The Peel Sessions 1991-2004
by PJ Harvey
  • Record Label: Fontana
  • Release Date: Nov 7, 2006
Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 12 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 12
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 12
  3. Negative: 0 out of 12
  1. Drowned In Sound
    90
    It fits and works together perfectly despite the fact that the songs showcase the development of a thirteen-year career.
  2. New Musical Express (NME)
    90
    Even the most hardcore disciple is likely to get something they might have missed before. [21 Oct 2006, p.35]
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  3. Stylus Magazine
    83
    This is a lovingly crafted compilation that not only represents the raw live power of PJ Harvey but also tips a cap to John Peel and the raw power his sessions had on performers.
  5. AllMusic
    80
    Here, as with most of her career, Harvey doesn't go for the easy choices.
  6. Delusions of Adequacy
    80
    If you've yet to experience PJ Harvey, The Peel Sessions: 2001-2004 might be the perfect initiation. If you're a long time fan, don't pass this album up simply because you recognize many of the tracks listed.
  7. Uncut
    80
    Stark, often stunning. [Dec 2006, p.121]
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  8. Dusted Magazine
    80
    She certainly turned in some of her most thrilling performances for the Peel Sessions.
  9. Prefix Magazine
    80
    This selection method lacks the cohesion of a proper album, but the uniformity of the raw emotion throughout offers some thrilling highpoints.
  10. Pitchfork
    79
    A vibrant living record whose nervy, protean spirit pushes it miles beyond mere alt-rock radio nostalgia.
  11. Austin Chronicle
    67
    A near-perfect collection, if a bit short.
  12. Billboard
    60
    [It] flashes with moments of greatness. [9 Dec 2006]
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  13. Mojo
    40
    It's disappointing that only 12 tracks have been handpicked for this release. [Jan 2007, p.124]
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User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
7.3

Generally favorable reviews- based on 12 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 12
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 12
  3. Negative: 2 out of 12
  1. Ricko
    Dec 11, 2020
    8
    Due to the loose and sometimes developmental nature of them, "Peel Session" albums are usually for completists and this is no exception.Due to the loose and sometimes developmental nature of them, "Peel Session" albums are usually for completists and this is no exception. Equally, if you are the type of fan who is a completist then you will most like really enjoy a collection that takes an ever so slightly different look at one your favourite artists songs. Here we have a selection of Harvey's tracks from across the 90's and the early 00's performed live in studio at the BBC for the legendary John Peel show. All the songs are great and the performances do them justice. Sometimes you'd prefer to hear the studio version but more often than not it is hard to discern any major difference. As always Harvey is on blistering form here. A must have for fans and a decent introduction to new comers.… Full Review »
  2. longjetty7
    Apr 22, 2015
    8
    This is one of those rare compilation albums that isn't entirely worthless. What makes The Peel Sessions great is that it isn't aThis is one of those rare compilation albums that isn't entirely worthless. What makes The Peel Sessions great is that it isn't a self-indulgent re-release of PJ's greatest hits, but rather, a tribute to John Peel. Some of her best-known songs are on here, but most of them are not, probably intentionally, and it's nice to see a few rare B sides too. Overall, it's a somewhat unusual collection of songs from her career that actually works really well as an album. Plus, the arrangement of Beautiful Feeling is better than the one on Stories.… Full Review »
  3. wangl
    Jan 30, 2007
    10
    Hooray for PJ.
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