Sawayama
by Rina Sawayama
User Score
9.0

Universal acclaim- based on 1138 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,056 out of 1138
  2. Mixed: 25 out of 1138
  3. Negative: 57 out of 1138
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  1. tombritlle
    Apr 20, 2020
    10
    This is one of the best pop albums of all time. There's a lot of people who are coming to claim the title of 'pop music saviour' but that person really is Rina Sawayama. Nobody else manages to infuse pop music and politics the way she does, and this is what we need our pop music to do: we need it to say something. Finally, the saviour has arrived!
  2. matthewmirliani
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Without exaggeration, one of the greatest, most ingenious albums I think I’ve heard in years. It’s without a doubt the best debut pop album since Lady Gaga’s The Fame in 2008, with which it shares several sonic similarities. Beginning to end, the album is a breathlessly flawless achievement. So much of it embodies what made pop albums in the 2000s so engaging: the charisma and stylizationsWithout exaggeration, one of the greatest, most ingenious albums I think I’ve heard in years. It’s without a doubt the best debut pop album since Lady Gaga’s The Fame in 2008, with which it shares several sonic similarities. Beginning to end, the album is a breathlessly flawless achievement. So much of it embodies what made pop albums in the 2000s so engaging: the charisma and stylizations of Justin Timberlake; the intensity and bravado of Rihanna; the strong-theatrical-vocals-meet-ice cold-pop of Lady Gaga. The cherry on top is the incorporation of metal, 90’s R&B, 90’s bubblegum, and 80’s glam rock - a combination that results in a fantastically confident artistic statement. It’s a debut album with enormous energy and enormous personality that demands to be heard.… Expand
  3. Brunno
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    uma obra prima. rina sawayama sabe como fazer um pop decente e interessante, assim como fluir entre o R&B e o metal sem sair algo superficial.
  4. miguelfrotaa
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Simplesmente INCRÍVEL.Um dos melhores álbuns lançados nesse ano até agora.
  5. negativeboy_
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Rina entregou o melhor em seu debut! Já era de se esperar uma obra de arte, pois seu EP Rina é perfeito do início ao fim.
    Enaltecendo sua raiz japonesa e trazendo o POP dos anos 90 de volta, além de misturar Rock, ela merece todo reconhecimento
  6. Cyberpolice
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    This is absolutely fire. Rina kills it with her vocals, blended with amazing choices for production on every song on this album. From the build-up on Dynasty, to her sampling her prior work in 10-20-40 and Take Me As I Am on Rina in F*** This World (Interlude), she does no wrong on this album and it's an amazing listen whether it be the first time listening or the enthh time listening.
  7. limabean01
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    I literally made an account just to write this review.

    SAWAYAMA is an excellent, triumphant debut from one of the most exciting voices in pop music today. every track is expertly produced and created with clear intent behind every sound, every lyric, and every transition. I have genuinely never experienced an album that so expertly wields different genres - not just for the sake of it    I literally made an account just to write this review.

    SAWAYAMA is an excellent, triumphant debut from one of the most exciting voices in pop music today. every track is expertly produced and created with clear intent behind every sound, every lyric, and every transition. I have genuinely never experienced an album that so expertly wields different genres - not just for the sake of it (or to show off about musical capabilities), but because it actually furthers the messages being put forward.

    from every conceivable standpoint, this album is phenomenal. as mentioned before, the production is top-tier and i'm super impressed with rina and clarence's work. the lyrics are exactly what they need to be and where they need to be to fit each songs themes, and astoundingly wind between different and very deep-rooted emotions. on top of that, this album is politically aware and culturally important, thanks to the messages presented in chosen family, XS, STFU, and more (pretty much every track actually).

    just all around fantastic. i truly hope it gets the recognition and success it so evidently deserves.    … Expand
  8. welerreis
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Perfeita demais, a pegada dos anos 2000 faz um nostalgia gostosa aos ouvidos, mas não só isso, Rina consegue transitar entre estilos de uma forma muito agradável
  9. kaioguil
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Debut digno de nota 10, rina vem trilhando seu caminho com músicas diferentes mas ao mesmo tempo na moda como a "Comme des garçons", "XS" e "Love me 4 Me" que trazem estilos bastantes diferentes do que estamos acostumados a ver mas ao mesmo tempo com uma pegada pop/rock, Rina Sawayama poderia ser fácil uma artista revelação ao grammy's.
  10. Juanxcx
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Perfeito, muito bom. Felizmente a Rina não erra em nada! Recomendo muito escutarem!
  11. Nxtlvlauren
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    This is literally the perfect album! Rina gives pop and rock to create the perfect experience for the listener. Her second song “XS” even gives an early 2000s experience which is sure to have you bopping. I literally can’t stop listening!
  12. LuVincents
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Rina já havia entregado conceito e coesão em seu primeiro mini álbum, mostrando que veio pra conquistar o mundo com muita personalidade e identidade artística. Mas esse álbum literalmente superou todas as minhas expectativas como fã e seguidor de seus lançamentos desde Where U Are. Em momento algum Sawayama deixa a desejar mesmo quando se tem uma canção mid-tempo dentre tantas up-tempo,Rina já havia entregado conceito e coesão em seu primeiro mini álbum, mostrando que veio pra conquistar o mundo com muita personalidade e identidade artística. Mas esse álbum literalmente superou todas as minhas expectativas como fã e seguidor de seus lançamentos desde Where U Are. Em momento algum Sawayama deixa a desejar mesmo quando se tem uma canção mid-tempo dentre tantas up-tempo, esta é tão bem produzida quanto as outras. Versatilidade é o que mais me atrai em um artista, e a Rina conseguiu entregar isso de uma forma tão magnífica e perspicaz que nos tira o ar quando escutamos canções como Dinasty, XS e até a enigmática Akasaka Sad. Minha nota é 10 porque Rina Sawayama é sinônimo de personalidade, criatividade, coesão, coerência, qualidade e versatilidade, simplesmente eu não ouvia algo tão bom em anos como amante da música pop.… Expand
  13. Louuis12
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Album of the year!!! She created a mix of sonorities which are all very diferent from themselves but together worked really well. Also, the lyrics are incredibly good.
  14. perryodt
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    This Album was a Pop masterpiece, it completely mastered her refined aesthetic while taking daring and elegant genre risks, this album had original and personal stories unique to Sawayama which made the listener feel a range of emotions throughout the album.
  15. trblforyou
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    An absolutely excellent album. She bends elements from almost every genre into 13 amazing tracks. Every song has it’s own identity, yet the album remains VERY cohesive. In short, she did that.
  16. Mathex
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    It's delicious to hear this album. It's powerfull and mame my mind blow! Great job
  17. Alexortuno123
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    This album was so good. I think that this can win AOTY at the Grammys this was fire.
  18. Carlferr
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Sawayama te folla el cerebro, al igual que Rina se follo a la música con este disco, la domo, la hizo su perra y esta volteo y le dijo rico bebe, mientras Rina se fumaba un cigarrillo, tanta genialidad en un disco abruma. … Expand
  19. thor_nostalgia
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    album of the year.. we have to stan for her works. She is best in rock/pop mixing
  20. Mustymimes
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    this album is a masterpiece... to simply put it. Never thought I’d hear an early 2000s rock and pop/rnb vibe sound so modern
  21. youthxpride
    Oct 13, 2020
    10
    THE ALBUM OF THE YEAR it talks about serious topics. the sounds and PRODUCTION IS INSANEEE everything just fits it’s insane
  22. Benihana11
    Dec 2, 2020
    10
    An incredibly put together body of work that not only has hits, but also tells a story. A real album.
  23. owenrw89
    Oct 21, 2020
    8
    As a 31 year old, hearing anything 00's esc is fun for me. To hear a 2020 album that includes so many 00's references and sounds was something I didn't realise I needed in my life. Whilst personally I don't love every single track, I must say I adore the majority. It feels original, but still wonderful reminder of 00's greatness!
  24. samflrz
    Jul 23, 2020
    10
    talented brilliant incredible amazing show stopping espectacular never the same totally unique completely never been done before
  25. Taco_Bella
    Apr 3, 2021
    10
    Rina Sawayama is an exceptional artist. Her debut album provides a window into her world & what a wonderful world it is. Listening to the songs in order is an ethereal experience. One of the best pop albums of 2020
  26. Feunthera
    Jul 27, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Uffff de los mejores álbum que he escuchado en toda mi vida, gracias DiosRina x darnos tanto arte… Expand
  27. likeurfaketears
    Sep 16, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. this is just pure art, is the only word for this album, is like to be in the heaven for a long time, rina knows how to mix genres totally differents, for example in STFU he get to mix rock, pop and a couple genres more, listen this album, u don't gonna get disappoint… Expand
  28. Davidsister
    Feb 19, 2021
    10
    Rina’s debut album has a lot of different genres contrasting. Although it can be very tricky and risky to use a combination of contrasting styles, the attempt is 100% successful. Sawayama talks about a lot of different themes, from consumerism to Rina’s experience as an asian woman and the microagressions she has faced.
  29. beomgyu
    Apr 6, 2021
    10
    I have no words to describe SAWAYAMA, I have never had contact with such sophisticated art in my life. You can't find a bad song on this album, it serves pop music perfectly as in 'Comme Des Garçons (Like The Boys)' and rock of the highest quality like 'STFU!', 'AKASAKA SAD' and 'WHO'S GONNA SAVE YOU NOW' ? .

    The album follows the theme of family and identity, I feel touched when I hear    I have no words to describe SAWAYAMA, I have never had contact with such sophisticated art in my life. You can't find a bad song on this album, it serves pop music perfectly as in 'Comme Des Garçons (Like The Boys)' and rock of the highest quality like 'STFU!', 'AKASAKA SAD' and 'WHO'S GONNA SAVE YOU NOW' ? .

    The album follows the theme of family and identity, I feel touched when I hear the singer's experiences. Listening to SAWAYAMA is always a new experience, it is like receiving a hug. SAWAYAMA changed my life and made me rethink my identity, I can't express how perfect this album is, just listen to it.    … Expand
  30. jackhaj
    Jul 17, 2022
    9
    9/10 - SAWAYAMA is almost a flawless album. There are so many strong songs that blend genres and defy the rules of music. Rina’s experimentation shows in this album and it absolutely worked in her favor. I will say even though the songs are so good, I just cannot listen to them multiple times in a row. That is my only complaint: that I cannot abuse the album. This may come to benefit me in9/10 - SAWAYAMA is almost a flawless album. There are so many strong songs that blend genres and defy the rules of music. Rina’s experimentation shows in this album and it absolutely worked in her favor. I will say even though the songs are so good, I just cannot listen to them multiple times in a row. That is my only complaint: that I cannot abuse the album. This may come to benefit me in the future because I can forever cherish it. Akasaka Sad, XS, We Out Here, STFU!, Bees & Honey, Dynasty, and Snakeskin are massive smash bops but I simply couldn’t put them on repeat. Still, the project is decade-defining.… Expand
  31. PretentiousGeek
    Apr 17, 2020
    8
    This album is kinda funny because the experimentation finds itself in forms both seamless and clunky almost side by side. Futurist New Jack Swing? Yes please. Futurist alt-rock / metal nonsense? Sleigh Bells this ain't. Regardless, her writing is generally never the problem (Chosen Family is a little cheesy but it's totally stylistic), sometimes her delivery and the production thatThis album is kinda funny because the experimentation finds itself in forms both seamless and clunky almost side by side. Futurist New Jack Swing? Yes please. Futurist alt-rock / metal nonsense? Sleigh Bells this ain't. Regardless, her writing is generally never the problem (Chosen Family is a little cheesy but it's totally stylistic), sometimes her delivery and the production that surrounds it is the issue here.

    That sounds kinda negative so far, but this IS an 8. The good here is so damn good. One of the best pop albums of the year even if it sometimes misses.

    Favourite tracks: Bad Friend, XS, Love Me 4 Me
    Least favourite: STFU!    … Expand
  32. Sliverlysounds
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    An album on identity and social consciousness. Rina really knocks this album out the park with lyrics and sleek production.
  33. elitaro
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Extremely sonically pleasing. This album carries creative fusions of Alternative rock, Jpop, Electronic, western pop and even small portions of Trap and Synthwave music can be found. The album brings about exciting feelings like in a rollercoaster ride as one cannot dare to skip a song. Not to mention Sawayama's voice sounding like an instrument as it blends in with the backgroundExtremely sonically pleasing. This album carries creative fusions of Alternative rock, Jpop, Electronic, western pop and even small portions of Trap and Synthwave music can be found. The album brings about exciting feelings like in a rollercoaster ride as one cannot dare to skip a song. Not to mention Sawayama's voice sounding like an instrument as it blends in with the background intrumentals. This album is genuinely by far the best I've heard this year, it definitely places the Weeknd's After hours on number 2 in my opinion.… Expand
  34. Vyperdysch
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    She really knows what she's doing here. A lot of genres can be seen in this album, but there's still a certain sound that makes her music so special. She's a genius. A lot of the lyrics have a deeper meaning. The album is extremely enjoyable. She's definitely an artist you should look out for.
  35. VespertineQueen
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    This is just a masterpiece, really. Every song has an excellent story and the sounds aren't any repetitive. And It's very versatile. She needs to be recognized on the music industry right now!
  36. Gabrielovato
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    the best album of the year!!! iconic songs and a quality pop, im living for it!!!
  37. PEDROSILVERO6
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. THE BEST ALBUM OF THE YEAR!!! RINA MAKE AN AMAZING PROJECT. ALL THE SONGS REMEMBER SO MUCH A LOT OF DIVAS OF THE PAST DECADE!!! Deserves the nomination for ALBUM OF THE YEAR … Expand
  38. revivaltour
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    This is just a pure, clean masterpiece; top to bottom. Not one skip. Definitely a contender for best album released this year, and it's only April.
  39. Pipsqueak
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Brilliant album. Every song could be a hit in its own right. Imaginative, thought provoking, whilst sing along catchy. Fabulous!
  40. stens03
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    The album flows beautifully, the production and writing are spectacular, their is not one fault about this album.
  41. Finbo
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    The best Pop Album since Charli XCX self tilted Album. "Sawayama" is an ambitious take, Rina blends old school and new school pop together and creates a perfect Album.
  42. mjelbam
    Apr 17, 2020
    9
    a ridiculously strong debut album from a fearless, wicked new star. it's exhilaratingly confident, careering from one sound to another.
  43. peyman_eun
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    An amazing alternative album! Absolutely the best album of the year so far. I heard very great and enjoyable tracks like "Chosen Family", "Bad Friend", "Who's Gonna Save U Now?" and "Dynasty" in this album. I highly recommend listening to this album.
  44. sneaky12
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Mmm very good mmm very good mmm very good mmm very good mmm very good, very good indeed
  45. duasson
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    One of the best albums released in 2020 (or maybe even in the 2000s). Every single song has a meaning, the lyrics are fantastic. Rina really knows how to surprise the listener, because she's mixing every single genre and still getting a masterpiece as a result. She's been literally reinvesting the music industry for a while now and I'm excited to see what the future holds for her. I knowOne of the best albums released in 2020 (or maybe even in the 2000s). Every single song has a meaning, the lyrics are fantastic. Rina really knows how to surprise the listener, because she's mixing every single genre and still getting a masterpiece as a result. She's been literally reinvesting the music industry for a while now and I'm excited to see what the future holds for her. I know it's just the beginning. She ATE that.… Expand
  46. sugsrcents
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    it's the best pop music of the year. i love rina so much and i have expected this album since 2017
  47. CeciliaVert
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Honestly, just a really good album. The production over all is really beautiful made.
  48. rinasawayamafan
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Absolutely incredible. The medium diversity in this album is stunning. A truly remarkable artist.
  49. AarinCLP
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    From the rock starts of Dynasty to the end of the night Club feels of Snakeskin, Rina Sawayama provides a cohesive narrative, explored through multiple genres, like snippets of the times they reflect. A grand studio debut.
  50. lukascabahug
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    I made an account just so I could write a review for this album. It's been a long long time since a pop album, or any album for that matter, has ever made me visibly smile and jump around. SAWAYAMA is eclectic virtuosity manifested in sound waves. She effortlessly and seamlessly fuses genres like thread through silk. Weaving a strong narrative of personal discovery and confidence, withI made an account just so I could write a review for this album. It's been a long long time since a pop album, or any album for that matter, has ever made me visibly smile and jump around. SAWAYAMA is eclectic virtuosity manifested in sound waves. She effortlessly and seamlessly fuses genres like thread through silk. Weaving a strong narrative of personal discovery and confidence, with compelling sounds. Her vocal performance is fiercely emotional, yet measured; intelligent and nuanced, yet straight-forward and concise. She is the future of pop music and an auteur who has made a lane for herself. It is not often that an artist can accomplish so much in a debut album. very excited for what is to come.… Expand
  51. Menios
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    What an amazing album! It is for sure a top contender for the best pop album of 2020!
  52. borntodie
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    hey Queen you have done it again constantly raising the bar for us all and doing it flawlessly
  53. SSoup
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    THIS ALBUM IS AMAZING
  54. Cristian15
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    The production on this album is amazing, her voice is power and glory, an album fearless
  55. mika_flk
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    STREAM SAWAYAMA my faves are Who’s Gonna Save U Now?, Tokyo Love Hotel and Snakeskin. there’s no bad song on this album. still waiting for Tokyo Takeover
  56. aurorawarrior
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Simplemente una obra de arte, tenemos el álbum del año
    Hay canciones tan buenas amo el nuevo trabajo que nos dio Rina
  57. Fka-lex
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    Genre defying, powerfull, honest and lushfully produced. This record is definitely the best pop record of the year to this day.
  58. OneHitHunter
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Never a dull moment in this record. She shows the complexity of being an artist and SHINES through different genres and niches. She doesn’t stay for more than two songs in a type of style and for me that’s enough to solidify her as a mainstay in pop culture. Every song has a unique quality about it that you don’t get from any other song and expands your mind to sonic landscapes you haveNever a dull moment in this record. She shows the complexity of being an artist and SHINES through different genres and niches. She doesn’t stay for more than two songs in a type of style and for me that’s enough to solidify her as a mainstay in pop culture. Every song has a unique quality about it that you don’t get from any other song and expands your mind to sonic landscapes you have only ever seen a major artist do. This album is an inspiring creation in the midst of a time seemingly devoid of inspiration.… Expand
  59. Arsiamons
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Absolutely stunning ! Can't believe how much proud I am of her !!! I'm so glad that people are recognize her talent ♥️
  60. NoahShelton
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Such an amazing album with such a fresh feeling. Something that seems to never have been done before.
  61. dommarlon
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Superou minhas expectativas! Simplesmente perfeito.♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
  62. tokyolovehotel
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Always been a little bit fast and wild
    And mama always said I was a problem child
    I'm just livin' life until the day I die It's all I know That's how I roll I party, get naughty Always tellin' myself I'll never do this again I'm sorry that you caught me **** in the hotel, it didn't mean anything Don't let me, don't let me go I just wanna let you know that I'm no angel But I can learn, oh    Always been a little bit fast and wild
    And mama always said I was a problem child
    I'm just livin' life until the day I die
    It's all I know
    That's how I roll
    I party, get naughty
    Always tellin' myself I'll never do this again
    I'm sorry that you caught me
    **** in the hotel, it didn't mean anything
    Don't let me, don't let me go
    I just wanna let you know that I'm no angel
    But I can learn, oh
    Baby, I'm bad to the bone
    I just wanna let you know that I'm no angel
    But I can learn    … Expand
  63. mykealessandro
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Esse álbum é tão pop perfection, não tem uma música ruim e ela entrega um álbum debut bem coeso, e músicas como Akasaka Sad, Bad Friend, Love Me 4 Me e Tokyo Love Hotel merecem ser enaltecidas.
  64. maxayon
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    It is such good, detailed, well thought out and produced pop music. Rina delivered once again and you can notice the prominent artistic growth while while still staying true to her unique tone. All the live instrumentations and glittering pop synths the record indulges you in is a good enough reason to give Sawayama a listen.
  65. matsantonio
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Passando por vários estilos musicais como o Pop, R&B e Rock, Rina S. nos serve uma obra-prima. SAWAYAMA possui melodias e vocais on point, potentes e unicos. O emprego de sintetizadores foi feito na medida certa. As letras pessoais e empoderadas, a storyline, tudo isso torna SAWAYAMA, na minha opinião, o album do ano até o momento.
  66. dj0nes_
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    An incredible debut album for Rina from start to finish. My favourites are Snakeskin, Akasaka Sad, Chosen Family, XS and Dynasty! Would definitely recommend this album. Her discography is already mightily impressive (not a single bad song in her catalogue). No skips on this album either which is an impressive feat in my eyes!
  67. patosaldana
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    We have found a jewel in the storm. From beginning to end SAWAYAMA has shown us what a born prolific artist is able to do. Just magnificent!
  68. IsraelAlexandre
    May 31, 2020
    10
    Just perfect, no Word Me surpreendeu de uma forma incrivelmente positiva.
    Não esperava tanto .
  69. Panchogul
    Dec 4, 2020
    10
    Un álbum rico en ritmos los cuales son muy variados, cohesivos y una producción impecable, de lo mejor del 2020.
  70. Arkham318
    Nov 28, 2020
    10
    Bruh, I don't even have the words. Cvnt, the album is perfect, my personal (and honestly the objective) album of the year. I even bought the vinyl -TWICE (accidentally but still). I first heard about 'SAWAYAMA' and Rina Sawayama from Twitter, and her videos began popping up on my recommended page on Youtube. I was hesitant, as Twitter has let me down before in regards to music (andBruh, I don't even have the words. Cvnt, the album is perfect, my personal (and honestly the objective) album of the year. I even bought the vinyl -TWICE (accidentally but still). I first heard about 'SAWAYAMA' and Rina Sawayama from Twitter, and her videos began popping up on my recommended page on Youtube. I was hesitant, as Twitter has let me down before in regards to music (and everything). From the very first track 'Dynasty' I was hooked, It has to be one of the best opening tracks to an album in the history of music. And that track isn't even my favourite from the album, it is tied between 'Fvck This World' and 'STFU!!'. The album was the last straw to my own realisation that I thoroughly enjoyed Nu-Metal and Hyperpop and has led me to listen to more artists like Dorian Elektra. There are so many genres and styles within the album but it still feels cohesive through the messages of the songs, such as capitalism, queerness, guilt, alienation, acceptance etc. these relatable themes make the album almost a manifesto of sorts and elevate the album as a whole. The album is too good to not be mainstream. I've begged my friends to listen to it, I only do that for very certain albums that I think will better their lives and this is definitely an album that does. It cured my quarantine blues and I continue to listen to it every day. I cannot wait for the deluxe album to drop and also see the general public become more aware of Rina, as already seen from recognition from many news outlets, public performances on television and even mf Elton John saying it was his album of the year!!!! listen to the Icon and listen to this album.… Expand
  71. MAUROOO
    Sep 9, 2020
    10
    Album Of The Year
    Te armamos, Rina Sawayamart. Mereces el Grammy‼️
    Que artísima Tokyo Love Hotel
  72. Joshuapilmore
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    This album is absolutely fantastic ! My favourite song is Akasaka Sad followed by Comes des garçons ! Rina is destined to be a super star ! A true talent ❤️
  73. Roodchube
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Speechless!!! My wig is in orbit right now.
    This record speaks to my soul. Such an intelligent commentary on modern Life. Britney reincarnated with balls
  74. Victoriar
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    This is an incredible debut album - there was a lot of hype surrounding it, and it definitely lives up to expectations, which is incredibly refreshing in today's musical landscape!
  75. almightyfranz
    Apr 17, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. My asian queen did THAT! AKSAKAKSKAKAKAKAAKAKAKAKAKAKAKAKA
    ALBUM OF THE YEAR    … Expand
  76. Simone1990
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    This is the first album in a LONG time I have played all the way through without skipping a track. Each song tells a different story that is super relatable. Some great club tracks on there, some emotional ones and also some that make you wanna hit sh*t! There is def a number one hit in this album, dope as f**k! Impressive
  77. Tigg
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    What a debut! All the expected appeal of an excellent pop album, mixed with the unexpected complexity brought by an intelligent, woke songwriter. It’s somehow nostalgic, contemporary and futuristic all at the same time - it sees you, it raises you.
  78. misterydungeon
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    A true imersive travel beyond pop-rock music mixing references of nu-metal, j-pop (hi ayumi hamasaki) with true vivid emotional lyrics about her life story, an ode to all emo pre-teen who spent all entire day listening to Avril Lavigne pretending she was Nirvana.
  79. lexannay7
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Insanely good! A powerful voice, entertaining melodies and an excellent production ! What a good way to start the decade.
  80. Simmie
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Sis absolutely serves!!! Never heard any music for her until today and I’ve been absolutely blown away. An absolutely solid album in every way. I’m already a fan!
  81. Borgeswoper
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Meu deus, tá incrível demais, nenhum defeito, lenda. VOCE FOI PERSPICAZ RINA
  82. niickism
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    one of my favorite albums of all time instantly. 0 skips, genre splices perfectly. She’s amazing
  83. FatLadRoss
    Apr 22, 2020
    10
    WOW....blown away!

    Recently I've been listening to all the top rated albums as per Metacritic and roughly 92% of them have been truly woeful. No flow, proper singing, talent or anything redeeming. I can honestly say this album is a breath of fresh air, I've never heard of Rina before but wow this girl can sing. Great tunes, catchy, fresh and different all at the same time. Highly    WOW....blown away!

    Recently I've been listening to all the top rated albums as per Metacritic and roughly 92% of them have been truly woeful. No flow, proper singing, talent or anything redeeming.

    I can honestly say this album is a breath of fresh air, I've never heard of Rina before but wow this girl can sing. Great tunes, catchy, fresh and different all at the same time.

    Highly recommend this.......124 out of 10 on the 'You should listen to this now' scale!

    *Edit* I've listened to this none stop since writing the review and it's got even better, increased to a 10. Nuff said    … Expand
  84. tasby
    May 30, 2020
    7
    so many Portuguese reviews! please keep it in english. I did like this album.
  85. eldieguisss
    Jun 16, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Spoiler!! Este album te va a encantar!! Contiene canciones que son muy buenas y hay que admitir que ninguna está de relleno!!… Expand
  86. jose_
    Jul 24, 2020
    10
    Álbum del año,amo cada canción, sus letras y sus ritmos en cada canción el mucho mejor , definitivamente es uno de mis álbum favoritos
  87. hellokittypie
    Sep 3, 2020
    10
    Rina managed to revive pop and bring a new face to it with SAWAYAMA! With the influence of Britney Spears and her pop from the 2000s, Rina was able to deliver the best work of 2020.
  88. Bluegaga
    Aug 28, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I heard this album for a long day, waiting that it won't never end, cuz this album it's completely PURE ART… Expand
  89. kman5473
    Aug 3, 2021
    8
    It's an 8.4 album, but had to round down.

    For an album branded as, "Pop," this one really has all the fixins and still manages to be substantial and satisfying beyond it's mainstream appeal. It has everything to do with the fact that Rina Sawayama paints her debut using all the genre conventions in music she likes most, not just, "what sounds like pop." The result is a post-modern pop    It's an 8.4 album, but had to round down.

    For an album branded as, "Pop," this one really has all the fixins and still manages to be substantial and satisfying beyond it's mainstream appeal. It has everything to do with the fact that Rina Sawayama paints her debut using all the genre conventions in music she likes most, not just, "what sounds like pop." The result is a post-modern pop masterpiece that never leaves a dull beat. It's exciting, vibrant, colorful, and new from start to finish. It is sincere, smart, satirical at moments, but ultimately fun and heart-felt. I pray for much more genre experimentation in the future, because it would be so easy for Rina and her team to direct the sails towards what analytics say their audience wants vs. making the album they need to make and telling the stories they need to tell. Keep challenging your audience, Rina!!    … Expand
  90. GuilhermeV
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    "Sawayama" blends pop and rock perfectly. With mature lyrics and dismembering the experience of a girl who has gone through several aspects with family and friends. A great album for a beginner.
  91. arthurdepr
    Apr 21, 2020
    10
    there's not a single bad song here (even if there are, for sure, definite standouts). the production is impecable and every single track is it's own little universe; it's own story. she knocked it out of the park. AOTY contender.
  92. MPB
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    An honest, exciting, sexy, funny, heart-breaking, mind-bending and incredibly catchy ride in the form of a pop album. With SAWAYAMA, Rina proves herself to be one of the most interesting pop voices in music currently and an underdog deserving of everyone's attention.
  93. marcmyworks
    Jul 19, 2020
    9
    Rina Sawayama's first full length LP is a masterwork in mixing different sounds and genres of music. The album explores her culture heritage of being both British and Japanese, as well explores her mindset growing up in the UK. Overall one of the best albums of the year.
  94. vitortfv
    Dec 3, 2020
    8
    Rina mixes different musical genres, without sound confusing. Really a masterpiece and one of the best, if not the best album of 2020.
  95. SamHPL
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    The release date is unfortunate, because this album is amazing and could (and should) help get Rina the visibility she deserves.
  96. LilScience
    Jan 21, 2022
    9
    Rina, me impressiona por seu estilo ser tão diverso em um só álbum, um dos mais promissores desse ano.
    Misturando Pop e Metal, ela renasce esse estilo, mas com sua própria identidade, tenho certeza que vamos ver muito sobre ela ainda.

    Faixas favoritas: XS, STFU!, Comme De Garçons (Like The Boys), Paradisin', Love Me 4 Me, Bad Friend, Tokyo Love Hotel e Chosen Family.
  97. SoFetch
    Jun 28, 2020
    10
    Two months after I heard this masterpiece for the first time and I realized that the later you hear SAWAYAMA it keeps getting better. Such a music roller coaster, production-wise and lyrically diverse, going through self love and identity, family, friendship, feminism, capitalism, micro-aggressions, and even climate change!
  98. Boatfromthesea
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    Excellent debut album. It features Nu-Metal rock, Pop, Electronic, and R&B. That sounds overwhelming but somehow everything works out perfectly. Fav Tracks include XS (I love how this song mocks capitalism), STFU, and Chosen Family.
  99. Evic21
    Apr 24, 2020
    10
    SAWAYAMA is an honest self-portrait of an artist brimming with ideas of how to push pop into weirder territory. Her creative choices on the album shouldn't work, but they all come together to form an album that is nostalgic yet refreshingly new. Rina's lyrics and rock star vocals anchor the whole project as a singular vision of boundless potential and creativity.
  100. barthurbottino
    Jul 26, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Não existe críticas negativas possíveis sobre esse álbum. Perfeito do primeiro segundo até o último. Rina mostra a versatilidade de estilos (Xs seguida de STFU!, por exemplo) e criativa. A diversidade de temas das letras é impressionante, de críticas ao capitalismo (XS) a uma música digna do título de Hino LGBTQIA+ (Chosen Family), ela mostra que é capaz e produzir uma masterpiece. Rina chegou chutando a porta com seu álbum debut, já fico ansioso pelo próximo lançamento.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

9
#9 Best Album of 2020
20
#20 Most Discussed Album of 2020

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
89

Universal acclaim - based on 14 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 14
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 14
  3. Negative: 0 out of 14
  1. AllMusic
    May 19, 2020
    80
    On this stunning debut, Sawayama captures Dua Lipa's future nostalgia and Poppy's metal-meets-pop savvy, rightfully making it her own with more depth, bigger thrills, and a limitless palette.
    Read full review
  2. Consequence
    May 4, 2020
    91
    SAWAYAMA appears poised to be one of the best pop albums of the year and sets Sawayama up as a pop force to be reckoned with.
    Read full review
  3. Under The Radar
    Apr 30, 2020
    75
    The album is a complicated picture of Swayama’s past, present, and future. It is rare to see a debut album with such a fully realized voice and vision behind it. What’s more, she exorcises her personal demons amid some of the year’s best dancefloor-filling pop.
    Read full review
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