Want One
by Rufus Wainwright
Metascore
72

Generally favorable reviews - based on 19 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 13 out of 19
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 19
  3. Negative: 1 out of 19
  1. Flak Magazine
    60
    Want One matches the eclecticism of Poses and his eponymous debut, but suffers from a lack of memorable songs.
  2. AllMusic
    50
    Unlike his previous two releases, Wainwright's musings seem less focused and a little meandering on a handful of the songs.
  3. Spin
    42
    The arrangements are so ponderous, the vowel-masticating vocal languor so excessive, you almost wish he'd go whole hog and cover "Ave Maria." [Nov 2003, p.117]
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  5. Blender
    40
    He lays it on so thick, the music all but drowns in pretty surfaces. [Oct 2003, p.129]
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  6. Austin Chronicle
    40
    It would seem Wainwright has traded his operatic sensibilities for Broadway flair, which is as tired as swapping stilettos for orthopedic loafers.

Awards & Rankings

59
#59 Most Discussed Album of 2003
95
#95 Most Shared Album of 2003

User Reviews

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User Score
8.6

Universal acclaim- based on 44 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 38 out of 44
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 44
  3. Negative: 3 out of 44
  1. DaveV
    Dec 4, 2009
    9
    If it were not for a couple of clunker tracks, the album as a whole would have been a perfect work of art.
  2. GeorgeC.
    Jul 16, 2009
    5
    There are moments of brilliance and moments of mediocrity on this album. Unfortunately the mediocre tunes trumpet their own brilliance, while There are moments of brilliance and moments of mediocrity on this album. Unfortunately the mediocre tunes trumpet their own brilliance, while the brilliant ones are self-effacing by comparison. The orchestral arrangements are gloppy and tawdry, and are applied luxuriantly, like stage makeup, where they are most sorely needed. Unadorned gems like "Vibrate" and "Natasha" compare extremely well.… Full Review »
  3. RobbieC
    Nov 10, 2007
    10
    Grandiose, tragic, dramatic, beautiful, and HONEST. A wonderful achievement.
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