WE ARE CHAOS
by Marilyn Manson
User Score
8.6

Universal acclaim- based on 111 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 98 out of 111
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 111
  3. Negative: 8 out of 111
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  1. TDOG
    Sep 12, 2020
    10
    Manson & Jennings make a fantastic team together making music. This album is dark, melodic and diverse.
  2. Hammersharf
    Sep 11, 2020
    10
    Continues to reinvent and reinforce that fact that he is a legend. Give this a listen and tell me otherwise.
  3. Irvingsdvlll
    Sep 11, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Magnífico Disco. Brooken Needle la mejor. Tiene influencias de David Bowie, The doors y The Beatles. Maravilloso.… Expand
  4. Brahmiee
    Nov 2, 2020
    10
    Honestly his best album in years. This man is a living legend!! Such a fan!
  5. LordoftheBrown
    Oct 18, 2020
    9
    This album is easily among the best records Manson has ever made. Certainly his best in the past 2 decades. Teaming up with Shooter Jennings was the best decision he could’ve made, because this album is an instant classic. 9/10
  6. AshMcAuliffe
    Sep 19, 2020
    10
    Sheer brilliance and absolutely the best Manson album in ages. Just what 2020 needed.
  7. GunsnRoses123
    Sep 11, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The album begins with an ominous spoken word intro that harkens back to his days as the Antichrist Superstar, and that serves as a warning of what's to come. "All I can see are gods to the left and demons to the right", this marks a shift into the first track, a high energy opener that features a dance between loud and atmospheric; a song which takes a nihilistic approach to America's current political climate. Though Manson is long past his days of writing political and social records, it's nice to be reminded that he's still got what it takes to make you think about your beliefs. It's from here that the album takes an unexpected twist, with tracks We Are Chaos, Don't Chase The Dead, Paint You With My Love, and Halfway & One Step Forward drawing on various different 70s and 80s inspirations; from Sisters of Mercy to Elton John and David Bowie. The first half of the record, side A, concludes in a bittersweet crescendo, a fight between forces of light and dark that Manson struggles with internally.

    Infinite Darkness marks the beginning of side B and a definite shift in tone. Rage and irony replaces hope and melancholy for this track. Perfume and Keep My Head Together work as a pair to deliver a heavy blues feel rarely felt on this record, and it fits in well; these songs deliver a dose of irony and even good advice in their lyrical themes. Solve Coagula begs people to listen as he lets them know that he's as much Marilyn Manson as he's ever been. As the god of **** says we have "tore off both your arms, gouged out your eyes, and ripped out your own tongue", he asks us to hear him out. In many ways it feels like a track that serves as vindication for Manson, a man who has been blamed for countless school shootings (Columbine, most notably) and for "corrupting the youth". It turns out it was our own fault all along. He's no monster, he's simply himself. The album closes with the epic final scene that is Broken Needle, an admission of his own shortcomings and the way he seems to admit to hurting others in the past. It's a very reflective track that's quite the tear jerker and feels almost like an apology more than an explanation; it's one of Manson's finest works and an amazing closer. Overall, this album does everything right and more. It draws on each era of Manson's career effectively and in a way that feels fresh and exciting; he also manages to experiment with some new sounds. It's a pained and raw record that comes off almost as an open letter in its reflective nature. The only issue one can take with it is that it ends. One thing is for sure: Manson is back on top of his game and Shooter Jennings is perhaps the best to compliment Manson's own sound since Trent Reznor and Twiggy Ramirez's work on his early records    … Expand
  8. Szen
    Sep 12, 2020
    10
    This album is an instant masterpiece. Easily one of his best albums ever. Creatively unique with very mature lyrics and catchy melodies. A deep dive into the dark depths of the human nature in general and the artist especially.
  9. sdradiosucks
    Oct 30, 2020
    10
    I've stuck with Manson through the years and I'm extremely glad I did. This is a rewarding listen, completely different than everything before in some ways and yet familiar. It's a Marilyn Manson record for sure, but with an empathy and perspective that's unfamiliar. Probably some of the credit goes to producer Shooter Jennings, who was able to bring out some sides of the artist notI've stuck with Manson through the years and I'm extremely glad I did. This is a rewarding listen, completely different than everything before in some ways and yet familiar. It's a Marilyn Manson record for sure, but with an empathy and perspective that's unfamiliar. Probably some of the credit goes to producer Shooter Jennings, who was able to bring out some sides of the artist not before seen.… Expand
  10. KrysTantra
    Sep 16, 2020
    9
    A true masterpiece of music! Eclectic and full of deep story telling, deep and rich, beautiful art
  11. JLuis_001
    Sep 11, 2020
    7
    There was a time when Marilyn Manson frightened Christians and evangelicals in the US so much that they resorted to telling many lies about him in order for young people not to attend his concerts or consume his music.

    That time is over and Mason has long since ceased to be that provocative figure, which for me was always a welcome change because people started paying more attention to    There was a time when Marilyn Manson frightened Christians and evangelicals in the US so much that they resorted to telling many lies about him in order for young people not to attend his concerts or consume his music.

    That time is over and Mason has long since ceased to be that provocative figure, which for me was always a welcome change because people started paying more attention to music and not to the gimmick.

    Although unfortunately after releasing one of his best albums in 2000, Mason entered a streak that contributed very little to his career and in those years produced what is perhaps his worst album to date; The High End of Low.

    This streak lasted until 2015 when he released the album that he saw as his resurgence: The Pale Emperor and that hecontinued with Heaven Upside Down.

    Manson is back now with We Are Chaos and it's funny because the album is far from being chaos.

    This album is a bit strange for how Mason alternates his industrial sound with obviously more relaxed songs that even at times touch the grounds of Alternative Rock.

    And it may sound cliché but I do support that Manson changes his formula, but where he really shines is when he dwells in the sound that brought him to life and in that aspect the best things about We Are Chaos is when he explores that side.

    The album is short and concise, although not all the songs work quite well but there's fluidity in the rhythm and it doesn't become a tedious experience, although I must admit that of this revival trilogy, this album is in last place, more than anything, because despite the solidity of some of their songs, frankly there's nothing innovative both in the sound and in the lyrics.

    Notable Tracks

    > Red Black and Blue
    > Half-Way & One Step
    > Perfume
    > Solve Coagula
    > Broken Needle    … Expand
  12. MrCrowley
    Sep 18, 2020
    9
    The best way I can describe this is Mechanical Animals with slightly less 'mechanical', and I mean that in a good way. It's a bit more mellow than most of Manson's other works, a nice change of pace, and is something I think we all desperately needed in the 2020 climate.
  13. BloodShura
    Sep 25, 2020
    10
    Brilliant. Just like "The Pale Emperor", another Manson's album that's really worth a listen.
  14. Emadddd
    Feb 18, 2021
    10
    This one is one step ahead of other his albums and its ok for all people ..
  15. ekoseck
    Sep 11, 2020
    10
    Absolutely a great album- Best sense Holywood ( though Pale Emperor was pretty good) Very Good ! Recommend!
  16. DmitrProtsenko
    Sep 15, 2020
    10
    Необъяснимо, но факт... Давно слушаю Мэнсона, но чтобы вот так?! У меня весь альбом целиком на повторе уже который день... Обидно за "жёлтые" рецензии от критиков!
  17. Fearn86
    Sep 17, 2020
    10
    Just stunning!! Some of his best work to date.
    Outstanding track has to go to 'purfume'
  18. tobyclue
    Sep 27, 2020
    10
    Amazing album and best Marilyn Manson album since Holy Wood! Album is real masterpiece!
  19. cdtowns13
    Oct 5, 2020
    10
    I think this is the best album yet. It shows how much they have evolved . excellent
  20. dark1yuuki
    Oct 7, 2020
    10
    Ein ruhiges und Tiefgründiges Album.
    Sein bestes der letzten 10 Jahre.
    Vor allem Broken Needle und Don't Chase the Dead sind Fabelhaft.
  21. Crushmasterflex
    Oct 19, 2020
    9
    This album has deep shades of Nick Cave and David Bowie, but it also seethes with an undeniably Manson attitude of defiance and destruction. While the work of the great masters Cave and Bowie is in many respects inimitable, on “We Are Chaos” Manson dines at their table to reinvigorate his own worthy musical project. I have always liked that Manson is capably able to channel pure rage andThis album has deep shades of Nick Cave and David Bowie, but it also seethes with an undeniably Manson attitude of defiance and destruction. While the work of the great masters Cave and Bowie is in many respects inimitable, on “We Are Chaos” Manson dines at their table to reinvigorate his own worthy musical project. I have always liked that Manson is capably able to channel pure rage and thoughtful irony in equal measure into his music capturing the tragi-comedy and fury of generations coming of age in a world of rotten contradictions, and blending the deeply personal aspects of self-discovery-cum-loathing with a defiance aimed at the corrupt icons of modern society. We are chaos harnesses everything that’s come before in surprising, revealing and vindicating ways.… Expand
  22. JJOliver
    Nov 22, 2020
    10
    I was a teenager in the mid-90s and Marilyn Manson was amazing at that time. He offered a unique and interesting twist on metal/industrial/rock that has never been rivaled in the same manner. He is not my favorite artist and I really did not listen to him after about 1997 (pre mechanical animals). But now in my (almost 40) older age I decided to give some of his stuff after Superstar aI was a teenager in the mid-90s and Marilyn Manson was amazing at that time. He offered a unique and interesting twist on metal/industrial/rock that has never been rivaled in the same manner. He is not my favorite artist and I really did not listen to him after about 1997 (pre mechanical animals). But now in my (almost 40) older age I decided to give some of his stuff after Superstar a listen. I have enjoyed some of it but most of the albums are forgettable in my opinion.
    I saw John Wick and heard Killing Strangers and thought it was a brilliant song. So I gave his newer stuff a chance. I was not impressed with Heaven Upside Down at all. I will give it a shot again if that is insane but I thought The Pale Emperor was better.
    I was in bed after midnight when We Are Chaos the music video popped up on my feed. I learned he was releasing this new album that day. I listened to it on Spotify, and then in the morning drove to a local record store and bought the vinyl immediately.
    This is one of the best albums he has ever made. Forgetting singles and the EP Smells Like Children, this is 3rd right after the first 2 (Portrait and Superstar) in my book. This album has such a beautiful sound while maintaining a dark tone that is in the same flavor of Manson yet people of any age could relate to it and appreciate it. The issue with some Manson stuff (especially after Superstar) was he appeared to be trying to maintain this freaky rebel teenager vibe and it just seemed kind of sad.
    I do not mean to sh** on his catalog from 98-2017 as I am sure many fans would not agree with me, but at the same time you have to admit this album is so beautiful and poetic compared to that other stuff. Some of these songs as individual tracks (Red Black and Blue, We are Chaos, Paint you with my Love) rival some of the singles from his biggest albums in his heyday.
    He did what David Bowie did with Blackstar but much sooner than Bowie did. I love Bowie. He is above Manson in my musical preference, but Bowie did a lot of crap albums from the 80s-2000s. Earthling is the most interesting but I never listen to it. When he released Blackstar it was simply phenomenal. He was already 69 years old and died of cancer basically at the same time... it was sad but I was happy he gifted us one of his best albums on his exit.
    Manson has achieved this amazing latter day album release years before Bowie did. And if he is still capable of making this level of album right now, that really gives me hope for another amazing Manson album.
    Shooter Jennings is an amazing producer also. This record is probably the best of the last several years in rock music. It is unfortunate Manson has carved such a specific fanbase where those outside of it tend to ignore or dismiss his music. If that were not the case I believe many more people would appreciate this album based on how it sounds and what it is saying.
    If you have an idea of Marilyn Manson just forget it and listen to this album for what it is and not as a Marilyn Manson album. The majority of rock fans would probably enjoy much of it at the very least.    … Expand
  23. Juggala
    Sep 12, 2020
    10
    What an amazing departure from his normalcies. Masterfully done. If there is a next album from Manson I can only hope there is this level of production and experimentation.
  24. DoctorDeath13
    Sep 11, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Marilyn Manson has found what's been missing in his music since the early 2000's A SOLID CO WRITER AND BACKING BAND. He has found it in Shooter Jennings and Co. 10/10 A+ certified spooky. THIS IS A FR3SH RELEVANT RECORD FOR RIGHT NOW AND REMINDS NE WHY I FELL IN LOVE WITH PORTRAIT OF AN AMERICAN FAMILY back in 94. We have some Radio Friendly tunes here...… Expand
  25. Artikostin
    Sep 11, 2020
    9
    Mr. Manson is back! An excellent album showing human feelings.
    One of the best in the last 11 years.
  26. Geffen
    Sep 11, 2020
    10
    The perfect album to listen to in these times. Manson once again shows his great versatility and talent. Do not expect a 90's era Manson, as other fans do. This is Manson at his most human, and transparent.

    Favorites: "WE ARE CHAOS", "DON'T CHASE THE DEAD", "PAINT YOU WITH MY LOVE", "HALF-WAY & ONE STEP FORWARD", "BROKEN NEEDLE".
  27. wightscorpion
    Sep 11, 2020
    10
    I miss a little bit of the heavy Manson, but this is a different kind of good. It's strange, new and exciting.
  28. Alfgomez
    Sep 11, 2020
    10
    Este me recuerda mucho Holy Wood, vemos a un marilyn manson super maduro y evolucionado lo unico malo es que ya supere los temas religioso
  29. Thwompthing
    Sep 11, 2020
    8
    I'm at a crossroads with this one; whether it deserves a 7.5 or 8 (good or great). But what the heck, an 8 it is. Having fallen off the Manson bandwagon after Golden Age of Grotesque, I missed several albums in between that and We Are Chaos.

    I went on a morning hike today and was surprised at how good this album sounded at first, but I wasn't quite sure after just 10 songs. So I    I'm at a crossroads with this one; whether it deserves a 7.5 or 8 (good or great). But what the heck, an 8 it is. Having fallen off the Manson bandwagon after Golden Age of Grotesque, I missed several albums in between that and We Are Chaos.

    I went on a morning hike today and was surprised at how good this album sounded at first, but I wasn't quite sure after just 10 songs. So I decided to hike some more and listen to the album back to back, and after the second time I was convinced that not only is this record pretty dang good, if not great, it reminded me a lot of old Manson, especially Mechanical Animals. Some of the songs on here really sounded similar to the musical direction that he took with Mechanical Animals. For example, Perfume and Keep My Head Together really have that upbeat, unique tempo, with moments of sadness mixed with rock. I'd say there are about 7 songs on here out of the 10 that I could really listen to over and over again, which pretty much gives it a great status. I really enjoyed all the songs, some more than others. I think my least favorites are the title track, and Solve Coagula. In any case, if you're a Manson fan like me, and haven't listened to him in quite some time, I highly recommend giving this album a shot. It really did remind me of the epic Mechanical Animals at times, which is a very good thing. Loved the artistic music style of this album, for sure. I was afraid it would be soft and boring, but NO!    … Expand
  30. lovro4501
    Mar 20, 2021
    10
    Amazing album, and best Marilyn Manson album since Holy Wood! Album is really masterpiece, and there is no bad song on it. Production is layered and great. Easily best album of the year.
  31. EstebanRLS
    Feb 8, 2023
    8
    There is a 75 character minimum for reviews. If your review contains spoilers, please check the Spoiler box. Please do not use ALL CAPS. There is no linking or other HTML allowed. Your review may be edited for content.

Awards & Rankings

61
#61 Most Discussed Album of 2020

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 11 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 11
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 11
  3. Negative: 0 out of 11
  1. Classic Rock Magazine
    Sep 25, 2020
    70
    Baroque, doom-laden proclamations are Manson's bread and butter, and We Are Chaos is stuffed with them. [Oct 2020, p.86]
  2. Mojo
    Sep 23, 2020
    60
    We Are Chaos thrives when Manson ditches his horrorcore shtick and actually emotes. [Nov 2020, p.80]
  3. musicOMH.com
    Sep 14, 2020
    90
    Manson has given his audience a collection of tracks that are stronger, tougher and better than they have any right to be. His ascendance led to the death of the original rock era, but his music is more vital and creative than ever. A stunning work.
    Read full review
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