BE
by BTS
  • Record Label: Big Hit
  • Release Date: Nov 20, 2020
Metascore
80

Generally favorable reviews - based on 12 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 12
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 12
  3. Negative: 0 out of 12
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  1. Exclaim
    Nov 29, 2020
    90
    While BE is a slight departure from BTS's usual offerings, its more matter-of-fact and laidback vibe could pull in new fans who are looking for music to relate to in this crappy year.
  2. Consequence
    Nov 20, 2020
    83
    The Bangtan Boys accomplish exactly what they set out to do with this album: bring comfort to their listeners and remind people around the world that they are not alone in their experiences.
  3. PopMatters
    Jan 15, 2021
    80
    BE is the album in which BTS's sound crosses over to cement the type of legacy they're building – one that started in youth and is very proudly Korean, but that makes sense for any age or place.
  5. The Quietus
    Nov 30, 2020
    80
    Deciding to reflect on states of mind some of us could resonate to – especially this year – BE serves as a chronicle of what 2020 has been during lockdown: a year of uncertainty, anxiety, depression and frustration. But it also delivers hope for the future.
  6. AllMusic
    Nov 29, 2020
    80
    Despite its brief runtime, Be is an expert snapshot of time and place, a document of a worldwide event that manages to strengthen their connection to their listeners and push their songcraft forward with focus, heart, and humanity.
  7. Los Angeles Times
    Nov 20, 2020
    80
    A tidy eight tracks defined by restraint and intention. ... The back half of the record parts the clouds for some of the band’s more refined, savvy and uplifting pop yet.
  8. New Musical Express (NME)
    Nov 20, 2020
    80
    Just as ‘BE’ cycles through the various ever-changing moods the pandemic has made a constant in our lives, it’s also finds the band constantly moving between genres, each attempt a triumph.
  9. The Independent (UK)
    Nov 20, 2020
    80
    In just eight songs, BTS have accomplished the same genre-bending they usually do in double that runtime. And for the most part, the album avoids the pitfall of sounding like a checklist. With BE, BTS keep their foot on the pedal.
  10. Pitchfork
    Dec 5, 2020
    70
    Frustration and grief animate these songs, but it’s their simplicity and specificity that make them compelling.
  11. Clash Music
    Nov 30, 2020
    70
    No, it may not necessarily have many outside their core fanbase reaching endlessly for the replay button, but its therapeutic nonetheless as the band delivers what they’ve promised ; a personable, relatable collection of tracks that strip away their blinding shine as idols, replacing it with their warm glow of humanity.
  12. Rolling Stone
    Nov 24, 2020
    70
    BE may be the most on-brand album BTS has ever made, recognizing hardship while offering healing and hope and a way to look past our current pain. It’s what BTS has been about since the start of their career.
  13. Slant Magazine
    Nov 24, 2020
    60
    For better or worse, Be’s sights are trained on BTS fans, meaning the album is too insular for broader appeal.

Awards & Rankings

10
#10 Most Discussed Album of 2020

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
8.9

Universal acclaim- based on 3428 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3,051 out of 3428
  2. Mixed: 43 out of 3428
  3. Negative: 334 out of 3428
  1. Marainah
    Nov 20, 2020
    10
    Still don’t know how they managed to put so much diversity in a 30 minute album. Each track makes me feel close to the artist. “Life goes one”Still don’t know how they managed to put so much diversity in a 30 minute album. Each track makes me feel close to the artist. “Life goes one” is so relatable and comforting giving the circumstances we all live In the past few months, I cried the first time I listened to It. Congrats to BTS and thank you for this amazing piece… Full Review »
  2. gabriduart
    Nov 20, 2020
    10
    Uma das melhores obras deles, sempre conseguem se superar e é incrível ver a evolução desde o primeiro álbum até agora com BE
  3. biamndf
    Nov 20, 2020
    10
    BTS are the only artists who have all the human emotions on an album. Emphasis for Life Goes On, which if it could be described would be likeBTS are the only artists who have all the human emotions on an album. Emphasis for Life Goes On, which if it could be described would be like a strange but painful sensation in the chest for wanting the unknown as if it were somehow familiar to your soul. It is as if on hearing, the stranger seemed familiar to you and you can only wish to have him back, something you have never had before.… Full Review »
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