How to Write an Album Review

People depend on reviews for everything from movies to music. Album reviews are the first important step in an artist earning a good reputation for the album and increasing its sales, especially if the artist is relatively unknown. Writing an album review is simple, but solid writing and grammar skills are required.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Writing an Album Review

1. Play the album from beginning to end. Listen to its overall sound. What appeals to you and makes it unique? What lyrics stand out?

2. Take a 10-minute break and listen through the album a second time again. This time study it more technically and try to find its problems, if any. Take notes on a scratch pad. Jot down certain lyrics that you really enjoy or make note of certain instruments that really make the tracks come alive. Circle any personal favorite tracks and take note of why. Make sure these notes are legible and detailed as they will serve as your guide during the review phase.

3. Type up the first draft. A basic album review format should include a brief introduction about the band, the album and the artist's style of music. After the second paragraph, you should begin to break down the album from start to finish. Explain which tracks you liked best first. Work your way to the bottom of your personal track list, where you will list off how you feel the album may falter. Conclude the review with your overall opinion and make your recommendation of whether or not the album is worth checking out.

4. Analyze the first draft, correct for grammar and spelling, and write the second, and probably final, draft. Make sure the album review is sharp, detailed and to the point. Remember that your review should include a brief introduction, your opinion of the whole album, and your recommendation of its worthiness as a purchase.

[lynnsher]

on 11/10/2009 Very helpful! Thanks...