Arular
by M.I.A.
User Score
8.4

Universal acclaim- based on 326 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 277 out of 326
  2. Mixed: 16 out of 326
  3. Negative: 33 out of 326

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  1. sunkilmoon
    Mar 21, 2005
    9
    Fiercely funky and addictive. One word you'll associate this album with alot will be... repeat.
  2. samg
    Mar 22, 2005
    9
    will rock any dancefloor and many minds!
  3. sonhaus
    Mar 22, 2005
    9
    Bombastic The red rose in a clenched fist! See, revolution can be Fun. Throw away that Ritalin and buy this disc
  4. JeffR
    Mar 22, 2005
    10
    If there are other albums out there 'just like this' I'd sure like to hear `em... this album is fantastic. Plus, M.I.A is TOTALLY hot.
  5. S.Gold
    Mar 23, 2005
    9
    Best album I bought so far this year. Beats are great, singing is great, lyrics are great and you can dance to every song on the album!
  6. JulianM
    Mar 23, 2005
    2
    Boring - really lazy vocals put down over bad drum and bass. i loved the "Galang" single and had high hopes. i dare anyone to comapre the other songs to Galang and tell me tht they even come close to it on production, vocals, beats and danceability. The biggest disappointment in the past couple of years. Seriously "90"?, "100" wtf????
  7. JopsehP
    Mar 24, 2005
    9
    M.I.A's tribal drums and electronic beats fall together so perfectlt they make you grin, bob your head, and acend to moving your whole body. It's quite delicious.
  8. DwightV
    Mar 25, 2005
    10
    Creative, fresh...just great music. The beats are addictive and hooks are clever. J.ust great
  9. RhiannaL
    Mar 25, 2005
    10
    its good
  10. ScottM
    Mar 25, 2005
    10
    Hoy Hell
  11. ahmarq
    Mar 27, 2005
    10
    quite simply the best album ive heard in the past 2 or 3 years. also im just shocked richard x produced this, in a good way.
  12. RichardR
    Mar 29, 2005
    9
    This record is great. My only complaint is why no more pictures of her! She's way beyond sexy... More than half of the songs are as catchy and creative as can be.
  13. Aphex
    Apr 21, 2005
    10
    This may be the most immediatley satisfying album to be released in the last 10 years. The lyrics have a political bent that is laughably trite, but the raw power and energy of these songs is truly amazing.
  14. estherofan
    Apr 24, 2005
    10
    no matter your musical preference, try this album out. extremely catchy and fun in spite of its heavy political overtones.
  15. PaquiL
    May 16, 2005
    3
    Agh, so much promotion and such a dissapointing record. Charisma is not enough. "Power for the people" lyrics repeated in groups of four, absolutely forgettable. The best part is when it finishes (seriously, last minute is very good)
  16. scottw
    May 31, 2005
    9
    To everyone who gave this album 2's and 0's: Go fellate your guitar!
  17. ZachM
    Jun 11, 2005
    9
    This is a truly outstanding album, possibly one of the greatest hip-hop/rap records of all time. M.I.A. delivers her rhymes with such intensity and irresistable charisma that you can't help but wonder if you will listen to any other rap record ever again. Some songs falter (particularly Hombre and Bucky Done Gun), but you'll be too busy dancing or singing to notice. A must-have.
  18. AlG-P
    Jun 17, 2005
    8
    very impressive debut built on hard baselines and a fresh approach to rapping. A great fusion of hip/hop, d'n'b, dancehall and garage.
  19. aaronl
    Jun 23, 2005
    6
    don't believe the indie hype machine. this is not "genius" or "revolutionary". it is at times an enjoyable record made by an attractive, charasmatic singer. however, she is not doing anything novel except for bringin dancehall into the indie circle using moderately political lyrics. it is good, but not nearly as good as the indie hipster hype machine wants you to believe.
  20. MaxB
    Jun 24, 2005
    2
    This album is not truly awful. Yet, it does not live up to the hype at all. People who love this album, I can only imagine they are tourists to the incredibly dense and rich scene that M.I.A. emerged from. How people can genuinely love this music is beyond me. The beats are tired, the politics are sophmoric (and unintelligible most of the time).Chalk it up to "exoticism" and if you really This album is not truly awful. Yet, it does not live up to the hype at all. People who love this album, I can only imagine they are tourists to the incredibly dense and rich scene that M.I.A. emerged from. How people can genuinely love this music is beyond me. The beats are tired, the politics are sophmoric (and unintelligible most of the time).Chalk it up to "exoticism" and if you really want to hear the future, work harder.… Expand
  21. DanB.
    Jul 15, 2005
    8
    I'll get tired of it eventually, I guess. But I can't stop listening to it now.
  22. SamirN/A
    Aug 12, 2005
    0
    No lyrical depth, or intelligence. On a album that prides itself in revolutionary discourse, this is unexceptable. Unusual sounds that heavily cite the experimentalism of Tom Waits (without the lyrical talent or coherence) and odd beats do not make this album unique. Regardless, uniqueness doesn't necessarily mean quality. The beats are more like noises and cheap samples, the lyrics No lyrical depth, or intelligence. On a album that prides itself in revolutionary discourse, this is unexceptable. Unusual sounds that heavily cite the experimentalism of Tom Waits (without the lyrical talent or coherence) and odd beats do not make this album unique. Regardless, uniqueness doesn't necessarily mean quality. The beats are more like noises and cheap samples, the lyrics are banal at best, and her voice has no range. Energy doesn't make up for talent. "Just because no one can understand how you speak, doesn't mean what you sayin' is deep." This album is trash.… Expand
  23. RayKay
    Aug 16, 2005
    4
    this CD is horribly overrated. don't waste your time
  24. jimmy
    Sep 17, 2005
    10
    i don't care for dance music (i don't dance), nor do i like pop music. i listen to mostly rap (nas,wutang, etc.). when i first heard about the reviews for her music and heard snippets from the album i thought it may have been overrated. then, i actually listened to her songs. i love the fact that she's able to have lyrics that mean something (regardless of whether your i don't care for dance music (i don't dance), nor do i like pop music. i listen to mostly rap (nas,wutang, etc.). when i first heard about the reviews for her music and heard snippets from the album i thought it may have been overrated. then, i actually listened to her songs. i love the fact that she's able to have lyrics that mean something (regardless of whether your agree w/ her or not) in a pop/dance type of song. it's something i always wished pop music would have instead of your typical "i'll take you to the candyshop" esque lyrics. i'm glad that i enjoy the music b/c this will definately get stuck in your head. 10/10… Expand
  25. KinthyaK
    Sep 19, 2005
    10
    man i thou no tamil ppl will sing but u wow u friggensing good .i cant wait to c u at toronto ur concert:). Reppin TAMIL 4 lyfe!! i luv all ur songz and ur album and ur video soooo much! REPIN TAMIL FA LYFE C U IN TORONTO BYE!!
  26. TerronM
    Nov 29, 2006
    10
    this is the best album i have ever brought. THE BEST.
  27. BrooklynK
    Oct 21, 2006
    10
    Awesome Album! I really enjoy it. Crazy beats and heavy thoughts. Totally worth the 25$ Hah
  28. AranB
    Jun 28, 2006
    10
    I find it annoying when people say "She's only popular because of her story" The only reason her story is included in reviews and such is because it's so damn interesting, and it actually helped her CD become what it is. I started listening to M.I.A. because it sounded so great, and I usually hate rap and such. I loved the strange voice, and it made me wanna dance. I'd read I find it annoying when people say "She's only popular because of her story" The only reason her story is included in reviews and such is because it's so damn interesting, and it actually helped her CD become what it is. I started listening to M.I.A. because it sounded so great, and I usually hate rap and such. I loved the strange voice, and it made me wanna dance. I'd read that the lyrics had a political meaning, but that was after I'd already loved her music. Then, I got the album, and as I read the lyrics, I realised how great this album was on both levels. The only possible thing I can think of that isn't great about the album is that some of the beats are similar, but that's not a big problem since each song is solid and unique enough on its own, and each song has a very different subject, but they are all linked. I'm looking forward to M.I.A.'s next album, because she's going to be producing it, or so I have heard.… Expand
  29. NADIAG
    Sep 25, 2006
    9
    read a review on her and decided to buy the album.. One of the best albums i have ever heard. If i need to get hyped up or motivated for anything,thats the cd i grab..totally addictive.
  30. BigDHADub
    Dec 26, 2007
    1
    Seriously, if you want to be effective as a revolutionary...especially with music (which is not likely to happen unfortunately)...you have to make it simple. Dumb it down so that you're audience can relate, then as they get used to you grow more complex. From the beginning of this CD artists that I played it for were ignoring the message. But artist show talent and convince groups, Seriously, if you want to be effective as a revolutionary...especially with music (which is not likely to happen unfortunately)...you have to make it simple. Dumb it down so that you're audience can relate, then as they get used to you grow more complex. From the beginning of this CD artists that I played it for were ignoring the message. But artist show talent and convince groups, and CDs are made...so I can't say that the message is not worthy to atleast a good amount of people.… Expand
  31. KealaniP.
    Oct 14, 2008
    10
    The first time i heard this album it was October 1, 2006 midnight. She is one of the reasons why my husband is my husband now. Oct. 1, 2007 is the day we got married a year after we started our relationship. I love it..
  32. DannyDoom
    Nov 25, 2005
    1
    Forgive my not jumping on the bandwagon here, but, why doesn't anyone realize this album is complete garbage.
  33. RuiR
    Dec 12, 2005
    9
    it has sunk deeper and deeper in my blood; first time i listened to it i utterly disliked it; second listening was sunshine through heavy clouds. i can't wait for the next round. i think it won't prove disappointing but hopefully assertive. and she's such a lovely little lady.
  34. gagaforever
    Sep 16, 2010
    8
    "Arular" is definitely a good album, but I have to wonder if the album needed all of the explicit language. The beats and the synths were enough to keep you dancing, there was really no need for F***, or S***. Key Tracks: "Galang" "Bucky Don Gun" and "Pull Up The People"
  35. LuizCC
    Oct 2, 2011
    8
    The guest CD from M.IA. brings us the roots she takes her magical beats from. This album is pure Africa, with bongos, drums, and sound effects that put us in the middle of a jungle, watching a tribe doing some sort of ritual for a special day. "Bucky Done Gun", "Bingo", "Sunshowers" e "Galang" are the best this album have, and it's not a minor thing, it's a great thing, starting theThe guest CD from M.IA. brings us the roots she takes her magical beats from. This album is pure Africa, with bongos, drums, and sound effects that put us in the middle of a jungle, watching a tribe doing some sort of ritual for a special day. "Bucky Done Gun", "Bingo", "Sunshowers" e "Galang" are the best this album have, and it's not a minor thing, it's a great thing, starting the beatiful carrer of the one the most intelligents singer that appeared this days.… Expand
  36. diogame
    Nov 19, 2011
    10
    GreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreatGreat
  37. Reeeth
    Jan 30, 2012
    10
    It's a swaggering, spitting, utterly contemporary album of politically dissident, sexually forthright Anglo-Sri Lankan dubstep bhangra hip-pop IDM in which M.I.A. stars as protagonist, antagonist, chanteuse, MC, exotic schoolgirl tease, graphic artist, chastiser of the immoral, and fun-loving London-living party girl. And all in under 40 minutes, too. It's special. We've not heard it'sIt's a swaggering, spitting, utterly contemporary album of politically dissident, sexually forthright Anglo-Sri Lankan dubstep bhangra hip-pop IDM in which M.I.A. stars as protagonist, antagonist, chanteuse, MC, exotic schoolgirl tease, graphic artist, chastiser of the immoral, and fun-loving London-living party girl. And all in under 40 minutes, too. It's special. We've not heard it's like before.… Expand
  38. joerizkallah
    Mar 28, 2012
    10
    Astounding. Still epic 7 years later. M.I.A. is talented. And creative as hell. Love the lyrics.
  39. gabrielpuche
    Jun 8, 2013
    9
    The story behind MIA's "Arular" is uniquely twisted and interesting. The name "Arular" comes from MIA's father's political code during his involvement in the Tamil Tigers. M.I.A named the album after her father because she considered that her father might Google his name, find out about the album, and re-establish contact with her; a strategy which worked.
    The album is divided into three    The story behind MIA's "Arular" is uniquely twisted and interesting. The name "Arular" comes from MIA's father's political code during his involvement in the Tamil Tigers. M.I.A named the album after her father because she considered that her father might Google his name, find out about the album, and re-establish contact with her; a strategy which worked.
    The album is divided into three sections: The Banana Skit Songs, The Dash the Curry Songs, and The One For The Head Songs. Banana Skit serves as the intro to the first part of the album, and then sends you to "Pull up the People," which contains screams, shouts, and awesome beats. Then come "Bucky Done Gun" which has trumpets and samples "Gonna Fly Now" by Bill Conti, "Sunshowers" which has indian-inspired vocals and lyrics, and "Fire, Fire" which shows us MIA's sassy side.
    The second half of the album starts with "Dash the Curry Skit" and interludes towards "Amazon" which has a tarzan-inspired jungle sound to it, "Bingo" the reggae flava of the album, and "Hombre," in which MIA's sexy espanol comes alive.
    The third and last part of the album starts with "One for the head skit" and then "10 Dollar" starts, which is one of the best songs of the album, as it is super catchy. "Hey, hey,hey oh oh" states MIA as she asks "What can i get for 10 dollar?,." URAQT contains hilarious lyrics and a good sample, and "Galang" murders the rest of the album with its out-of this-world production. Overall one of the best political albums of all time and 95% of the album is not worth skipping on. I give it an A-    … Expand
  40. Gzbernini
    Dec 6, 2013
    10
    Perfect! All of the songs are mind-blowing with a lot of hidden political messages. I love all the tracks, but its highlights are Amazon, U.R.A.Q.T., Bucky Done Gun (an amazing track which samples funk carioca!) & Bingo. Too bad that Arular failed to achieve commercial success, I wish it was released on the 90s so it would have sold a lot.
  41. BWETMatangi
    Aug 14, 2013
    9
    I love me some M.I.A. She is creative, and controversial, and a really good singer/rapper. Even though it isn't my favorite M.I.A. album, it is still up there.
  42. gabrielzbernini
    Sep 29, 2013
    10
    P-E-R-F-E-C-T. Only M.I.A. could sing about children prostitution over dance-pop beats. Every song on the album is a highlight:

    Pull Up The People 5/5 Bucky Done Gun 5/5 Fire Fire 5/5 Amazon 5/5 Bingo 5/5 Hombre 5/5 10 Dollar 5/5 Sunshowers 5/5 Galang    P-E-R-F-E-C-T. Only M.I.A. could sing about children prostitution over dance-pop beats. Every song on the album is a highlight:

    Pull Up The People 5/5
    Bucky Done Gun 5/5
    Fire Fire 5/5
    Amazon 5/5
    Bingo 5/5
    Hombre 5/5
    10 Dollar 5/5
    Sunshowers 5/5
    Galang 5/5
    Hidden track 5/5    … Expand
  43. KevLonelyHeart
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    PERFECTPERFECTPERFECTPERFECTPERFECTPERFECTPERFECTPERFECTPERFECTPERFECTPERFECTPERFECTPERFECTPERFECTPERFECTPERFECTPERFECTPERFECTPERFECTPERFECT album. I LOVE M.I.A.
  44. WeeLass
    Sep 10, 2016
    8
    Well, I admit this was taking me like 11 years till I found this album, and gosh, it was such a mistake or maybe a good thing. You decide. I'm gonna go listen some more of this, cause it's f****n great!!
  45. All_ButTrU4
    Feb 26, 2022
    7
    A rough ride through a peculiar war torn soundscape . Seemingly scattered as it is equally immaculately curated this testament of creativity didn't only push boundaries it inspired an inimitable post-rap rap that thrives in the marginal such as so called world music and hard edged industrial beats. Some songs are laced with an upbeat sensuality such as "10 dollar " which explores whatA rough ride through a peculiar war torn soundscape . Seemingly scattered as it is equally immaculately curated this testament of creativity didn't only push boundaries it inspired an inimitable post-rap rap that thrives in the marginal such as so called world music and hard edged industrial beats. Some songs are laced with an upbeat sensuality such as "10 dollar " which explores what money costs us through a story of prostitution (on kala she would return to this theme with greater costs in "20dollars). This album is essential listening due to how it challenges the listener and finds continuous ways to keep you intrested. You won't forget the first time you hear it .… Expand
  46. rraaiii
    Jan 11, 2020
    10
    Album of millennium, she show us how to be brave, and take the weakness to make something really good n’ special. I’ll always be thankful to be blessed with this piece of art. Thank you Matangi.
  47. kricketsandblue
    Apr 12, 2021
    10
    Incredibly underrated artist, she should get more recognition than these boring new female "rappers" who can only rap about materialism and themselves as if they were Gods or something
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Awards & Rankings

8
#8 Best Album of 2005
19
#19 Most Discussed Album of 2005
8
#8 Most Shared Album of 2005

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
88

Universal acclaim - based on 33 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 32 out of 33
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 33
  3. Negative: 0 out of 33
  1. Urb
    80
    M.I.A.'s singsong cadence is both child-like and streetwise, perfectly mirroring the smiley-faced menace of the electro-informed palpitations behind her. [Mar 2005, p.113]
  2. Village Voice
    80
    Not for a moment does the violence seem vindictive, sadistic, or pleasurable. It's a fact of life to be triumphed over, with beats and tunelets stolen or remembered or willed into existence.
    Read full review
  3. Austin Chronicle
    89
    Fortifying her monstrous singles "Galang" and "Sunshowers" with further molten munitions, Arular is primed for worldwide insurrection.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »