Modern Times
by Bob Dylan
  • Record Label: Sony
  • Release Date: Aug 29, 2006
User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 289 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 245 out of 289
  2. Mixed: 23 out of 289
  3. Negative: 21 out of 289

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  1. All_ButTrU4
    Oct 17, 2022
    7
    Third in his successful late career renaissance this controversially constructed album sits comfortably amongst his '97 landmark time out of mind and its '01 sequel love and theft. Its bluesy balladry makes it some of his easiest work to listen to. Cited as a wholly self penned masterpiece questions of credit arose in reference to lyrics and melody which legally were nil and void due toThird in his successful late career renaissance this controversially constructed album sits comfortably amongst his '97 landmark time out of mind and its '01 sequel love and theft. Its bluesy balladry makes it some of his easiest work to listen to. Cited as a wholly self penned masterpiece questions of credit arose in reference to lyrics and melody which legally were nil and void due to the age of the original work. This doesn't tarnish this album though. Modern Times like a wise grandfather talking to his grandchildren, at times exciting, at time depressing, but always undeniably impressive while still not cool. Dylan's most impressive quality is his acceptance of his place as a senior statesman in music whose goal seem to be about maintaining quality as opposed to creating a new energy. Therefore this is not his best record, nor is it attempting to be, but the kids none-the-less would be wise to listen… Expand
  2. Ricko
    Nov 28, 2017
    9
    The song "Spirit on the Water" says everything about what this album is - "You think I'm over the hill, You think I'm past my prime, Let me see what you got..." Dylan emphatically proves he's still got plenty in the locker here. Following on strongly from "Love and Theft", this is up there with the master songwriters best work from the last 30 years. 10 tracks of the highest calibre andThe song "Spirit on the Water" says everything about what this album is - "You think I'm over the hill, You think I'm past my prime, Let me see what you got..." Dylan emphatically proves he's still got plenty in the locker here. Following on strongly from "Love and Theft", this is up there with the master songwriters best work from the last 30 years. 10 tracks of the highest calibre and country blues at it's best. His vocals are surprisingly good as an extra bonus on this and the backing band he has here play a stormer as well. For me, this is the last great album Dylan has produced and the last essential one.… Expand
  3. Samimacedo
    Nov 10, 2015
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. HINARIOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOooOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO melhor album do rei, pisa mais… Expand
  4. Vampire25
    Jan 29, 2014
    9
    An accessible record with master class song-writing, Dylan has never failed at writing a great song. His vocals are painfully gruff, and commands your attention with each track. It's a patient listen, took me a few times to really feel it, and delve my way through each track.

    All In All, Modern Times is a great record, and another one of Dylan's masterpieces. A-
  5. JayUK
    Aug 2, 2013
    10
    The best Dylan album of the 2000s and possibly the best of his career so far. I prefer listening to it on vinyl, Spirit on the Water sounds a completely different song when on vinyl.
  6. eunice-vanburen
    Apr 26, 2012
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. In creating 'Modern Times' Dylan has drawn upon traditional American music and has created a conservative album similar to his two previous studio albums. Despite misgivings that may arise from Dylan fanatics who have yet to hear the album and fear that its preservative nature renders the album irrelevant or worst of all boring, it takes just one listen to disprove this. 'Modern Times' is an attempt to make an observation about the state of the current world (hence the title) without making any specific references (except for the infamous mention of Alicia Keys in the opening track that says more about the 64 year old's music from his zenith era than it does of Keys and contemporary popular music ) to society. The lyrics are typical of Dylan in that they are cerebral and in fused with religious themes. However this album is not the mind bender of Dylan's landmark 1965-1966 albums and the lyrics and tunes are more simplistic. The relative simplicity of the lyrics makes this album more commercially appealing than a majority of Dylan's former albums but this doesn't mean that the lyrics have been dumbed down for the sake of a cheap and easy sell to the masses. Instead this means that the album is more accessible than is common with Dylan recordings and that the messages have merely been sugarcoated. Of course not all of the songs on this album detail Dylan's impressions of the world. This album is a combination of songs that are a loose commentary on the world ('Thunder on the Mountain', 'Workingman's Blues #2', 'The Levee's Gonna Break' and 'Ain't Talkin'), songs about relationships ('Spirit on the Water', 'Someday Baby'), a combination of both ('Rollin' and Tumblin', 'Nettie Moore') and a theme that must be close to Dylan's heart at the time of recording; aging and death (Beyond the Horizon). Although all of these themes seem to be entwined with one another across the album particular songs give particualy themes more prevalence than others.The affect that the album impresses upon the listener is that it is expertly done.The tone, the spirit, the singing, the music and above all the lyrics are as engaging and exciting as some of the man's best work.

    My rating: A+ (Perfection)

    Strongest song: Workingman's Blues #2
    Weakest song: When the Deal Goes Down    … Expand
  7. TheDaveHimself
    Jul 15, 2011
    8
    Bought this album while living in California. Every time "Spirit on the Water" comes on, I'm taken right back to those highways that flow into San Francisco Bay. From beginning to end, this is what you've come to love about Dylan. His homage to earlier music is dead on and some of these gems could have been pulled from the 1920s. "Workingman Blues #2" is another highlight and "Ain'tBought this album while living in California. Every time "Spirit on the Water" comes on, I'm taken right back to those highways that flow into San Francisco Bay. From beginning to end, this is what you've come to love about Dylan. His homage to earlier music is dead on and some of these gems could have been pulled from the 1920s. "Workingman Blues #2" is another highlight and "Ain't Talkin'" is already being hailed as another great Dylan work. Pick it up.… Expand
  8. mhmusicnmovies
    Sep 7, 2010
    9
    Not as great as Love and Theft, but Modern Times is a hell of a record. Dylan continues to let us know that he is back; quite a fun album. The times may be a changing but Bobby manages to stay his brilliant self
  9. PhillipB.
    Nov 12, 2007
    10
    Dylan is still great.
  10. sbsb
    Nov 12, 2007
    9
    Not the greatest work of Dylan, but certainly a very good album. Dylan never gets old.
  11. EloyG.
    Oct 14, 2007
    10
    This is a very very good disc. it's a classic rock and roll and folk album. Simply Great.
  12. SteveJ
    Oct 3, 2007
    10
    this album has an eternal feel, it does not get old. very in the moment, a great artist with timeless skills.
  13. LH
    Sep 14, 2007
    9
    I like Dylan hes a lyrical genius!!!!!
  14. JanisP
    Jul 31, 2007
    10
    Very enjoyable album, with the mystery and quirks of Dylan making blues even so much more interesting.
  15. Jamesk
    Jul 12, 2007
    10
    C mon guys, ofc if this cd was under the name of an unknown arist he may had a average user rating 2.But c mon he is BOB DYLAN.Whatever he says is like gospel to me.Period._
  16. CB
    Jul 8, 2007
    9
    Great, great album. Like many of his great albums, like New Morning or Slow Train Coming, starts out sounding understated and then gets better with each listening. His best since Blood on the Tracks, Desire, and Slow Train. Don't judge by the first listening; listen again. It's a sleeper. Over the hill? Man's still got the juice.
  17. PhilZ
    Jun 11, 2007
    10
    Clearly the best of the recent trilogy along with Love & Theft and Time out of Mind. Perhaps the best work since Infidels. This is one of Dylan's top half dozen albums.
  18. ArtS.
    Jun 4, 2007
    10
    Great
  19. TomB
    Mar 7, 2007
    10
    Always full of meaning..Bob's the greatest...
  20. DavidG
    Feb 23, 2007
    10
    giving dylan a 10 is only because for at least the last 20 years (more) dylan has been addressing a bible based truth that being he is the spokeman for yahweh concerning his bride and her relation with the marriage of god and his people(us)we being the bride for instance jokerman is humanity not .dylan. the waitess in time out of mind again is the bride. enough said i hope you replay some giving dylan a 10 is only because for at least the last 20 years (more) dylan has been addressing a bible based truth that being he is the spokeman for yahweh concerning his bride and her relation with the marriage of god and his people(us)we being the bride for instance jokerman is humanity not .dylan. the waitess in time out of mind again is the bride. enough said i hope you replay some albums , oh the gar dener in 'not talkin' is Jesus...… Expand
  21. PaulS
    Jan 6, 2007
    10
    When all is said and done this will be recognized as one of the best. He should win the Nobel Prize for Literature.
  22. GregorioB
    Jan 3, 2007
    10
    At first listen I was not as crazy and agreeable with all the hype and build up for this new work from iPod Bob. Having opened the bottle and letting it breath a bit, I would put it right up there with the last two jewels of '97 and '01. After seeing the songs done live, especially 'Nettie Moore', I realized how good this almbum really is, and how much shelf life it At first listen I was not as crazy and agreeable with all the hype and build up for this new work from iPod Bob. Having opened the bottle and letting it breath a bit, I would put it right up there with the last two jewels of '97 and '01. After seeing the songs done live, especially 'Nettie Moore', I realized how good this almbum really is, and how much shelf life it will have for Uncle Bob. His voice has lived a number lives, and he still is able to get it out there and tell us a new story or two!… Expand
  23. ReubenF
    Dec 18, 2006
    7
    A sentimental favourite for Bob Dylan fans who can rejoice that this album represents an excellent return to form. However, in my opinion it does not deserve to be in the top 10 for the year.
  24. kamil
    Dec 3, 2006
    8
    Old king with third very good album. Modern Times is not so vital and funny like masterpiece from 2001 Love And Theft, but form, craft and feeling is in right place.
  25. SharonD
    Nov 26, 2006
    10
    Another brilliant album from rock's greatest songwriter. I am sick of all these idiots who want to keep Bob frozen in the 1960's. You all need to grow up (and wake up). Older artists can be as relevant and emotionally moving as the younger ones, maybe even more so. It's called experience, which one can only gain with age. People place too much emphasis on youth over Another brilliant album from rock's greatest songwriter. I am sick of all these idiots who want to keep Bob frozen in the 1960's. You all need to grow up (and wake up). Older artists can be as relevant and emotionally moving as the younger ones, maybe even more so. It's called experience, which one can only gain with age. People place too much emphasis on youth over experience in American culture. It's great artists like Dylan who provide an antidote to this stupid notion.… Expand
  26. CJS.
    Nov 20, 2006
    10
    Best album in a long time. This really rocks.
  27. DanS
    Nov 19, 2006
    9
    An excellent cd......one of my best. If there were more up tempo songs on it, like track No. 1....it'd be a 10.
  28. Sarah
    Nov 17, 2006
    10
    This is an incredible, incredible album. Workingman's Blues #2 might just be my new favorite song. Anyone who thinks Dylan can't sing should listen to this. I can't believe some people gave it such a bad rating...Dylan is truly incredible. The songwriting is amazing...deals with everything from God to sucking milk out of cows. Amaaaaaaaaaaizingggggggggggggg.
  29. DaveyJ
    Nov 14, 2006
    10
    I didn't know what to make of this album and I sort of shelved it for a while. When I saw Dylan on Nov.2nd I got an instant understanding of the things that I'll never know and only feel. this is what Dylan has been trying to get to with his never ending tour. the record sums up where its at. This tour will stand as on of the best of his career and the album as one of the greats I didn't know what to make of this album and I sort of shelved it for a while. When I saw Dylan on Nov.2nd I got an instant understanding of the things that I'll never know and only feel. this is what Dylan has been trying to get to with his never ending tour. the record sums up where its at. This tour will stand as on of the best of his career and the album as one of the greats of all time!!! of any "artist". The people who don't like it are frankly stupid.… Expand
  30. RogerT
    Nov 3, 2006
    10
    outstanding he just gets better can not take it off the player in car and at home
  31. GDiaz
    Oct 28, 2006
    8
    This is one of Bob's best albums, but I disagree with both 10 and 2 reviews. It is not a masterpiece, but you really cannot dismiss it as "forgettable". I have seen that people single out certain tracks, and my pick as the best are Workingman's Blues #2, Nettie Moore and of course, Ain't Talkin'. That song is wonderful. Some people think this album should be another This is one of Bob's best albums, but I disagree with both 10 and 2 reviews. It is not a masterpiece, but you really cannot dismiss it as "forgettable". I have seen that people single out certain tracks, and my pick as the best are Workingman's Blues #2, Nettie Moore and of course, Ain't Talkin'. That song is wonderful. Some people think this album should be another Blood on the Tracks, but no t even Dylan could top his masterpieces. The lyrics are direct and great, the musicians are top notch, and Bob uses his strained voice to good effect. He may not have a beautiful voice, but he knows how to use it, and that is what makes a good singer, and what made Blonde On Blonde such a thrill in its times.… Expand
  32. BiffD
    Oct 26, 2006
    7
    Sounds a little bit too much like Leon Redbone on the slow ones
  33. edf
    Oct 17, 2006
    10
    wonderful!
  34. jw
    Oct 13, 2006
    8
    (8.5) Really good. Not "Love and Theft" good, but good. But a note on protest songs: Our political climate is such that the center has completely dropped out. And, given that Dylan is known for going out of his way to avoid categorization, it shouldn't be a shock that he includes only the most opaque references to current events. It's a non-move that can be seen as political, (8.5) Really good. Not "Love and Theft" good, but good. But a note on protest songs: Our political climate is such that the center has completely dropped out. And, given that Dylan is known for going out of his way to avoid categorization, it shouldn't be a shock that he includes only the most opaque references to current events. It's a non-move that can be seen as political, commercial, and musical savvy. (The music DOES matter, after all). However, no honest assessment of this album will yield the word "brave." At present there is a 9,000 pound, bazooka wielding elephant in the room, and Hendrix, Ochs, Joplin, and Lennon are all gone. This is a bad time for our last best voice to be M.I.A. ...Of course I'm 24 and have not yet reached that shade of jade.… Expand
  35. KentE
    Oct 5, 2006
    10
    Let me start first by addressing TBone. Bob Dylan grew up in Hibbing,Minnesota, or the "Iron Range" for those of us who know the area. Very working class area, and he himself worked in the mines up there. So yes "Workingman Blues 2" I would assume comes straight from the heart. And it could be him singing about his towns experiences and not his. Spike Lee grew up rich as hell in suburban Let me start first by addressing TBone. Bob Dylan grew up in Hibbing,Minnesota, or the "Iron Range" for those of us who know the area. Very working class area, and he himself worked in the mines up there. So yes "Workingman Blues 2" I would assume comes straight from the heart. And it could be him singing about his towns experiences and not his. Spike Lee grew up rich as hell in suburban Los Angeles and makes movies about the "ghetto" something he knows nothing about, but is that ok, or how about P. Diddy or whatever his name is now I cant keep up, grew up in rich suburban New York and sings about gangster life, even if Dylan isnt singing about his own experiences, which he is, most singers dont. The album is great, it mixes fast up beat songs with slower songs. Lots of musicians today modeled themselves after Dylan. "Workingmans Blues 2" is one of the best tracks, "Aint Talkin" is a highlight as well as "leeves gonna break". Its to bad in todays world we have no good protest singers, Green Day is a joke and so are the Dixie Chicks and even Pearl Jam who at least made an effort to make a decent protest album. I was a little dissapointed by the albums lack of political uproar or backlash at the Bush Administration as Dylan is the master of that, but all in all a great album from a great individual who I can only hope keeps making albums until he dies.… Expand
  36. Brian
    Oct 5, 2006
    9
    I love it when people start off a review with "come on people." I love this CD and recognize this as one of Dylans best. He is a much different Dylan from the "times they are a changing" era which is what I love about Dylan. This is his 3rd straight masterpiece and one of his best in 30+ years.
  37. WadeT
    Oct 3, 2006
    8
    Modern Times like a wise grandfather talking to his grandchildren, at times exciting, at time depressing, but always undeniably impressive while still not cool. Dylan's most impressive quality is his acceptance of his place as a senior statesman in music whose goal seem to be about maintaining quality as opposed to creating a new energy. Therefore this is not his best record, nor is Modern Times like a wise grandfather talking to his grandchildren, at times exciting, at time depressing, but always undeniably impressive while still not cool. Dylan's most impressive quality is his acceptance of his place as a senior statesman in music whose goal seem to be about maintaining quality as opposed to creating a new energy. Therefore this is not his best record, nor is it attempting to be, but the kids none-the-less would be wise to listen.… Expand
  38. manolissporidis
    Oct 1, 2006
    8
    maybe not a masterpiece, but definitely an album you can listen to again and again. a perfect musical companion for autumn, winter, spring and summer to come, dylan & band enjoy music like noone else and they show it here!!
  39. aveehMcnelove
    Sep 30, 2006
    10
    And once agin, a 100% pure quality. the words and the meanings all togather, creating this one big beatiful pazzel of words who tells about freedom, forgivness and love. Way the go Bobby!
  40. sl
    Sep 28, 2006
    10
    Another brilliant album in the bob catalogue.
  41. SrivatsanL
    Sep 28, 2006
    10
    This is a brilliant album by Dylan. His best ever? I dont think so. But for a guy whose career spans 40 years, let us be fair and not compare him with his past, but instead compare with him with others of the present. Taken like that this is a 10/10 album indeed!!
  42. ToddW
    Sep 27, 2006
    8
    Dylan never ceases to amaze. His albums still can make you laugh, cry, think, and try all at once. While I'm not steeped in the musical genres that he samples with aplomb, it's comforting to know that someone still cares enough about his craft to entertain AND educate. There's too little of that in today's "What Have You Done for Me Yesterday?" culture.
  43. emiliog
    Sep 25, 2006
    10
    Lo mejor de Dylan en los últimos años. Un placer escuchar el disco
  44. KenG
    Sep 24, 2006
    10
    The depth and breadth of artistry evident in this disc is astounding. How many more years can he keep this up?
  45. doug
    Sep 24, 2006
    10
    fucking genius
  46. jamesnormann
    Sep 23, 2006
    9
    it is amazing that bobby is still good enough & far ahead enough to get bad reviews.
  47. SethR
    Sep 21, 2006
    10
    awesome. dylan at his finest. 10 GREAT songs!
  48. TylerP
    Sep 21, 2006
    10
    This is one of the best albums i've listened to. Gets my foot tappin and my spirits high everytime! You should all buy it!
  49. AlexF
    Sep 20, 2006
    8
    Yeah, its a good album and I'm happy to see Bob back on the top of the charts; however, at no point will I find myself with one of these tunes infectiously running through my head. At no point will I unconsciously learn all the lyrics to a song, simply by repeated listens. Much of this is like his previous album in terms of tone and style. One of the better albums released in the Yeah, its a good album and I'm happy to see Bob back on the top of the charts; however, at no point will I find myself with one of these tunes infectiously running through my head. At no point will I unconsciously learn all the lyrics to a song, simply by repeated listens. Much of this is like his previous album in terms of tone and style. One of the better albums released in the last few months, but by no means a classic on par with Blood on the Tracks or Blonde on Blonde or even his late-90's surprise, Time Out of Mind.… Expand
  50. willd
    Sep 20, 2006
    10
    when the deal goes down will be covered by many,
  51. aurelios
    Sep 14, 2006
    9
    muy bueno , mejora con cada escucha, sin rabia sesentera pero se degusta como un vino de reserva, saboreando cada detalle.no tiene un 10 porque sino que ¿le pondriamos a blonde on blonde?.
  52. cara
    Sep 13, 2006
    10
    beautiful but also comical
  53. SteinN
    Sep 13, 2006
    10
    I loved this album the first time I heard it the 21.st. of August
  54. TheobaldT
    Sep 13, 2006
    10
    Often regarded as retro rocker whose heydays were the sixties, Dylan has gone real retro: back to the 20's, 30's, and 40's. Western swing, jazz, blues, and the music of the old pop crooners like Bing Crosby et. al. The sound is very acoustic, crisp, and clear. An album for the island.
  55. TimW
    Sep 11, 2006
    10
    At first listening perhaps not as note-worthy as say High-Way 61 and Blood on The Tracks, largely due to not having a "hit" song or straigth-faced "memorable" Dyan song; Modern Love appeals to your sensibilities over listening, or be it time; and materalises as substantial recording of Dylan, who in his 60s still has was it takes and does not look as rediculous as this year's At first listening perhaps not as note-worthy as say High-Way 61 and Blood on The Tracks, largely due to not having a "hit" song or straigth-faced "memorable" Dyan song; Modern Love appeals to your sensibilities over listening, or be it time; and materalises as substantial recording of Dylan, who in his 60s still has was it takes and does not look as rediculous as this year's Rolling-Stones concert tour. Dylan does have to be sexy--Mic Jagger!--in his 60s. He has but fulfill the promise of a blues siinger and muscian and song -writer. Modern Love gives all that--a graceful overture to blues undertaken by the greatest song-writer of the second half of this century. Gone is Dylan's "absurdism" of the 60s recordings; Dylan delievers straight-forward plays of language and song.… Expand
  56. williamm
    Sep 10, 2006
    10
    Mesmerizing! Light hearted, heavy handed,seriously amusing and dizzyingly profound and often in a few short verses.What a rollercoaster ride!
  57. BrianM
    Sep 9, 2006
    10
    There aren't enough adjectives to describe how good this album is. The Man's in amazing voice, the band is incredible....if you're not listening to this, your life is incomplete.
  58. JimG
    Sep 8, 2006
    9
    Dylan matures gracefully. Dylan is doing what he wants and could care less about anybodys opinion of his art. Great CD
  59. ErlingO
    Sep 8, 2006
    10
    He still does it. It becomes better with each playing. B.D. rules.
  60. LawrenceP
    Sep 7, 2006
    10
    An instant classic. Dylan just gets better and better. There is more wisdom in Modern Times than in other artists' entire careers.
  61. PaulM
    Sep 7, 2006
    10
    Excellent !!! Just Excellent !!!
  62. Mars88
    Sep 6, 2006
    9
    his voice is wonderfully worn, and fit very well with the songs. great great great great.
  63. TimR
    Sep 5, 2006
    10
    best album I have heard in years, I especially liked the first 6 tracks -- I was expecting something good but not this good...buy it you won't be disappointed regardess of your thoughts on Dylan -- if you are a Dylan fan you will be overwhelmed.
  64. BobT
    Sep 4, 2006
    10
    This a brilliant album and it exemplifies why Dylan is in a class by himself.
  65. ChristianZ
    Sep 3, 2006
    10
    Holy . . . This is great music! I just sat back and let it wash over me. Dylan isn't just on a roll; he's like a phoenix. Time Out of Mind ruminated on death, Love and Theft sounded the prophecies, and now Modern Times combines those elements into a brand new sound for modern music. This is an album that ranks with his best. Yes, Blonde on Blonde, Bringing it All Back Home, Holy . . . This is great music! I just sat back and let it wash over me. Dylan isn't just on a roll; he's like a phoenix. Time Out of Mind ruminated on death, Love and Theft sounded the prophecies, and now Modern Times combines those elements into a brand new sound for modern music. This is an album that ranks with his best. Yes, Blonde on Blonde, Bringing it All Back Home, Highway 61, Blood on the Tracks, all of them. Listen to Modern Times back-to-back with any of his best and you will be converted. If it's true like he said that he's in his middle years, then long, long may he live!… Expand
  66. BenE
    Sep 3, 2006
    10
    flows perfectly from start to finish, spellbinding.
  67. KevinC
    Sep 3, 2006
    10
    Look at the list of all-time high scores and tell me straight up that Dylan isn't being robbed. I'm not disputing the genius of those records, just baffled that this disc is getting less than 5-star reviews all-around. Come on, if Stankonia is a 97 no way in hell is this album less than a 97 as well. Just an awesome record of fans of good music regardless of genres or labels.
  68. FrankD
    Sep 3, 2006
    10
    10 great songs. Not a weak song on the whole CD. Dylan in great voice. Band is great. I love the way the CD starts with the intro to Thunder on the Mountain.
  69. JimN
    Sep 2, 2006
    10
    surprisingly the hype about this as the end of a trilogy of releases is not completely inplausible. this will be worth its many times I will listen and relisten to it.
  70. R.L.
    Sep 2, 2006
    9
    One of the best albums to come out in the last 20 years! And incredibly, it's only a shade less entertaining than the "Tweedle Dee & Tweedle Dum" record.
  71. JamesD
    Sep 2, 2006
    10
    Modern Times is another triumph for Bob Dylan and his best since Oh Mercy. There's no use trying to compare this album to his 60s masterpieces, this is a completely different period in Dylan's life/art. Instead of the psychedelic poetry of Blonde on Blonde, he is using the down to earth prose of traditional blues. What he did for pop/rock by combining meaningful lyrics and Modern Times is another triumph for Bob Dylan and his best since Oh Mercy. There's no use trying to compare this album to his 60s masterpieces, this is a completely different period in Dylan's life/art. Instead of the psychedelic poetry of Blonde on Blonde, he is using the down to earth prose of traditional blues. What he did for pop/rock by combining meaningful lyrics and poetry with popular music, he is now doing with blues. The NOW magazine review above is a disgrace. We don't alll have to agree on politics, religion or music, but some people obviously do not understand Dylan or the folk/blues tradition. Yes, Dylan is "borrowing" from traditional blues and folk music, JUST AS HE DID IN THE 60S! Blowin in the Wind and every folk song he wrote borrowed music and lyrics from older folk songs. The same is true of the blues. Blues singers borrow music and lyrics and build upon them and they keep passing the music down from one generation to the next. Dylan is now a major bridge in Blues, bringing what appears to be "old timey" music into a new generation. I know many young people who love Modern Times and because of Dylan they are learning that "old" blues and folk songs are still relevant in these "Modern Time". TAKE THE NOW REVIEW OFF! Before that horrible review was listed, Modern Times had score of 97 making it the highest rated album on Metacritic. It's not right to let one ignorant and obviously off the mark review reduce the score of this great album. At least include more of the hundreds of good reviews to balance it out!… Expand
  72. blatzm
    Sep 1, 2006
    9
    Fantastic album, better than "Love and Theft," blah blah blah...I just want add to the other comments here by saying there is something terribly wrong with the CD pressing of this album. When it went through the mastering process, they made it far too loud, making the bass and drums distort. The review copy, which leaked onto the internet before the CD was released, sounds amazing. Fantastic album, better than "Love and Theft," blah blah blah...I just want add to the other comments here by saying there is something terribly wrong with the CD pressing of this album. When it went through the mastering process, they made it far too loud, making the bass and drums distort. The review copy, which leaked onto the internet before the CD was released, sounds amazing. I'd suggest waiting until Sony fixes this problem before purchasing.… Expand
  73. T.S.
    Sep 1, 2006
    10
    The Album of the Year!
  74. ChadM
    Sep 1, 2006
    8
    Great album. What can you say. It's Dylan and he seems to be hitting his stride again. I think this is a better effort than love and theft, which was solid in it's own right. Great mood music, a must have for any moderate Dylan fan.
  75. BruceH
    Sep 1, 2006
    8
    Like a favourite old pair of slippers, bus-pass Bob is something you can slip into of an evening and feel good about the world and yourself. His 21st c. voice is a compelling mixture of frailty and authority. 'When the Deal goes Down' and 'Nettie Moore' are amongst his best songs ever.
  76. LarryS
    Aug 31, 2006
    10
    Tim Perlich of "Now" is an idiot! A voice changes with age and this voice is well suited to the material. He was never a crooner, but that never detracted from the sincerity and immersion in his chosen material in a way shared by a few e.g. Johnny Cash. The only cynical attempt to pass anything off; is Petrich's attempt to pass himself off as a knowledgeable critic.
  77. IanC
    Aug 31, 2006
    8
    I think it's an amazing feat that Dylan has made an album this good nearly 50(!) years into his career, but 10? Instant classic? Among the ranks of Highway 61 Revisited and Blood on the Tracks? C'mon.
  78. MattR.
    Aug 31, 2006
    10
    This really is a fantastic album. There are no weak songs, and a couple are among his best. Personally, I find it more appealing than Love & Theft.
  79. MattC
    Aug 31, 2006
    9
    Only listened to it once, but I liked it better than last 2 albums. The lyrics seems to go somewhere, which was my problem with L&Theft. The lyrics seemed jumbled. They sounded good, but they did not build or even seem to be related to other lines in the song. Not here. Best lyrical Dylan album in a long time.
  80. BradP
    Aug 31, 2006
    9
    Another Dylan album - OK, it's not going to shatter us like Highway 61 or Blonde on Blonde, but this is terrific work. Dylan retreats into melodies and structures taken from the iconic folk music he loves and adds poetry as only he can. The voice is creaky, the band is as comfortable as old jeans, and references from 150 years of American songcraft echo like distant voices in deep Another Dylan album - OK, it's not going to shatter us like Highway 61 or Blonde on Blonde, but this is terrific work. Dylan retreats into melodies and structures taken from the iconic folk music he loves and adds poetry as only he can. The voice is creaky, the band is as comfortable as old jeans, and references from 150 years of American songcraft echo like distant voices in deep caverns. Since virtually no other artist manages this, it is difficult to compare except to more Dylan. He embraces the old and traditional songs as they once were - malleable scaffolds from which to project your own version of the truth as you see it, instead of stuffy museum pieces or inscrutable '78s. Interesting that more than ever, Dylan's work reflects his early influences - especially Harry Smith's 1952 Anthology of American Folk Music. Those 84 tracks loom like gargoyles on the Cathedral of Bob. Clearly an extension of the path blazed by Time Out of Mind and Love and Theft, Modern Times contains no surprises, only revelations slowly turning in your mind. No one under 50 could possibly create this stuff, and we should be grateful.… Expand
  81. MitchP
    Aug 31, 2006
    9
    The streak continues. Although I don't consider it the last part of a trilogy because Time Out of Mind has a different sound to it. Modern Times is more like a companion piece fo Love and Theft. I agree with one user in that it's not quite up to par with The great Trilogy of albums from the 60s. I think it's lazy criticism to compare the two "trilogies" and put them on The streak continues. Although I don't consider it the last part of a trilogy because Time Out of Mind has a different sound to it. Modern Times is more like a companion piece fo Love and Theft. I agree with one user in that it's not quite up to par with The great Trilogy of albums from the 60s. I think it's lazy criticism to compare the two "trilogies" and put them on equal level. That being said, it's a great album… Expand
  82. SamuelG
    Aug 31, 2006
    10
    Bob Dylan returns, the king is here again with a perfect album. I love it!
  83. howellg
    Aug 31, 2006
    10
    picks up where Love and Theft leaves off.
  84. WillG
    Aug 31, 2006
    10
    One of Dylan's best. In my opinion, his 5th best album, behind "Highway 61", "Blood on the Tracks", "Blonde on Blonde", and "Bringing it all Back Home." Would be the best for many other groups, hence the 10
  85. ChuckS
    Aug 30, 2006
    10
    I don't know how (or why) to compare Modern Times with Blonde on Blonde, Blood On The Tracks, Love & Theft or anything else Dylan has recorded in the past. We all move on. Compare it to Tom Petty's "Highway Companion" (I give that a 6), Ray Davies' "Other People's Lives" (8) or Neil Young's "Prairie Wind" (7 or 8) and you'll easily recognize the superiority I don't know how (or why) to compare Modern Times with Blonde on Blonde, Blood On The Tracks, Love & Theft or anything else Dylan has recorded in the past. We all move on. Compare it to Tom Petty's "Highway Companion" (I give that a 6), Ray Davies' "Other People's Lives" (8) or Neil Young's "Prairie Wind" (7 or 8) and you'll easily recognize the superiority of what he has produced and importance of what he has to say. Modern Times is soothing if you just listen to the tunes and provocative if you listen to the words. I bought the CD in a package that included Dylan's XM Show on Baseball. Nice extra.… Expand
  86. AnastasiaK
    Aug 30, 2006
    10
    Modern Times is so good that if my house was on fire, I'd throw this disc out the window and let myself burn.
  87. DrewR
    Aug 30, 2006
    8
    Dan W is very right. lets not forget who wrote this album, Bob Freewheelin' Dylan.
  88. DaveO
    Aug 30, 2006
    9
    good music to cook to.
  89. Jules
    Aug 30, 2006
    9
    First, I am no Bob Dylan worshipper. Blonde on blonde has many angular witty moments of genius and blood on the tracks has many angular sad moments of genius. Who cares what changed music - does it grab your soul and twist your mind right here, right now? Most of what Sir Bob has done has not done this all at the same time for me. Usually truly great lyrics, often great songsmithery, only First, I am no Bob Dylan worshipper. Blonde on blonde has many angular witty moments of genius and blood on the tracks has many angular sad moments of genius. Who cares what changed music - does it grab your soul and twist your mind right here, right now? Most of what Sir Bob has done has not done this all at the same time for me. Usually truly great lyrics, often great songsmithery, only occasionally truly great spiritedness and soulfulness. Still, each to their own. But, but, and this is a big but, this last trio of albums laughing and rutting in the face of death by Bob have been an intellectual and soulful joy from start and especially to the finish. What a rich album this is! Perhaps Bob was always reaching for that role of old crankyhotpants bluespreacherman - when he was young this seemed contrived if well meant - now he simply has become this gloriously twisted preacherman.… Expand
  90. JoeG
    Aug 30, 2006
    8
    Man, it's good, but it ain't THAT good. It's ridiculous to even say that because this album is so far one of the year's best, but some of these reviews are going overboard with their praise. I'm sorry, but any album with a sappy, excruciating ballad like "Beyond the Horizon" can NOT be a masterwork. "When the Deal Goes Down" is a bit too syrupy, and the album as a Man, it's good, but it ain't THAT good. It's ridiculous to even say that because this album is so far one of the year's best, but some of these reviews are going overboard with their praise. I'm sorry, but any album with a sappy, excruciating ballad like "Beyond the Horizon" can NOT be a masterwork. "When the Deal Goes Down" is a bit too syrupy, and the album as a whole sounds a bit too tentative. Having said that, Dylan's crooning ain't bad, and the lyrics are often good, even great. Dylan shows plenty of humor as well as some occasional pain, occasional longing...and he gets pretty spooky on that last song, "Ain't Talkin'." And while the band could show a little more confidence, maybe a little more boldness in their playing, the arrangements are fairly pleasant and enjoyable. A fairly good album, it can be an excellent album IF you're in the right mood...but beware of the hype.… Expand
  91. Nathan
    Aug 30, 2006
    10
    a grand achievement in the great tradition of american arts.
  92. JefferyG
    Aug 30, 2006
    10
    Fabulous album. Slow, steady, well crafted, brilliant lyrics (again). A breath of fresh air. It grows on me each time I listen to it.
  93. VincentS
    Aug 30, 2006
    10
    Who else could write Workingman's Blues and deliver it in such a powerful way? His voice is getting better. This is how he wished he sounded like in the 60's. Aint Talkin' and Nettie Moore could be masterpieces from his back catalogue. He could have written these songs decades ago, maybe he did! The whole feel of the album is an artist at the top of his game. He is tipping Who else could write Workingman's Blues and deliver it in such a powerful way? His voice is getting better. This is how he wished he sounded like in the 60's. Aint Talkin' and Nettie Moore could be masterpieces from his back catalogue. He could have written these songs decades ago, maybe he did! The whole feel of the album is an artist at the top of his game. He is tipping his hat to so many greats here, guys he listened to over the wireless in Hibbing as a kid. Nobody is making records like this today. It is not nostalgia but mould breaking and will pave the way for many future artists.… Expand
  94. Matt
    Aug 30, 2006
    10
    A beautifully restrained album. In my opinion, even better than the last two.
  95. lfollows
    Aug 30, 2006
    8
    This is a solid album, indeed continuing from where Love and Theft left off--albeit, a whole five years later. This seems to be Dylan's twilight years style. Who knows what will come next! I give this an eight because an eight is a damn good score. But it's not as good as his greatest. It's just a good follow-up to everything else. The band does sound top notch by the This is a solid album, indeed continuing from where Love and Theft left off--albeit, a whole five years later. This seems to be Dylan's twilight years style. Who knows what will come next! I give this an eight because an eight is a damn good score. But it's not as good as his greatest. It's just a good follow-up to everything else. The band does sound top notch by the way--better than the digital dullness of Time Out of Mind (although the songs are not as intense or moving), and with a little more instrumental variation than Love and Theft .(The songs are the same genres as far as I can tell.) The things I do not like about this fine album (as with Love and Theft and other Dylan releases) is that the band is never allowed to cut loose. Such a fine ensemble of musicians, but are basically relegated to repetative riffing and all too short solos. I know these are "Bob Dylan" songs, but I would just love to hear a one-minute guitar or keyboard solo to complement these songs--or even some taking turns! Actually there is one stretch of that on this CD but I would love to hear more from these guys. The instruments all sound warm and vintage, and really get some good grooves. Allowing a little more freedom from the band would definitely put this release in classic territory. All in all, it is a good effort from the aging master. I hope he has something more eye-opening coming up next--with more soloing and without so much of a wait!… Expand
  96. KurtA
    Aug 29, 2006
    10
    Dylan is the GREATEST artist ever. If PAul McCartney puts out an album this good in the next 5 years, I'l eat my words. But this tops everything since Blood on the Tracks. It remind's you of why you listen to music, why you love Dylan so much. And, YES, oh yes, he rambles.
  97. JimM
    Aug 29, 2006
    10
    Dyan's last Three albums have received universal acclaim for a reason. Dylan is on a roll. Time Out of Mind was his best album since Blood on the Tracks, Love and Theft kicked him into higher gear with rocking blues, and Modern Times tops them all. The best album of his "later years" and will stand up to many of his early classics (inlcuding the very uneven Desire RH!). Modern Times Dyan's last Three albums have received universal acclaim for a reason. Dylan is on a roll. Time Out of Mind was his best album since Blood on the Tracks, Love and Theft kicked him into higher gear with rocking blues, and Modern Times tops them all. The best album of his "later years" and will stand up to many of his early classics (inlcuding the very uneven Desire RH!). Modern Times has it all: folk, blues, jazz, rockabilly, and Dylan's voice sounds great, expressing the character of an old blues singer. Only Dylan could sing these kind of songs so well. The band is great, the sound is much better than TOOM and Love & Theft. This album is getting great reviews for a reason.. it is that good. There's no throwaway songs on here (I didn't care much for Tweedle Dee Tweedle Dum on Love & Theft,, or Dirt Road Blues on TOOM, I wouldn't throw out any of the songs on Modern Times they are all great, but the opening Thunder on the Mountain, Rollin and Tumblin, Levee's gonna Break are some of the best rockin' blues you'll hear (no one else is doing this stuff!), and then there are the jazz/ballads showing his worn out voice can still deliver (When the Deal Goes Down and Not Talkin' are two more masterpieces to add to his long list) and Workingman Blues #2 is stunning. I… Expand
  98. BrianP
    Aug 29, 2006
    10
    This brilliant album combines some of the elements of "Love and Theft" with well-written lyrics and catchy tunes. My favorite album to date.
  99. LaurenC
    Aug 29, 2006
    10
    As a whole this album is more complete than Love and Theft. Some of Bob Dylan's best singing and most personal introspection since Blood on the Tracks. Great album to get lost in....
  100. DanW
    Aug 29, 2006
    7
    If this is a 10, where would that put Blonde on Blonde and Highway 61? at 15? Let's get a grip, folks!
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Awards & Rankings

3
#3 Best Album of 2006
14
#14 Most Discussed Album of 2006
75
#75 Most Shared Album of 2006

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
89

Universal acclaim - based on 29 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 28 out of 29
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 29
  3. Negative: 0 out of 29
  1. Uncut
    100
    Love And Theft was quite unlike any other pop album--apart, that is, from Modern Times, its direct and audacious sequel. [Sep 2006, p.72]
  2. Entertainment Weekly
    100
    Intriguing, immediate, and quietly epic, Modern Times must rank among Dylan's finest albums.
    Read full review
  3. The Guardian
    80
    It's hard to hear Modern Times' music over the inevitable standing ovation and the thuds of middle-aged critics swooning in awe. When you do, you find something not unlike its predecessor, Love and Theft.
    Read full review
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