On the first listen, it appears that Pearl Jam's second album has no songs as instantly stunning as the best songs on Ten, but after a couple of plays, Vs. reveals its strengths. Instead of copying Ten's signature clear, dark hard rock, Vs. is rawer and more open, with a number of different textures. From the pulverizing assault of "Go," "Animal," and "Leash" to the folkier, more reflective "Daughter," "Elderly Woman Behind the Counter in a Small Town," and "Indifference," Pearl Jam proves that their initial success was no fluke. Occasionally, the band falls into treacherous politically correct waters (the silly "Glorified G" and the meandering "W.M.A."), but for most of the album, Pearl Jam locks hold, and the best results are riveting. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine, All-Music Guide