracks which didn't make it onto the album. The addition of 'Radar' from Blackout is also disappointing. Although with that, the album returns to earlier Britney and still steers close to the electro beats of Blackout.… Expand
  98. TonyZ.
    Dec 22, 2008
    10
    It's the best album ever, all songs are great! Overall success!
  99. OgiO.
    Dec 22, 2008
    10
    Sets Brit back at the top of the industry.
  100. hectorm.
    Dec 15, 2008
    10
    Wow this album is awesome circus, if you seek amy, shattered glass, lace and leather... OMG i love all circus songs! good job britney
prev
Page:

Awards & Rankings

8
#8 Most Discussed Album of 2008
19
#19 Most Shared Album of 2008

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
64

Generally favorable reviews - based on 22 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 22
  2. Mixed: 12 out of 22
  3. Negative: 1 out of 22
  1. Entertainment Weekly
    75
    Halfway through, Circus shifts from defiant booty calls to subtler material; suddenly, it's a first-rate electro-pop album.
    Read full review
  2. musicOMH.com
    60
    Obviously all is still not perfect in Britney's world, but Circus still does more than enough to remind us of why she's one of the world's most iconic pop stars.
    Read full review
  3. New Musical Express (NME)
    50
    Her voice--treated and autotuned to within an inch of its life throughout--still sounds like that of the Mouseketeer who brought us '...Baby One More Time’, with every breathy “Mmmm… yeah!” and all the oh-so-naughty lyrics, such as the ones above, sounding forced and unconvincing. Of course, on a large number of the tracks here she has the solidly cool-sounding (no doubt expensive) backdrop of futur’n’b pop.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »