I Am Not a Dog on a Chain
by Morrissey
  • Record Label: BMG
  • Release Date: Mar 20, 2020
Metascore
62

Generally favorable reviews - based on 13 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 13
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 13
  3. Negative: 0 out of 13
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  1. AllMusic
    Mar 20, 2020
    70
    Set aside this inclination toward sneering solipsism, which not only characterizes but enlivens nearly every song, and I Am Not a Dog on a Chain is one of the better latter-day Morrissey records: the sense of musical daring reveals how placid and complacent he's been for the better part of a decade.
  2. Classic Rock Magazine
    Apr 8, 2020
    40
    One of the most musically interesting things he's done in years. ... However, a bitter aftertaste lingers long after the final notes. [May 2020, p.79]
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  3. Mojo
    Mar 16, 2020
    80
    Removed from the living artist, it may one day be hailed as a great album. [Apr 2020, p.88]
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  5. New Musical Express (NME)
    Mar 16, 2020
    60
    Few giant leaps nail the perfect landing, and Morrissey’s two-footer into full-blown electronica stumbles occasionally. But there’s also plenty of reason to hold your political nose and cross the Twittermob line.
  6. Pitchfork
    Mar 25, 2020
    61
    As with all documents by obsessives fixated on their targets, the album can be frequently ridiculous, mildly captivating, and occasionally repetitive, pocked by moments of goofiness that come from the runoff of a man eager to chase old miseries and find new ones to berate.
  7. Q Magazine
    Mar 16, 2020
    60
    It finds Morrissey wandering down some interesting musical avenues. [May 2020, p.109]
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  8. Rolling Stone
    Apr 8, 2020
    50
    This charming man's bowshots at English society can get repetitive. [Apr 2020, p.87]
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  9. The A.V. Club
    Mar 20, 2020
    67
    If you can get past the pall cast by that song’s sentiment, I Am Not A Dog On A Chain features some of Morrissey’s best songs in years, and a couple of his worst. It leans—in weird but not unwelcome ways—on electronics more than any record he’s ever done.
  10. The Guardian
    Mar 20, 2020
    40
    Oleaginous and rasping, Morrissey is often lost among the strident music as he hectors people afraid to be themselves.
  11. The Independent (UK)
    Mar 20, 2020
    40
    I Am Not a Dog has its moments, but they are brief and virtually lost amid the more experimental forays.
  12. The Telegraph (UK)
    Mar 16, 2020
    80
    It is an album bursting with epigrammatic phrases, ridiculous rhymes, huge melodies and provocative opinions. The sound is brash and arresting.
  13. Uncut
    Mar 26, 2020
    60
    Moments of sweetness. ... But there are other, less successful experiments. [May 2020, p.31]
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  14. Under The Radar
    Apr 7, 2020
    60
    A decision has been made that it is time to introduce new flavors into the Morrissey sound palette, with the well-established Boz Boorer-led guitar sound taking a step back in favor of a measure of electronic tampering, instrumental variety, and sonic effects. If change was needed, this wasn’t it. ... Morrissey’s vocals remain strong, those wrought girders that with age have reinforced what was once a floral and decorative voice standing firm. He continues to have a knack for finding an elegant vocal melody too.

Awards & Rankings

87
#87 Most Discussed Album of 2020

User Reviews

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User Score
8.2

Universal acclaim- based on 33 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 28 out of 33
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 33
  3. Negative: 3 out of 33
  1. bredbasket
    Mar 20, 2020
    10
    Morissey's best release since 2004's 'You Are the Quarry', Morrissey delves into the experimental with this album focusing on synths and evenMorissey's best release since 2004's 'You Are the Quarry', Morrissey delves into the experimental with this album focusing on synths and even electric drums. It has a nice Classic R&B influence and features a duet on "Bobby Don't You Think They'd Know" which makes a nice Soul track. The use of horns in this album are also reminiscent of 2014's "World Peace Is None Of Your Business". The lyrics are very Morrissey, but contrary to what media is saying, it isn't that all political. All in all, Morrissey is trying to get your attention with this album, and he's making a nice move to a 21st Century Sound. I suggest listening to the entire album, because stand-alone, the tracks seem out of place.… Full Review »
  2. biffbaxter
    Mar 24, 2020
    9
    Anyone who says the album is not good or better than more recent releases is just not being honest or is not separating the press aroundAnyone who says the album is not good or better than more recent releases is just not being honest or is not separating the press around Morrissey vs his music. There are multiple songs on this album that are much stronger than the last couple albums. I have a 30+ year relationship with the music (Smiths and Morrissey) but lets be honest, some of the solo work has not been great, or has a track or two that is good vs the entire album. This album has more songs that are good vs songs that are "eh". So its cool to see. Also anyone who happens to listen to his voice closely, it seems to be as strong as ever. Mind boggling for as long as he has been performing. I have seen him live a good deal, and I am always struck how consistent his voice is. Nicely done Moz - thanks for some quarantine 2020 music .… Full Review »
  3. tyrell
    Mar 22, 2020
    9
    Best album since Vauxhall and I. Adding some fresh songwriting blood did Morrissey a world of good. It's funny, every time I think that maybeBest album since Vauxhall and I. Adding some fresh songwriting blood did Morrissey a world of good. It's funny, every time I think that maybe Morrissey's new music doesn't interest me anymore, he surprises me and digs up the feelings I thought were long burried through familiar warm hooks, a freshness, and intensity he hasn't captured in a long time. How about this, why don't we all stop caring so much about Morrissey's politics and just enjoy the damn music. He's not a world leader. Save your energy for the corrupt. He's a man with unpopular opinions. Opportunist children, get over it. My grandfather says questionable things too. I still love him.… Full Review »
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