Love Yourself: Tear
by BTS
  • Record Label: Bighit
  • Release Date: May 18, 2018
User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 1209 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,030 out of 1209
  2. Mixed: 14 out of 1209
  3. Negative: 165 out of 1209
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  1. PopCandy
    Oct 4, 2018
    9
    An amazing album that not only follows a beautiful narrative but also displays many genres of music without seeming incongruent. The lyrics are a stand out for sure.
  2. HAFowler
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    I'm not going to lie: I avoided anything K-Pop related like the PLAGUE for years, because I have a lifelong loathing of "boybands" and their manufactured role-playing "I'm a muzikian" pap. People around me were going on and on about this group, and finally someone with taste I trusted said I needed to listen to this album.

    Sometimes I discover that I've bitten off my nose to spite my    I'm not going to lie: I avoided anything K-Pop related like the PLAGUE for years, because I have a lifelong loathing of "boybands" and their manufactured role-playing "I'm a muzikian" pap. People around me were going on and on about this group, and finally someone with taste I trusted said I needed to listen to this album.

    Sometimes I discover that I've bitten off my nose to spite my face.

    The first song I experienced (not only heard, because it was the video. Thank the gods it was, because these guys area a multi-media SENSATION) was Fake Love... and I could not believe what I was seeing and hearing. Forget the fashion (I'm not into much else besides jeans and tee shirts anyway), forget that they're pretty. The MUSIC is just really great! They can sing (and not sound like a bunch of tin can wailing, produced to death, paper doll cutouts, either. *shudder*), they can spit FIRE, and they can perform like nobody's business.

    The language barrier is a lazy excuse to miss this album. You can go to a dozen websites and YouTube to find translations (to some pretty amazing lyrics). I first heard the whole Tear album on Spotify -- and then I had to download it immediately.

    So many things about this group are impressive, and this album shows a lot of them. This isn't your average bubblegummy crap. There is some deep and dark stuff here. They cover genres from Latin-inspired to EDM and the goth-tinged emo rock style Fake Love. That description is something that would normally melt my eyeballs and put me into a coma, but I mean it in the best possible way.

    Tear covers a wild gamut of emotions on the more complicated side of love. Sad, angry, desperate, happy. A heart-rending ballad about hiding from love because you think you're hideous and a SEARING rap breakup song that will have you shrieking out bars in your living room at 3 am.

    It's all here. And it's one of a VERY select few albums I will play from end to end without a skip EVERY time I listen to it.

    Don't let your preconceived notions about 7 pretty Korean guys who can dance keep you away from at least giving this a shot. Or maybe two. Don't miss the videos.

    Tear is not a fluke, either. Their next album, Love Yourself: Answer, covers the best of Tear and the previous album Love Yourself: Her, and paints a complete story with the highlights of the series (along with 7 new tracks). From new love, to failing love, to loving yourself. It reads hokey, but it's inspiring as hell.

    It didn't take me long to get off my classic rock/grrrl rock/punk/metal high horse and become a genuine fan of these guys. I'm not a teeny-bopper either, I'm 48.    … Expand
  3. hobi
    Dec 23, 2018
    10
    Refresh album, i just love that
    I love the truth untold, is a masterpiece...i am steve aoki fan, i dont have any idea he can do songs like that...it's just incredible ! Great album !
  4. JhosepKingsley
    Jul 21, 2018
    7
    A good combination of pop and EDM with a great uncommon composition in Asian pop. Definitely Fake Love is the jewel of this album and of the current music.
  5. Cina
    Oct 4, 2018
    9
    The structure of the album was very well done. It felt very much like a story was being told. Musically it was very out of balance. This I mean looking a the album as a complete picture. Some songs were a tad bit too generic and mainstream aimed like Airplane. But the negatives don't way up at all against the positives. It was very refreshing to hear this new musical direction they haveThe structure of the album was very well done. It felt very much like a story was being told. Musically it was very out of balance. This I mean looking a the album as a complete picture. Some songs were a tad bit too generic and mainstream aimed like Airplane. But the negatives don't way up at all against the positives. It was very refreshing to hear this new musical direction they have chosen to go for. Although some songs didn't seem to fit the narrative much at first sight, by doing a bit more research I found that that wasn't true at all. It was just not as easy to understand for me. They chose a unique way of portraying heart break by not only focusing on relationships but also oneself. That was very interesting.

    I am looking forward to what else they might try out!    … Expand
  6. bloombaby
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    The lyrics blew me away. 134340 and Singularity are my favorites, but Anpanman was an unexpected favorite too. First listen, I thought meh, but second and third I really started to appreciate the lyrics and the old school hip hop vibes mixed with upbeat dance. The lyrics to Airplane pt2 were unexpectedly sad, when it sounds so chill and upbeat and almost smug, but, yeah, the lyrics wereThe lyrics blew me away. 134340 and Singularity are my favorites, but Anpanman was an unexpected favorite too. First listen, I thought meh, but second and third I really started to appreciate the lyrics and the old school hip hop vibes mixed with upbeat dance. The lyrics to Airplane pt2 were unexpectedly sad, when it sounds so chill and upbeat and almost smug, but, yeah, the lyrics were sad. Magic Shop is incredibly comforting to listen to. Love Maze is a great song to have playing at any time of the day while you get stuff done. So What...you have to be in a specific mood for that song, but if you're in the mood to jump around and shake off the stress of life, then that's the song to listen to. The Truth Untold is so emotional, is so soft and heart-wrenching. Fake Love is a good jam, the chorus...you can't help but shout out FAKE LOVE with them. And last but not least TEAR is insanely good. The way the three of the rappers wove their voices and how they sectioned off parts of the song, took turns singing different parts of the chorus, was very interesting and flowed well. The heavy breathing at the end was...I felt like I was out of breath too, overwhelmed.… Expand
  7. Khadz
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    A beautiful and versatile album. From the rnb sounds of Singularity, emotional ballad The truth untold, latin music Airplane pt2 to the rock sounds of Fake love, Love yourself tear has it all. BTS has once again released another well produced and written album and they always exceed expectations. I am so proud of them for this series and Magic Shop is personally my favourite.
  8. Nolan22001
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    Very special album that leads us through what breaking up and subsequent heartache means. Not a single bad song on this album. Special mention for Outro: tear which I can only summ up with: goosebumps. Check out the numerous translations easily available on YT and other platforms, the lyrics are really worth it. Open your mind and give it a try, you will be surprised.
  9. jeonjoy
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    A story telling album, well produced and with an amazing variety of genres. One of the best albums of 2018
  10. sugaficial
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    i liked all the songs. high quality, obviously hard work have been put into it.
  11. YuniDays
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    Es un álbum hermoso e inspirador, me ayuda a superar mi depresión, esto no se basa en si eres hate o no, debes de ser imparcial sobre esto.
  12. Plurivy
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    Their best full-length album obviously. The genre diversity, story telling, filling people with hope and most importantly how you can relate to their lyrics, this is "that" album with no skips. My personal favourite is Outro: Tear.
  13. MonikaB
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    Incredible album. Very diverse and artistic track list, each song sounds different and unique. It's really impressive how the group is not afraid to try out so many different music genres and makes each of them their own by fusing them with their individual style. I strongly recommend reading translated lyrics as they are very deep, meaningful and poetic, and the fact that pretty much allIncredible album. Very diverse and artistic track list, each song sounds different and unique. It's really impressive how the group is not afraid to try out so many different music genres and makes each of them their own by fusing them with their individual style. I strongly recommend reading translated lyrics as they are very deep, meaningful and poetic, and the fact that pretty much all of their songs are self-written is the cherry on top. My favorite songs from this album are "Intro: Singularity", "Fake Love", "The Truth Untold", "Paradise" and "Outro: Tear".… Expand
  14. kookie979
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    Phenomenal Work! Such an inspiring album. It literary tells a story, the order in which trucks are put in is just a pure perfection!! It's the only album I can honestly listen from get to go!! without any skips, cause it just builds the mood when you dive in! AMAZING. LOVE IT
  15. maddielevine
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    Each song on this album is mesmerizing. BTS did an amazing job making the album diverse and stretch over many genres. Many of the songs off the album have gone to become their most popular songs such as "FAKE LOVE" and "Anpanman". Overall the album is cohesive and beautifully produced and executed.
  16. Hebakjh
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    One of the most wonderful albums that I ever hear. Every track is unique and have its own color but it still connect with each other. Lyrically it is even more impressive and I highly recommend checking the lyrics since it is always enjoyable.
  17. Alex70
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    This album was a beautiful surprise from the first song to the last. Although I had to search the lyrics translation online, it was worth it. Their poetry adds to the music, magnifying the experience. BTS surely deserves the hype!
  18. Yey
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    I personally love this album a lot, I love most of the song, the lyrics are beautiful, very positive n motivate people. These young man really their music for good deed. Respect this young man a lot
  19. Yekaterina17
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    This album is amazing so many music styles and the lyrics are so beatiful special the truth untold, paradise and maze love, i really recomend this increible album
  20. kanakb
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    The album is so good. One of my favourites. All songs fit the theme of the album so well. The concept of Tear heartbreak really comes through. The meaning behind the lyrics, the musicality and the production value of this album is top notch. Even after my hundredth listen I'm not tired of listening to this album. Love Yourself Tear is one of the best albums released this year. Not anThe album is so good. One of my favourites. All songs fit the theme of the album so well. The concept of Tear heartbreak really comes through. The meaning behind the lyrics, the musicality and the production value of this album is top notch. Even after my hundredth listen I'm not tired of listening to this album. Love Yourself Tear is one of the best albums released this year. Not an opinion just a fact.… Expand
  21. Amapola
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    This album is so meaningful. The lyrics and them voices make you feel different emotions in every song. Bts are amazing.
  22. ellencamussi
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    BTS change so many lifes with the passion that they have in all the things they do. They are not a fad that will go away after a couple of years their work will stay forever beacuse of their message. TEAR it's from start to finish a masterpiece. And one of the best albums of this year. 10 star rating for me.
  23. sea22
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    This album is versatile and diverse, yet very cohesive. It showcases an array of different styles and partners with a meaningful message to create a full-bodied masterpiece. One of their best works. 10/10 all around.
  24. MartinezBC
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    I searched the lyrics of the songs after listening to the album for the first time, it's really refreshing to see the message that these guys seek to transmit through their music. I was also struck by the fact that there is a wide variety of genres within the album, I really enjoy listening to it.
  25. aeddgynvaell
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    Beautifully crafted album with an amazing message and lyrics. One of their most ambitious releases up to date. Every track has its own identity yet coexists with the rest in perfect harmony. Vocalists are at the best and rap line was superb as always, an iconic album that marked a massive milestone for this amazing group
  26. thebesttrasheu
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    This is, by far, the group's best album overall. Each track has its own strong points, and all connect loosely to the album's main theme of pain and loss through a "fake" love and self-negligence. The lyrics of each track convey a sincere message, telling the tale of a persona who does not accept oneself and tries to change for others. A lesson is told-- this persona cannot experience trueThis is, by far, the group's best album overall. Each track has its own strong points, and all connect loosely to the album's main theme of pain and loss through a "fake" love and self-negligence. The lyrics of each track convey a sincere message, telling the tale of a persona who does not accept oneself and tries to change for others. A lesson is told-- this persona cannot experience true love without first loving themselves.

    The group shines a light on the love that is experienced between a person and their own identity, not love between two different entities. It is a point that can be greatly appreciated in an age where toxic expectations may be forced upon many people, especially in the age of the internet, when media travels fast.

    BTS asserts their viewpoint with this latest studio album, containing 11 starkly contrasting yet thematically connected tracks. The album spans a variety of genres including R&B, trap, ballad, lo-fi, EDM, and Latin-pop.

    The first track, Intro: Singularity, is a smooth neo-soul track with haunting vocals by singer V, including tasteful soundbites and seductive beats. The vocals are dark and breathy, giving a distinct color to the already very moody song.

    The lead single Fake Love, an "emo-trap banger," is an excellent example of BTS's ingenuity in redefining musical genres and superb example of BTS's text-painting.

    The Truth Untold is a delicate, emotive ballad showcasing the 4 vocalists' unique, breathy tones. The raw emotion in each singer's voice truly transcends any language barrier, and shows a side of BTS the audience has never seen before.

    134340 is a quirky, jazzy, lo-fi track that compares the isolation of breaking up with a lover to Pluto's demotion to a dwarf plant labeled 134340. The flute-driven beat, uncommonly heard, is an excellent touch.

    Paradise is a smooth, snappy R&B track tying into one of BTS's older themes of how internal happiness is more important than having a plan for the future. The singer/rapper dynamic flourishes here, with effortless rap verses giving way to crisp choruses and adding great opening for the group's iconic ad-libs.

    The 6th track Love Maze is another R&B track, albeit brighter, showcasing honey-sweet falsettos and harmonies and intricately written rap verses. The production is top notch, with tasteful ad-libs and excellent instrumentation.

    The next track, Magic Shop is a heartwarming, vocally driven EDM song. The refrain of the song invites intimate sing-alongs between the group and its audience at a concert.

    Airplane pt. 2 is BTS's first and very impressive venture into the Latin-pop genre. The song has a rhythmic, alluring beat and a catchy chorus, combining English, Korean, and phrases in Spanish.

    The name of the track Anpanman is a tribute to a popular cartoon created in Japan. Blips of poppy, bright sound combine with high-energy rap verses and a fun chorus. The bridge of the song is an interesting addition to the track and leads into the final chorus with bright backing harmonies.

    The penultimate track, So What, is a high-energy, sugary EDM banger. It is another concert worthy track that will get the crowd on its feet and shouting the lyrics to the chorus at full volume.

    The closing track, Outro: Tear, is one of the rap line's most emotionally charged tracks to date. The group's 3 rappers destroy the orchestral trap beat, and include uses of static sounds to accentuate their point.

    While the individual description of a track might be the polar opposite of another, the album put together in order is cohesive and tells a complete, over-arching story. The members of BTS, who have participated greatly in the production of this album, convey a sincerity and authenticity that is rare in today's music. The group has great versatility and boldness, allowing them to continue exploring and pushing their creative potential.    … Expand
  27. paradis3
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    Loved the diversity of their songs, each and every song had a different feel to them, but somehow they seem to fit well together. They meshed well together which I found surprising. The messages behind their songs, I feel like they portrayed the darker sides of love pretty well (coming from personal experience and actually witnessing this kind of love). A couple of their songs, I foundLoved the diversity of their songs, each and every song had a different feel to them, but somehow they seem to fit well together. They meshed well together which I found surprising. The messages behind their songs, I feel like they portrayed the darker sides of love pretty well (coming from personal experience and actually witnessing this kind of love). A couple of their songs, I found quite heartwarming (Magic Shop) and inspiring (Paradise), I haven't really researched the meanings behind all of their songs but from the very few that I did, I'm honestly not surprised on how good it was, I would say I would consider this album one of their best. Lets not forget the emotions in their vocals, music. Outro: Tear especially, that one really grabbed me, I didn't really understand it much but the emotion behind their rap (added with the music), it really made me feel.. something. I can't really explain it. Lyrics, Music (Instrumentals), Messages behind them, amazing.… Expand
  28. Papapapa
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    Este álbum es incomparable. Los distintos mensajes que se encuentran en cada canción son preciosos y con muchas interpretaciones diferentes.
    Creo que es uno de los mejores de la trilogía de Love Yourself. Todos merecen escucharlo y entender el significado detrás de cada palabra. Nadie se arrepentiría de escuchar esta pieza de arte.
  29. seesawyoongi
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    Love Yourself: Tear by BTS is a beautiful, introspective journey about finding oneself and what Love truly means. In this album BTS explores a variety of music genres - from the smooth R&B sounds of Singularity to the experimental emo/rock/rap tunes of Fake Love; from the Latin-pop inspired Airplane pt. 2 to the emotional but powerful rap of Outro: Tear. If you love music, Love Yourself:Love Yourself: Tear by BTS is a beautiful, introspective journey about finding oneself and what Love truly means. In this album BTS explores a variety of music genres - from the smooth R&B sounds of Singularity to the experimental emo/rock/rap tunes of Fake Love; from the Latin-pop inspired Airplane pt. 2 to the emotional but powerful rap of Outro: Tear. If you love music, Love Yourself: Tear is your go-to album.… Expand
  30. adriananoguera
    Oct 4, 2018
    10
    I love that the album transmits the darkest facets of love but also gives you a message to overcome these.
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Critic Reviews

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Metascore
74

Generally favorable reviews - based on 6 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 6
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 6
  3. Negative: 0 out of 6
  1. The 405
    May 29, 2018
    70
    Love Yourself: Tear shows off each individual member’s qualities fairly and acts as a well-structured introduction to a wider global audience that is all too eager to pick out negatives.
    Read full review
  2. Pitchfork
    May 24, 2018
    71
    Tear aims for cohesion and produces fun, prismatic songs in the process.
    Read full review
  3. Rolling Stone
    May 24, 2018
    70
    Throughout it all, the members of BTS affect melodic sincerity, singing with intensity and melisma, rapping in tones that show their effort and strain, as if caring never went out of style.
    Read full review
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