Before writing reviews myself I believed the role of the critic was to just be honest, which is a simple definition of the critics role, but now I believe there is so much more to it than that. The role of the critic is to be honest yes, but in a way that makes their audience trust them. In this sense it is important that the critic be personal and bring his or her own voice to the review. Everyone has their own take on the hot new movie, book, album, restaurant, or live performance. It’s important to say exactly how we feel, because without that honesty we lose our integrity as reviewers.

            I also think that it is important that reviewers make sure to look at the context of what they are reviewing. This means making sure to do research. Who produced the content being reviewed, and why did they decide to make it? Why is this content important? How does it fit into the social and political on-goings of our world? By doing this the reviewer will have an even easier time of finding their voice, and making sure that they actually connect with audiences. The more you connect with audiences, the more they will come back to your reviews, and the more they will trust you.

            Lastly, I have learned that as a reviewer it is important to try everything. Stepping out of your comfort zone as a reviewer is what will make you a great and credible reviewer. It’s important to listen to music you wouldn’t normally, but to go into it with an open mind, not thinking that you will immediately dislike it. I think the best reviews are the ones that surprise you, because those will spark a passion in you to get others to give something a chance as well.