Dark Matter
by Randy Newman
  • Record Label: Nonesuch
  • Release Date: Aug 4, 2017
Metascore
82

Universal acclaim - based on 18 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 16 out of 18
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 18
  3. Negative: 0 out of 18
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  1. The Observer (UK)
    Aug 7, 2017
    60
    His first album in nine years contains decent orchestral tear-jerkers, such as She Chose Me and On the Beach, a vignette of an ageing surf bum, but its lead items fall flat.
  2. Exclaim
    Aug 3, 2017
    60
    Lyrically, Newman continues to play games that amuse him, but the logical and narrative backflips might be too much this time.

Awards & Rankings

96
#96 Best Album of 2017

User Reviews

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User Score
7.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 14 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 14
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 14
  3. Negative: 1 out of 14
  1. Music_Observer
    Sep 12, 2017
    7
    It was fun, quirky, and heartfelt all at the same time, especially successful with soft dynamics and small textures that brought out a greatIt was fun, quirky, and heartfelt all at the same time, especially successful with soft dynamics and small textures that brought out a great harmonic language, even if song structures and overall organization seemed a bit too loose. My Score: 134/180 (Solid) = 7.4/10… Full Review »
  2. DavidWasHere
    Aug 4, 2017
    8
    While the composition and melody is repetitive to his past material, all is forgiven with the lyrics, which is a welcome return to one ofWhile the composition and melody is repetitive to his past material, all is forgiven with the lyrics, which is a welcome return to one of music's best songwriters. Returning to his wise guy material from the 70s brings this music to life, especially when it comes with the modern political songs like Putin and the Great Debate. As well as some of Newman's most heartbreaking ballads with Wandering Boy and Lost Without You. While Newman is still as sharp as ever and has a fantastic ear for instrumentation and melody, I wish it was focused on either more political songs or more sincere songs. Either way, another great album to add in Newman's collection… Full Review »
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