21

Hit some feelings I didn’t know I had

Please no more Adele

Classic

amazing how someone so young can be so mature and fully formed as an artist and vocalist.

Adele slaps. I guess everyone but me knew that.

Überbewertet!

As an Adele fan, this was a pleasure to come across, and i really enjoyed revisiting this album. Her best songs, ironically, are the ones that aren't the ones you hear on the radio, but the more heartfelt ones. It will never top her first album 19 (one of my favorite albums of all time) but it still has the core of Adele

It's easy to see why this is so popular - it's very easy to listen to.

Pretty good. The hits were the best, but the others weren't just fillers. Pleased to hear a variety of moods and tempos.

Popmusik vom feinsten

Great album - and not all maudlin by any means!

A huge classic. I have lots of memories of belting out songs from this album during that time of my life.

Er zit een knip tussen de eerste "now" en "rumour has it" en het is mokerirritant Nostalgia kicks in

Incredible breakup album

Adele showing she has an amazing voice but dammit she needs better songs to apply it to. Rolling in the Deep will be a personal favorite, its unfortunate the rest of her catalogue doesnt match. Rumor Has It and Set Fire to the Rain dont reach the same high, and Someone Like You is a clear example of sounding great but the song being trash garbage. The rest is just ok.

Certainly the best out of the 3 Adele albums I’ve been forced to listen to for this list but still not for me. “I’ll be waiting” is a bop and I enjoy “Take It All” and the bridge on “Rumour Has It”. “Someone Like You” is imo the worst song ever written. I hate it. She is a colossal piece of shit in that song and I just do not understand how people are inspired or find her actions admirable. She finds out an ex has a great life and has found happiness and she GOES TO HIS HOME and sticks her nose in his business because she’s not over him. THEN she has the audacity to be like “why are you acting shy?” Maybe because you’re trying to ruin his life? AND THEN she tries to act like the bigger person “Nevermind I’ll find someone like you. I wish nothing but the best for you two”. Bitch YOU tried to ruin this relationship. You don’t now get to walk away like you’re making some noble sacrifice. You literally said you turned up “out of the blue uninvited”. She sounds insane in this song. Look I know it’s ridiculous to get this upset over a song 3/5 but I’m taking a whole star off for Someone Like You

Brilliant vox (obviously) but for me I can't help but feel like it's missing a lot of OOMPH from a lack of low end in places. Could have been five stars otherwise

I've grown up on Adele as both my parents were (and still are) massive fans of her. I knew most of these songs (Rolling in The Deep, Turning Tables, Rumour Has It, Love-song, Someone Like You, Set Fire to the Rain) but it was nice to revisit them and other underrated gems. This is such a brilliant album and her voice (in my opinion) fits this phase of her music best. 10/10.

no.

I was receptive to this one today. The wife loved it, even back in 2011, and I can see why it was such a hit back in the day.

It’s amazing how many hits she got in on this one album.

Great album to showcase the best vocalist of the last 20 years. The range and power of Adele's voice is amazing, and I love the raw emotion and vulnerability in the lyrics on several of these tracks.

Prima

Starts off so strong. I prefer the more powerful songs over the ballads. Good listen though for sure

I just couldn’t do it. I listened to 25 minutes before I gave up. I do not connect with Adele’s music. It’s the musical equivalent of watching paint dry.

Somehow I had avoided listening to the biggest selling UK album of the 21st century until now, and it’s a remarkable piece of work. Written by Adele when she was just 21 (hence the title) in the aftermath of what sounds like a toxic relationship with a much older man, it naturally deals with pain, heartache and redemption. Musically, it’s a mix of genres but I found that I preferred the simpler tracks with the highpoint for me being ‘I Found a Boy’

I was ready to hate it at worst or be indifferent about it at best. I live in a tight enough music bubble that I never ever heard a song from her (or none that I could identify as being from her) and I was expecting way worst seing her popularity. And... I must say she's got a great voice (and pretty well-used) and the music backing her is decent. I can't say I'll listen to her again willingly, but it was not unpleasant.

She has a great voice but the songs are forgettable.

zeer sterke vocals grote hits die blijven hangen begin van album is sterker dan tweede helft, kwaliteit zwakt klein beetje af 3,5/5

rollin in the deep front lods the album rest is okay

1. in the deep - 1.5 2. rumor - 0 3. tablez - 0 4. remember - 1 5. fire to rain - 0 6. uuont go - 1 7. take it all - 1.5 8. uuaiting - 0 9. only - 0 10. lovezong - 1 11. like you - 1.5

Favorite Tracks: Set Fire to the Rain Rolling in the Deep Someone Like You

5/5

All the songs about infidelity you can stand!

Great album, but a bit too cheesy for my taste.

Bona-fide classic

Fine. I’m glad others have found joy in this album, but this album did not inspire similar feelings in me. Rolling In The Deep is a great song but nothing else grabbed on here.

When this first popped up I was convinced we’d done it already. Turns out that was 25, an album I was mostly underwhelmed by. This one is significantly better, and I mean significantly. Adele has a powerhouse voice, which was used to middling effect on 25, mostly on ballads. The songs on here are harder, like pure pop goodness. Definite recommend.

Holy fuck, this caught me by surprise. We had that other Adele album that was just OK, so when this came up, I expected it to be more of the same. Then Rolling in the Deep came up, and I was like “Well, this is a fantastic song, but we all knew that. The rest of the album, surely, is just going to be meh.” Boy, was I wrong. I got blindsided by an album that I did NOT want to give a 5 to, but I can’t do anything else. I loved it.

Dull shit for mums

MY GOAT ONE OF THE GREATEST TO EVER DO IT 5/5

21 years old, writing music like this, singing with that voice. What a gift she is! May not be everybody’s preferred style, but the emotions she sings about are universal.

Not for me

Pilly approves (so do I)

I was familiar with the hits before and didn't mind them, but didn't pay them much attention. The songwriting and emotion here is genuine, playing up strong influences in R&B, without being inauthentic. If I knew there was a Cure cover, I would've checked it out a lot sooner. Well-done on that.

Holy shit... I don't know what I was anticipating, but this is great. I generally avoid pop music so despite knowing her name I was unfamiliar with most of her music before listening to this album. Her voice has an undeniable power in its quality, and her control over it suggests a discipline that I feel many vocalists will never achieve. Even musically, this is elevated well above standard pop. I can hear nods to classic soul, r&b, and even Americana/outlaw country underneath much of this. Despite the varied influences it never sounds like an experiment, and never makes the album feel erratic. Instead, using those influences to create a unique sound. Nothing here is accidental and it shows.

adele has one song and one vocal and musical style. she does it well, but a full album of the same song can get tiring.

She is an amazing singer, but this is way too sappy for me.

Not my cup of tea

It's actually pretty amazing how despite I've never sought this album out, I have heard pretty much this entire album front to back just going about day to day life. Normally you hear one or two singles of a popular artist's album thanks to radio and media and the rest is a mystery. But I think I have heard every song on here at least once (some a lot more than once), which just goes to show how huge this album was and Adele is. Her beautiful voice really doesn't need any more introduction. While I didn't love anything here, I completely see the merit and praise this album gets, and I'll return to these tracks every now and then (provided they will probably find me first)

19 put Adele on the map. 25 and 30 are both excellent albums but 21 is her best work. Book ended by Rolling in the Deep and Someone Like You, this album is incredible from start to finish. Her melodies pair perfectly with the softer music and boom when needed. The only song I wouldn't put on outside the album is Lovesong and even then I won't skip it when listening to the album. One of my personal favorite albums of all time, I knew my score before listening and the listen through re-solidified my opinion.

Forgot this album doesn't have a bad song

Great voice, liked several songs, but there was some filler. The Cure cover could have been better

It's Adele! Nuff said.

She knows how to use her voice and it's so cool!! I started listened to 19 immediately after finishing this one. When is she going to work with that Hozier fella?

I’ll admit, I rolled my eyes a little when I saw this was my album of the day. It was a moment of undeserved snobbery that I now feel bad about. What a great album. There are so many great songs throughout, some of which I just forgot that she did. Rolling in the Deep is certainly my favorite (should have used favourite) Adele song - what a banger it still is. What I didn’t expect on revisiting this is how great most of the other songs are. Rumour Has It, Set Fire to the Rain, and Someone Like You were also massive hits and are excellent songs. I forgot or simply never knew that there is a Lovesong cover on here, and it’s great. I don’t hear a bad song between these either - I kept waiting for the filler and it didn’t come. Five stars and some crow to eat for me.

Disco pop atual escutado no carro até achar que ela de alguma forma procurou a "inspiração".

Pretty good. Great vocals, but with the exception of the singles, the songs have very basic backing instruments.

Bever knew I'd enjoy this album as much as I did. Knew almost all songs and the ones I didn't surprised me very pleasantly!

very good

Ya know, I really don't care for Adele in a general sense. I hear her music and I can respect the talent, but generally speaking something about the whole package has turned me off. That said, I'm now 3/4 of the way through this album and I couldn't tell you where this feeling originates. As I listen straight through, I find myself enjoying song after song. They are at once catchy AF, soulful, and packed full of amazing vocal performances. And yet, even though I enjoyed this album, I have zero desire to dig further into her discography. I'm not sure what that says about me. This is a strong 4 / 5.

Adele is not my jam but she is really talented. The album is really well done. Set fire to the rain is probably my favorite. 4 stars.

Another great Adele album that really showcases her pipes. This one had a bit more going on in the background than "25", but it still hit similar highs for me.

Rollin in the Deep was the absolute jam my freshman year of college. This album is another depiction of Adele's booming pipes. Not much more to say other than this is another great album by her. I couldn't listen to her everyday, but I am always happy when her songs come up. That version of Lovesong was very interesting I didn't know that she made one. I accidentally gave her last album 25 a 3 when it should have been a 4. This one is a very solid 4.

Adele is always one I never seek out but I've heard a ton and can dig her voice. Did not expect a Cure cover on here. + points because apparently like Brandon, I'm a fan. Had this on while working but damn she has some pipes. So much emotion in that voice it almost gets exhausting listening to a whole album. The classics I knew sounded even better with headphones and the unknowns were a pleasant joy. Set Fire to the Rain was my favorite.

Big and great surprise, Adele! 😍 Perfect about sound and production!

I'll always be amazed by the amount of power she packs in her voice. Favorite track: Set Fire to the Rain

Three great singles and a neat The Cure cover. 3.5/5.

Adele is one of the earliest musicians I remember recognizing on the radio. I remember my mom purchasing the CD for 21 and often playing it in the car. Revisiting, I think the songs are still fresh and powerful. I think Adele was pivotal in diversifying pop music in the 2010s, it broke up the monotony of Kelly Clarksons and Mariah Careys. This album starts out very strong with rolling in the deep and rumor has it, demonstrating right away her willingness to stray from one style. Set fire to the rain is the emotional climax of the album and the closing track someone like you is a powerful closer. This album was an instant classic for good reason, great production and great vocals. I'm unlikely to revisit but I can't deny the project of this album and how successfully it delivers.

Reminded me of the adele/skrillex dubstep mashup (Posted Jun 12, 2011): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=md1QECWVRHs Listening to this mashup again, it isn't as good as I remembered.

It’s a woman singing without auto tune. She’s good at singing, but I feel like this is an album for dentists offices or suburban shopping centers. Decent enough cover of “Lovesong” but again, pretty boring. I think the novelty of her voice in a sea of computer aided vocals was what made this popular but I don’t think it’s anything much more than well executed.

This album whips ass. I remember what I was doing the first time I heard “Rolling in the Deep” Adele eating heavy cream based desserts and smoking a pack a day just lining up a full album of bangers she would never match again

The top songs of 2011: Party Rock Anthem - LMAFO Gimme Everything - Pitbull/Neyo Moves Like Jagger - Maroon 5/Christina Aguilera Last Friday Night - Katie Perry In the middle of all this garbage Adelle released this soulful album that charted 5 mega hits. It's banger after banger of well composed, deep songs about love and hurt. Maybe the best album of 2011. I'll never listen to it again.

Not really my thing.

8/10 She has an incredible voice and the arrangements are great. 5-10-2024

At the time Somebody like you sounded like the best song ever. Today this album feels boring, sorry Adele

going in to listening to this album, i had only heard the four singles. i didn't know if we were going to get more songs along the lines of "Rumour Has It" / "Rolling In The Deep" or "Set Fire to the Rain" / "Someone Like You" and that was going to weigh my opinion one way or the other. almost every other song on the album was in the latter category of boring love ballads, unfortunately. I really, really dislike "Set Fire to the Rain" in particular, so it was quite slog. this kind of soaring love balladry is so intensely boring. The album was a 2.5, but I'm feeling *generous* when I round it up to a 3 for the first two tracks.

It's... fine. Idk, I just like 25 better.

Absolutely incredible! Each song is unique, perfectly sung, emotional, and so catchy. I could listen to Adele for hours and hours.

this album fills me with the dread of thousands of hours of unskippable adele on the radio. just because i have heard them a million times does not mean i enjoy this. 1.5

Enjoyed it when it came out, enjoyed it again

I’ve never listened to this album all the way through, knew a lot of the songs and liked them all

wonderful 4 stars!

Have heard it many a time, but such a great album

Amazing voice - brillant music

Adele is a brilliant singer, but the album itself is not the most mind blowing thing in the world. There are some enjoyable hits on here though. It is just simple, straightforward music to listen to.

Way better than I expected, but that's not saying an awful lot

Con su segundo disco Adele se confirmó, a los 21 años, como una gran cantante y compositora. Su primer disco, titulado "19", ya mostraba su maravillosa capacidad vocal y contenía estupendas canciones soul agridulces y románticas, con ligeras incorporaciones de música folk. En "21" va un paso más allá y se convierte en una estrella del "blues pop" típicamente británico. Amor y desamor a raudales en un disco que abre a todo trapo con un himno gospel intemporal, "Rolling in the Deep". Con el listón tan alto el resto del disco parece desfallecer, pero nada más lejos de la realidad: la blusera "Rumor Has It" o el soul clásico de "He Won't Go" te capturan y lo desmienten. En todo "21" abunda el recuerdo y la añoranza por el amor perdido, convirtiendo a "Take It All" en todo un clásico del desamor. Personalmente me quedo, además del arranque del álbum, con la poderosa balada pop "Set Fire to the Rain" y la muy emotiva, "Someone Like You", sobre un antiguo novio del que la cantante no se ha olvidado aunque ahora esté casado.

I think the unfortunate part of listening to an Adele album that has so many hits is that I’m tempted to skip past half the album. There’s a reason some of these songs are still racking up radio play, but overall I don’t think I find them enjoyable anymore.

What can you say that hasn’t already been said? Perfection.

I hadn't listened to this in years, I forgot how good the non-singles were. I really enjoyed He Won't Go and I'll Be Waiting Today. Someone Like You remains a GOAT breakup anthem.

just can't do it. i know she's got a good voice but i can't bring myself to care....

She has an amazing voice. The music is catchy. The songs sound fantastic. But a whole album of songs pretty much entirely venting about relationship problems… give me strength. It could have been a 4 but I got bored so it dropped to a 3. Listens: 1 Fave Track: Set Fire To The Rain Rating: 3

A great vocalist with an album full of heat.

21 Classic album hadn’t heard in a long time. Rolling in the Deep is still great. Other favorites are Turning Tables, take it all and he won’t go. Love song is great too- Amazing when a cover is 1000x better than original. 5

Her voice is legendary I can’t believe she sounded like this at 21

She gives an incredible vocal performance on every song. I love so many of these songs. You can feel the pain in it all. Take it all and one and only are my favorite vocal performances. Don’t you remember is my fave song. I would love to hear Whitney sing it.

First thought: didn’t I listen to this already? No. Apparently all her albums have numerical titles (her age? Impressive if she was just 21 here) and similar covers. Okay. My feelings toward this album are the same as whatever 20-something the other one was: she’s very talented, and I can see the appeal, but the occasional play on the radio or a grocery store is enough for me. I found myself getting irritated a few tracks in. “Set Fire To The Rain” is probably my favorite song of hers.

Just a fantastically fantastic album. Reminiscent of Nora Jones, but this one ages much better. What a powerful voice.

I wouldn't have considered Adele my type of music, but i'm certainly familiar with Rolling in the Deep, Set Fire and Someone Like You. That is certainly only half the story... each song has a hook. She's got a beautiful voice and great pop sensibilities. It really is one banger after another.

Classic

a childhood favorite!! the emotions and soul in her voice are breathtaking. very rare for me to have a 0 skip album, but this is one. 5/5

could i write poetry to this? n

Someone Like You is a great song. The rest of the radio hits are meh, and the deep cuts are mostly boring.

Expected to hate this, and was wrong, because this album kinda rules. Nothing but hits!

Hard to believe all those hits came from the same album. One of the greatest sophomore albums out there.

I mean, come on... Banger after Banger

waow

A modern classic. Will be played at galas until the end of time.

Like a lot of great singers, a few amazing songs and then a bunch of fluff.

A better more diverse piece of music than its sequel. Adele hits all the right notes here , although it remains somewhat slightly bland it’s a very strong 3/5*

Incredible album with a lot of hit songs. Adele has an incredible voice. Enjoyed this from start to finish. I hadn't listened to "He won't go" before and I especially enjoyed this track along with all the other hit songs.

30.04.24 Faves: - Rolling in the Deep - Rumor Has It - Set Fire to the Rain - Lovesong - Someone Like You Opinion: I've known Adele before and enjoyed it. Really good album. Amazing voice.

Adele is an incredible and amazing singer; it's wonderful to hear her sing (except for the repeated growling on some of the singles.) The singles were actually my least favorite part, although I'm biased because I heard them so much when they came out. "Set Fire to the Rain" was the least enjoyable because...what does that even mean? It also felt like the singles were these big flashy pieces against the other tracks that had almost a jazz club or coffee shop vibe. I think I got ballad fatigue from this album. No one song is bad, but many of them didn't click with me. It is at least interesting to hear how many different perspectives about an relationship Adele can sing about. I didn't expect the "Love song" cover. "He Won't Go" is a good song. It's a very soulful pop album, but it just wasn't my cup of tea.

When you write and sound like this at 21, you know that there is a special talent there. Adele has an incredible voice and ability to convey emotion. This is, without doubt, a modern classic.

A few good songs but that's really all it is

All songs are good

Like some of the tunes here. Easy listening

Typical Adele

this album is so good. came upon an r/thecure thread from several years ago shitting on adele for covering lovesong, and while i think the cover is nowhere close to the strongest song on the album, it just made me more solidly convinced to give this a 5 to compensate (and i love the cure too). turning tables makes me cry. for me, genuine emotional response is the difference between a 4 and a 5 and this album does that.

Some of these sound familiar… very solid packaged together tho. I hope she’s doing okay.

Love!

Wasn’t obsessed with these songs when they came out but I did like them more than other pop stuff. Better than whoever the current version of Adele is

Mostly great Soul-pop. A lot of memories coming up with "someone like you".

Brilliant.

Was quite sensational at the time and i liked it. I could not appreciate it as much as back then, but nevertheless still a good album!

1 star, for the opening song

After having to endure '25' a while ago, I feared the worst for this album, but the opener Rolling in the Deep got me interested. The album's blues, soul, and country influences are in its favour, but in the end, the only song other than the opener that I enjoyed was He Won't Go. The rest of the songs were either boring ballads or were ruined by the Adele's vocal performance. Anyway, not as bad as 25, but ultimately again not an album I'll be returning to.

There is so much power in that voice. And emotional expression: just listen to Someone like you.

Probably the album where i know the most amount of songs I remember after hearing these songs on the radio so much i grew a distaste towards piano ballads. Hasnt changed unfortunately but thats a personal preference. Adele is one hell of a vocalist tho

I knew several of these songs, of course -- everyone does. But I'd never listened to the whole album, and it turns out it's really pretty great. Good songs, good arrangements, good sonics -- just a really fun experience.

Over het algemeen gewoon een steengoed album, heeft een paar grijsgedraaide hits waardoor een deel van de nummers mij niet meer kan bekoren. Minder vaak gedraaide nummers zijn erg de moeite waard voor mij.

Adele's voice is something else. Great pop album of 2010's. Some worldwide hits, but I was also surprised by Lovesong cover

Adele has a hell of a voice, and she writes a great song too. This album starts off with a blast with Rolling In the Deep, but it keeps up the energy well 4/5

TRASH DONT LIKE ADELE

a soul/jazz/pop classic break-up album, tremendous voice, not a difficult 2nd album at all ... so familiar with the singles, they seem to be on the radio a lot, after 20+ years

Great songs and kinda cohesive.

Meu álbum favorito dessa mulher

great tunes

Ugh. Just gave me flashbacks to working retail, stuck listening to top 40, & not able to change the station.

Powerful voice overlaid with powerful and vibe matching composition. Adele’s range is incredible. Great album, top 500 easy

Great. 4.5 Standouts: Rolling in the Deep, Rumour Has it, Turning Tables, Set Fire to the Rain, Take It All, Lovesong, Someone Like You, If it Hadn't Been For Love

I admittedly haven’t listened to much Adele specifically because I always viewed her as a pop artist, and so have written her off as such. However, forcing myself to actually listen to one of her albums, I cannot deny that she has a fantastic voice, very soulful. But I just don’t like pop, and that what too much of this is. The first couple songs, which I was familiar with, did a good job of showcasing her voice. One and only deserves to be bigger than it is as well. However, the rest of the album had far too many played out pop tropes for my liking. All in all, I have a better appreciation for Adele than I did before giving this album a proper listen, but I still don’t see why it would be one of the biggest selling albums of all time.

Adele is undoubtedly a talented vocalist. 21 is mostly emotional piano ballads, several of which became well-known hits. A bit of extra variety would make the album a little better, but it's still fantastic.

21 a great album from a great artist. Not my type of music, but still very appreciated! 4.5/5

Rolling in the Deep is the only song of Adele I like, and David Cook on American Idol did a better job with it.

Astonishing talent for being so young.

Can’t hate Adele

Overplayed, but there is no denying how good this album is. Not a huge fan, but there are some really good tunes on here.

25 is more consistent, but there's too many hits here to ignore

Just like 25 this was definitely Adele. It was definitely good. She will still age well. All this said Adele does kinda make the same album over and over so I don’t have a lot to say. But hey it’s a good album. Best song: Someone Like You

Not going to listen to this trash

I had heard her name but didn’t think I liked her…started listening and clearly this was not what I was thinking of. There are some albums on this list that simply put to shame most of the others. This is one such. I’d give it a six if I could. Her voice is so special I wouldn’t care if she were singing a newspaper article to me.

Not for me even though she has a good voice.

Bangers

I got this album right after Suzanne Vega. I think Vega would have gotten a lower rating if the order had been flipped. Adele's vocals are just amazing.

I fuckin' love this. I spent the entire album coming up with reasons to keep this as a 4-star. The sort of lame Lovesong is perhaps the weakest on the track, but that's not a reason to dock a star. This is a five star album. Loved it! Already excited to listen again.

Bruh this album is 13 years old? Damn. (Heard "Rolling in the Deep" on the radio this morning.) She can sing really well and the groove to Rolling the Deep is a bop. I probably shouldn't feel like it reminds me of KT Tunstall, but it does. There's actually some respectable bass on the album, most noticed during "Set Fire to the Rain". There's a lot going on, but it's not noisy. "Take it all" is a great song, the piano really sings alongside her. I'll be Waiting is a jam. It's a great listen from beginning to end. It's not all the same song, and goes between certain genres, from singer-songwriter to a little bit more band/instrumentation.

'Rumour Has It' and 'Rolling in the Deep' are great, but I found the rest of the album to be composed of mostly forgettable ballads. Great voice, though!

Liked this far more than I thought I was going to. Rumour has it = banger Someone Like you = beautiful, heartfelt song

hit after hit after hit. of all adele's four albums, this is probably my favorite? hard to choose.

I was really touched by this album, as someone who's only grown up with the singles. Glad I was able to sit myself down and enjoy this, it's amazing.

Wenn mein lokaler Musiksender "Someone Like You" spielt (also mind. 1x am Tag), schalte ich sofort um. Von daher war ich ja eher skeptisch... Aber sie hat mich überzeugt, auch wenn mein altes Metallherz protestiert. Selbst das Cure Cover gefällt. Ja, alles sehr glatt produziert aber egal. Heute mal 4 Sternchen.

Nicer than I thought it would be.

Wish she would crack a smile

3.5 stars. Starts off with a banger ("Rolling in the Deep") but kinda tails off from there. Both when it was released and re-listening now I wasn't into the other hits as much as the leadoff track. And while the rest of the album is fine, I don't really love it. She has a beautiful voice, but these songs don't really grab me in a meaningful way.

There are several deserved hits on this album, but I appreciated listening to the album through, as I discovered a few softer songs that still showcased her rich voice well. I tired of the repeated theme a little, of nothing but relationships, but I think it's also fair that that was probably a theme in her life at that time too so it makes sense.

It's Adele

First time I’ve listened to this whole album. The hits are justifiable and Rolling in the Deep is a very special song , melodically, and in terms of the texture that captures the simmering rage of the singer. Adele’s voice is unparalleled. But I found the songs on this album to be an extended examination of her in relation to another person, an approach and avoid kind of unresolved infatuation with another person. I found myself just screaming “fucking let him go!” The arrangements on the album are overdone and feel mixed in such a way that they are just a flat wall of sound. Adele’s vocals sit back in the mix and everything feels very compressed. So, a couple of important tracks but overall, not a great album.

4.5 stars rounded up.

I mean it’s Adele so it was good

Have never listened to before. Quite liked it. Soulful. Catchy. Still not bothered about seeing her live though.

Banger, sollte ich öfter hören

Although I haven't listened to Adele's '21' album yet, its widespread acclaim and cultural impact are undeniable. From the singles I've heard, it seems to be a deeply emotional and soulful collection of songs, showcasing Adele's powerful vocals and heartfelt lyricism. I'm intrigued to experience the raw emotion and storytelling that many have praised in this album.

It’s crazy that Beyoncé really ended up being Destiny’s child after all.

Perfect album. No skips

Run my hometown

Impressive Singer-Songwriter

What a powerful pop album. With the opening 2 tracks being mega hits, the album keeps up a frenetic pace of great song after great song. After learning the context behind the album and it having to do with her divorce, the songs have a lot more meaning. With beautiful soaring vocals and the perfect piano accompaniment, this album surprises.

Can't think there are many people in the world who haven't heard at least one song from 21 at some point since it was released, an insane level of fame and play from a single record and at its best it's brilliant. Set Fire to the Rain is an all-time classic, Someone Like You probably is too though I feel I've heard it far too much to feel that way, but all the singles are monsters in their own right. I really liked Take It All too, of the non-singles, but I feel like if 5 of your 11 tracks are that good and you turn out three historic songs on one record, it deserves a 5/5, allowing for a couple of songs that don't really do much.

This is superb, haven't listened to the full album in quite some time but it's so good pretty much all the way through. Agree that Set Fire To The Rain is the stand out, Rolling In The Deep and Someone Like You also iconic, and Don't you Remember is my favourite of the non-singles. The longer tracks towards the end of the album drag a little while you're waiting to get to Someone Like You, but that's only a minor complaint really. Production is kept relatively light most of the way through, which keeps the focus on her incredible voice. 5/5.

Stunning voice. Obvious similarity to amy winehouse

Great singer. I had overlooked this album due to it being wildly popular. Mistake amended.

Pretty good for sure. Never listened to her much before but absolutely worth a listen. Wanted one or more songs on the album that I liked as much as rolling in the deep to get 4 stars from me. Need a 3.5 stars option.

Never, and I mean NEVER, date this girl. When you break up she will write a full album of songs ripping you a new one, whining how much she misses you, and finally coming to terms with your breakup. Oh, did I mention that the songs will be chart topping bangers? Yeah. Great album if you’re not the target of her writing!

Much better than 25. She's not pretending to be deep, she's just being herself. Still kinda whiny though.

Inarguably a tremendous voice. Although I must say, I prefer her singing on soul, blues, and rock-inspired tracks compared to her ballads.

Great album. Adele is an incredible singer and these songs are interesting to listen to and show off her range. Must be her best album. Besides the well known songs I also really liked He Won't Go and I'll Be Waiting. Loved her version of Lovesong. It took me a good 1/4 to 1/3 of the song before I even recognized it.

Probably Adele's best album.

Pitchfork called this album "Amy Winehouse meets opera" and i agree. incredibly vocal range over relatively simple and sparse instrumental arrangements that compliment without overpowering.

Seriously good from adele- faultless

Its good music but not really my type

Just last week I was talking to my co-worker about how I'd never listened to an Adele album despite humming her songs regularly. Fixed. Favourite track: Someone Like You.

Not necessarily an album I'm reaching for but you have to respect the unique talent and songwriting here. An album deserving of this list. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)

To start an album with Rolling in the Deep, end it with Someone Like You, and not have it wane much in between is insane. A pop masterpiece.

Great pop. Is listen to a lot more pop if it sounded like this

What a breakthrough album. Something for everyone to love on here. In addition to great songs, Adele's vocal power takes this up a notch further. One of the greatest voices to emerge this century.

The best selling album for two consecutive years for a reason. There is something for everyone on here. A wonderful collection of pop-oriented songs featuring one of the greatest singers of the 21st century. "Rolling In The Deep", "Someone Like You" and "Set Fire To The Rain" were all smashes for a reason. 21 features relatable content, catchy melodies, both folk and r&b adjacent tracks and a sincerity throughout. Adele really is a massive talent and I think this will remain her masterpiece no matter what else she does over the next several decades. Easy 5.

Now I kind of get it. Great voice and some all-around excellent songs.

Expertly performed and produced music that I do not really care for

Extremely not my shit

Vol met hits, wat een stem.

The soundtrack to a million prosecco-fuelled tirades against low-quality men by women who know they deserve better. Obviously she can sing, but it's like playing Cotton-Eyed Joe on a Stradivarius - bollocks music on an extraordinary instrument.

second half bit less interesting, decent to good album

I listened to this album a while ago since I’ve heard a lot of Adele on the radio growing up. She wasn’t my favorite pop artist as I didn’t vibe with the slow heartfelt ballads she does often but she has a lot of good songs on this album. I love: Rolling in the deep, Rumour has it, and set fire to the rain. I still appreciate her music even though it’s not my taste anymore.

Favourite song - Turning tables

Her vocals are amazing and Rolling is legit a bop, but to my taste overall it sounds... boring? It's too smooth and too polished for me. Still, objectively it's a pretty awesome piece of music.

Okay Adele is pretty good, I’ll admit it. I feel like there wasn’t a lot of instruments but her voice is overpowering and to be fair her voice is amazing so it works well Favorite: fire to the rain Least favorite: none 3.9/5

It is stupid how much talent Adele has and she showcases so hard on this record.

I don't know if it's just how much this was/is overplayed, but this was a chore to get through. I really notice all the annoying vocal flourishes that everyone since has tried to copy, like the weird word pronunciations.

I get that Adele is great, but man there is nothing about this music that is appealing at all.

Really enjoyed this album, it has 4 undeniable hits and I liked all of the other songs too. I could be convinced that this album is a 5/5.

Some good songs, great voice.

Great vocals, of course. A great exhibition of her abilities, rich and full. Some songs were amazing. Covering The Cure was a nice touch

Amazing voice

I think this is her best album, what a voice.

Great songs. Enjoyable. Just not a perfect album.

Best song - Set Fire to the Rain

Modern Classic

You know, I had listened to this record when it came out and was unsure how I felt about it then. There are some great tracks for sure, but there's also a lot that I feel ambivalent about. Adele is kind of always like that for me. She has some super incredible tracks, but most of it feels like filler. The best track on this record is "Someone Like You" by a long shot. I am even pretty disinterested int he other singles. Obviously her voice is incredible and none of the music is outright bad at all, but not mind-blowing.

The songwriting and voice talent on display are undeniable. If I was really into this kind of music, I’d give five stars.

Its Adele. She can really carry a tune. There's nothing to not like about this record.

I love Adele. Great album and I love watching her mature.

Some great songs, some that didn't do much for me. Great voice and great production.

I thought I was too cool to jam to the music I was too cool to jam to when I was 13 or so. Then "Someone Like You" comes on at the end and yeah this shaped a decade of music. I was in 6th grade again, and had just been broken up with, again. That shit had me hurting over a 6th grade relationship >:o

I actually really do enjoy this album. I consider it one of my guilty pleasures. A lot of people may not care for her style, but you cannot deny that she has an awesome voice!

I remember when this came out, and I hadn’t really paid attention to pop music yet, but I was on a 9 seater bicycle at the beach when Rolling in the Deep came on our speaker. It was instantly catchy and the singer was insane! We played that like 4 times while riding around the boardwalk. Anyways that was my intro to Adele and hearing more tracks garnered more and more respect at her range and song writing ability.

Rating: 10/10 A soul masterpiece. This album is absolutely gorgeous and heart-wrenching, Adele pours out her emotions in each one of the songs and sings with masterful prowess. There is so much nuance in Adele's voice that complements every song so well. The production and instrumentation is incredible, very beautiful and perfect to match her voice. There is a decent amount of variety in the production with lots of details that will make repeated listens of this album interesting. This album is something special, definitely one the best of the 2010s and possibly one of the greatest soul albums of all time. Favorite songs: pretty much all of them. Least favorite song: Don't You Remember.

I love some of the songs on here, the ones that weren't singles are kinda meh.

Full of classics plus some good ones that I never heard before. Adele's voice really carries it to a great album.

Magnificent

Liked Songs Rolling in the Deep Rumor Has It Set Fire to the Rain Someone Like You

Released in 2011, Adele's "21" became a cultural phenomenon, selling over 31 million copies worldwide and sweeping the 2012 Grammy Awards. But beyond the commercial success, the album resonated deeply with listeners due to its raw portrayal of heartbreak, growth, and self-discovery. This review delves into the intricate details of "21," analyzing its lyrical themes, musical arrangements, production choices, and lasting influence. Lyricism: Laying Bare the Heart "21" is a masterclass in confessional songwriting. Adele, then 21 herself, poured her experiences of a tumultuous relationship into the lyrics. Tracks like "Rolling in the Deep" and "Someone Like You" capture the anger, denial, and lingering love that follow a breakup. Lines like "We could've had it all" ("Someone Like You") are simple yet potent, allowing listeners to project their own experiences. The album explores themes beyond heartbreak too. "Turning Tables" showcases newfound strength, while "Rumour Has It" tackles gossip and societal pressures. "Fire to the Rain" delves into forgiveness, and "Turning Tables" celebrates self-worth. This thematic richness ensures "21" resonates with a wider range of emotions. Musical Tapestry: Soulful Ballads and Surprising Twists Musically, "21" leans heavily on soulful ballads. Tracks like "Someone Like You" and "Set Fire to the Rain" showcase Adele's powerhouse vocals, with soaring melodies and piano-driven arrangements. However, the album isn't one-note. "Rolling in the Deep" injects a bluesy swagger with its driving beat and prominent drum line. "Rumour Has It" incorporates a playful tempo and Motown influences, demonstrating Adele's vocal versatility. The string arrangements throughout the album add a touch of sophistication, particularly on "Someone Like You" and "Turning Tables." Production Magic: Timeless Elegance The production on "21" is clean and polished, allowing Adele's vocals to take center stage. Producer Paul Epworth masterfully balances intimacy and grandeur. Sparse instrumentation in songs like "Someone Like You" puts the spotlight on Adele's emotional delivery. Conversely, tracks like "Rolling in the Deep" utilize layered instrumentation to create a powerful sonic landscape. The production choices are never flashy, but rather serve the songs, contributing to the album's timeless quality. Themes: A Universal Language of Emotions The core theme of heartbreak is undeniably the driving force behind "21." However, the album delves deeper, exploring themes of self-discovery, forgiveness, and resilience. These universal experiences transcend age and background, making "21" relatable to a broad audience. Influence: A Seismic Shift in Pop Music "21" redefined pop music in the early 2010s. Its introspective themes and focus on powerful vocals ushered in a new era of singer-songwriters who weren't afraid to be vulnerable. Artists like Ed Sheeran and Sam Smith cite Adele as a major influence. The album's commercial success also proved that there was still a market for raw, emotional ballads in an increasingly electronic dance-oriented pop scene. Pros and Cons: A Balanced Perspective "21" is a landmark album, but it's not without its critiques. Some argue that the focus on heartbreak becomes monotonous after several listens. The reliance on ballads can also feel emotionally draining for some listeners. Additionally, the production, while polished, might be considered too safe by those seeking more sonic experimentation. However, the album's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. Adele's vocals are undeniably phenomenal, and the songwriting is both honest and relatable. The production, while unadventurous, serves the songs well, creating a timeless soundscape. Conclusion: A Legacy of Heartbreak and Hope "21" is more than just a breakup album; it's a testament to the power of vulnerability and self-discovery. Through her raw lyrics, soulful vocals, and beautifully crafted songs, Adele created a masterpiece that resonated deeply with millions. While the album may evoke feelings of sadness and heartache, it ultimately leaves listeners with a sense of hope and empowerment. "21" remains a landmark achievement in contemporary music, a testament to the enduring power of heartbreak, resilience, and the human voice.

Kinda dull. A few songs are of interest but I don't really get the popularity.

Solid

Good voice. Good songs. 3 stars

Not particularly in the mood for this today, but she's got a great voice and it's a solid album.

Adele popped up on a previous challenge, so I ended up listening to her all day. She's incredibly talented & I love her soulful voice. This album has my favorites & her first mega hits. It also reminds me of a time when I was behaving badly. Memories. 4 stars.

I’m a big fanatic of big orchestration and big band. My first kudos go to the entire orchestra that made the full score tracks shine. Still, even the simpler songs were captivating. There is a broader range of intensity on this album than I remember. The lighter songs were fun, the loud songs were exciting, and the melancholy songs were moving. Whatever the intensity of vocals, Adele brings a sincere passion to these songs that is so raw. I remember when "Someone Like You" was on the radio, my friend’s mom was driving us both to school and she turned around and almost scolded him, “Son, don’t you ever hurt a woman to make her feel this way. If you do…” Then she turned back to the front apparently too emotional to continue. Both of us looked at each other a little shocked by the melodrama, but clearly the emotional impact was there.

I usually stray away from music where the vocals are the main focus, but Adele gets the pass every time. One of the best voices of our generation and she delivers eargasms like a Broadway star but with the instrumentals of "pop" music. Proper album.

Almost every song of this album is a hit. The only one I didn't like very much is Don't You Remember, because it's a a little cheesy. She's also one of the best singers alive probly. If this doesn't deserve five stars, nothing does.

eh

I don’t know what’s more nostalgic this album or all the remixes that came out of these songs. As someone who was 21 when this came out and it coinciding with the explosion of electronic music I. America, these songs were everywhere.

I can see the appeal but it's not in my wheelhouse.

Not usually my style of music, but Adele is very special

Not my thing, but easy to see the radio friendly appeal.

It's good I just don't like it.

Das Album ist so la-la., bis auf das Juwel Rolling in the Deep, das sie mit Paul Epworth geschrieben hat (von dem wohl die Discofoc Beats stammen und der ein alter James Bond Soundtrack-Hase ist).

- "you're gonna wish you never had met me" in the background gives me life 🤩 - rumour has it reminds me of glee,,,, IM SORRY IK ITS A BETTER SONG THAN THAT - OKAAAAYY BREAK IT DOWN DELLY (end of rumour has it 🤯) - the violins in turning tables??? iconic. shattering. everything this song needed. - never heard don't you remember before - understandable its not as powerful as the others - set fire to the rain never gets old. - "I. WON'T. GO" BAM BAM BAM - how is ill be waiting the least streamed song. HOW?? HOW??? arguably one of the best songs on this album - lovesong - spanish guitar? not mad. just... - AND THIS IS WHY I LOVE ALBUM CLOSERS THANK YOU ADELE 🙏🙏 4/5

Mostly not my thing, found some cool songs tho

Really, not my jam but also, not bad, like i can appreciate why people like it. Better than other pop vocal artists but not as raw or authentic as Amy Winehouse.

Great voice.

Eh. I understand why people like it - she has a great voice - but it's bland to me.

beautiful voice

Find her boring although one of the greatest voices in music and even with good lyrics. Some are good most are the same. Good listen but nothing special to me. Like celine dion vibe. I would never go see her live even f free tickets are offered.

Almost classic

Despite the overplay, still a banger

Un relámpago en una botella es este disco. Es notable, creo, que en este listado también haya espacio para esta música y, sobre todo, este logro de Adele.

Forgot how good this album is. Great voice and great lyrics

Her voice is amazing

Lots of hits obviously. Someone Like You is such a good song man. Would like to re-listen to I Found A Boy and Lovesong

So many hits, great deep cuts, this album has it all. I really like it.

Such a talented voice and this album has many of her familiar songs on it. "Someone Like You" is probably my fave song of hers, but a special treat was hearing her cover of "Lovesong" by The Cure as the penultimate song on the album. Ultimately, not my kind of music and I can't see myself choosing to listen to this album voluntarily for at least another 5 years.

Beautiful album, it feels powerful, she really conveys a lot of emotion in all of the songs. Fantastic listen.

me gustaron algunas canciones del album, Lovesong quedó como mi favorita hasta ahora y Rumour has it me llegó de otra forma, para no ser de mi gusto está bueno 3/5

Very good

I mean it's one of the greatest pop albums of all time. Just not my kind of pop.

4 homeruns, the rest ate good, by kind of filler-y. Might bump it up upon subsequent registers. This is a high 3

This is all very well done. Adele is certainly a talented singer. And the music is impeccably crafted, perfectly polished to a sheen. So why don’t I like it? It’s all so exacting, pretty. So… well, souless. I felt no emotional connection to any of it. Nothing at all. A very, VERY competent album. Which is really a letdown. I’m following it up with Dusty Springfield’s “Dusty In Memphis”…. Much better. 3/5

So beautiful!

If you're ever looking for an album that would empower you after a breakup, while also making you long for your ex...this is it! Her voice makes me feel ALL the feels

Great album brings back memories of commuting from Olathe to work. I would listen to this again.

Love the smooth vocals. Funny how young Adele was when she spoke about her youth as if in the rear view mirror.

Lads I can't. I just can't. I worked in a record shop when this came out and I heard this album so many times, sometimes I wake up screaming and I swear Rumour Has It is quietly playing somewhere in my house

I missed this the first time around so now I get fresh ears and no sense of it being overplayed! Nice! Huge! Powerful! Adele.

She's very, very talented. Gorgeous voice. Not one for my own "Hall of Fame", but a well deserved 4

Didn't think I'd like it but it's a lovely album. Good mix of slow ballads and more uptempo songs. Obviously her voice is great and stands up to some of the great singers of old. 3.5/5 Might listen to a few songs again

Adele is one of very few artists on mainstream pop radio who are actually talented. This album is raw, genuine, and just plain good. It doesn't matter how many times I've heard Rolling In The Deep, Set Fire To The Rain, or Someone Like You; I'll always be excited when they come on. Plus she covered The Cure on this. Love it.

Nasceu aclamado

This album was released just as we bought our house and I have memories of the hits being played as we renovated the place. The production is immaculate as a platform for Adele's voice. So many vocalists have copied her style since then that it is hard to remember how fresh it sounded when it was first released. The first two songs and the last two are my favorites.

Incredible voice

Good album. No specific songs stood out.

Several instant classics, easy to see why she gained the recognition she did

Powerful flashback to the 2010's; I'll be waiting is a banger

Surprisingly good, her voice is just amazing. Some real good power ballads.

One of the Saturday chill and clean day favorite albums

Great songs from a really great vocal performer. Adele has been amazing fans with her vocal ability from a very young age.

This lady is good. Really good. The production value of this is also top of the line. It’s easy to see why it was such an immense hit. I’m not a huge fan of her voice… a bit too effective for my taste, but it’s hard to listen to this and not give it the props that it deserves.

Not normally a fan of this sort of stuff, and especially the slow weepy ballads, but this…this was good. Firstly, Adele has an amazing voice, and the album is all about highlighting it. Her vocal performances here are powerful yet nuanced and engaging. As a listener you always stay invested in the songs and their stories. I’m a bloke approaching middle age, so am not the target market for this kind of album, but even I have to doff my cap and say I am genuinely impressed with her singing, song writing, and her take on love, loss and heartbreak here.

I'm very familiar with Adele's hits but have never listened to one of her albums start to finish, this should be really enjoyable, she has an incredible voice and sings very catchy pop songs. There's two songs on this album back-to-back, "Turning Tables" -> "Don't you Remember", where things really slow down quite a bit. They're not bad songs but I'm not crazy about the ordering. It would be nice to inject some energy in there. There are a couple of times where the album felt long. While I enjoyed most of it it's not one I'm likely to revisit. 2/5

21 probably has more mainstream hits on it than any other Adele album. It's perfectly pleasant throughout, well-sung and well-written, but is more comfortable than dynamic. It's at its most exciting early on, opening with "Rolling in the Deep" and "Rumour Has It". It sounds good throughout, but it isn't the type of album I see myself revisiting in full very often.

Great album. Beautiful voice. Sings with passion.

It’s dinner party soul, but produced with restraint and based on some tasteful influences. In a way it is to Motown and Stax what Clapton is to Chicago blues, nicely done, but with the rough edges sanded off. Makes it more palatable, but also slightly blander. The quality of her voice and the songwriting is what sets it apart from the Duffys and Joss Stones of thus world. Not my bag, but not everything is for everyone, and I can appreciate how well done this is.

21 Rolling in the deep is a great song. Rumour has it is good too, it’s a decent start. Starts to drag after that. I don’t think her voice is actually that great. It can be really good on certain songs but she is very pub singer in lots of ways. Her voice lacks shade and warmth and despite being powerful and mostly having a good tone, it’s always sounded a bit ersatz to me, an impression of the big soul singers rather than something more personal. Don’t You Remember is a good example, a pleasant song with some nice country and blues touches, but her vocals really don’t suit it and it’s sounds a bit of mess really (the arrangement is a bit annoying and doesn’t help either) Set Fire to the Rain is a decent song. I’ll Be Waiting starts well, but it as it builds up it loses itself and becomes an overwrought motown pastiche. Despite a couple of decent songs, this is pretty dull fare. The more up tempo songs work better than the slow ballads, but I don’t feel either enriched or diminished after listening to it. It probably doesn’t help that so much of it has been x-factored and reality tv montaged to death. I do believe the sincerity of her feelings, but as a whole experience it feels inauthentic - a sense of making an album of songs and arrangements that sound like the kind of album that someone like Adele would make, rather than finding something ‘true’ (whatever the fuck that means). I also found this album had the kind of bass playing and bass tone that I hate - supreme session playing that is tasteful and perfectly played but irritatingly dull. That goes for a lot of the playing actually, very skilled but just kind of soulless. It’s a 2 for me. It’s not terrible but apart from a couple of songs it’s pretty boring. ⭐️⭐️

An excellent, high-quality album with fantastic songwriting, instrumentation, vocals, playing, production. A varied yet cohesive collection of great music that has something for everyone. To quote the Star-Ledger, the album ‘appealed to Baby Boomers nostalgic for Etta James, Carole King and 'Dusty in Memphis.' It also appealed to teens struggling with the first sting of heartbreak, hipsters who missed Amy Winehouse, traditionalists weary of synthesizers and vocal effects, and non-pop fans who simply found it refreshing to hear a singer belt out her blues with conviction.’ It was for everyone, and everyone listened. I can’t fault this album — I immediately listened again but got interrupted. Oh, and Adele has soundtracked my ENTIRE life. 25 and 30 came out at different times in my schooldays, but I still remember the hype everywhere. Justified. 10/10.

3.4

3.5/5

Gorgeous and I love it!

Amazing voice. Album is full of modern classics. 3/5

Incredible voice, one of the best of our generation The songs are centred around heartbreak, but they feel very real and genuine. beautiful album 4