Out of all of
Madonna's albums,
Like a Prayer is her most explicit attempt at a major artistic statement. Even though it is apparent that she is trying to make a "serious" album, the kaleidoscopic variety of pop styles on
Like a Prayer is quite dazzling. Ranging from the deep funk of "Express Yourself" and "Keep It Together" to the haunting "Oh Father" and "Like a Prayer,"
Madonna displays a commanding sense of songcraft, making this her best and most consistent album. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine