On Reviews

The definition of reviews has been muddled lately. Some people mistake paid promotions or product introductions for reviews, which they are definitely not. A review is an independent and critical evaluation of something.

Reviews are subjective by nature, especially in music. Because, unlike a product like a smartphone with many objective features to judge, music ultimately appeals to our emotions—no matter how objective aspects like the artist’s instrumental skills or production quality fare.

With that said, in today’s climate, negative reviews seem to be a dying breed. When tech YouTuber Marques Brownlee took down Fisker’s latest car or the AI-driven products by Rabbit and Humane, there was a certain amount of outrage. People seriously asked: Did his reviews kill these companies?

Honest Opinion

In music, hype drowns out criticism. But can a review destroy an artist’s career? No, not anymore and definitely not by a small blog like Negative White. But—and that’s crucial—it can sting the artist’s feelings. And with a rise in stan culture, critics subject themselves to a considerable amount of harassment as well.

Nevertheless, I will give you my own opinion independently and truthfully and argue it the best I can. You might agree with it or not; both are fine and valid.

However, my reviews are never intended as a personal attack on the artists themselves, even though I fully acknowledge that music is deeply personal to them, too.

The Rating System

My reviews come with a rating of 1 to 5 stars. It’s nowhere near scientific, but take this guide as an explanation and interpretation:

• 1 Star: Avoid at all costs
• 2 Stars: Would not recommend
• 3 Stars: A bit of a mixed bag
• 4 Stars: Worthy of your time
• 5 Stars: A wholehearted recommendation

While I might have advanced access to certain albums and EPs, some need even more time to grow. A review captures the reception at a point in time. Taste evolves; some albums initially loathed might grow, and others fall from grace.

Maybe I will have to revisit some of the works after a while and give you an updated critique.

Positivity & Local Artists

With all that said, there is so much music out there, and I only have a limited amount of time. For January alone, I received more than 15 advanced album promotions that crave attention. So, I suspect I‘d rather spend the time with albums I‘ll rate higher.

Again, I will prioritise reviews of local Swiss artists’ works over international ones. Exploring and recommending local music is part of our responsibility as a Swiss publication.