• Record Label: Atlantic
  • Release Date: Apr 1, 2016
User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 218 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 6 out of 218
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  1. Apr 11, 2016
    6
    There's a few good songs on this album although, most of them are repetitive in sound. Artistically it doesn't break any barriers or push music forward. I felt as if it was stale at times, and upbeat at others. Solid 6.5
  2. Apr 7, 2016
    5
    As a fan it pains me to say it but this is sadly another patchy offering from Weezer . They've been 'treading water' now for a long time and maybe it's time to call it a day.
  3. Apr 1, 2016
    10
    As a long-time fan I am undoubtedly biased, but this album - like 2014's Everything Will Be Alright In The End - is Weezer at their best. A fantastic mix of 90s-reminiscent tracks (e.g. Do You Wanna Get High, LA Girlz), upbeat pop-rock (e.g. Wind In Our Sail, King of the World) and interesting new directions (e.g. Thank God For Girls, Jacked Up). A perfect summer album.
  4. Apr 2, 2016
    8
    Possibly their best since Pinkerton. Every song is immensely fun and infectiously catchy. The perfect album to take you into the summer and a clear continuation of Weezer's winning streak. Surpassed my high expectations after the excellent EWBAITE.
  5. Apr 1, 2016
    8
    Weezer's repertoire has always been somewhat of a mixed bag. Some albums are modern masterpieces ('Pinkerton' & 'The Blue Album'), some are pretty good ('Green Album', 'Maladroit', 'The Red Album'), and one in particular is probably the worst "rock" album I have EVER heard ('Radi... Raditu... Radituuuu... sorry almost threw up there). Luckily for us 2016's The White Album belongs in theWeezer's repertoire has always been somewhat of a mixed bag. Some albums are modern masterpieces ('Pinkerton' & 'The Blue Album'), some are pretty good ('Green Album', 'Maladroit', 'The Red Album'), and one in particular is probably the worst "rock" album I have EVER heard ('Radi... Raditu... Radituuuu... sorry almost threw up there). Luckily for us 2016's The White Album belongs in the pretty good category. The songs are catchy, memorable and continue to have the silly, nonsensical lyrics Mr. Cuomo is famous for but without the annoyance of placating to the lowest common denominator. It sounds like the band is having as much fun on this record as they were on their first release.

    Favourite song?: 'Do You Wanna Get High?': A quasi-love song that could have fit nicely into the 'Pinkerton' era.
    Least favourite song?: Probably 'Summer Elaine & Drunk Dori' if only because after listening to the album a half dozen times, that song is the only one that I can never remember a single note nor lyric.
    Song I Should Hate But I Like?: 'L.A. Girlz'.... what an earworm!
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  6. Apr 1, 2016
    9
    Many fans were scared that the previous album `ewbaite` was a special one time thing but this wonderful beach blast reassures us that Weezer still know what they`re doing.
  7. Apr 1, 2016
    10
    Flawed? Yes. "But, it's a worthy successor to EWBAITE and a great addition to Weezer's discography. Weezer is back and kicking it again... which does make you wonder. Why did it take so long to get here again?
  8. Apr 1, 2016
    10
    This is easily my fourth favorite weezer album. it has so many freking amazing songs the whole album is a master piece in every single way and i love it it flows so well the lyrics are great the vocals are great. 10/10 in every way only sorta flaw lyrics on thank god for girls other then that its flawless
  9. Apr 4, 2016
    10
    A true return to awesome... Finally one of my favorite bands of all time sound like themselves again! My favorite entire Weezer album since Pinkerton. In my opinion this album like Pinkerton will just continue to grow on me like a poppy fungal infection that hurts but damn does it rock!
  10. Apr 1, 2016
    10
    If you don't like this summer feel good pop punk masterpiece you might be a jaded normie. The low points of EWBAITE are missing, Pinkerton it may not be, maybe closer to a Green Album without bad songs this time around
  11. Apr 4, 2016
    10
    I really like Weezer. There are few bands who can boast the same degree of longevity, and even fewer so prolific. Ten albums over a 22-year period is a pretty impressive resume. They've also been unafraid to experiment with their sound, a trend that has both endeared and confounded longtime fans. Most consider their first album, the self-titled "Blue Album", their gold standard. OthersI really like Weezer. There are few bands who can boast the same degree of longevity, and even fewer so prolific. Ten albums over a 22-year period is a pretty impressive resume. They've also been unafraid to experiment with their sound, a trend that has both endeared and confounded longtime fans. Most consider their first album, the self-titled "Blue Album", their gold standard. Others gravitate more toward its follow-up, the more introspective "Pinkerton". Most consider the "Green Album" a decent companion to those. Just about everything else has divided fans and critics. I would rank this latest effort, the "White Album", up there with my favorites, which are the Blue and Green albums. It sounds a lot like the Blue album, with hints of what they did on "Pinkerton" and the underrated "Make Believe". If you give it a couple of listens, you'll realize there really isn't a bad song on the whole album, and it works cohesively, start to finish. It's also catchy as hell. Lead singer/guitarist/songwriter Rivers Cuomo seems to have finally found his groove. He's still a little insecure emotionally, but his musical confidence is evident. He's not on a quest for a hit single anymore, he's not teaming up with rappers and trying to be "cool". Much of the lyrical content is a love letter to his wife, exploring their ups and downs together. It's a good blend of sunniness and pathos...a winner all the way. Expand
  12. Apr 2, 2016
    8
    The cover art for this Weezer album is very telling. When listening to this album I picture myself on the beach listening to some solid pop rock. This is one of Weezer's best albums in probably a decade.

    The singles from this album were all very promising from the silliness of "Thank God for Girls" to the experimental Pinkerton sound on "Do You Wanna Get High" and the catchy tune "King
    The cover art for this Weezer album is very telling. When listening to this album I picture myself on the beach listening to some solid pop rock. This is one of Weezer's best albums in probably a decade.

    The singles from this album were all very promising from the silliness of "Thank God for Girls" to the experimental Pinkerton sound on "Do You Wanna Get High" and the catchy tune "King of the World" which sounds like it could have been on the Green album. Weezer doesn't experiment much on this album, but its filled with catchy tunes so I don't have much in the way of complaints. The lyrics are silly and interesting, production is exciting and hooks are pretty killer. The chorus on a song like "Girl we Got A Good Thing" sound like a walk through a snowy street on Christmas while "Wind in Our Sail" sounds like being on a cruise. The songs are varied and transition into each other very well.

    There are some moments I didn't care for, like the falsetto vocals on "Jacked Up" or the semi boring start to "Endless Bummer" but for the most part this is some great music. I'm glad that Weezer put out a great album here as a long time fan of the band.
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  13. Apr 16, 2016
    9
    EWBAITE seemed to me to be the band's "call to arms" album to show the fans that they could still be a solid rock band after years of mainstream pop experimentation. The White Album, on the other hand, once again displays the band cutting out all the **** and just cracking on with, well, being Weezer. Fans of their early stuff are definitely in for a treat - there are more memorableEWBAITE seemed to me to be the band's "call to arms" album to show the fans that they could still be a solid rock band after years of mainstream pop experimentation. The White Album, on the other hand, once again displays the band cutting out all the **** and just cracking on with, well, being Weezer. Fans of their early stuff are definitely in for a treat - there are more memorable moments on here than on EWBAITE - the songs feel fully motivated - whereas Rivers may have still been reluctant at the time of EWBAITE to settle back fully into a rock vibe, here he sounds much more confident and in his element. Against all the odds Weezer are ageing gracefully with a fantastic album that nods to their early work as well as sounding current and being a great summer/beach album. Expand
  14. Apr 8, 2016
    8
    I think I officially don't hate Weezer anymore! This record continues the trend that EWBAITE went with, which is going back to the basics with the classic 90's Weezer sound. But here they do work with more keyboards and pianos, and they go with a bit of a Beach Boys 60's pop influence. It's not too overpowering, but it is enough to stay interesting and fresh when compared to otherI think I officially don't hate Weezer anymore! This record continues the trend that EWBAITE went with, which is going back to the basics with the classic 90's Weezer sound. But here they do work with more keyboards and pianos, and they go with a bit of a Beach Boys 60's pop influence. It's not too overpowering, but it is enough to stay interesting and fresh when compared to other albums the band has put out in the 90's. Kind of like how EWBAITE ended with that long epic guitar finale! So it seems like Weezer have found a formula that keeps their classic sound while trying new things and experimenting a little bit here and there. But "Thank God for Girls" is just really stupid and annoying. But that is the only track I don't like. The rest of the album is very solid. "King of the World", "Do You Wanna Get High?", "California Kids", and "Endless Bummer" are my favorite tracks. So overall, I'd definitely suggest picking this up if you liked Weezer's last album and if you like their first two albums. This is probably my 4th favorite Weezer album! I'm not sure if this record will be one of my favorites of the year or not, it's too early to tell. But what I do know is that this is a good album! Expand
  15. Apr 2, 2016
    7
    Weezer's fourth self-titled is undoubtedly a summer record. It keeps you up all the time, it's drenched in everlasting youth and teen spirit. Weezer shows with the White Album, that even after 10 albums, they can be the students of a style that they created and used to be teachers.

    Best Tracks: Wind In Our Sail, Thank God For Girls, Do You Wanna Get High
  16. p2c
    Apr 5, 2016
    10
    Solid Weezer record. it flows effortlessly from song to song. In various parts, reminiscent of their first four albums. Lyrics are thoughtfully crafted throughout. Lot's of sonic nuggets to be found. Very well produced and it really sounds great with airy vocals and crunchy guitars, but also rocking piano and guitar runs.

    The performance of bass and drums stand out in the best
    Solid Weezer record. it flows effortlessly from song to song. In various parts, reminiscent of their first four albums. Lyrics are thoughtfully crafted throughout. Lot's of sonic nuggets to be found. Very well produced and it really sounds great with airy vocals and crunchy guitars, but also rocking piano and guitar runs.

    The performance of bass and drums stand out in the best possible way throughout. Pat Wilson brings it all to the table and has you air drumming. As for bass, Scott Shriner's bass tones just rock. It is apparent on every track he put lots of work into this record.

    The two songs written by Rivers and Brian Bell stand out as excellent Weezer songs. I hope the next record keeps up this production style and in-band co-writing. Much of the Blue album was written by Rivers and Pat.

    My only complaint is that it is not longer. It is tight, but Endless Bummer could be another "Only in Dreams" style 6 or 7 minute masterpiece.
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  17. Apr 1, 2016
    8
    I for one am a big fan of Weezer so when this album was announced, I was excited as any Weezer fan would be. However, I did have my concerns with this album like anyone else would mainly because, as fans, we know when we hear something we don't agree with. (I don't need to bring up Raditude, do I?). But this album, I have to admit, I frankly enjoyed it. It really captures the sound andI for one am a big fan of Weezer so when this album was announced, I was excited as any Weezer fan would be. However, I did have my concerns with this album like anyone else would mainly because, as fans, we know when we hear something we don't agree with. (I don't need to bring up Raditude, do I?). But this album, I have to admit, I frankly enjoyed it. It really captures the sound and vibe of the California beach. But as much as I like it, it's no Everything Will Be Alright In The End. There are some tracks that people won't probably get on board with this release (I'm looking at you, 'Jacked Up'). But overall, I kind of like this album. It really does sound like the Weezer i'm familiar with. Expand
  18. Apr 1, 2016
    8
    While still incorporating elements from their entire catalog and mixing in a few new ideas, Weezer has finally returned to their 90's roots with The White Album. And I thought EWBAITE was good!
  19. Apr 11, 2016
    9
    Great cohesive album. California Kids, Do You Wanna Get High, King of the World, and Summer Elaine and Drunk Dori are classic Weezer, while Jacked Up is different but very refreshing.
  20. Apr 1, 2016
    10
    Return to form and classic fun. We can't expect another 90s masterpiece but you can't help but smile through this album. Guitar solos galore. Melodies that make you cry as well.
  21. Apr 10, 2016
    9
    Suprisingly cohesive and well-rounded, this album balances the pop hooks with the Weezer-cheese with the we-might-be-a-metal-band with self-loathing-is-fun (think Pinkerton on a beach sipping a pink rabbit instead of warm beer). I didn't think I'd like it more than EWBAITE (the last one), but it's growing on me, and doesn't suffer any single misstep that I'm tempted to hit "next" on. AllSuprisingly cohesive and well-rounded, this album balances the pop hooks with the Weezer-cheese with the we-might-be-a-metal-band with self-loathing-is-fun (think Pinkerton on a beach sipping a pink rabbit instead of warm beer). I didn't think I'd like it more than EWBAITE (the last one), but it's growing on me, and doesn't suffer any single misstep that I'm tempted to hit "next" on. All in all, wow. Damn, Weezer! Back at it again with the White album. Expand
  22. Jul 2, 2016
    9
    Weezer's latest self-titled album is a wonderful combination of Beach boys-esque pop and pop-rock. While some songs such as "Wind In Our Sail" and "Summer Elaine and Drunk Dori" of are by no means terrible songs, they don't do the rest of the album justice and sometimes feel like pointless additions. That said, with the track "California Kids" to start the album, the listener is hooked.Weezer's latest self-titled album is a wonderful combination of Beach boys-esque pop and pop-rock. While some songs such as "Wind In Our Sail" and "Summer Elaine and Drunk Dori" of are by no means terrible songs, they don't do the rest of the album justice and sometimes feel like pointless additions. That said, with the track "California Kids" to start the album, the listener is hooked. Halfway through the album, the Pinkerton sounding single "Do You Wanna Get High?" convinces the listener to listen to the rest of the album, and they aren't disappointed. The album's final three tracks (L.A. Girlz, Jacked Up and Endless Bummer) solidify the album as one of the band's best. L.A. Girlz, a rock anthem to the girls of Los Angeles, is arguably one of the band's best songs, regardless of album. Jacked Up is an uplifting love song and Endless Bummer closes out the album by capturing the feelings of going back to school for younger listeners and reminiscing about a summer relationship perfectly.
    Not only is "The White Album" one of the best power pop albums of the year, it's one of the band's top 5 albums ever released.
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  23. Apr 2, 2016
    10
    This is my third favorite album. There are still some small things that could make it better, but overall it is amazing. I really liked the use of the piano, and discovering that new style. Great album weezer!
  24. Apr 2, 2016
    10
    Summer Elaine leading into LA girlz is the second coming! What an album! Cannot wait until I take this album to Jamiaca next week and blast on the beach!
  25. Apr 5, 2016
    10
    A true return to form!! I think people will learn to appreciate this much more in the future, like how Pinkerton took a while to become acknowledged as a fantastic album. Fans of the Blue Album and Pinkerton will love this
  26. Apr 9, 2016
    9
    Finally a Weezer album that sounds like Weezer. Glad to see they are satisfied with being themselves again after wandering in the musical woods for a few albums.
  27. Aug 26, 2016
    8
    Like many Weezer fans, I adored and still to this day love their first two albums. Albums 3 and 4 had loads of great moments but ultimately I think the best of the material that made up "Green" and "Maladroit" should have made just the one album. While I always still listen to any new Weezer release, I gave up on them in the mid 00's when they released "Make Believe" and could count on oneLike many Weezer fans, I adored and still to this day love their first two albums. Albums 3 and 4 had loads of great moments but ultimately I think the best of the material that made up "Green" and "Maladroit" should have made just the one album. While I always still listen to any new Weezer release, I gave up on them in the mid 00's when they released "Make Believe" and could count on one hand the amount of brilliant moments they had over their next 3 or 4 albums. 2014's "Everything Will Be Alright In The End" offered some hope and was the first album in nearly a decade that I went back to several times. By the time of that albums release my expectations for a Weezer album were so drastically reduced that it was hard to know whether the band had actually made a good album or whether it simply just wasn't awful. Whatever else, "Everything Will Be Alright In The End" stoked an interest in Weezer that had been long gone. For the follow up Weezer have only gone and produced their best album in 20 years, their finest work since the legendary "Pinkerton". Boldly known as "White", weezer's 4th eponymous album is lean and toned. 10 tracks that come in at just over half an hour, every song is built around melodies rather than riffs. For what has literally been decades, Rivers Cuomo has been trying to recapture that "summer" he came across so effortlessly in the mid 90's. He's finally struck gold again. Expand
  28. Apr 4, 2016
    7
    ill be honest and say i really loved their last album more than this. this one still has to grow on me but so far girl we got a good thing is my favorite. short album, dont need to skip a track.
  29. Apr 15, 2016
    7
    This isn't anything new in 2016, but it's the best music Weezer's made since the 90s and mostly thoroughly enjoyable for any fan of this kind of music. It never feels forced, gimmicky, etc., which is a massive accomplishment considering their 2000s body of work.
  30. Apr 1, 2016
    8
    As a long time fan who has found redeeming qualities in just about every weezer album, I can't help but smile when I hear this album. They have made an album that captures the fun and innocence of summer with very upbeat, catchy tunes that will keep you listening. There is definitely some Beach Boys vibe here, but shone through a Weezer filter. I'm not going to compare this album toAs a long time fan who has found redeeming qualities in just about every weezer album, I can't help but smile when I hear this album. They have made an album that captures the fun and innocence of summer with very upbeat, catchy tunes that will keep you listening. There is definitely some Beach Boys vibe here, but shone through a Weezer filter. I'm not going to compare this album to their eponymous debut album or 'Pinkerton' , because, really, who remains the same for over 20 years? I am not waiting for the next blue album. Frankly I don't want a band to rehash themselves time and again (LOOKING AT YOU AC/DC) . And as a minor aside, Pinkerton was widely dismissed as a failure when it first came out. That was one of the reasons why Rivers went into isolation shortly thereafter. But I'm getting off point here. What I'm trying to say is that this album has enough of a great blend of pop, power, reverb, nostalgia, and 2016 Weezer in it to keep Weezer fans and maybe more than a few newbies coming back for more. Give it a listen and I'm fairly certain you won't be disappointed. While this album isn't as cynical as some previous efforts, the boys seem like they have a renewed sense of focus and, in a light hearted way, have made an album very much befitting the name, 'the white album'.  Expand
Metascore
71

Generally favorable reviews - based on 29 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 21 out of 29
  2. Negative: 1 out of 29
  1. Apr 18, 2016
    70
    While the band may never again reach the heights of their two ‘90s albums, The White Album is just as listenable as those second era albums.
  2. Apr 15, 2016
    90
    [Cuomo's] eccentricities slip out from the cracks in his carefully constructed songs. Sinclair wisely decides to accentuate all these quirks, whether they derive from Cuomo or the band's interplay, so The White Album crackles underneath its tight presentation.
  3. Magnet
    Apr 15, 2016
    10
    Weezer, the 10th album by Weezer, is about as good (or bad, your call) as Weezer, several measures worse than Weezer, and a once-you-hear-it, you'll-never-unhear-it skid mark on the shorts of Weezer. [No. 130, p.51]