The Most Lamentable Tragedy
by Titus Andronicus
  • Record Label: Merge
  • Release Date: Jul 28, 2015
Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 29 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 23 out of 29
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 29
  3. Negative: 0 out of 29
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  1. The Observer (UK)
    Aug 3, 2015
    60
    Where TMLT fails, it’s because of Stickles’ long-windedness and the self-obsession at the heart of this work; almost certainly a by-product of his diagnosis. Mostly, though, this lament is no tragedy, but a spirited two-fingers; a celebration of the artistic payload of atypical brain chemistry.
  2. Dusted Magazine
    Jul 29, 2015
    60
    The problem is that if it’s not very compelling as theatre, the theatrical parts get in the way of enjoying the songs, which are pretty good in a brash, bull-headed, punk-belligerent kind of way.
  3. The Guardian
    Jul 23, 2015
    60
    The problems come when the band try to stretch themselves. The synth interludes and faux-hymns are one thing, but the two lengthy songs at the album’s centre are something else entirely: the former are over and done with quickly, the latter are interminable.
  5. DIY Magazine
    Aug 7, 2015
    40
    Where things ought to be reduced and given more purpose, they instead stampede into goodness-knows-where. Ambition doesn’t always equal perfection. Rock operas have their place, but this isn’t the pick of the bunch.
  6. The Independent (UK)
    Jul 31, 2015
    40
    The problem with albums about depression is that they are the most literal exposition of the principle that an artist has suffered for their work, and now it’s our turn--and doubly so when it’s a 90-minute punk-opera wrenched screaming from their very soul, as here.
  7. Q Magazine
    Jul 30, 2015
    40
    While there's throat-shredding fervour, it becomes a crazily overextended blur of goofy anthemics. [Sep 2015, p.117]
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User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 51 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 42 out of 51
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 51
  3. Negative: 8 out of 51
  1. jtucker7
    Aug 19, 2015
    10
    A truly amazing album! Theres not a single dull moment on here (except for maybe the silent tracks). The story there trying to get across isA truly amazing album! Theres not a single dull moment on here (except for maybe the silent tracks). The story there trying to get across is amazing, but the best [art about this album is the drums and guitars. By far my favorite rock album of the year!… Full Review »
  2. ayylmao
    Aug 5, 2015
    10
    I've enjoyed a lot, it's probably my AOTYSF. For me it's just an adrenaline rush through and through, it makes the hour and 30 minutes feelI've enjoyed a lot, it's probably my AOTYSF. For me it's just an adrenaline rush through and through, it makes the hour and 30 minutes feel like 45 minutes. The story line is very deep and well thought-out which gives it a lot of replay value, especially with all of the resources Patrick has put out there, but I still find myself enjoying as a pure, simple rock record. Songs like Come on, Siobhan, No Future Part IV, Fired Up, Lookalike, Dimed Out, and Stranded (On My Own) are super catchy and fun while also having damn good lyrics that fit in to the story. And, parts like the the stretch of (S)HE SAID (S)HE SAID to Please are just pure catharsis. This immediacy make the album work on so many levels of involvement and attention. I can put this on just to rock out to or to study carefully, following along to the story and getting a deep emotion connection. So, overall Stickles and Co have created a near perfect album in my eyes.… Full Review »
  3. yesiamindeedjef
    Aug 3, 2015
    10
    This is a concept album for the ages. It will never be placed on the level of Dark Side of the Moon or Sgt. Pepper, but it's close in quality.This is a concept album for the ages. It will never be placed on the level of Dark Side of the Moon or Sgt. Pepper, but it's close in quality. It sounds exactly like what it is: a spectacular breakthrough album from a versatile punk rock band who not only has high ambitions, but is also capable of turning those ambitions into beautiful reality. The lyrics, might I add, are an inspiring manifesto on conquering the evils of mental illness and those of our corrupt society. Contrary to what reviewers have asserted, there is no "filler" on this album. Each one of this album's 93 minutes, and each of its 29 tracks, is important and necessary. The album is expertly arranged so that the enormous rock tracks–every one of which is guaranteed to melt your face off–have room to breathe. The album forces you to take it all in carefully. Of course it's long, of course it takes a while to listen to, and of course you have to spend some time poring over the lyrics to really get the message. But good art isn't supposed to be easy. The only complaint about this album that I recognize as legitimate is that some people find Patrick Stickles's vocals grating and unpleasant. I disagree, but I see why some people might think that. But if you aren't bothered by punk rock vocals in general, then it shouldn't be a problem for you. Overall, this album is a 10 for me, and easily the best album of the year so far except for Kendrick Lamar's To Pimp a Butterfly.… Full Review »
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