Metascore
73

Generally favorable reviews - based on 12 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 12
  2. Negative: 0 out of 12
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  1. Apr 21, 2022
    85
    It’s a sumptuous album that plays to her strengths whilst allowing her to branch out as an artist and in doing so she is able to add more depth and texture to her iridescent soundscapes.
  2. Apr 25, 2022
    80
    Pilbeam’s second album feels like a logical progression from her 2019 debut, Keepsake, a minor success in her home country. Where Giving the World Away sees a great leap forward, however, is with its lyrics.
  3. Apr 25, 2022
    80
    Giving the World Away‘s preoccupation with alt-pop sensibilities also allows for a concrete listening experience scarcely found in Hatchie’s discography up until this point, especially as she learns to trust her gut and listen to the rhythm within.
  4. Apr 21, 2022
    80
    This follow-up is more inquisitive and self-exploratory, and just a touch darker - while still building on her signature nostalgic sound.
  5. Apr 21, 2022
    76
    Not content to settle on one style of pop music, but rather preferring to float effortlessly between many, Hatchie is a credit to what is possible within the pop genre.
  6. Apr 29, 2022
    74
    These 12 songs are denser in their instrumentation and production than Hatchie’s previous work. ... Regardless, the album is still imbued with Pilbeam’s established touches of enchantment and sensitivity.
  7. Apr 22, 2022
    70
    While it isn't quite as consistent as Keepsake, its finest moments are some of Hatchie's most exciting work.
  8. 70
    Giving The World Away spins the all too familiar tales of coming-of-age gradually and overcoming obstacles, and it does so with assertiveness. It’s an album unafraid to break new ground, but not without holding onto Hatchie’s familiar musical personality.
  9. Apr 22, 2022
    67
    At its best, Giving the World Away locates the edge between noise and melody, carving out a pop core amid seemingly structureless arrangements. ... Occasionally, the deluge of instrumentation grates. ... Despite its flaws, Giving the World Away marks an exciting evolution for Hatchie.
  10. Apr 26, 2022
    66
    As it stands, Giving the World Away is a decent record with some excellent highlights, but also one that fails to live up to Hatchie’s potential. It’s somewhat frustrating, most of the time.
User Score
6.0

Mixed or average reviews- based on 24 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 16 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 24
  3. Negative: 8 out of 24
  1. May 1, 2022
    10
    This was my introduction to Hatchie's work and it's a strong album to begin with. Each song invokes a sense of dreamy nostalgia whileThis was my introduction to Hatchie's work and it's a strong album to begin with. Each song invokes a sense of dreamy nostalgia while maintaining a sense of modernity. I'm left feeling a sense of peace and warmth by the time the album comes to a close. Full Review »
  2. Apr 25, 2022
    9
    This album really shows Hatchie's growth as the songs all are a step up in complexity and style. The synths are even more present now than onThis album really shows Hatchie's growth as the songs all are a step up in complexity and style. The synths are even more present now than on '19's Keepsake and the shoegaze that was so prevalent early on is now mixed with heavy dream pop, which I really adore. But, what is lost in the shuffle a bit is just how good Harriette's songwriting is. She is growing a lot as an artist and Giving The World Away is a nice step forward. The Rhythm will easily make my top 11 songs of '22 and gems like Quicksand, This Enchanted, GTWA, & Lights On just add to the beauty and quality of the album. Full Review »
  3. Apr 25, 2022
    10
    This album shows a new side of Hatchie and her extraordinary musical talent