Metascore
66

Generally favorable reviews - based on 11 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 11
  2. Negative: 0 out of 11
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  1. Uncut
    Apr 27, 2016
    60
    There are some strong cuts but even Pollard, who appeared more energised on his recent solo LP Of Course You Are, sounds a little tired by the enterprise. [Jun 2016, p.74]
  2. Apr 21, 2016
    59
    Please Be Honest certainly has its charms. But for the first time in Pollard’s career, Guided by Voices isn’t the main event--which, for the band’s legions of fans, is surely a loss.
  3. Apr 21, 2016
    58
    Taken on its own, it’s a fine if not slightly disappointing work. But looked at within his prolific catalog, it paints a picture of a musician who will never stop experimenting and will likely continue to make music until he physically can’t anymore.
  4. Apr 27, 2016
    40
    A few songs recall the off-the-cuff, askew rock 'n' roll they built their name on. Others, though, are barely listenable.
  5. Apr 25, 2016
    40
    If you’re deeply invested in the Guided by Voices catalogue this record won’t disappoint you. You’re getting exactly what they’re selling. If there’s not much to the album past that point, well, that doesn’t have to matter so terribly.
User Score
4.5

Mixed or average reviews- based on 6 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2 out of 6
  2. Negative: 2 out of 6
  1. Apr 6, 2018
    5
    Please Be honest is a highly experimental project of Pollard's, having been written and performed instrumentally completely by himself. AsPlease Be honest is a highly experimental project of Pollard's, having been written and performed instrumentally completely by himself. As such, this album can't really be considered a proper GBV album, and would be more appropriately released as a solo record. Additionally, the vast majority of the tracks on this album are complete throw aways, with perhaps the exception of kid on a ladder, My Zodiac Companion, I Think a Telescope and Hotel X. This album is largely not worth getting, unless you are an enthusiast in Pollard's alternative releases under his solo career or his other bands such as circus devils. Full Review »