Encore
by Eminem
User Score
7.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 828 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 595 out of 828
  2. Mixed: 139 out of 828
  3. Negative: 94 out of 828

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  1. kmmarasco
    Nov 15, 2004
    2
    ugh. that's all. ugh. uninspired, sophomoric, and fails to push the envelope anywhere near the edge. maybe three decent tracks on this whole album, and the dr.dre produced beats sound monotonous and drab. makes a great coaster for your ice cold beverage.
  2. MarkusS
    Nov 15, 2004
    6
    This is not the eminem i know.....it really makes me mad because i know he could do way better....i was lookin for more out of this cd but it was a let down
  3. MD
    Nov 15, 2004
    5
    Very dissapointing cd. He says it the best on "Like toy soldiers", "...There?s a certain line, you just don?t cross it/ and he crossed it/ I heard him say Hailie?s name on a song and I just lost it/ It was crazy, this shit went way beyond some Jay Z and Nas shit/ And even though the battle was won I feel like we lost it/ I spent so much energy on it, honestly I?m exhausted..." This cd has Very dissapointing cd. He says it the best on "Like toy soldiers", "...There?s a certain line, you just don?t cross it/ and he crossed it/ I heard him say Hailie?s name on a song and I just lost it/ It was crazy, this shit went way beyond some Jay Z and Nas shit/ And even though the battle was won I feel like we lost it/ I spent so much energy on it, honestly I?m exhausted..." This cd has no creativity and it shows no advancement beyond 2 songs (like toy soldiers, mockingbird). Everthing else is very contrived and just plain silly. He is using a formula and great rap artists or groups dont(outkast, public enemy, jay-z, nas, tupac, biggie, epmd etc. etc.). Could you ever imagine Jay-Z saying Big Weenie??? Or tupac having farts and throw up on songs??? honestly, he should have shelved the whole project and started over i.e. Usher. I recommend you get a burned copy of the cd cuz its not worth buying. Hopefully this is his ugly duckling stage when nobody likes him, buts lets hope there is a swan coming.… Expand
  4. RebeccaP
    Nov 16, 2004
    9
    i only bought the album about 3 hours ago, i havnt even listened to all the tracks. but i think em hs came out tops here. ok, so he does sound tired - theres no other way to put it - and he could do with some bigger beats on some of the tacks to liven them up a bit, but form what ive heard, i tihnk its a great album still. toy soldiers is amazing. mackingbird is beautiful, mosh is cool, i only bought the album about 3 hours ago, i havnt even listened to all the tracks. but i think em hs came out tops here. ok, so he does sound tired - theres no other way to put it - and he could do with some bigger beats on some of the tacks to liven them up a bit, but form what ive heard, i tihnk its a great album still. toy soldiers is amazing. mackingbird is beautiful, mosh is cool, and so is puke, and never enough. ill have to listen to the rest before i can comment any further though.… Expand
  5. ShabarO
    Nov 16, 2004
    1
    This is laughable. From being the white bloke on the block rapping through somptous DRE production to being a mere Weird Al Jankovic wannabe. What a fall.!This is shameful. Still confused on why DRE has followed this laughable exercise. The first 3 albums are in my collection this one belongs to my garbage bin. 1 for hoping that he actually just wanted to see how many idiots are out This is laughable. From being the white bloke on the block rapping through somptous DRE production to being a mere Weird Al Jankovic wannabe. What a fall.!This is shameful. Still confused on why DRE has followed this laughable exercise. The first 3 albums are in my collection this one belongs to my garbage bin. 1 for hoping that he actually just wanted to see how many idiots are out there.....slim shady is dead.… Expand
  6. DanS
    Nov 16, 2004
    10
    Album sounds different than usual and it didnt sound all that appealing at first listen, but than after few more listens it grew on me. Its different but its still eminem, maybe more matured but still awesome lyricist. Notable Masterpiece song is Mocking Bird
  7. dannyf
    Nov 17, 2004
    10
    not his best but still it's eminem who can do better
  8. thunt
    Nov 17, 2004
    10
    this album is great it has a lot more depth not his best album but still the best cd i bought since his last best tracks my 1st single,mockingbird,spend some time,and evil deeds
  9. BobbyB
    Nov 18, 2004
    0
    I was very disappointed with this album, the songs are utter garbage. He has turned into a real life Ali G
  10. BobDole
    Nov 18, 2004
    3
    i lisned to ems ne cd and was not impressed, i listened hes last cd and it was a 1000 times better then encore so he better get his fucking shit together and start puting out songs that i can stand to listin to more then once
  11. ----Stenners!!!
    Nov 18, 2004
    6
    Nothing more then Average im afraid and it is deffinetly his weakest to date. Despite having a few great tracks it has too many half assed attempts to make is a good album.
  12. MarshallMathers
    Nov 19, 2004
    0
    You make my peepee go di-doing doing!
  13. ThomasS.
    Nov 21, 2004
    8
    I actually give this a 7.5 But PPL u guys are way underrating this album. It's still Em, and Im glad he made a new album. The alubm's for us to enjoy. So enjoy it!
  14. StevenT
    Nov 26, 2004
    2
    Eminem's primary appeal has always been to teen girls who believe he is cute and teen boys who think he is boss gangsta. Em still has the looks, but his once cutting edge rhymes are now tired, weak fare compared to his contemporaries.
  15. Amanda
    Nov 30, 2004
    6
    songs lack any real substance and meaning.
  16. arnesr
    Dec 1, 2004
    10
    this cd is a little it more sentimental then the other ones. Songs like, like toy slodiers, mockingbird, spend some time. we like seen that part of eminem. he is also a genus because of the ryhms.
  17. OmarF
    Dec 13, 2004
    0
    Too bad to believe that this is real....
  18. MichaelM
    Dec 14, 2004
    8
    At first I wasn't thrilled but I listened over and over and I love it. Mockingbird, Rain Man, One shot 2 Shot, Toy Soldiers, My first single (excluding the crappy chorus), Never Enough, and Encore are some of the best songs on here with a few of them ranking in the best he's done (released). The rest are good except for Big Weenie and Mosh which suck, but 15 out of 17 ain't At first I wasn't thrilled but I listened over and over and I love it. Mockingbird, Rain Man, One shot 2 Shot, Toy Soldiers, My first single (excluding the crappy chorus), Never Enough, and Encore are some of the best songs on here with a few of them ranking in the best he's done (released). The rest are good except for Big Weenie and Mosh which suck, but 15 out of 17 ain't bad at all. Better than 95% of the rest of the world could do.… Expand
  19. LeighM
    Dec 17, 2004
    10
    An Excellent CD. If you like Eminem, you will love this CD!
  20. steveng
    Dec 2, 2004
    10
    its awsome
  21. LEXYE.
    Dec 29, 2004
    10
    Everytime I turn this cd on I get shivers...it's that good. EVen in my dreams i can still here "Spend Some Time", and his songs have touched me so deeply that I've cried twice. He is amazing, I have all of his work. And this definately shows he didn't stop trying. In fact, he only got better. I love you eminem
  22. aylap
    Dec 31, 2004
    10
    I think Encore is a great album. It is very different from his previous albums, every Eminem album is totally different and unique from the last. This album once again shows a different side to Eminem a lighter side than the Eminem Show, also a more political side. throughout his albums we have heard how Eminem has been able to use his voice in many diferent ways be it different character I think Encore is a great album. It is very different from his previous albums, every Eminem album is totally different and unique from the last. This album once again shows a different side to Eminem a lighter side than the Eminem Show, also a more political side. throughout his albums we have heard how Eminem has been able to use his voice in many diferent ways be it different character voices, diff tones, accents, singing, and so on. In Encore we see this perfected by how much eminem can play with his voice from puke to ass like that to mockingbird he sounds totally different and great in each. Also on this album Eminem has perfected his flow with each song he has a toally different flow to it to fit in with the type of song it is for instance mosh his flow is slow and solid and his voice is loud and angry, whereas for evil deeds his flow is more faster reflecting what the song is about how his life is like a ferris wheel as he says in the song. some people dismiss his more humorous songs as meaningless but if u actually listen to the lyrics there is much meaning in the songs for instance in Big Weenie Eminem gives a very detailed description of his ctritics who he says are basically jeaslous of him and he does this in a very humourous way using storytelling at its best. When listening to the album you shouldn't dismiss the lighter songs becuase they still have just as much meaning and depth. the album is well balanced with humourous songs, pure hip hop tracks, songs addressing issues such as ja and benzinoe beefs and that whole racist tape thing, political songs, personal song and so on. I feel this album is great and right now it is all i am listening to, the other day i put on the older eminem albums but i could not listen to it all and had to put Encore on again meaning i still havent had enough of it yet.… Expand
  23. marka
    Dec 4, 2004
    7
    It's not as bad as other people think but I was disappointed in it. It does have some good tracks but there's nothing that really stands out on this record. I like the Eminem Show and The Marshall Maters LP a lot better.
  24. BryantJ
    Jan 13, 2005
    7
    This by far is Eminem's worst CD, but i still love it. I'm not such a big fan of his trying to be funny in his songs. I miss more of his angry songs. I believe there's no other better song then "The Way I Am". Even so, the CD has some catchy beats to it. I like every song on the CD except for crazy in love and ass like that.
  25. JasonD
    Jan 16, 2005
    10
    He is my idol and speaks his mind in every song.
  26. Bee
    Oct 17, 2005
    6
    I loved this cd, when I first listened to it, but now I'm getting pretty sick of the goofy songs. However, I love the songs "Mosh" "Mockingbird" and "Never Enough". If Eminem hadn't been so mind-blowing in the past, I don't think people would see this album so badly, but compared to his older work, it really isn't that great. I am a devoted and passionate Em fan, I loved this cd, when I first listened to it, but now I'm getting pretty sick of the goofy songs. However, I love the songs "Mosh" "Mockingbird" and "Never Enough". If Eminem hadn't been so mind-blowing in the past, I don't think people would see this album so badly, but compared to his older work, it really isn't that great. I am a devoted and passionate Em fan, I'll always love him, but this album really wasn't that great, it was only average. I'm hoping he'll do better in the future.… Expand
  27. patrikn
    Jan 22, 2005
    10
    This album is hot and if you think not then you should just think again
  28. lamesham
    Jan 28, 2005
    10
    Em don't listen 2 the ones that gave it a low rating ! Haters! On my soul this cd is by far the best cd I have ever listened 2 n all the days of my life. I literally listed 2 it everyday. I hope 2 hear another cd at least as great as this one. much Love mesha~~~!
  29. MariahL
    Jan 31, 2005
    7
    I love Eminem and D12's music but I wish you had an Edited version of all your music
  30. SuzanneK
    Feb 11, 2005
    7
    First off, I love Eminem, alot, but Encore was definitely disappointing. I only gave it a 7 (even tho he's first 3 records were all 11's) because he's still sexy while he raps no matter what crap he's rapping (Ass Like That, Rain Man, Big Weenie, etc.). But there were great songs too (Mockingbird, Mosh, Crazy In Love, Puke, Encore, Evil Deeds, Spend More Time, etc.). First off, I love Eminem, alot, but Encore was definitely disappointing. I only gave it a 7 (even tho he's first 3 records were all 11's) because he's still sexy while he raps no matter what crap he's rapping (Ass Like That, Rain Man, Big Weenie, etc.). But there were great songs too (Mockingbird, Mosh, Crazy In Love, Puke, Encore, Evil Deeds, Spend More Time, etc.). But Like Toy Soldiers made him look weak and Benzino proved that in "Look Into My Eyes". Even 50 Cent said Em was being "unrealistic". So this was "okay" but not the way Em should leave the game. He could do better and he's definitely capable considering he's the best rapper besides 2pac. How about a Marshall Mathers LP 2?… Expand
  31. RafaelT
    Feb 16, 2005
    10
    Lo mejor que se ha inventado en la faz de la tierra es el albuns de Eminem "ENCORE".
  32. DuncanB
    Mar 31, 2005
    2
    What surprises me the most is the fact that people liked this album. Eminem is an awesome MC and I have loved everything he released prior to this, even the first D-12 record. This, though, was a complete waste of my hard-earned money. The only saving grace was the bonus CD as the album itself has about 3 songs worth listening to more than once. I'll admit, even the ridiculous What surprises me the most is the fact that people liked this album. Eminem is an awesome MC and I have loved everything he released prior to this, even the first D-12 record. This, though, was a complete waste of my hard-earned money. The only saving grace was the bonus CD as the album itself has about 3 songs worth listening to more than once. I'll admit, even the ridiculous 'Puke' and 'Ass Like That' made me laugh the first time around, but like any joke, the effect wears off rather quickly and it becomes glaringly obvious that they were just crap. Also, Eminem's shock value has run out. He has said so many disgusting / immature / shocking things in the past that it has completely lost its effect. I've also come to expect a little childishness and vulgarity from him and wouldn't usually mind, but it seems to be the main focal point of this lyrically sparse, attention-seeking, abomination which in my opinion will mar his formerly untouchable reputation forever. I just hope the next album will be a return to seriousness for everyone's favourite white boy, as this is often where he shines.… Expand
  33. JesseB
    Apr 28, 2005
    10
    People say that music is suppose to be calming. To me its just spilling out all of your emotions. It doesnt matter if your good or bad. just be yourself
  34. shadyzlaydeemathers
    Jun 17, 2005
    10
    excelent eminem is by far the best rapper evr there is and will be he is a living legend tupac r.i.p
  35. jenaR
    Aug 18, 2005
    1
    Sadly the most dissapointing rap album of the past few years. Em has completely let himself go, both in creativity and in beats, and it shows.
  36. JohnD
    Feb 24, 2006
    4
    He grabbed our attention by talking shit, then held our ear with the skills to back it up. 'The Marshall Mathers LP' was his best album, but he raised a lot of questions concerning his character with it. He proved that he was basically a good guy with 'The Eminem Show'. That one wasn't a bad album by any means, but it represented the end of Eminem's good He grabbed our attention by talking shit, then held our ear with the skills to back it up. 'The Marshall Mathers LP' was his best album, but he raised a lot of questions concerning his character with it. He proved that he was basically a good guy with 'The Eminem Show'. That one wasn't a bad album by any means, but it represented the end of Eminem's good ideas as far as producing goes, and the near end of Dr. Dre's good ideas concerning producing as well (save for a few good tracks on 'Get Rich' and 'The Documentary', he's been in a rut, to be brutally honest). So, where does 'Encore' fit in? Well, it doesn't; Eminem gave us peace of mind with 'Show', and also a satisfying 'ending' to his career. The only possible motivations behind 'Encore' and the more recent 'Curtain Call' are 1) For Eminem to prove that he's a good producer (and if that's the case, then he's failed), and 2) Money money money. True, Eminem has some great songs on this album--"Mosh" and "Like Toy Soldiers" being the two that everyone can totally agree on. But there's the problem of every song sounding either identical or juvenile: sweltering strings, predictable backbeat, strange catchphrase used from a previous song. Not even "Mosh" was immune to that, as it began with the same phrase that Eminem used on "Square Dance". "Mockingbird" has been the same song that Eminem has sung for years now, and even though it's still affecting, it's still a little boring. The guest spots don't do anyone any favors; Nate Dogg peaked before 'The Eminem Show' was released, and Obie Trice still sounds annoying. At this point, every silly song that Eminem does sounds simply stupid. It's been a long time since "My Name Is", when Eminem got by with a sweet beat and some hilariously awesome rhymes. There's nothing keeping him from doing it again, and doing it as many times as he pleases, so long as he has shown improvement. If anything, Eminem has gotten worse with age. If you want incredible present day production, check out 'Beauty and the Beat', 'Late Registration', 'Madvillainy', 'Grandmasters', and even the 'Get Rich Soundtrack'. If you want incredible rhymes that defy expectations, examine the work of 7 of the 9 members of Wu-Tang (nobody and their grandma gives U-God and Inspectah Deck the time of day), Dizzee Rascal, half of Jay-Z's catalogue, MF Doom's more inspired work, Ludacris (if you can handle hit-or-miss production), and Common. 50 Cent's best album, it should be noted, featured little help from Dre, and no help from Eminem. I'm referring to the 'Get Rich OST'. 50 Cent sounds like the guy who originally got the attention of smart rap critics. If 50 Cent can do it, then Eminem can, too. But first, Em has to set fire to his production equipment. Then, and only then, can he start down the road to redemption.… Expand
  37. marandaboone
    Jul 13, 2006
    10
    i love eminem and this song
  38. Skandalous
    Aug 14, 2006
    8
    "he
  39. RussellD.
    Sep 24, 2007
    6
    I think the only reason I can tolerate this album is because I'm a fan. It took me 2 years to buy the album after I heard "Just Lose it", and its a disappointment, but its got a few good songs on there. I also think its funny how you can tell an eminem fans age by what their favorite album is. The younger they are, the more likely "The Eminem Show" is their favorite. See if I'm right...
  40. JasonS
    Nov 12, 2004
    8
    Quality cd, Crazy in Love, Mockingbird and Encore are the best tracks.
  41. [Anonymous]
    Nov 12, 2004
    9
    Some of his most brilliant work is on this album like "Toy Soldiers", Mosh", and "Crazy In Love". Even half trying, he is much better than most rappers out there. I think this will be a CD that most people will not understand until a few years down the road. "Rain Man" is a great song, give it some more listens.
  42. BrockR
    Nov 12, 2004
    5
    Cheeky, and uninteresting at first glance. The album has gems in the few and far between but nothing compared to the Diamonds this rough white boy put out in the past. Instead of trying to spot the weakest song one of his albums such as the Marshall Mathers LP where nearly every song is a masterpiece that could make any rappers career, instead on Encore Hummingbird was teh only song to Cheeky, and uninteresting at first glance. The album has gems in the few and far between but nothing compared to the Diamonds this rough white boy put out in the past. Instead of trying to spot the weakest song one of his albums such as the Marshall Mathers LP where nearly every song is a masterpiece that could make any rappers career, instead on Encore Hummingbird was teh only song to seem to have real meaning to eminem. I whole heartily agree that he simply sounds tired. Maybe its time to take a name Em try again later when your better rested. … Expand
  43. Adam
    Nov 12, 2004
    10
    I am glad Eminem released this CD. He will now seperate the real fans who actually listen to him and the little bastards and hippocrits who claim to be "Eminem Fans". This album is brilliant because he's not rapping about what you want and he's changing his style. I don't need to try to convince anyone else though, I know this is a great album.
  44. AndreY
    Nov 13, 2004
    0
    Honestly its only the so called hardcore 'real' fans that cannot accept that this album is pure garbage. Look at all the reviews its really is THAT bad!
  45. DomP
    Nov 13, 2004
    9
    I know some of you are dissapointed...I actually had this CD a month ago and im not buying the copy thats out now...Wait 4 the special edition with We as americans and i love you more..both songs are impressive...U passed Em..but im looking foward to the nxt cd..u will improve
  46. MarkC
    Nov 13, 2004
    9
    Different from his other albums to be sure, but just as good. It is like he has worked through all his issues that were evident on his previous work, and now he can more fun with his songs. Look at Rain Man, Big Weenie and Ass Like That for example. This cd will weed out the "fans" that only listen for the controversy that he usually attracts, which can only be a good thing. I look Different from his other albums to be sure, but just as good. It is like he has worked through all his issues that were evident on his previous work, and now he can more fun with his songs. Look at Rain Man, Big Weenie and Ass Like That for example. This cd will weed out the "fans" that only listen for the controversy that he usually attracts, which can only be a good thing. I look forward to his future releases.… Expand
  47. trevor
    Nov 13, 2004
    6
    Not at all up to par for em, but still a decent album. Gets better after a few listens, but still comes off as a disappointment when compared to his previous works. Definately not as good as i had hoped...
  48. PatrickS
    Nov 14, 2004
    7
    This CD has 4 good songs the rest are nowhere up to par.
  49. ZacharyB
    Nov 15, 2004
    8
    I will try to keep this as brief as possible. This is a near-flawless album. The only problem is that it may not be as good as the first three, but I don't think there's any point in comparing because every album this man has made in the last five years is an instant classic, and this is the first album he has released which is a holding pattern. Sure, he's heavy in the I will try to keep this as brief as possible. This is a near-flawless album. The only problem is that it may not be as good as the first three, but I don't think there's any point in comparing because every album this man has made in the last five years is an instant classic, and this is the first album he has released which is a holding pattern. Sure, he's heavy in the ether when it comes to bathroom humor this time around, and he does touch upon his various "beefs" more than he did on the last album, but Evil Deeds, Never Enough, Yellow Brick Road, Like Toy Soldiers, Mosh, Puke, My 1st Single, Rain Man, Just Lose It, Ass Like That and Encore are perfect songs that are all compulsively listenable, and that leaves about 5 weak tracks and some of his funniest skits ever, so I fail to see why people are getting down on Encore sore harshly. Perhaps if he had cut Big Weenie, Crazy in Love and Mockingbird and supplmented them with the three tracks on the bonus disc, We as Americans, Love You More and Ricky Ticky Toc (all great), and replaced One Shot 2 Shot with a non-conceptual, token D-12 track (which seemed to work pretty well on the Marshall Mathers LP and just as well on The Eminem Show) we would all be singing a different tune. Sure, Puke is called Puke, but it's infectiously catchy and hooky as well as clever and I can see how his rhymes fall flat occasionally but they're still tighter than any other MC now, before and most likely ever.… Expand
  50. CharlieLN
    Nov 15, 2004
    8
    I loved this CD. But still, not up to level of the Marshall Mathers LP or Em Show. i didnt really like all the goofy songs. i think everyone will rag on him so much his next cd will be angry- like mmlp, maybe. Anyways- in order, the best songs are: like toy soldiers, mockingbird, love you more, never enough(nate has a great hook), crazy in love, and encore.
  51. JosephA
    Nov 15, 2004
    7
    I think some of this album really shines. In some places its like hes holding on to his past, but there are moments that do show alot of growth. To me is seems very transitional. I think we're gonna get something really different and great on his next effort. I think what makes this disappointing is that most people thought we would get that "something different" this time around.
  52. JavonS
    Nov 16, 2004
    10
    This album is just lyricially the best album he's ever done. Jay z is good but just not as good as eminem. Like someone else said. If u say this album is boring then u don't know rap at all and didn't take the time to listen.
  53. felixxxk
    Nov 16, 2004
    7
    i actually think it was a 6.5 performance ... it kinda seems eminems runnin out of stuff to rap about, so he just goes all out goofy on this album and maybe one track with farts and burps woulda been kewl but 5 or 6 tracks ? and i cant bring myself to agree with resurrecting the christopher reeves raps back from the marshall lp... but thats not to say that there isnt any good tracks on i actually think it was a 6.5 performance ... it kinda seems eminems runnin out of stuff to rap about, so he just goes all out goofy on this album and maybe one track with farts and burps woulda been kewl but 5 or 6 tracks ? and i cant bring myself to agree with resurrecting the christopher reeves raps back from the marshall lp... but thats not to say that there isnt any good tracks on the cd....puke, big weenie and spend sum time are good ones ... and sumhow we;re forgetting the bonus album where "we as americans" is probably better than almost every song on the normal cd ..... but we'll see how em responds to all the critisizm hes gettin… Expand
  54. leej
    Nov 17, 2004
    7
    it is his weakest yet his genius still shines through
  55. jackm
    Nov 17, 2004
    9
    great album. eminem continues to defy everyone by banging out hot beats, and not holding back on what he has to say. still the best.
  56. MarkV
    Nov 17, 2004
    1
    I'm very dissappointed in this cd. I was a huge fan. I could have downloaded the cd , but I chose not to , because I wanted to support my favorite artist. I thought it might be around the same quality of Eminem show , but I was dead wrong. I figured out why. He has nothing to wrap about anymore. It's all nonesense now. He said what he had to. He could have gone out on top. I'm very dissappointed in this cd. I was a huge fan. I could have downloaded the cd , but I chose not to , because I wanted to support my favorite artist. I thought it might be around the same quality of Eminem show , but I was dead wrong. I figured out why. He has nothing to wrap about anymore. It's all nonesense now. He said what he had to. He could have gone out on top. Instead, he will go out sounding ridiculous. By the way, the new D-12 cd sucks ass too. … Expand
  57. addyl
    Nov 18, 2004
    10
    em always rapped words no one expected would rhyme. on encore he rhymes words that have no business rhyming. amazing feat. this album is hilarious, which is refreshing. toy soldiers almost made me cry.
  58. FabalosR
    Nov 22, 2004
    8
    He draws us in with four outstanding tracks: Evil Deeds Never Enough (5/5 50 Cent is just smokin on this rather short rap), Yellow Brick Road (5/5), and Like Toy Soldiers (5/5 very emotional; arguably best overall song on album) It starts to taper off with Mosh (3.5/5), a good anti-Bush song but nothing near Em's capability, and goes rock bottom with Puke, which along with Big He draws us in with four outstanding tracks: Evil Deeds Never Enough (5/5 50 Cent is just smokin on this rather short rap), Yellow Brick Road (5/5), and Like Toy Soldiers (5/5 very emotional; arguably best overall song on album) It starts to taper off with Mosh (3.5/5), a good anti-Bush song but nothing near Em's capability, and goes rock bottom with Puke, which along with Big Weenie, is the worst song on the album. Just when you think he has nothing left after My 1st Single, he drops in Rain Man (5/5, a hilarious rap in which Em loses his memory), but follows with the mediocre offerings of Big Weenie, Just Lose It (3.5/5 funny, solid single, but not great), and gets back on track with Spend Some Time (4/5), the hilarious A$$ like that Mockingbird (5/5 The most emotional song on the album), just loses it again with crazy in love, rebounds with one shot 2 shot, and finishes strong with encore (5/5 good party song). I know i write too much but thats cuz i play too much PUTT PUTT golf watching BUTT BUTTS. Overall, an inconsistent but solid album, some great songs mixed in with garbage. Total score: 4/5… Expand
  59. AustinZ
    Nov 24, 2004
    3
    this cd was horrible did em decide to take an album off my mother could of came up with this crap
  60. KristineH
    Dec 13, 2004
    10
    I love all of Eminem's CD's. This is no different. He sings more. I was so touched by the songs Toy Soldiers and Mockingbird, I got shivers. Regardless, whether bad or good, he speaks from the heart and how he feels. As a poet (myself), he has my love and respect. True feelings are not rated, nor should they be. There your own, and everyone interprets everyones words I love all of Eminem's CD's. This is no different. He sings more. I was so touched by the songs Toy Soldiers and Mockingbird, I got shivers. Regardless, whether bad or good, he speaks from the heart and how he feels. As a poet (myself), he has my love and respect. True feelings are not rated, nor should they be. There your own, and everyone interprets everyones words differently. No one really knows how EMINEM is feeling, but he expresses it through song, and we all should appreciate that, since - we are all fans. LOYAL FANS, regardless if one person thinks one song or album isn't as good. I love all his songs, I'm loyal. ----- If anyone doubts EMINEM, listen again, and carefully to the song Toy Soldiers. My respect goes out to Eminem and all he's done, for himself and for others. xoxo … Expand
  61. MercedesC
    Dec 21, 2004
    9
    This was an awsome CD, not as brutal as his past ones, and seems to have more emotion in it then and other. But I must say that when I first listend to 'Just loose it' I was disapointed.. But after hearing the other songs, it was like i was listening to him again. This isn't his best CD, but it definetly shows up other CD's that are considered 'hot' today..
  62. emfan
    Dec 23, 2004
    8
    it is not bad.. although the eminem show was better. eminem should get out some of the belching sounds and change dre for someone else. i like evil deedsm, mocking bird, like toy soldiers, mosh,big weenie,just lose it and crazy in love. rain man would be great with a different beat and 1st sinlge should have the burps left out and it would be great. the good songs patch up the bad songs it is not bad.. although the eminem show was better. eminem should get out some of the belching sounds and change dre for someone else. i like evil deedsm, mocking bird, like toy soldiers, mosh,big weenie,just lose it and crazy in love. rain man would be great with a different beat and 1st sinlge should have the burps left out and it would be great. the good songs patch up the bad songs (puke) though. some beats could use a bit livening up as they re sounding tired.… Expand
  63. Eminemfan
    Dec 26, 2004
    10
    this is a great album, i have all of his albums and i'm only 13 years old. I think that eNcore is the best yet. He speeks from the heart, i like all the songs, and anyone else who's slagging them off should try and do better! Eminem is great, his song mockingbird is my favourite, it proves that he doesn't just rap/sing about violence,people he doesn't like, and sex.
  64. MarshalMathers
    Dec 26, 2004
    10
    This CD had alot more meaning than everybody thinks. Take a couple hours to just listen to the lyrics. You'll then figure out why i gave this CD a rating of 10
  65. jessicas
    Dec 26, 2004
    10
    i love em. and i think what he is saying needs to be listen to a lot louder
  66. lexysuga
    Dec 29, 2004
    10
    This Cd is amazing, EVery single song. "Spend Some Time" keeps replaying even in my dreams, I love eminem so much. He did it again, this is absolutly wonderful
  67. JohnF
    Dec 31, 2004
    10
    "Encore" is the hottest set of candycane jamz you are ever likely to hear.
  68. BlueLotusPoet
    Oct 13, 2010
    6
    Probably the first Eminem album with a few choice cuts. Eminem ventures even further away from Slim Shady (the horrorcore-comedy style) and focuses more "Eminem" who is fierece, clever, and conscious of his surroundings. "Eminem" is just there to give it to you straight. Sure, he doesnt try to be ultimately perfect but the bottom line is, he's gonna give you all he's got. Despite thatProbably the first Eminem album with a few choice cuts. Eminem ventures even further away from Slim Shady (the horrorcore-comedy style) and focuses more "Eminem" who is fierece, clever, and conscious of his surroundings. "Eminem" is just there to give it to you straight. Sure, he doesnt try to be ultimately perfect but the bottom line is, he's gonna give you all he's got. Despite that notion, it seems he gave his all rather fell a tad flat. There is still a trace of humor "Rain Man" (although it seemed harsh with the Christopher Reeve reference, being that he passed away the month before the album came out), Big Weenie, & Just Lose It. The one humor based track thats sweet & sour is Ass Like That. The good part being that we see the rather unexpected yet very laughable humor of Eminem rather than "Slim Shady". The bad part is the subject matter is one in which one is not so used to hearing from Eminem which is one aspect of him that set him from other rappers. Encore is yet another step down from his previous project. Its an ok album, but may not click with most moderate listeners and fans.… Expand
  69. TyroneP
    Oct 25, 2010
    9
    Personally I find it refreshing that a superstar of his ilk was willing to make a record in which he didn't take himself too seriously. It's funny, clever and controversial like his previous work, but he's never sounded so catchy nor has he been so much fun to listen to than on Encore.
  70. Emperor
    Apr 8, 2011
    8
    One thing you ought to know: The lyrics of Encore was tuned down completely probably because of the too much attention he was getting for his lyrical content. There are very good tracks on Encore, Evil deeds started the album with a big Boom just the way White America did on Eminem show, Toy Soldiers was classic, other good tracks include MOSH, PUKE, YELLOW BRICK ROAD, RAIN MAN, MOCKINGOne thing you ought to know: The lyrics of Encore was tuned down completely probably because of the too much attention he was getting for his lyrical content. There are very good tracks on Encore, Evil deeds started the album with a big Boom just the way White America did on Eminem show, Toy Soldiers was classic, other good tracks include MOSH, PUKE, YELLOW BRICK ROAD, RAIN MAN, MOCKING BIRD, ONE SHOT 2 SHOT, CURTAINS DOWN, SPEND SOME TIME, JUST LOSE IT & ASS LIKE THAT are Good tracks as well. Generally, the album is very good just that the lyrics was completely tuned down compare to his previous Three. Btw, Encore was better than most of the rap albums released in 2004/2005(If not all) !!!!!… Expand
  71. Caestus
    Mar 5, 2013
    9
    It is not as good as "The Eminem Show" but still damn good.
  72. alexandergreen
    Sep 5, 2011
    6
    A generally weird fifth outing for Slim Shady. This album seems to boast a last hurrah for the master of rhytmic wordplay, but most of the songs appear to be especially poor. Songs such as Puke, Big Weenie and Rain Man are bizarre, and his comical foreign accent seems to be cropping up more and more. The strong tracks are the singles including Like Toy Soldiers, Mockingbird, Ass Like ThatA generally weird fifth outing for Slim Shady. This album seems to boast a last hurrah for the master of rhytmic wordplay, but most of the songs appear to be especially poor. Songs such as Puke, Big Weenie and Rain Man are bizarre, and his comical foreign accent seems to be cropping up more and more. The strong tracks are the singles including Like Toy Soldiers, Mockingbird, Ass Like That and Just Lose It, the latter two still being extremely silly.… Expand
  73. DaBlackNight
    Feb 26, 2012
    8
    Eminem Can Definitively Improve. What Am I Saying? This Record Can Be One Of Eminem's Top Albums. I Enjoy About 8 Songs On This Album, but They Are Songs I Feel Like Listening From Time To Time.
  74. RonaldOVOXO
    Feb 4, 2012
    10
    This is my favorite Eminem album. I love his crazy antics, and his serious songs like Toy Soldiers & Mockingbird. Even though this is not lyrically his best. I still think its the best because i grew up listening to Encore
  75. axelkoch
    Nov 5, 2012
    8
    Neither a step forwards, nor a step back. A solid rap album containing fantastic wordplays and great lyrics. It's not perfect, because it has still got unnecessary dumb parts in it, but Em got older and you can hear that. His second best album after 'The Eminem Show'. - "Just Lose It" and "Mockingbird" are two of his all time top 10!
  76. frankbilders
    Feb 12, 2013
    6
    This is not a bad album just mediocre, not up to eminem's standard. I'd say about half the tracks are good but about half of them are really poor like Rain Man, in my opinion his worse song. Though songs like never enough are what save this album.
  77. tonto
    Jul 31, 2021
    8
    It's not Eminem's best, but also not his worst. This was somewhat early Eminem just before his hiatus so it still has that early 2000's Eminem sound. The tone here is kind of all over the place, with some really serious tracks and some silly tracks with toilet humor. Some of his sillier songs are fun like Rainman, Big Weenie, and Just Lose It. Never Enough is a solid up-tempo banger whichIt's not Eminem's best, but also not his worst. This was somewhat early Eminem just before his hiatus so it still has that early 2000's Eminem sound. The tone here is kind of all over the place, with some really serious tracks and some silly tracks with toilet humor. Some of his sillier songs are fun like Rainman, Big Weenie, and Just Lose It. Never Enough is a solid up-tempo banger which is more serious but not overly sentimental as is Evil Deeds. The song Encore is also a good club banger with a hard-hitting beat. The album's shortcomings are in the overly sentimental hip hop ballads like Mockingbird, Crazy In Love doesn't really work as a hip hop love song. Puke is yet another song dedicated to his estranged wife Kim with harsh, biting lyrics. Like Toy Soldiers is decent if a little mawkish.… Expand
  78. HipHopHead25
    Jan 12, 2014
    6
    He gets very experimental with this album, and though the lyricism is subpar, the album had some of his best beats at the time. Unfortunately, it is downplayed by certain flows and the lyricism is weak, though the wordplay is strong. The album also has it's down due to the fart and burp noises in songs like 'My 1st Single', though there are some jewels like 'Yellow Brick Road' and 'LikeHe gets very experimental with this album, and though the lyricism is subpar, the album had some of his best beats at the time. Unfortunately, it is downplayed by certain flows and the lyricism is weak, though the wordplay is strong. The album also has it's down due to the fart and burp noises in songs like 'My 1st Single', though there are some jewels like 'Yellow Brick Road' and 'Like Toy Soldiers'.… Expand
  79. Emmy
    Apr 5, 2020
    10
    I was at the height of been a eminem fan when this album dropped. The album might be playful at the middle but has some of eminem best songs in is career. Like toy soldiers, mocking bird, yellow brick road, spend some time, we as americans, encore just to name a few. This album had the best flow of his career, em sounded flawless.
  80. flametail23
    Jul 14, 2019
    4
    This is a very un-even album. Some great tracks, quite a few that are some of Eminem's very worst such as 'My first single' and 'Rain man'. Two tracks that make me wonder what he was thinking when he was recording them.
  81. convalesce
    Mar 19, 2015
    7
    This album is usually rated amongst the lowest of Em's albums. Listening to this album front to back is the only way to unlock its inner-sanctum of crisp production. Every song flows with each other production wise. The only problem I have with this album is "Rain Man", "Big Weenie", and "Ass Like That". These three songs are a precursor to the incredibly-infamous Relapse album whichThis album is usually rated amongst the lowest of Em's albums. Listening to this album front to back is the only way to unlock its inner-sanctum of crisp production. Every song flows with each other production wise. The only problem I have with this album is "Rain Man", "Big Weenie", and "Ass Like That". These three songs are a precursor to the incredibly-infamous Relapse album which shares the same kind of flow and voice. Other than that, having each song played from beginning to end will make you appreciate the work of Dr. Dre and Eminem as producers along with the political, seriousness and also a humorous incorporation into his lyrics. This is a production prominent album. A perfect example of this if you are to listen to this for the first time is "Spend Some Time".… Expand
  82. Shady313
    Mar 21, 2015
    9
    9/10 .................................................................................................................................................
  83. Urbanlistener
    Apr 23, 2015
    10
    Striking his 4 in 4 in perfect albums, Eminem returns with his alternance between serious and funny songs and the cleverness of his verses on an album providing more than one instant classic such as Like toy soldiers and Mockingbird.
  84. BIGMAN22
    Feb 24, 2016
    2
    i found myself skipping a lot of songs due to the poor production, and awful lyrical content on some songs. there are a few songs that pretty good. but some songs on here shouldnt be on the same album with others, not sure what eminem was thinking about this one. im a big fan of him but this one just doesnt have my interest.
  85. JustVladimir
    Mar 16, 2016
    7
    Good album, but this album is not "2nd The Eminem Show". This is was funny (Just Lose It, Evil Deeds, etc.), emotinal (Mockingbird, Like Toy Soldires), seriously (Mosh). This is was 2004.
  86. Mixotrof
    May 9, 2017
    6
    Not really Em's best album. This album has some of his worst tracks of all time ( every track 7-12), but it also has some great tracks( Yellow Brick Road, Like Toy Soldiers, Mosh, Mockingbird, Encore). All in all, not a good sequel to The Eminem Show
  87. fifi3
    Jul 28, 2019
    4
    A few good tracks, but for the most part this is the beginning of the end for Eminem in a painfully boring and bland album.
  88. FruitJuice
    Jul 18, 2017
    6
    it was okay.....................................................................................................................................................................
  89. TheHipHopDude50
    Jul 21, 2017
    9
    One of Slim Shady's great albums so far.My favourite songs in this album are
    1.Like Toy Soldiers
    2.Mockingbird
    3.Like That
    4.Never Enough
    5.My 1st Single
  90. Dragonfly02
    Mar 4, 2018
    8
    At least it was better than The Eminem Show. The song Puke actually made me want to throw up because he was throwing up in the song.
  91. CSA
    Jan 18, 2020
    8
    Would have been another classic if it wasn't for those leaks. Imagine some of the songs such as Big Weenie replaced by bonus tracks. Still very enjoyable tho.
  92. isaacb263
    Aug 16, 2018
    7
    This album gets a bad rap in my opinion, has some trash for sure but I think there are 12-14 good songs on here and 5-7 all time great ones
  93. KaelumRayn_
    Mar 3, 2018
    3
    The album starts off strong with like toy soldiers and mosh, but takes a turn for the worst starting with puke and gets even worse as it progresses with my first single,rain man,big weenie and just lose it.All the bad overlooks what little good is on the album. Hideous
  94. Rap_Reviews
    Jan 20, 2019
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. 2nd worst Eminem album. This album has 4 wack songs, 2 mediocre songs (Just lose it & Ass like that). Sometimes this album sounds ugly but it also has 2 classic songs Like toy soldiers & Mockingbird) & 5 underrated songs (Crazy in love, spend some time, one shot 2 shot, Encore & Mosh) Features did a good job. This album gets hate because it released after Eminem show otherwise this album is good...… Expand
  95. drongodan
    Jan 20, 2020
    7
    Some great tunes on here. Some not so much. Fave tracks ; Encore, Never Enough, Mockingbird, Spend Some time. (Rain Man so bad it’s good)
  96. ArkodeepSen
    Jan 23, 2020
    10
    Insant classic. This is the best album of all time. Nothing can be better than this. This is the greatest piece of music.
  97. Jr88
    Jan 19, 2020
    7
    This has everything to be a masterpiece beat and flows but Eminem was boring and making farts in the mic.
  98. Grrrsta
    Jan 22, 2020
    9
    Encore .............................................................................
    ..............................................................................
  99. slimshady99
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    This album shout every one facking mouth its was pure fire thanks agian em ❤️
  100. Alp13
    Jan 27, 2020
    3
    Despite having some of Eminem's best songs , the album is riddled with nonsensical lyrics, unbearable hooks and monotone beats and delivery. The first five songs of the album range from decent to amazing, but from puke (in my opinion the worst song on here), everything takes a nosedive. Overall, this feels like a worse version of The Eminem Show
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Awards & Rankings

6
#6 Most Discussed Album of 2004
13
#13 Most Shared Album of 2004

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
64

Generally favorable reviews - based on 26 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 26
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 26
  3. Negative: 3 out of 26
  1. The New York Times
    50
    "Encore" is almost willfully uneven: it includes some of the most exhilarating songs Eminem has ever recorded, alongside some of the most inert. [15 Nov 2004]
    Read full review
  2. The A.V. Club
    70
    For the most part, Encore's strained, vaguely sad, regressive wackiness makes a lucid and compelling argument that Eminem should retire Slim Shady and let the real, serious Marshall Mathers stand up and be heard.
    Read full review
  3. Pitchfork
    65
    Encore is a fourth fascinating record from Eminem, but it's also easily his weakest and, in many ways, tamest album to date.
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