The Union
by Elton John
  • Record Label: Decca
  • Release Date: Oct 19, 2010
User Score
7.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 15 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 15
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 15
  3. Negative: 2 out of 15
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  1. EthanPeter
    Oct 20, 2010
    5
    The album is neither offensive nor engaging nor worth buying nor worth a second listen. It seems to be more for fans of T. Bone, but his pairing this time as interesting as it was with 'Raising Sand.' Maybe this will put an end to his bajillion-Grammy run.
  2. IgnorantDick
    Oct 22, 2010
    10
    Between 1970 and 1976, Elton John released nine timeless, classic albums. And Rock of the Westies, as well. The Union, with Leon Russell, is easily the best Elton John album since his golden age ended with 1976's Blue Moves. There is a sincerity and grittiness that has been missing for a very long time. If you enjoyed Tumbleweed Connection you will enjoy this.
  3. CornfieldCub
    Oct 28, 2010
    3
    Been an EJ fan since the early 70 's and since "Blue Moves" Lp things have never quite been the same. Not to say the music has been bad just different. The latest offering is again quite different. Two old dogs howling at the moon and riding on their past accomplishments. I just couldn't find the groove and consistency that makes me want to listen again and again. No "TumbleweedBeen an EJ fan since the early 70 's and since "Blue Moves" Lp things have never quite been the same. Not to say the music has been bad just different. The latest offering is again quite different. Two old dogs howling at the moon and riding on their past accomplishments. I just couldn't find the groove and consistency that makes me want to listen again and again. No "Tumbleweed Connection" here just disconnection.… Expand
  4. alvin_tostig
    Nov 2, 2010
    10
    Elton's finally back to his first inspiation and to his roots. A wonderful journey thru gospel, rock, blues, country and soul. Elton's best since med 70s and an unexpected comeback by Leon.
  5. Psikolog
    Apr 15, 2016
    8
    The Union is a pretty decent album, songs have both great vocals. Elton John is so good as always and it's very kind of him that he wanted to make an album with one of his idols. I think Leon Russell finally got the respect that he deserves thanks to him. Album's production is perfect but sometimes sounds are little bit boring but it's not a big deal.

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 17 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 17
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 17
  3. Negative: 0 out of 17
  1. Austin Chronicle
    Jan 3, 2011
    67
    The Union should've been a Leon Russell album produced by Elton John and titled The Confederacy.
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  2. musicOMH.com
    Dec 22, 2010
    70
    Elton and Russell, having come together for The Union, have made an album that delivers as a confident enmeshing of their talents
    Read full review
  3. American Songwriter
    Dec 21, 2010
    90
    The Union brings up two very good points again and again: No amount of celebrity shenanigans or animated transgressions can eclipse the fact that Elton John is an absolutely amazing musician and there's a never-ending list of reasons why Leon Russell is your favorite musician's favorite musician.
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