Importance of Reviews

[unknown]

I read a fair amount of reviews...I think they're pretty important because they may shed light on a band I would've otherwise not checked out or heard of. Even just the simple mentioning of a band (like in the black metal thread or something) will pique my curiosity. Metal reviews are pretty biased though due to the subjective nature of enjoying music. People will usually only review albums either if they love them or absolutely hate them. Rarely will see you reviews for what the reviewer may think are mediocre or middle of the line albums. I read reviews, but I read them with a grain of salt. But if an album on Metal Archives has 10 reviews with at least a 90% rating, I'll check it out because there's obviously something going on (free BJs with each purchase or something).

 

[Einherjar86]

I appreciate the fact that most metal review sites offer a preference-description of the reviewer (i.e. the reviewer's favorite genres are...). Then I know whether or not I'm reading a review by someone who actually resepcts/enjoys the record he or she is reviewing.

Criticism is an important part of any art form; it offers different perspectives and beliefs on said genre. Criticism opens art up to other methods of interpretation; granted, I don't think this applies as much with music, but it certainly is true to some extent. Interpretation can be just as much an art form as creation.

 

[Xorv]

I read reviews after I've fallen in love with the album, especially true for 5 star albums. Then I go read reviews around the net (mostly rateyourmusic.com) and applaud good comments vs. laughing at their ignorance for condemning such genius work, lulz idiots.

 

[zabu of nΩd]

Reviews can be very informative and helpful, depending on the reviewer. Problem is that there are so many reviewers out there who just don't know what the hell they're talking about.

I also like to read review(/er)s which are very demanding, and compare an album to some of its classic predecessors to point out how many shortcomings it has relative to "the best there is" for the style, But sadly there don't seem to be many of that sort around.

 

[skeptik]

The problem that I have with my own approach to reviewing is that I refuse to review albums about which I don't have a strong positive feeling. They don't need to be perfect albums, or even exceptional, and certainly not groundbreaking or original, but I don't intend to ever review an album that I would not give my recommendation to for somebody who shares my views on metal. I do, however, appreciate, and even admire, those who, with tact and with due criticism, take on the task of taking an album down a notch when it deserves it.