Metascore
80

Generally favorable reviews - based on 13 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 13
  2. Negative: 0 out of 13
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  1. Sep 6, 2019
    95
    If you believe there can be such a thing as an instant country classic, “The Highwomen” is that. ... The all-star foursome has put together an album full of high comedy and high pathos, zingy group-sings and gut-wreching solo turns, wryness and rue, and harmony co-existing with this strange and nearly forgotten thing called twang.
  2. Sep 10, 2019
    89
    While it’s absolutely and unapologetically meant as an addition to the discourse on inequality and lack of diversity that’s been ruling Nashville and country music (country radio in particular) for decades now, it’s also a country classic, no matter which way you spin it. The genre’s best talents, both men and women, have gathered, and they succeeded in creating a multi-generational, monumental music event.
  3. Sep 9, 2019
    83
    Each voice is allowed to shine here, and through them, the voices of so many women who continually find themselves stifled in the country music format.
  4. Sep 6, 2019
    80
    The album is at its best when the Highwomen subvert country tropes.
  5. Sep 6, 2019
    80
    The record's resonance lies in its deep emotions and sense of craft. The craft isn't incidental, either. Their shared skills as writers and singers provide the supporting evidence to Shires' conceptual thesis: if country radio doesn't want to play music this good, what's the point of radio anyway?
  6. Sep 3, 2019
    80
    What’s most impressive about The Highwomen, handsomely produced with Nashville neoclassicist Dave Cobb, is how artfully, and matter-of-factly, it engages social issues. Credit the concentration of songwriting talent. Every woman here is at the top of her game.
  7. Sep 18, 2019
    77
    The Highwaymen have often been called country’s best supergroup, but the Highwomen are better. They do here what the men never could—stretch the notions of what country can and must become.
  8. Oct 9, 2019
    75
    The voices and the hooks can’t easily be denied, and Shires injects some playful sassiness on “Don’t Call Me.” But the potential for what could’ve been a harder-hitting roadhouse-style album largely goes unrealized.
  9. Sep 6, 2019
    70
    They're having a lot of fun, but the specifically feminist bent of the group's outlook helps focus the album as well. The Highwomen is worth a listen for any fans of these artists individually or as a sampler for all of them.
  10. Sep 3, 2019
    70
    The album’s opening track, “Highwomen,” is a powerful and succinct recalibration of Jimmy Webb’s “The Highwayman.” ... Other songs on The Highwomen give voice to women’s struggles in a more lighthearted manner, and with mixed results.
  11. 70
    Generally more subdued than the Lambert-led Pistol Annies and less groundbreaking than Trio (the iconic Emmylou, Dolly, Linda Ronstadt project that was a clear influence here), some of this doesn’t qualify as country. It would have helped if all four women participated in every performance since at least one is MIA on the majority of tunes. And while Dave Cobb’s production is typically professional, it’s also a little dry. Regardless, this is a much needed shot in the arm from talented female singer-songwriters.
  12. Sep 3, 2019
    70
    To say this album is highly anticipated, is an understatement. Yet, like most supergroup projects, (Trio, Pistol Annies, etc.) has its strong moments and it does carry a strong mission. Yet, its ambitious and inclusive scope creates an enormity that somewhat weighs it down.
  13. Sep 6, 2019
    60
    Four voices aren’t always stronger than one, and the collegiate nature of the record leaves one yearning for a little more single-mindedness. But anyone who enjoyed, say, Margo Price’s All American Made will find much to enjoy here.
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 17 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 17
  2. Negative: 2 out of 17
  1. Dec 4, 2019
    10
    The Highwomen is great vocal album with 4 women singing country anthems about womanhood in modern society. Each song goes sky high in emotionsThe Highwomen is great vocal album with 4 women singing country anthems about womanhood in modern society. Each song goes sky high in emotions and vocal capacities. All lyrics are spot on in meaning and poetry. The musical frame is just as grand. The whole album breathes a classic country feeling, and stays far away from today's empty overproduced country pop. Many many very talented musicians have attributed to this phenomenal album. Give it a try, it grows on you within a few days and you will be hooked on these heavenly singing angels! This album deserves so much more attention. Full Review »