The result is a fun, no-frills album, and what it lacks in surprises makes up for with visceral thrills. [Oct 2020, p.86]

The ultra-catchy pop-punk of old is there in spades, but they're taking a cold hard look at America on This Is Not Utopia. ... Not all gambles pay off. ... A fun romp with a serious undercurrent. [May 2021, p.91]

The histrionic power ballad title track is an undeniable hoot. It's just a shame that so little of the rest of the album makes any lasting impression. [May 2018, p.90]

There is skill on display, but the album is unlikely to progress beyond background music. [Jun 2015, p.93]

The band more than reinforce their status as modern metal heroes. [Summer 2018, p.89]

Inevitably they’re not reinventing the wheel, yet it’s still good to hear Ringo’s non-voice (heavily treated), and his drumming skills are undiminished.

Disturbed are back, and they’re on top form.

Ironically, these more daring forays emphasise the inoffensive blandness of some of the other tracks, but if the future holds more similarly brave experimentation then ZBB are on a fascinating career trajectory.

I Delete more than stands up on its own. [Jan 2015, p.123]

A bold endeavour, for sure, but it often sounds too busy for its own good. [Jul 2014, p.92]

A slick, punchy production gives some pop momentum to Justin Sane's vocals, but it's when the songs are carried by his guitar that American Spring sounds ready to bloom. [Jun 2015, p.92]

The combination of Chuck D and B-Real’s wholly different vocal deliveries is a revelation throughout: the former’s commanding baritone and preacher’s power contrasting beautifully with the latter’s nasal sneer and street-smart menace. Similarly, the chemistry between Morello, drummer Brad Wilk and bassist Tim Commerford has never been in doubt, and here, while generally less aggressive than they were in their youthful pomp, that effortless ensemble groove ensures that none of these tracks will fail to free minds and asses.

The album tells you everything about what the recently renamed Theory Of A Deadman represent, one thing being class. [Mar 2020, p.87

Anthem Of The Peaceful Army isn't quite the finished article. ... At the final count, Anthem Of The Peaceful Army is shaping up to be the finest debut album of both 2018 and 1972. [Nov 2018, p.80]

There's still a rich seam of experimentation, but with more palatable results than has often been the case. [Jul 2013, p.95]

Ringo has given us expertly produced and pensive meditations on the bigger pictures. [May 2021, p.87]

A dilution of creativity has occurred, and it makes for dull listening. [Aug 2014, p. 208]

At its best, the results of this level of craftsmanship are thrilling.

If him being grumpy over excellent R&B riffs isn't too much of a shock for the listener, then this is an enjoyable album. [Jun 2021, p.78]

Accomplished but derivative.

You want depth, originality, surprises? Look elsewhere. But as the rock equivalent of comfort food, they don’t disappoint.

Their most self-important but least memorable, engaging or relevant album yet. [Apr 2013, p.98]

The Kids Are coming (To Take You Down) is the one highlight of the album, a thundering radio anthem redolent of Cheap Trick. Its carefree joy is notably absent pretty much everywhere else. [Nov 2019, p.81]

Characteristically dramatic readings of festive favourites. [Dec 2018, p.89]

Bush are far from the abomination of media repute, but Black And White Rainbows won’t convert the long-term haters, and seems too torpid to mobilise a fresh generation of fans.

Taken overall, it does gather moss, but that’s to be expected from a man of his vintage.

They’re aiming for a rockier sound--Walking The Wire has a guitar solo that could conceivably be influenced by U2 if you stick your head under a pillow before hitting play – but, as one listen to opener I Don’t Know Why amply demonstrates, it just comes off like Michael Bolton dad-dancing to Justin Timberlake at a family wedding. Pop deserves better. Rock deserves better. We all deserve better.

It would be exhausting to list all the crimes these two commit in the name of rock'n'roll on this record. ... Risible. [Sep 2022, p.75]