Livin' on a High Note
by Mavis Staples
  • Record Label: Epitaph
  • Release Date: Feb 19, 2016
Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 14 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 14
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 14
  3. Negative: 0 out of 14
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  1. NOW Magazine
    Feb 25, 2016
    60
    The production is restrained, leaving plenty of space for Staples's rich vocals, although some songs feel a bit too clean and reserved. It's all very pleasant but lacks the fire and passion we want from her.
  2. The Observer (UK)
    Feb 22, 2016
    60
    At times the music feels less like a tribute to her remarkable legacy than an exercise in smooth, award-ceremony funk.
  3. AllMusic
    Feb 19, 2016
    60
    Compared to You Are Not Alone and One True Vine, the quality of the material is more variable.
  5. The Guardian
    Feb 18, 2016
    60
    It doesn’t all come off. The Aloe Blacc-penned Tomorrow has a bit of the self-help manual about it, and Nick Cave’s Jesus, Lay Down Beside Me never quite lives up to the mischievous title. Staples is at her best when there’s a hint of agony amid the ecstasy.
  6. Mojo
    Feb 4, 2016
    60
    Mavis tries to stamp authority on songs written by ward's musician pals.... They're not all great though--neither the Charity Rose or Nick Cave contributions hit the spot. [Mar 2016, p.99]
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Awards & Rankings

55
#55 Most Shared Album of 2016

User Reviews

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User Score
6.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 10 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 10
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 10
  3. Negative: 1 out of 10
  1. arascic
    Feb 16, 2017
    0
    Very boring, bland and generic. Vocals aren't impressive, the composition isn't impressive, to be honest, nothing is impressive with thisVery boring, bland and generic. Vocals aren't impressive, the composition isn't impressive, to be honest, nothing is impressive with this record. Only the track "Action" provides some groove.… Full Review »
  2. TrentBizub
    Feb 21, 2016
    7
    Admittedly R&B is not my genre, so maybe that's why some songs dragged for me. But overall, Staples' new album has plenty of soulfullyAdmittedly R&B is not my genre, so maybe that's why some songs dragged for me. But overall, Staples' new album has plenty of soulfully uplifting tracks that warrant multiple listens.

    Favorite Tracks: Take Us Back, Love And Trust, High Note, Don't Cry, Tomorrow, History, Now; MLK Song.    … Full Review »
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