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8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 5097 Ratings

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  1. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    It’s not that often one can listen to a whole album, especially one that long, without at least skipping a few songs, but this album every song is a hit. The beats and production on this one is sick! Em’s flow is perfect. I love the album!
  2. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Best album of 2020! Stop with the negativity, be unbiased for an hour, forget about everything u heard on social media and listen to it, dig it, analyze this **** then you will wat a masterpiece it is ....
  3. Jan 23, 2020
    10
    This album seems like the result of an introspective journey Em has had to go through musically, he has looked back at what has worked on Revival (Believe, Castle, Arose) and Kamikaze, and attempted to craft an album based on those results. For the most part I think he did a good job here, while he is still trying to overload us with his unrelenting wit, not all songs suffer from thisThis album seems like the result of an introspective journey Em has had to go through musically, he has looked back at what has worked on Revival (Believe, Castle, Arose) and Kamikaze, and attempted to craft an album based on those results. For the most part I think he did a good job here, while he is still trying to overload us with his unrelenting wit, not all songs suffer from this issue, and some that do are actually enjoyable to listen to (Godzilla). I also enjoyed listening to Em step out of his comfort zone, and rap over some more upbeat trap instrumentals, and thanks to his spectacular flow he is able to pull it off (unlike DOOM in Keys to the Cuffs).

    Of course you still have the unavoidable “love” songs that need to be stopped, by any means necessary, since for every 5 of these songs Em makes, maybe 1 is smi-good (Good Guy). Where the album truly shines is on the leading single Darkness, on this track is where we get a glimpse of Em’s incredible song writing ability. The song was very well paced, the punchlines and double entendres were clever and served an overarching purpose, and Em’s story telling ability is as sharp if not sharper than on Stan.

    Overall this was an entertaining listen, the guest verses were great (Royce, Joel, Crook) and Em got murdered on his own track by the great Black Thought. The hooks were pretty good (Anderson Paak, Juice Wrld), and the beats were very well crafted, for the most part, especially the You Gon Learn beat. Hopefully Em continues down this trajectory, focuses more on quality, finds new and interesting content to write about, and continues to evolve his writing ability.

    I would give this album a solid 7, but I'm rating it a 10 just to offset the haters, lol
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  4. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    It's a great album that realy it highly enjoyable and intelligent at the same time

    Eminem keep proving that he is one of the GOATs if not the GOAT
  5. Jan 21, 2020
    9
    Best album since TES, easily. Kamikaze was a damn good album, but wasn't well rounded, this album uses the style from Kamikaze, while improving the overall delivery and lyricism. Production is also amazing and sees Dre come out from the rock hes been under, as well as some production from Royce of all people, which somehow manages to be as good if not better than Dre's. Great album,Best album since TES, easily. Kamikaze was a damn good album, but wasn't well rounded, this album uses the style from Kamikaze, while improving the overall delivery and lyricism. Production is also amazing and sees Dre come out from the rock hes been under, as well as some production from Royce of all people, which somehow manages to be as good if not better than Dre's. Great album, extremely consistent. Expand
  6. Feb 11, 2020
    10
    Very good album by Eminem once again. Nearly every song on this album is I enjoyed and even the ones that I liked a little less were great.
    There is really nothing else to say except it's Eminem and he nailed it. And when he nails he NAILS it.
    Listen to this album you wont regret it.
  7. Jan 25, 2020
    9
    Exactly the kind of album we needed from Eminem after Kamikaze. He is on the right track. While we know that he has never lost his technical lyrical ability, the overall result in most of the tracks in Revival was pretty much negative, due to his turning to a rap-rock style and going for that poppy production style and features. Kamikaze showed signs of the return of an angry Eminem, butExactly the kind of album we needed from Eminem after Kamikaze. He is on the right track. While we know that he has never lost his technical lyrical ability, the overall result in most of the tracks in Revival was pretty much negative, due to his turning to a rap-rock style and going for that poppy production style and features. Kamikaze showed signs of the return of an angry Eminem, but then it was more of a response to critics and haters rather than a proper album (and the filler tracks like Nice Guy and Normal were underwhelming). Then he drops this gem of an album. Well structured, production right on point, great beats and an overall better choice of features and overall sound of it was better. Keeps getting better the more you listen to it. About that Ariana controversy, well, that's Slim Shady for you: he's not new to controversy and this is nowhere near the extent of the controversial stuff he used to say in the early 2000s. He clearly wasn't 'mocking' the bombing, he was simply referencing it.

    Overall, most of the tracks got better the more I listened to it. People may complain about how he 'raps too much' or has 'too many words' but that creates replay value: every time you listen you catch a new bar or two. Some of them are so unexpected they made me smile or chuckle. I don't disagree on the fact that there are perhaps a couple of bars that might be corny or cringe, but that comes with every album by any artist.

    Only reason why this doesn't get a 10 is because of some flaws, especially in the tracks 'Marsh' and 'Stepdad', the former being mostly corny and having an autotuned chorus and both having annoying choruses in general. The hook on Yah Yah also ruins the otherwise great track. It's a shame since despite these shortcomings these songs still had some good bars. However, hooks on songs like Never Love Again and Farewell were beautifully sung and sounded great. Skylar Grey's chorus on Leaving Heaven sounded a bit empty but doesn't do too much damage. Royce was showed his lyrical prowess and performed well in all his features while Anderson .Paak and the late Juice WRLD both had fantastic features. Production on all tracks was top-notch, on songs like Farewell, Premonition, Unaccomodating, Lock It Up, and especially Godzilla. Godzilla's beat was sexy. I've heard people complain that Eminem doesn't need to rap fast but he fast-rapped only 30 seconds in the whole 64 minutes of the album, and I don't see a problem in that. 30 seconds of demonstrating your fast-rapping ability? Not a problem in my book.

    Eminem is older and sober now, unlike his young self on drugs. His songs are therefore less motivated than how he used to be: he used to rap about drugs, how he hates his mom and ex-wife, etc. However, he's grown out of these issues and therefore it should be a notable point that while he is attempting to "bring Slim Shady back", this is not entirely possible to the level of effectiveness in his three classic albums, SSLP, MMLP and TES. Therefore he's more focussed on using his immaculate ability to create double entendres and multi-layered bars, while sacrificing a little bit of content quality. Despite this, Eminem managed to psycho-analyse Paddock in Darkness, effectively on the most part. This has to be lauded. And the tracks on this album that were entirely double entendres: the tracks that could apply both to relationships and drugs equally. Complete genius. While Eminem has definitely changed; he's not the rapper he used to be, yet he still displays his technical ability most effectively. Now with MTBMB, he's definitely on the right track. He's showed us that he can still make amazing music.

    This is his best album since Recovery. Hopefully his next album is even better.
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  8. Jan 24, 2020
    8
    El álbum esta muy bueno, me gusto bastante. Las arirats jamás podran cancelar al Rap God ni en sus sueños xD
  9. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    I think that every new Eminem album is better lyrically, 'MTBMB' is a different Eminem from decades with the best hooks in a long time; Good production, good samples, flow always on the spot, verbal energy, the new generation of hip hop, the old generation of Rap, Slim Shady, Eminem, Marshall, all in one album. Eminem excels at each new year.
  10. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    You gotta listen to the album and see for your self how well done it is, and I'm so glad that Em is at his best peak on this
  11. Jan 18, 2020
    7
    Most reviews are unrealistically high or low. Giving it a 0 or 10 with no criteria to follow is as biased as it comes. However I won't branch off into an extremely abstract review, I'll just keep it simple for future listeners.

    Production: A- Structure: C Message: C Lyrics: A Creativity: B Overall Grade: 7 of 10 (6 low ball & 8.5 high ball) Biggest Praises: -Periodically
    Most reviews are unrealistically high or low. Giving it a 0 or 10 with no criteria to follow is as biased as it comes. However I won't branch off into an extremely abstract review, I'll just keep it simple for future listeners.

    Production: A-
    Structure: C
    Message: C
    Lyrics: A
    Creativity: B

    Overall Grade: 7 of 10 (6 low ball & 8.5 high ball)

    Biggest Praises:
    -Periodically fixed his streak of weak production choice regarding quality beats and choosing ones that synchronize well with his organic sound.
    -Has flashes of covering significant introspective hardships and significant problems in society.
    -Maintains a consistent balance from start to finish.

    Biggest Criticisms:
    -Unnecessary tracks (filler) that don’t contribute much if anything to the overall message and development of the project.
    -Forced a slew of literary devices.
    -Fairly unrefined delivery in some instances due to a choppy flow.

    Key Tracks: Unaccommodating, You Gon’ Learn, and Godzilla.

    Final Thoughts: This album exceeds his last couple of efforts by a substantial margin and fix several flaws while the remaining ones aren't nearly as glaring. A great one time listen for casuals who gravitate to the singles and a cult hit for those who have trained their ears for his uncanny and unique sound.
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  12. Jan 20, 2020
    10
    Eminem is back again with more heat. The bars are on point and he delivers 100%. With some introspective and heavy tracks like Darkness and In Too Deep, as well as some classic fast, impressive verses that can be found in Godzilla, Yah Yah, and the intro (Premonition), he shows yet again why he is the greatest rapper alive.
  13. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    This is almost his best work yet. It's like the first Matters LP, you never get bored listening to it. Flawless.
  14. Feb 3, 2020
    7
    Good but not the same sound as before. The song "I Will" is probably the one who reminds me the most old Eminem on this album.
  15. Jan 19, 2020
    9
    Probably his best since Recovery.
    Production and hooks has slightly improved since Revival, also verses are great alongside with features.
    Solid album 9/10.
  16. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Flow, beats, rhymes, metaphors, double/triple entendres, featuring etc. Everything about this album is amazing! Thanks Marshall Mathers, my ears are blessed.
  17. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Beat album Eminem has released since Eminem Show! So many awesome tracks on this and despite the various sounds the album flows well. Eminem has mastered rap!
  18. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    This is the best project Em had put out in recent years. Production is impeccable and goes well with all the flows.
  19. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Best work of Eminem since a decade!
    Bars are so heavy on this album that some ye fans might find it going over their tiny little heads.
  20. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It really is a good eminem record, i would say it is as good as mmlp2. For me it feels like a good combination of the relapse, Kamikaze, Recovery and eminem show style in a modern package. Expand
  21. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    So **** good. I just like it, better than the two last albums and Recovery. Same good as MMLP2 and Relapse
  22. Feb 17, 2020
    7
    ( 70/100 )

    Cerca de ser un muy mal album, Eminem se enfoca en todo el dolor, la hostilidad y violencia que lo rodeo mientras crecía y estipula que eso realmente no ha cambiado y por eso su voz es tan poderosa ahora como lo era antes. La producción, de más de 15 personas, es muy floja, genérica e invisible en quien solo Tim Suby aporta algo decente al álbum. Near to be a pretty bad
    ( 70/100 )

    Cerca de ser un muy mal album, Eminem se enfoca en todo el dolor, la hostilidad y violencia que lo rodeo mientras crecía y estipula que eso realmente no ha cambiado y por eso su voz es tan poderosa ahora como lo era antes. La producción, de más de 15 personas, es muy floja, genérica e invisible en quien solo Tim Suby aporta algo decente al álbum.

    Near to be a pretty bad album, Eminem focuses on all the pain, hostility and violence that surrounded him while growing up and stipulates that nothing has really changed, that's why his voice is still as important now as before. The production, of over 15 people, is very lazy, generic and invisible in which only Tim Suby puts in something decent in the album.
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  23. Mar 25, 2020
    10
    Очень крутой альбом! Его мрачная и одновременно крутая атмосфера делает альбом еще более приятным! Добавление фраз Альфреда Хичкока - это просто гениально! Я бы хотел отметить 3 трека, которые мне очень понравились: Darkness, Unaccommodating, Godzilla. 10 из 10.Очень крутой альбом! Его мрачная и одновременно крутая атмосфера делает альбом еще более приятным! Добавление фраз Альфреда Хичкока - это просто гениально! Я бы хотел отметить 3 трека, которые мне очень понравились: Darkness, Unaccommodating, Godzilla. 10 из 10.
  24. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Literally the only song I don’t like is little Engine the rest ranges from good to masterpiece

    Favourite songs: Darkness, Leaving Heaven, premonition, Godzilla and No Regrets

    Least Favourite song: Little Engine
  25. Nov 26, 2020
    10
    MTBMB has left me speechless honestly. And on constant loop of listening to the album over and over again. I loved Kamikaze, but I think this album is one of my favourites already, because I personally think it is so versatile, fresh, has great replay value and I just can´t get enough of it. I feel like there is something for everyone on this album and that Em really appreciates his fans'MTBMB has left me speechless honestly. And on constant loop of listening to the album over and over again. I loved Kamikaze, but I think this album is one of my favourites already, because I personally think it is so versatile, fresh, has great replay value and I just can´t get enough of it. I feel like there is something for everyone on this album and that Em really appreciates his fans' opinions by giving people what they want. I just cannot give anything under 10 for this album, there is not a single song I would want to skip. And about the mixed reviews I think these lines form Unaccommodating are spot on:

    They said I'm lyrically amazing
    But I have nothing to say
    But then when I put out Revival and I had something to say
    They said that they hated the awake me
    I lose the rage, I'm too tame
    I get it back, they say I'm too angry
    I need to get me some Dre beats
    No, I should hook up with Tay Keith
    Fans keep on pulling me one way
    Haters pull me in another
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  26. Jan 24, 2020
    10
    This album is Eminem's best work in years, I mean all his albums are great but this, this is what had been waiting for. The intro alone builds the hype for the whole thing and it takes you on a crazy ride.
  27. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Excellente album, excelentes beats, excelentes colaboraciones.
    Los criticos pueden decir lo que quieran para mi es un 10.
  28. Dec 28, 2020
    9
    This Album Was Amazing!!!!
    I Love This So Much I Think Godzila and Stepdad are The Best Tracks In This Album
  29. Jan 28, 2020
    10
    Me encanta este álbum, es fantástico y no puedo dejar de escucharlo. Amo cada un de las canciones.
  30. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Todo lo bueno, no esperaba este concepto de album, pero la verdad cumplio demasiado. Mejoro todo lo que tenia que cambiar (Producción, Estribillos, Inclusion de raperos nuevos, etc.)
  31. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Eminem's ability to still rap at this high level well into his late 40's is beyond impressive. His passion for music is evident in the work he put into this project. This album is easily my favorite album since MMLP2. Bravo Marshall Mathers!
  32. Jan 23, 2020
    10
    The fact that the media itself wants to lambast an album that is just shy of perfect just goes to show the world we now love in, where PC culture is the way to live with one hand on your mouth incase you say something that might offend the snowflakes out there. All I see is complaints about a 1.5 second reference to the manchester bombing yet the same people are quick to forget that EminemThe fact that the media itself wants to lambast an album that is just shy of perfect just goes to show the world we now love in, where PC culture is the way to live with one hand on your mouth incase you say something that might offend the snowflakes out there. All I see is complaints about a 1.5 second reference to the manchester bombing yet the same people are quick to forget that Eminem himself help raise over 2 million for the same cause. The album itself is great any Stan such as myself will love this, especially those who appreciate great lyrics. It also has a hint of Eminem show mixed with the MMLP sprinkled in, is it as legendary as those albums? Only time will tell but I can honestly say we are witnessing a master of his craft at work, features from Anderson paak, and justice wrld are excellent. And Darkness is a masterpiece at work where you are getting 2 stories at once, if only the media were clever enough to catch on to the genius rather than taking it all at face value and trying to nitpick the song to death. Expand
  33. Jan 22, 2020
    9
    The album is a bit like "Revival", but that doesn't make it bad! "MTBMB" took on the aggression of "Kamikaze" and the drama of "Revival"! It turned out very well !
    From the top tracks I can note: Godzilla, Darkness, Yah Yah, Step Dad, Those Kinda NIghts!

    9/10
  34. Jan 22, 2020
    8
    his best album since 2013. A very solid album all the way through that takes a couple of listens to fully appreciate it. Lyrically impressive
  35. Jan 18, 2020
    10
    It's a instant classic best album of the year the return of the greatest
  36. Aug 14, 2020
    8
    Guess who's back, back again
    Shady's back, tell a friend
    Guess who's back, guess who's back?
    Guess who's back, guess who's back?
    Guess who's back, guess who's back?
    Guess who's back?
    I've created a monster, 'cause nobody wants to see Marshall no more.
  37. Apr 2, 2021
    9
    It is my first Eminem album that I listen to in its entirety and it gave me one of the best experiences of my life, it made me reconsider the rap genre and I love it
  38. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Great improvement from his previous ones. Production is amazing, features are incredible. Tracklist is little bit long and some songs are not needed. 8/10 but gonna post 10 to piss of nerds
  39. Jan 23, 2020
    10
    This project murdered everything.
    Critisisem.
    Haters.
    Any one try to diss eminem.
    And all you media give him abad score
  40. Feb 3, 2020
    8
    Em never truly justifies his record's excessive length, and his continuing to rage against "Revival" haters two albums later feels increasingly childish, but richly evocative beats keep the album functioning as a mood piece if not a fully coherent listening experience, while immaculate flows and strong storytelling across the LP's standout tracks result in a handful of songs that rankEm never truly justifies his record's excessive length, and his continuing to rage against "Revival" haters two albums later feels increasingly childish, but richly evocative beats keep the album functioning as a mood piece if not a fully coherent listening experience, while immaculate flows and strong storytelling across the LP's standout tracks result in a handful of songs that rank among his best work from over the last 10 years.

    Choice Cuts: "You Gon' Learn", "Godzilla", "Darkness"
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  41. Jan 18, 2020
    8
    This is simply a really good album don’t get the undeserving hate towards it
  42. Jan 29, 2020
    10
    This album gave me a rush of endorphins I didn't think could be achieved through music. The songs that really make this album a gem are the heavy hitters like Godzilla, I Will, and You Gon' Learn. This album sounds like Eminem took his old style and his new style and blended them to create a new and improved Marshall.
    As soon as I saw the notification for the new album I thought to myself
    This album gave me a rush of endorphins I didn't think could be achieved through music. The songs that really make this album a gem are the heavy hitters like Godzilla, I Will, and You Gon' Learn. This album sounds like Eminem took his old style and his new style and blended them to create a new and improved Marshall.
    As soon as I saw the notification for the new album I thought to myself "there's no way he can top Kamikaze," and boy was I wrong.
    This album is an absolute masterpiece, and any objective person will recognize the genius.
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  43. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Ggúuuuggerrreffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffff
  44. Jan 26, 2020
    10
    Has to potential to be one of the best album of 2020. Though it's at the same level of KAMIKAZE & it was excluded from any awards. Sad .
  45. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    The album has no bad song, the production is also really good it is better than any album I've heard in the past year
  46. Jan 18, 2020
    7
    Eminem works well with all the features and strengths many soft spots from Kamikaze.
  47. Jan 17, 2020
    7
    Certainly a comeback for Eminem, liked the production and whole kinda spooky, Alfred Hitchcock theme he was going with, very nice. Also good to see that he is able to adapt to the changing landscape of rap. Strong release.
  48. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Great album, don’t care about those mfs rating this 0 just so the score goes down. Losers. Em stays winning.
  49. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Best one since MMLP2, absolutely astonishing.
    The production is top notch, his flows are incredible, the features are GODLY, there is nothing not to like about this album
  50. Jan 22, 2020
    9
    Very good album. Eminem has great lyrics as usual and the beats are great as well.
  51. Jan 27, 2020
    10
    This is just the best album from Em, the perfect mix of eminem and slim shady
  52. Jan 21, 2020
    10
    First classic of the year/decade. Em raised the bar really high for the music and hip-hop in specific. A CLASSIC!!
  53. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    It's an amazing album with a good mixture of new school and Eminems un touched lyricism. The only reason it's not rated a 10 is because losers are making accounts just to trash the album to drop the rating. Eminem is the greatest and this album is good the only thing that isn't good are the features, some people that were featured weren't the best.
  54. Apr 5, 2020
    8
    Amazing album. People are only hating because its eminem. If the MMLP dropped today people would hate it. Whether you like it or not eminem is a GOAT.
  55. Jan 21, 2020
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Essentially, this is a return to form for Eminem. If you thought that Kamikaze was controversial, you will be thoroughly shocked, frightened, and/or disturbed by many of the lyrics contained on this album. While it's still not quite the horrorcore of Eminem's very early days, Music To Be Murdered By is incredibly violent, and gleefully contains some of the most clever lyrics since MMLP2.

    Yet Eminem is, as he has always said he is, cognizant of the brutality of many of his lyrics. Throughout, many references are made to the epidemic of public shootings, most prominently in the track "Darkness", for which I must give Em credit for being more artistically creative and respectful than other such charged songs as "Campaign Speech" and "Untouchable". (Spoiler: On a side note, the way he uses vague lyrics on that track to appear as though he is playing himself, only near the end to reveal that he is playing an entirely different character, with a much different and sinister intent, is well done. Think the first few verses of "Bad Guy" from MMLP2.)

    Unfortunately, the second half of the album (essentially after "My Stepdad") loses the momentum and creativity it starts with. "I WILL", one of the 3 (wow) tracks which Royce da 5'9" is a guest on, does provide a nice conclusion to the album with giving a subtle but classic middle finger to Eminem's critics of the last 2 albums , yet it seems that Em simply relied on lyrical formulas already used and disappointing basic hooks, probably just to meet a quota of tracks demanded upon by Interscope Records for most of the album.

    Odds are that if you are an OG Eminem fan, you will probably like the tone of the album, viewed through Em's lyrical wordplay. "Godzilla" is my favorite track off of the album, and will most likely be the most popular as well (sorry "Darkness", but you're no "This Is America"). It contains a very catchy chrous by the late Juice WRLD and a finale at which Em raps at "supersonic speed", which I have a feeling is faster than the notorious "summa lumma" verse of "Rap God". The first 2 tracks also provide a great introduction to the Music To Be Murdered By

    With Eminem seeming to murder his pop ways (but that's not to say his relationship and career with Ed Sheeran is dead), Eminem seems to be playing the "Do-whatever-will-please-the-fans-and-make-money card". But it seems to work, for now. This album will hopefully make atonement for his less than typical, sub-par work from Revival and Kamikaze, restore our faith, and provide Em the opportunity to continue to reinvent himself in whatever way he decides next. If you wish to just casually listen, I recommend "Unaccommodating" "Godzilla" and for its importance, "Darkness", and maybe just try jumping around the first chronological half of the album.
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  56. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I think after mmlp2 this is the first time we can say slim shady is back at his full potential. Never heard such hardcore bars from him. So consistent and barely any filler songs. Solid work. Expand
  57. Jan 21, 2020
    10
    Album of the year for sure! Love everything! The production, bars, the collaborations and the theme of course! Brilliant! Great job Em!
  58. Jan 30, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Mais um excelente álbum para sua invejável discografia. Music to Be Murdered By - é um álbum crítico, social e muito necessário. A escolha de Darkness como lead foi precisa. O clipe mais parece uma obra de arte de tão bem feito. Mais de 20 anos de carreira e o Eminem segue de provando genial e necessário. Expand
  59. Jan 17, 2020
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. From the second the album starts there is this feeling of "Eminem is back baby!". This feeling is so suddenly because of the first track "Premonition-Intro" which consists of Eminem rapping about how everyone thought Kamikaze was terrible and now he's back and better. The theme of this album is that the listener is listening to the album and by the end will be murdered. This is explained through a series of spoken word interludes titled "Alfred" where a person impersonating Alfred Hitchcock talks. The beginning of the album is very good except that the references to guns and violence became a bit excessive, especially on the track "Unaccommodating", a trap banger, where Eminem compares himself to several controversial figures, terrorists, and serial killers (Saddam Hussein, Ayatollah Khomeini, Osama bin Laden, John Wayne Gacy) and makes pointless, unnecessary references to the bombing at the Ariana Grande concert and 9/11. On the track "Darkness" Eminem puts himself in the shoes of the Las Vegas Shooter to make a point about gun violence. While I think his heart is in the right place, I don't think the way he did it was the best. There are bad features by Ed Sheeran and Juice WRLD on "Those Kinda Nights" and "Godzilla", respectively. The gun theme becomes very excessive with the over-the-top use of gunshot instrumentals. By the middle of the record, the tracks become increasingly rock influenced with songs like "Yah Yah" a good song but with a grating refrain, and "Stepdad" where Eminem describes an abusive stepfather who ends being beaten to death by his stepson. This song has a very catchy chorus and is one of my favorites. On the track "Marsh" there is some masterful wordplay which is very entertaining. I was looking forward to Anderson .Paak's feature when is saw it on the tracklist because Anderson is one of my favorite artists, but it utterly disappointed on the track "Lock it Up" Don Toliver has a great feature on the song "No Regrets" towards the end of the album. And finally the last track " I Will" which was good but not anywhere near the best on the album. In the Outro the Alfred Hitchcock character tells the listener that we actually imagined some of the album and that if we are still alive "better luck next time". This is a haunting note to leave off on. While this record is better than Kamikaze and Revival by leaps and bounds, it still has its flaws

    Favorite Tracks: You gon' learn, Darkness, No Regrets, Stepdad,
    Least Favorite Tracks: Those Kinda Nights, Lock it Up
    Best Features: Royce da 5'9'', White Gold, Skylar Grey, Don Toliver
    Worst Features: Ed Sheeran, Juice WRLD, Anderson .Paak
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  60. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Its one fine album except for that ed sheeran feature and couple of love songs
  61. Jan 17, 2020
    10
    Amazing with top notch features and pulls off the axe weilding Afred Hitchcock theme
  62. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    I mean maybe you are not gonna love all the songs like any other album, but the ones you love, you are gonna f......ng love it, have it heard it all closely it's a 10, My top songs: Little Engine, Premonition, Unacommodating, Darkness, Marsh, and favorite Godzilla.
  63. Jan 25, 2020
    10
    Bringing back the "slim shady" eminem does the best in his music. Great rhymes, great beats and always mentioned horrible facts playing the bad guy. Even if people find it bad taste, whether or not it is the truth.
  64. Jan 19, 2020
    9
    Great return to form from over-gated rap legend. Eminem’s best album since 2013’s Marshall Mathers LP 2 and arguably more appealing to larger audiences with modern beats, flows and features. At the same time it successfully pleases long time fans with plenty references to Eminem’s past and recent events in his life, such as the passing of his father. Darkness the standout track of theGreat return to form from over-gated rap legend. Eminem’s best album since 2013’s Marshall Mathers LP 2 and arguably more appealing to larger audiences with modern beats, flows and features. At the same time it successfully pleases long time fans with plenty references to Eminem’s past and recent events in his life, such as the passing of his father. Darkness the standout track of the album, tackling the issues with the current gun laws in America. Expand
  65. Jan 17, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Definitely worth a listen It captures that Eminem we have been missing Not too angry but the perfect type of anger Expand
  66. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    This album is one of the classics of Eminem in recent times and features some of the best artists
  67. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    One of his best! The song “you gon learn” “Godzilla” both have hooks that are addicting listen to with nasty Bars. “Darkness” shows you a side of the Los Vegas Shooter that will leave you in awe. All around awesome album! Highly recommended!
  68. Jan 17, 2020
    8
    Slim shady is back and better than ever. After two polarizing albums in the past three years, eminem brought us this new record inspired by the same titular album from alfred hitchcock "Music to be murdered by". The tracks central theme is murdering the entire rap game like he did on his first three albums at the early 2000's. The best tracks of this album were Godzilla, featuring the lateSlim shady is back and better than ever. After two polarizing albums in the past three years, eminem brought us this new record inspired by the same titular album from alfred hitchcock "Music to be murdered by". The tracks central theme is murdering the entire rap game like he did on his first three albums at the early 2000's. The best tracks of this album were Godzilla, featuring the late rapper Juice wrld with a Speedo type of verse that could pump anyone's day. Following up is the first single, darkness depicting eminem's usual dark themes but with a huge twist that should not be spoiled by this review. The album have major features that makes it unique in comparison to his other records that have artists outside of shady records. It is also the driving force of the album because it let eminem demonstrate how relevant he can be even next to his younger peers while also mentioning the legends of the rap game that inspired him to partake in the first place like Jay Z, 2pac, Trench from naughty by nature, etc. The instrumentation fits the tone of the entire album by incorporating relapse-ish beats by dr dre while also featuring Royce da 5'9 production techniques that made this album a gem in it's own way. The track stepdad is the only song where it is the most eminem trademarked track in comparison with the others but it is not too distracting like the track from relapse "My mom", it somewhat takes itself seriously and also comedic by the way the song elevates itself. The rock samples are almost none resistance as this album front and center are hip hop and trap beats which is a huge improvement over the last two albums already. Overall this is eminem's best record since the Marshall mathers LP 2 and will be remembered by the unique features and incredible wordplay that contains memorable lines that can be up there with his older material Expand
  69. Jan 17, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. In my opinion this album still confirms that Eminem is still one of the Greatest of All Times (GOAT). So much so that we as fans compare him to his own self and his earlier albums. It’s the same reason Lebron James hasn’t received league MVP at least 14 times in a row. When someone is great we as a society get complacent and become used to their greatness. In this album Eminem has tracks for a variety of his fans. If you are into wordplay, lyrics, punchlines, metaphors, and bars you will love this album, he has all of those from beginning to end. His flow is still crisp and he has so many different cadences that he can navigate through the beats with. He can rap Twista fast with precise punctuation. Dr Dre’s print is on a couple beats, but if that’s what you came for you won’t really get those, I mean he does have 20 tracks. His tracks that have features from Skylar and most of Slaughterhouse, and others are good.The Ed Sheeran track is ok, but not my favorite or the one featuring MA. I like MA but next to Em I personally don’t want to hear her on the same track. Oh and about that track, that’s the “controversial” track.... here’s the controversy:

    Showed them all the blueprint and formula
    But it seems like the more they studied my music, the more they remind me of eyeballs
    I'm watching my pupils get cornier (Uh)
    But I'm contemplating yelling "Bombs away" on the game
    Like I'm outside of an Ariana Grande concert waiting

    It was a metaphor, which artist that use words use all the time and far worse one might I add. The whole point was to get his point across. We gonna be mad about that? So comedians can’t tell jokes and music artist have to also not use metaphors that have anything tragic in it. Smh. He has storytelling with bars and it’s a good track too. Overall I enjoy the album. I enjoy lyrics and the fundamentals of hip hop. I can swallow a bottle of alcohol and I'll feel like Godzilla
    Better hit the deck like the card dealer
    My whole squad's in here, walking around the party
    A cross between a zombie apocalypse and big Bobby "The
    Brain" Heenan which is probably the
    Same reason I wrestle with mania
    Shady's in this **** I'm posse'd up
    Consider it to cross me a costly mistake
    If they sleepin' on me, the hoes better get insomnia
    ADHD, hydroxycut
    Pass the Courvoisi' (Hey, hey)
    In AA with an AK, melee, finna set it like a playdate
    Better vacate, retreat like a vacay, mayday
    This beat is cray-cray, Ray J, H-A-H-A-H-A
    Laughing all the way to the bank, I spray flings
    They cannot tame or placate the ........

    ——-Godzilla Eminem
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  70. Jan 17, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I think this album is a improved version of Revival. It has better beats, featuring and lyrics. Expand
  71. Jan 17, 2020
    8
    Em is back on his "I dont give a **** **** while still having a message in some of his songs. Some of it seems like recycled material, but altogether a well put together album.
  72. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I strongly encourage watching the music video for "Darkness" to fully grasp, the concept of the song. If you can watch that and NOT feel any type of emotion, then you are not really listening. A lyrical masterpiece. There is something on this CD for the everyone. From the STANS to the casual listener, to the I haven't listened to Em since TES to brand new listeners.. Expand
  73. Jan 23, 2020
    10
    This album is **** amazing!! It's like revival but much much better. It's crazy how I find one or two songs mediocre, but some other people consider them their favourite songs on the album. This album made me stop wanting "the old eminem." There is no old eminem anymore, there is only eminem and he sounds amazing right now.
  74. Jan 18, 2020
    8
    Best album since Recovery. Finally used better beats and not so many rapid-fire songs. His hooks are much stronger than Revival and Kamakaze. It could’ve maybe been 2/3 songs shorter and I’d have gave it 9/10 as it dims down a little just after the half way point. It does pick pick itself back up near the end. I enjoyed thoroughly enjoyed this album. Great to see him getting closer to hisBest album since Recovery. Finally used better beats and not so many rapid-fire songs. His hooks are much stronger than Revival and Kamakaze. It could’ve maybe been 2/3 songs shorter and I’d have gave it 9/10 as it dims down a little just after the half way point. It does pick pick itself back up near the end. I enjoyed thoroughly enjoyed this album. Great to see him getting closer to his old best. Expand
  75. Jan 18, 2020
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It is a good album, a bit inconsistent in its tone and features, bit it has some great production and Darkness feels like old Em coming back. Expand
  76. Het
    Jan 18, 2020
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Its a good album 8 or 7.5 . Most of them are good nothing like wow to be amazed at. Expand
  77. Jan 18, 2020
    8
    I think its better than kamikaze just becouse he released it with now deceased juice wrld and many other interprets and the 7th song is a real banger
  78. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    First listen to the album, I thought it was mediocre 6/10 at best.... But after 3rd listen it's getting better every time. Now it lands at 7.5/10 I think it's a 7.5-8 album and his best work since recovery. Although I personally love kamikaze a lot. #eminem #MusicToBeMurderedBy
    edit: after 5 days of constant rotation between MTBMB and Rare, I think this album stands on 8.5 for me now..I'm
    First listen to the album, I thought it was mediocre 6/10 at best.... But after 3rd listen it's getting better every time. Now it lands at 7.5/10 I think it's a 7.5-8 album and his best work since recovery. Although I personally love kamikaze a lot. #eminem #MusicToBeMurderedBy
    edit: after 5 days of constant rotation between MTBMB and Rare, I think this album stands on 8.5 for me now..I'm loving this more every listen, very balanced between mainstream and artistry
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  79. Jan 18, 2020
    8
    Zzzzzzzzzxxxxxxfgggggggggggggggggggggggggfrfbhgggggggggggferrrrhjjyyyyyyyyy
  80. Jan 18, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This album is potentially a top 3 album. The best album he has made since Recovery. In this album he shows that he can still be one of the best rappers to this day. Expand
  81. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This album is amazing. As shown in the picture this album is slightly inspired by alfred Hitchcock. The features in this album are also amazing with features from slaughterhouse (besides joe budden for obvious reasons), young M.A, Royce multiple time and the late juice world(rip). Almost every song is amazing besides the kinda night which is still good but has a bit of corny bars and an old school feel. In every song has very complex bars and double entandres with farewell and darkness being one big double entendre. All in all this album is almost perfect and is a must buy if you are an eminem fan or a fan of complicated bars, double entendres, and lyrics. Expand
  82. Jan 18, 2020
    10
    Stronger delivery compared to kamikaze. Eminem, tries to be more relevant by using much better beats than he used to, and delivering a better flow. Even though there are few cringy songs, the album stands out. Songs little engine, premonition, darkness and you gon' learn are my personal favorite and are on constant repqt
  83. Jan 18, 2020
    10
    A great album, there are great messages behind the songs and the lyrics are as usual phenomenal.
  84. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    I think it's a modern classic for Eminem(even though it has flaws.. even the flaws are pretty enjoyable), he has improved upon a lot of stuff.. and it would have been a really good album without the 2-3 love songs and the Ed Sheeran one, production is a step up.. honestly it's an 8.. but immma be a little bias and rate it a 10 over here cuz surely people are gonna rate it 0 just cuz itI think it's a modern classic for Eminem(even though it has flaws.. even the flaws are pretty enjoyable), he has improved upon a lot of stuff.. and it would have been a really good album without the 2-3 love songs and the Ed Sheeran one, production is a step up.. honestly it's an 8.. but immma be a little bias and rate it a 10 over here cuz surely people are gonna rate it 0 just cuz it doesn't deserve such high rating Expand
  85. Jan 18, 2020
    10
    loved it!the album was really something fresh and eminem really stepped up from his last two albums.
  86. Jan 22, 2020
    8
    Great album, of course it could never live up to the expectations of MM LP or TEM. Still this album is probably top 5 of his albums.
  87. Jan 18, 2020
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This album has really strong beats, Em brings the lyrics, strong supporting cast. At the end of the day, makes me wonder what is he thinking? He dabbles back and forth between whether he wants to blow up the world or does he want to play the hero? Is he the bad guy or a pretender? It is artistry, as as with any art it's open to interpretation, but I for once would like the mixed signals to not be so blurred... Expand
  88. Jan 23, 2020
    10
    The last 3 EMINEM's album will be looked as a late purple patch for the rapper. Revival was dope. Why people never appreciated the album was beyond my grasp. Maybe after he retires revival will be considered a classic!!! I don't know but in this new album the beats are fresh accompanied with the old slim shady flow, lyrical genius, story telling prowess and perfect features which providesThe last 3 EMINEM's album will be looked as a late purple patch for the rapper. Revival was dope. Why people never appreciated the album was beyond my grasp. Maybe after he retires revival will be considered a classic!!! I don't know but in this new album the beats are fresh accompanied with the old slim shady flow, lyrical genius, story telling prowess and perfect features which provides for a complete package of SLIM SHADY, EMINEM and MARSHALL MATHERS. Expand
  89. Jan 18, 2020
    10
    Slim Shady is at it again...
    One of his best works by far, kind of gives me Relapse vibes.
    10/10 no doubt
  90. Jan 18, 2020
    9
    Good colabriration with other young artists! And the songs are good mixed and nice hooks
  91. Jan 18, 2020
    10
    Album has maybe one skip at most and is the best Eminem album in decades. Great listen, amazing production.
  92. Jan 18, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Em Somehow he remains to keep things fresh and is as sharp as ever lyrically. Em has a solid supporting cast. Marshall sticks to what he’s good at. If you’re a fan of Eminem you’ll love it, if you’re not that familiar with his full length projects this might leave you in the middle of the road. Overall I’m very much impressed that the “old” guy still got it. Expand
  93. Jan 18, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Fuccin lit io lm dukekd8ddilwlwmwnrjfieopelwnehfyyudoelqmendjufiwowlemnfjfjudiwl2mnruriekel Expand
  94. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Great beat and return to real music. This album is a blessing for hip hop. Saviour of this music genre. In the are of auto tune, clear lack of artistry, talents but performance in social media- Eminem is what we needed. Flawless voice, different beat as well as a great and powerful storytelling in Darkness Expand
  95. Jan 18, 2020
    9
    It's not Shady on drugs, it's not Marshall in rehab, we're in a sweet spot...
    The flow is fresh, unique compared to his other albums and still manages to surprise... The creativity in the pun scheme is amazing as always...
    It's basically another altered perspective of a rapper who's remained relevant and ranted for 20 years...
  96. Jan 18, 2020
    9
    Though the production choices can be distracting, the latest album from Shady hits all the right spots, technical prowess, much improved hooks, solid sequencing, and more than a few moments of creative genius. The most satisfying offering Eminem has made in years.
  97. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Surprise album ... Yes, perhaps this is a great gift, a way after Christmas. The album came out magnificent both on the production side and on the side of the lyrics. Yes, there are drawbacks, but they are not noticeable against the general background. This is his best album since 2013.
  98. Jan 19, 2020
    9
    so good heck yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah one of my favorites
Metascore
64

Generally favorable reviews - based on 17 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 17
  2. Negative: 0 out of 17
  1. Feb 11, 2020
    60
    He clearly cares about his output, but “Music To Be Murdered By” is, unfortunately, another mixed bag of tricks, propped up by lyrical acrobatics and underwhelming production.
  2. 70
    If they look hard enough, any artist could find criticism of their work online. That’s sort of the curse of the Information Age. But not everyone overreacts quite as much as Eminem does. But if his fears grow tiring, his lyrical ability can still give you something to admire, even if the album is somewhat uneven.
  3. Jan 27, 2020
    55
    It is not, strictly speaking, a good record—Eminem hasn’t made one of those in a decade—but it boasts enough technical command and generates just enough arresting ideas to hold your attention.