Heavy Entertainment Show
by Robbie Williams
  • Record Label: Columbia
  • Release Date: Nov 4, 2016
Metascore
59

Mixed or average reviews - based on 9 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2 out of 9
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 9
  3. Negative: 1 out of 9
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  1. The Observer (UK)
    Nov 7, 2016
    60
    The tunes that could only come from Williams make this record entertaining if a little groan-worthy.
  2. The Telegraph (UK)
    Nov 7, 2016
    60
    At least half of The Heavy Entertainment Show is made up of amusing dance tracks that never quite hit the spot.
  3. Q Magazine
    Nov 3, 2016
    60
    The desire to do something different is admirable, but the results are unfocused, like a collection of B-sides to singles that never existed. [Dec 2016, p.112]
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  5. Clash Music
    Nov 28, 2016
    40
    Unfocused, inconsistent and underwhelming, The Heavy Entertainment Show is homogenised pop at its most stupefying.
  6. The Guardian
    Nov 3, 2016
    40
    It lurches from one thing to the next, be that MOR balladry, glam rock or orchestral showtunes.
  7. The Independent (UK)
    Nov 3, 2016
    40
    Listening to The Heavy Entertainment Show is a bit like watching EastEnders--a constant barrage of snarling, strutting chippiness passed off as authentic British geezerism.

Awards & Rankings

86
#86 Most Discussed Album of 2016

User Reviews

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User Score
8.2

Universal acclaim- based on 67 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 56 out of 67
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 67
  3. Negative: 8 out of 67
  1. Trigueiro
    Nov 4, 2016
    10
    Robbie is Robbiw. Super King! The best sound is back for us in this album. Probably this work will be the future of my favorites, with theRobbie is Robbiw. Super King! The best sound is back for us in this album. Probably this work will be the future of my favorites, with the Intensive Care… Full Review »
  2. mitokio
    Nov 4, 2016
    10
    Hmmm.... not sure why the critics are being so harsh. There are a bunch of catchy tunes here and in the year that other artists seem very fullHmmm.... not sure why the critics are being so harsh. There are a bunch of catchy tunes here and in the year that other artists seem very full of themselves (looking at you Lady Gaga), this is the typical cheeky fun we'd expect from Robbie. Gawd, even many of the lyrics are clever, witty and, well, lyrical. Hope the fans like it better than the critics.… Full Review »
  3. docoflove1974
    Nov 12, 2016
    8
    I'll echo many of the positive reviews here: if you're a Robbie fan, you will thoroughly enjoy this album. It's clear that 'Cheeky Robbie" isI'll echo many of the positive reviews here: if you're a Robbie fan, you will thoroughly enjoy this album. It's clear that 'Cheeky Robbie" is back; from the title track to "Party Like a Russian" to "Sensational," the swagger is strong and true. Even "Motherf***er" is a refreshing take on acknowledging that the family is nuts...and that's just fine. "Mixed Signals" is another track that I hope gets a lot of airplay, as it's a potential hitmaker. Not only are the collaborations with his long-time songwriting partner Guy Chambers top-notch, but his collaborations with Rufus Wainright are spot-on, in particular "Hotel Crazy." Overall, most of the songs have the calling-card of Robbie Williams: they're self-effacing, bombastic, honest, scathing, charismatic, full of life, twinged with regret--all of the complex characteristics that Robbie Williams fans have grown accustomed to in his best songs. It may not be on part with "Sing When You're Winning" or "Escapology," but it shows potential for greatness. It's definitely worth checking out.… Full Review »
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