Blonde
by Frank Ocean
User Score
8.9

Universal acclaim- based on 1322 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,213 out of 1322
  2. Mixed: 30 out of 1322
  3. Negative: 79 out of 1322

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  1. Fnn
    Jun 5, 2020
    10
    ........................................................................................................................yeh
  2. Camzah
    Jul 18, 2020
    10
    WOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!! Frank, my boy, where’s the new album?!

    My favorite is Ivy, the emotional weight on that song is so heavy, damnnnn.
  3. Carsonk15
    Jul 28, 2020
    10
    Stfu this is the only 10 in the 21st century and Ik that yk that’s the truth
  4. jxnasbxtterill
    Jul 30, 2020
    10
    frank ocean’s blonde is a passionate, nuanced, and stylistically dynamic masterpiece that depicts the emotional velocity of unsureness, heartbreak, and much more.
  5. BryanFisherman
    Aug 4, 2020
    10
    Me estoy planteando el hacerme un tatuaje sobre Blonde junto con Channel Orange, sinceramente Frank cambió mi vida y a día de hoy lo considero el mejor artista del mundo.
  6. Slightyhastyent
    Oct 24, 2020
    10
    Has withstood the test of time and is/ will remain one of the best albums ever released in recent memory. The amount of emotion and production packed into this thing is unbelievable.
  7. Phuc2002
    Nov 9, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. one word......Beautiful.I love this album more than myself. Wish i could listen to it for the first time… Expand
  8. Hendo250
    Mar 29, 2021
    10
    this album is a 10 this album is a 10 this album is a 10 this album is a 10
  9. proreview0
    Apr 18, 2021
    10
    Madness makes me cri every time. Self Control was so angelic! Blonde is a m a z i n g. It grows on you.
  10. gesusgrande
    May 22, 2021
    10
    one of the greatest albums of all time, a true masterpiece and MY favorite album
  11. leumassregor
    Mar 5, 2023
    10
    This album is special. Each and every song on here has a meaning behind it.

    The production on here is extremely unique and different, and definitely takes some extra listening to get used to. The vocals on here by Frank Ocean are perfect. You can hear the emotion and sadness in his voice. Frank's vocals in White Ferrari, Seigfried, and Godspeed always make me tear up a bit.
  12. Hem9nt
    Sep 15, 2021
    10
    Listening to this album in the comfort of your bed before going to sleep is the best gift you can give to yourself. ITS A MASTERPIECE. I feel like Frank collected all the sweetest melodies in the world and put it in this album.
  13. kolbert
    Aug 29, 2021
    10
    Do you want to drift off into a completely different world, but don't know how to do it? Turn on "Blonde" and it happens. What can I say. It's recently been 5 years since its release. Almost every night I listen to "Nights" to calm down, but also to "Self Control" to reflect on life.
  14. BigDJohnWick
    Aug 31, 2021
    10
    Blonde has insanely good singing from Frank, the drumless songs are super good, when there are drummy beats, it also hits, production overall is really good with soft and gentle instruments, that goes really well with Frank's voice, which just stuns me, a must listen!
  15. SyreSam
    Sep 6, 2021
    10
    Blonde is one of the greatest Pop album ever made. Frank Ocean is easily > The Weeknd. This album saved a generation.
  16. keezus
    Oct 26, 2021
    10
    So beautiful. Not your generic sad pop album, the beats are so luscious and futuristic that I just love every aspect of the album. Incredible.
  17. Fidelito
    Nov 21, 2021
    10
    Es Blonde de Frank Ocean, que mas quieres???

    Its Blonde by Frank Ocean, can u ask for more???
  18. Lucky_the1
    Sep 26, 2022
    10
    since the first time I heard this, my perception of music has changed
    and I never cried so hard
  19. CordRafael
    Feb 17, 2022
    10
    adoro tenho depressao e me deixa muito triste amo essa sensaçao so qro deixar no perfil so qro deixar no perfil
  20. Joffnatic
    Jan 12, 2023
    10
    This album is timeless. Absolute perfection. Literally changed my life. 10 out of 10
  21. TheProHero
    Aug 31, 2022
    10
    After his release of the audiovisual album, Frank shows us part of his story in personal experiences, relationships, breakups and duality.
    The album consists of 2 halves, day and night are divided exactly 30 minutes into the album, it is difficult to explain the whole background in a few lines, we see a lot of his personal life reflected in these tracks
    Musically it is quite an    After his release of the audiovisual album, Frank shows us part of his story in personal experiences, relationships, breakups and duality.
    The album consists of 2 halves, day and night are divided exactly 30 minutes into the album, it is difficult to explain the whole background in a few lines, we see a lot of his personal life reflected in these tracks
    Musically it is quite an experience, it is a journey of emotions in which you will surely be identified in more than one song, we will accompany Frank throughout the journey of this album from start to finish.
    Do not wait any longer to listen to it, take your ears at night, lie down, turn up the volume and enjoy one of the best albums of the decade. 10/10
    Recommendation, take a handkerchief to dry your tears.    … Expand
  22. daniflag
    Aug 20, 2022
    10
    perfect album, its sounds good for an album like this. Frank is so smart and reunite the perfect tracks to make a project
  23. Gosh_reiners938
    Jan 19, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I will admit I did not appreciate this album at first listen I didn't care for it overall even though there was some great songs. The second time I heard this I even liked it more but still felt something was missing. I recently went back again to it again for a third time and this time absolutely loved it except for Facebook story and good guy but those aren't even songs really so it's fine. I would say the futura free last 4 minutes are a bit boring but if only 6 minutes of the album is bad I'll take it. This is one of the best albums of alltime, is it better than Channel orange though? It's different that's for sure this album is more consistent. I am sure when frank drops an album again he won't disappoint he has 3 classics in my opinion and I'm including the mixtape. Check out if you want to go on a Emotional Rollercoaster… Expand
  24. leogarcia132002
    Mar 15, 2023
    10
    Blonde is the perfect album in every way, melancholic, narrative, deep and with a production that connects with its fans.
  25. padduck7
    Nov 29, 2022
    10
    The only saddest thing about this album is that I listened to it before Channel Orange. The best album of our time.
  26. Blonisco
    Jan 26, 2023
    10
    FrankOcean made the best one of albums of 10s,which changed my view of music.
  27. WESAUS
    Aug 26, 2016
    9
    Following an album as good as channel Orange is no easy task. and I'm usually a little suspicious when an album receives so many positive reviews. But I must say Ocean pulled it off beautifully. Stripped down and simple but yet every bit as ambitious as channel Orange. Pink + White is as good as it gets... a driving beat, acoustic guitars, piano, beautiful background vocals...great production
  28. jasonsalley
    Sep 2, 2016
    9
    Great art isn't always immediate, in fact, it often isn't. This album takes time to sink in, revealing itself slowly over repeated listens. Like a couple other high profile releases this year, (Life of Pablo, and A Moon Shaped Pool) this album has a distinctly fractured quality, yet is meticulously crafted and tightly packed with beautiful moments. There are quick, seeminglyGreat art isn't always immediate, in fact, it often isn't. This album takes time to sink in, revealing itself slowly over repeated listens. Like a couple other high profile releases this year, (Life of Pablo, and A Moon Shaped Pool) this album has a distinctly fractured quality, yet is meticulously crafted and tightly packed with beautiful moments. There are quick, seemingly insignificant bits of the album that stick with you. "16, how was I supposed to know anything?" (White Ferrari) Parts, you have to scour the whole album for because you can't remember what track it was.

    This very well could end up being the best album released this year. Some songs are instant classics, "Solo", "Ivy" and "Self-Control" rival anything on Channel Orange.    … Expand
  29. RadioheadLuv17
    Aug 22, 2016
    9
    Blonde is subtle and odd compared to its accessible predecessor, and while it may not reach the legendary highs of Channel Orange, its minimal and organic approach to pop songwriting makes for an experience that transcends the immediacy of the genre it inhabits- particularly on album highlights Solo and White Ferrari.
  30. Cypher_ATL
    Aug 31, 2016
    9
    The long wait played out perfectly for everyone that awaited this release. I can say that this is his masterpiece, and I believe that this will go down as one of the modern-day greats. The cohesiveness and quality that Frank gives us is so satisfying that I'm glad we waited this long for it. The album starts out kind of on a bump with "Nikes", I wasn't a big fan with the song the firstThe long wait played out perfectly for everyone that awaited this release. I can say that this is his masterpiece, and I believe that this will go down as one of the modern-day greats. The cohesiveness and quality that Frank gives us is so satisfying that I'm glad we waited this long for it. The album starts out kind of on a bump with "Nikes", I wasn't a big fan with the song the first time listening to it, and I'm still not completely sold on it. Although it doesn't start particularly great, right after it comes one of the best runs of songs that I've heard in a while. From the chilling "Ivy" to the grandiose "Futura Free", we get almost near perfection in song crafting that I just want to shake Mr. Ocean's hand for a job well-done. The creativity and the diverse topics that he touches on shows a more mature state of Frank, and I'm glad that we've arrived at that stage in his career. He uses many different sounds and structures that make you want to fall in love with it instantly if you're a music fan in general. The production is top-notch, and the songwriting is impeccable. We saw a lot of the same praise in "channel ORANGE", but I believe that the instrumentation and cohesiveness is slightly better than his predecessor. Along with the structure, I believe that the more mature themes and sounds also give this project an advantage over his last album. I believe that fans of very solid works of musical projects will fall in love with this like I did, and I am very pleased with what Frank gave us in the end. The wait was completely and utterly worth it, and I believe that "Blonde" will age like a fine wine.… Expand
  31. Eniall8or
    Aug 27, 2016
    9
    Frequently heartbreakingly beautiful and showcasing constant lyrical strength,this album is very different from Channel Orange in many ways but is equally as impressive and Frank shows a maturity in his songwriting on this record.Ivy and Self Control are the most emotional and instantly likeable tracks on the album but it is in the less immediate tracks such as Siegfried and White FerrariFrequently heartbreakingly beautiful and showcasing constant lyrical strength,this album is very different from Channel Orange in many ways but is equally as impressive and Frank shows a maturity in his songwriting on this record.Ivy and Self Control are the most emotional and instantly likeable tracks on the album but it is in the less immediate tracks such as Siegfried and White Ferrari where we see a real maturity in his song writing.… Expand
  32. Reagan0
    Dec 16, 2016
    9
    The album answers the hiatus-long question: How do you top Channel Orange? The answer: By stripping the production back and laying on the sentiment. I wish I could go full Robert Christgau and just post a couple words instead of 150 character minimums, but instead I'll just leave with this: IIIII WILL ALLLLLLWAYYYYS LUUUUUUUUV YOUUUUUUU
  33. kingbdun
    Aug 22, 2016
    9
    After four years of waiting, anyone hell bent on hearing a "Channel Orange Part 2" album will most likely be disappointed. An collection of mostly completely original music that relies on subtle, smooth alternative production with a healthy mix of rapping and beautiful vocals is the result of this long wait. While deceptively simple at first, repeated listens will unearth a gold mine ofAfter four years of waiting, anyone hell bent on hearing a "Channel Orange Part 2" album will most likely be disappointed. An collection of mostly completely original music that relies on subtle, smooth alternative production with a healthy mix of rapping and beautiful vocals is the result of this long wait. While deceptively simple at first, repeated listens will unearth a gold mine of emotions and lyrics that are Frank's most dense yet. Another album that is as fully in love with summer as Nostalgia, Ultra and Channel Orange, except with a different blend of temperature and sunshine.

    9.0/10    … Expand
  34. edd_gosbender
    Aug 22, 2016
    9
    Well, Mr. Ocean lives up the hype and his sophomore effort Blonde is a stunning achievement in every way. His growth as an artist is becoming more evident and this time there's a more intimate sound that accompanies powerful, personal lyrics. Definitely one of the best albums of 2016.
  35. bruhnocosta
    Aug 23, 2016
    9
    Frank Ocean shows to the world because he is the best of today. Blonde is a masterpiece of modern music. Beyoncé take care. Frank can drink your lemonade.
  36. MyPointOfView
    Aug 24, 2016
    9
    Even though the skits had no real meaning and the end of futura free was also unnecessary, Frank delivers strongly and tries to step through boundaries, switching his sound unpredictably and without much effort. Although a big part of the part seems simple, it is complex simplicity and simply perfectly timed as well as balanced. A very good album overall
  37. MarkScandi
    Aug 26, 2016
    9
    This is one of the best albums of this year and Frank has done really good job. Maybe I have found 1-2 songs which I don't like, but i think I need to listen them again. Well done, like always.
  38. rwessmyer
    Apr 16, 2017
    9
    Frank Ocean is the **** man. You would think that the amount of hype and impatience he substantiated would hinder the ability for people to see this album through a clear, unbiased light. False. he **** murdered this album in the most soft, expressive, Frank Ocean way possible. You all know the rest of the details. This album kills.
  39. fifi3
    Jul 28, 2019
    9
    Blonde, despite being only 3 years old, is already clearly classic. It's a one-off in terms of style, with innovation to the max. There's a level of artistic integrity in Frank that is endearing, as he never sacrifices his sound at all and it willing to experiment in all sorts of ambience, R&B, pop, hip hop and technically genreless music. The lack of drums is a startling, strange yetBlonde, despite being only 3 years old, is already clearly classic. It's a one-off in terms of style, with innovation to the max. There's a level of artistic integrity in Frank that is endearing, as he never sacrifices his sound at all and it willing to experiment in all sorts of ambience, R&B, pop, hip hop and technically genreless music. The lack of drums is a startling, strange yet oddly incredible backbone to the album's palette - the irony of taking out music's classical backbone giving Frank room to manipulate his vocals, harmonize and fill the air with incredible music. It is also lyrically and emotionally dense, so it's not just ear candy, but substantive. This is a music legend at the peak of his powers and listening to it is an absolute treat.… Expand
  40. BlownSpeakers
    Jun 21, 2017
    9
    In the four years since Frank Ocean’s Channel Orange, the lines between hip and hop and R&B have continued to blur- Rappers are “singing” (Auto-tune, sigh) while contemporary R&B artists are opting for a more thuggish delivery. Ocean’s newest release, Blonde, is content to further obscure our perception of a genre with an unexpected emphasis on surreal synth chords, lush guitar strumming,In the four years since Frank Ocean’s Channel Orange, the lines between hip and hop and R&B have continued to blur- Rappers are “singing” (Auto-tune, sigh) while contemporary R&B artists are opting for a more thuggish delivery. Ocean’s newest release, Blonde, is content to further obscure our perception of a genre with an unexpected emphasis on surreal synth chords, lush guitar strumming, and echoed vocals.

    The setting of these tracks is an intimate one, but not in the typical sense of sounding “live”- with its stream of conscious lyrics, and dreamlike echo of vocals, it’s as if the listener is swimming through Ocean’s thoughts. In contrast to the narrative structure of Channel Orange, tracks like “Pink and White” find Ocean collecting fading memories from past relationships, and assorting them into cryptic collages. He is more forward on “Ivy” when he exclaims, “I thought I was dreaming when you said you loved me;” the accompanying guitar bubbles and pops, conveying this moment of wonder.

    The floaty nature of these reflective love songs is grounded by the more soulful, gospel numbers of the album. Whereas the hopeful tone of “Godspeed” follows its somber organ play, “Solo” juxtaposes this instrumentation with eccentric lyrics about drug use, with Ocean singing from several different perspectives. Whether he’s singing as himself, a crackhead, or just a guy trying to get by, the rock-bottom-desperation in Ocean’s voice is impossible to escape as preaches, “Inhale, inhale, that’s heaven."

    Structurally, Blonde is scattered- songs can be quick to switch tones, go off on tangents, or drift into unexpected bridges. “Nights” seems more conventional on this nearly percussion-less album, with its ticking hi-hats and crisp backbeat, but glitches out in the verse as it interchanges stop-go guitars with what seems to be sampled xylophone(??). Ocean is more aggressive here as he raps the frustrations of man seeking solitude from the “every night **** every day **** A brief moment of escape is sonically conveyed by an abrupt switch, in the last third of the track, to a tranquil atmosphere, where wandering piano follows Ocean’s contemplative mood.

    Blonde plays like passing daydreams, ones that seamlessly slip in and out of consciousness on long car rides. Like Radiohead’s latest release, A Moon Shaped Pool, this album isn’t something you can pop on and listen to at any given time. The most rewarding listens are experienced in a reflective state, or while slightly distracted (working on a project, reading, taking a shower, drinking a cup of coffee with friends). For the hardcore fans that find themselves constantly annotating lyrics online, I leave you with some lines from “Seigfried” that’ve been cycling around in my head for about a week now-

    Dreaming a thought that could dream about a thought

    That could think of the dream that thought

    That could think of dreaming and getting a glimmer of God

    I be dreaming a dream in a thought

    That could dream about a thought

    That could think of dreaming a dream    … Expand
  41. PUTPUT
    Jun 25, 2019
    9
    From the calm relaxing pink + white to the emotional white Ferrari you will be consumed by this album from tack to track. From songs like Ivey which is one of my all time favorites to nights I’ll will never get old of it
  42. Henf25
    Jul 13, 2019
    9
    Frank Ocean presents an extremely raw and emotional contemporary r&b album with Blonde. Full of memorable songs, lyrics, and messages, Blonde makes for a great album to listen to alone in your room.
  43. cbogert4
    Nov 18, 2019
    9
    Blonde will go down as one of the best RnB albums of all time. Between the harmonies shown in White Ferarri, the beautiful guitar in Seigfried, and of course the masterpiece of Nights, This album is a staple in musical history. While flawed at times, Frank Ocean's Blonde deserves all of the praise it gets.
  44. Sinews
    Apr 10, 2020
    9
    Well this sort of up and became one of the greatest albums of all time out of nowhere.

    Not like it could be considered too much of a surprise, given how much hype Frank Ocean had built for himself after his masterful Channel Orange, an album which took a new approach to ideas in way that neither relished nor offended the legacy of artists that preceded his sound. It wasn't just new and    Well this sort of up and became one of the greatest albums of all time out of nowhere.

    Not like it could be considered too much of a surprise, given how much hype Frank Ocean had built for himself after his masterful Channel Orange, an album which took a new approach to ideas in way that neither relished nor offended the legacy of artists that preceded his sound. It wasn't just new and funky and arty, it was catchy and enjoyable. And so it came to be in just one album that a Frank Ocean release was a sure thing, in much the same way as Kendrick Lamar, Radiohead, or pre-Yeezus Kanye West.

    Almost none of that is true for blonde, a pop album that tries its hardest not to be one. Its translucent, syrup-thick production drowns out anything that even remotely resembling conventional melody. For almost any other album, this would be a complaint or source of derision, but like the aforementioned example of Radiohead, taking the weird route was the same thing as taking the smart route. The hypnotic, trance-like production of blonde gives it the feeling of a therapeutic retreat only not so weepy and heavy-handed. From this primordial sonic soup comes the occasional cry of sincere and palpable emotion and feeling that punctures the eardrum, but not as swiftly as it punctures the soul.    … Expand
  45. voxluxangels
    May 30, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A perfect album from Frank Ocean. There's so many great things in this record, from the production to writing to themes.… Expand
  46. gracerosew
    Jun 22, 2020
    9
    Frank Ocean had always been a dark horse in music, but Blonde solidified Ocean's status as one of the core innovators of modern R&B. Frank once again shows his songwriting prowess, powerful narrative story-telling, interesting and inventive production - flaunting his musical magic from start to finish. Ocean deserves high praise for such a cohesive and dynamic body of work. Blonde remainsFrank Ocean had always been a dark horse in music, but Blonde solidified Ocean's status as one of the core innovators of modern R&B. Frank once again shows his songwriting prowess, powerful narrative story-telling, interesting and inventive production - flaunting his musical magic from start to finish. Ocean deserves high praise for such a cohesive and dynamic body of work. Blonde remains a shining example of the benefits of not sacrificing artistic integrity.… Expand
  47. weeb122
    Dec 21, 2020
    9
    Absolutely amazing album. My favourite from Frank Ocean so far.

    Favourite Tracks: Godspeed, Solo, Solo (Reprise), Nikes, Ivy.

    Least Favourite Tracks: The Skits.
  48. chickensusu
    Feb 24, 2021
    9
    im not gay but this is v good 9/10
    im not gay but this is v good 9/10
    im not gay but this is v good 9/10
  49. Alfredoplov
    Mar 21, 2021
    9
    The album is simply magnificent it’s beautiful melodies and anthems make this a wonderful listening experience. An album like blonde which explores childhood, love, adolescence, normal everyday life and more with this and the way it’s put together it makes it extremely easy to digest and hard at the same time. I absolutely love this album and hope you did too.
  50. kiggo
    Aug 31, 2021
    9
    Frank Ocean termina haciendo que el álbum se perciba como un monólogo o una conversación uno a uno con el propio Frank debido a los temas que llega a tocar y la manera en que los toca. De la mano de un sonido mellow, drums suaves (cuando son usados) y una voz que te engancha desde la primera escuchada, el álbum te adentra a una atmósfera llena de nostalgia que se siente a una noche deFrank Ocean termina haciendo que el álbum se perciba como un monólogo o una conversación uno a uno con el propio Frank debido a los temas que llega a tocar y la manera en que los toca. De la mano de un sonido mellow, drums suaves (cuando son usados) y una voz que te engancha desde la primera escuchada, el álbum te adentra a una atmósfera llena de nostalgia que se siente a una noche de verano con el corazón roto, y aunque los interludios se vuelven tediosos de escuchar después de un tiempo, tienen una razón para estar ahí, ayudan a que Blonde se sienta completo y con identidad.… Expand
  51. veljko_
    Jan 9, 2022
    9
    first half: minimalist / second half: experimental, the album in one word: nostalgic. some skits and the last track weren't necessary

    best tracks: White Ferrari and Self Control
    worst tracks: Futura Free or Close To You

    rating: 9.3
  52. ANGELOO22
    Feb 15, 2022
    9
    Já sabemos da capacidade de interpretação de Frank Ocean. A maneira única na qual o artista dá vida a cada nota é o que o diferencia dos demais artistas de sua geração.
    Profundo, harmônico e genial, três adjetivos que exemplificam Blonde. Talvez o projeto mais aclamado pelo público e com todos os méritos, um álbum que transita de uma forma espetacular por todas as faixas.
    É animador    Já sabemos da capacidade de interpretação de Frank Ocean. A maneira única na qual o artista dá vida a cada nota é o que o diferencia dos demais artistas de sua geração.
    Profundo, harmônico e genial, três adjetivos que exemplificam Blonde. Talvez o projeto mais aclamado pelo público e com todos os méritos, um álbum que transita de uma forma espetacular por todas as faixas.
    É animador pensar que Frank segue seus próprios passos, sem medo de arriscar, sem medo de errar, e é isso que faz com que ele seja um dos artistas mais geniais da última década.

    Meu top 5 faixas:
    Nikes
    Godspeed
    Nights
    Pink + white
    Seigfried    … Expand
  53. JonBon
    Jan 9, 2023
    9
    sounds are cool and very emotion!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  54. somaontv
    Jul 21, 2023
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Wow after listening to it for the first time given i already know half of the songs on the album it was a whole different experience i didn't really get the message he was trying to convey i liked the Nostalgia theme that was going on throughout the album favorite track Seigfried foreverrr… Expand
  55. Rubaoo
    Aug 18, 2023
    9
    It is a solid album, it is not lost or even diminished in its magnitude, it manages to be at a high level during the 17 songs that make up its tracklist
  56. kennfusion
    Aug 23, 2016
    8
    I had never heard of Frank Ocean until this was suddenly on the front page of Reddit the other day. so I checked it out. Glad I did. The highlights for me are Self Control and White Ferrari, but there are a lot of really good tracks here.
  57. thebluedevil20
    Aug 23, 2016
    8
    I think a big problem for me was a got too hyped for the album during the buildup and just waiting for more material. I wanted some faster paced songs and a few catchy hooks, but in a vacuum it's a good album.
  58. proterospongia
    Sep 7, 2016
    8
    We don't know which ways Frank took to get to Blonde, but for sure, there wasn't a easy one. Blonde is a fortress made of Ocean's flesh and bone, where he exposes every single bruise of every corner of his soul.

    Best Tracks: Ivy; Solo; Nights.
  59. diegonelli
    Sep 13, 2016
    8
    It's a very good album, it's very sticky, the production is 11/10 and I don't usually enjoy this music genre that much. I started hearing his music just for curiosity and I got caught!
  60. Hinaria
    Sep 6, 2016
    8
    After the first time through I was left with goosebumps and in shock . After the second time through I was left feeling wonder and joy, and after the third, forth,fifth, and sixth times through I was left Blonde. Blond (for fans of Frank) is the culmination of years of patience,frustration,anxiety, and forgiveness. Forgiveness for what? Forgiveness for the wait. This album is a tripAfter the first time through I was left with goosebumps and in shock . After the second time through I was left feeling wonder and joy, and after the third, forth,fifth, and sixth times through I was left Blonde. Blond (for fans of Frank) is the culmination of years of patience,frustration,anxiety, and forgiveness. Forgiveness for what? Forgiveness for the wait. This album is a trip through dreamy landscapes, White Ferraris', and Quaaludes, with some love and sex sprinkled in. From the first song "Nikes" where Frank pitched up his voice about three octaves to the final masterpiece of the album "Futura Free" Blonde leaks out hit after hit after hit.… Expand
  61. SergioV
    Aug 30, 2016
    8
    80/100.

    This album really slows you down and lets you experience it all. The best songs are "Nikes", "Ivy", "Pink + White", Nights" and "Futura Free".
  62. suis
    Dec 12, 2016
    8
    This album is far one of the best of the new R&B scenario. The vocals of Ocean are very relaxing to the ears, he literally have the voice of an angel; there's nothing to complain about this. The songs and the lyrics are full with deep feelings and good vibes; since the intro song "Nikes", I was introduced to the very rest of the album; "Ivy" is one of the best tracks in the record, theThis album is far one of the best of the new R&B scenario. The vocals of Ocean are very relaxing to the ears, he literally have the voice of an angel; there's nothing to complain about this. The songs and the lyrics are full with deep feelings and good vibes; since the intro song "Nikes", I was introduced to the very rest of the album; "Ivy" is one of the best tracks in the record, the melodies are just heartwarming... "Solo" and "White Ferrari" are also high points of the record, same with "Pink + White" and "Nights", these are the songs that will stick into your head. The spoken tracks like "Be Yourself" and "Facebook Story" really helps to set the mood. Different from most artists these days, Ocean knows how to sing with emotion. Though it has to be said that the album is not impeccable as it looks. Some tracks are just easy to forget — maybe because of the astonishing beauty of the memorable ones —, but still, I would rather consider them as underrated, since the lyrics are very pleasant. Particularly, I am not a fan of the genre itself, but I must say that "Blonde" was one of the most beautiful records of this year.… Expand
  63. tommy1607
    Apr 16, 2017
    8
    This album had an unbelievable amount of hype considering Frank's absence for several years. An amount of hype that I feel made this album almost impossible to live up to expectations, and indeed it is by no means a classic, career defining album for Frank. The album is very stripped back, placing the emphasis on Frank's vocals which are stellar throughout. However I feel that a fewThis album had an unbelievable amount of hype considering Frank's absence for several years. An amount of hype that I feel made this album almost impossible to live up to expectations, and indeed it is by no means a classic, career defining album for Frank. The album is very stripped back, placing the emphasis on Frank's vocals which are stellar throughout. However I feel that a few features would have helped to break up the project, past collaborations with Earl Sweatshirt as well as Kanye West have all been hugely successful and there was a distinct lack of hip-hop influence on this album besides the amazing Andre 3000 track. The opening track, 'Nikes' is stunning and an atmospheric song that feels like a acid fuelled journey through Frank's mind. It is certain that Frank is an artist more than just a singer and the video that accompanied this song is also fantastic. 'Ivy' is another highlight along with 'Self Control' which features some of Frank's best vocals on the album. The back end of the album is thought provoking and poetic, 'Siegfried' is a hugely emotional song the songs following it add an extra layer of lyrical depth to the album. However the final track is pretentiously long and uninteresting. Overall, Frank has created a fantastic album that narrowly edged Channel Orange, however it is not the classic album that I and many others hoped for.… Expand
  64. FruitJuice
    Jul 18, 2017
    8
    great album............................................................................................................................................................
  65. Adark
    Feb 25, 2022
    8
    This type of production is usually not my style, but after a few tries I realized there is something really unique and personal about this work. The writing and vocals really touched me, and the production also worked for me after a few tries. I don't sure about some skits like "close to you" or "good guy", but the massive potential this album has is incredible. Nikes is one of the mostThis type of production is usually not my style, but after a few tries I realized there is something really unique and personal about this work. The writing and vocals really touched me, and the production also worked for me after a few tries. I don't sure about some skits like "close to you" or "good guy", but the massive potential this album has is incredible. Nikes is one of the most experimental songs I've ever heard. One of the best storytelling albums I've ever heard. Glad I listened to this kind of music, and it will always have a place in my heart.… Expand
  66. JamesJennings
    May 2, 2022
    8
    For some reason, I didn't get much enjoyment from this album at first. And while i still prefer Frank's 2012 project Channel Orange, This album grew on me a lot. If you find yourself unsure about this album at first, listen to nights one more time. That's what made me realize the genius of this project.
  67. creativecrope
    Aug 7, 2022
    8
    Awesome, had so many fillers which did add to the album a LOT but they were kinda ehh boring
  68. TimW001
    Dec 26, 2016
    7
    Pink + White, Solo, Nights, White Ferrari re all brilliant songs. The rest of the album ranges from okay to annoying. A lot of chipmunk voices and odd interludes. The album has great song and some brilliant movements but is mostly inconsistent. Worth a listen because some of these songs are great. As an overall album it's okay.
  69. jrnorth
    Sep 26, 2016
    7
    Pretty good album overall. It seems a little experimental compared to his old stuff. The lyrics are much more personal but a lot of the music doesn't really settle on a really catchy beat.
  70. ultimatemusic
    Jun 6, 2017
    7
    So what with the whole visual album too, I believe this adds to that effect of the art of emotion and life. Frank single-handedly puts together an album for life everytime he composes and writes one. Ok, chart wise, it’s not amazing, but we’re missing the point that Frank does this for the people, and not particularly for the money, and I honestly do believe that he will be remembered forSo what with the whole visual album too, I believe this adds to that effect of the art of emotion and life. Frank single-handedly puts together an album for life everytime he composes and writes one. Ok, chart wise, it’s not amazing, but we’re missing the point that Frank does this for the people, and not particularly for the money, and I honestly do believe that he will be remembered for his honesty and raw emoton in his music for decades to come. I can see Frank Ocean being mentioned for years and years, for giving so much to music, in which we don’t see much of anymore.… Expand
  71. Atum_
    Jun 8, 2020
    7
    Frankly (pun intended) this is a good album, I just feel like it pales in comparison to nostalgia, ULTRA and channel ORANGE. It's just not my cup of tea with emotional ballads like this without drums. There are definetly still some fantastic songs on here, but I don't like the pitching up of his vocals on Nikes and some other tracks. That ruined Nikes for me unfortunately. That being said,Frankly (pun intended) this is a good album, I just feel like it pales in comparison to nostalgia, ULTRA and channel ORANGE. It's just not my cup of tea with emotional ballads like this without drums. There are definetly still some fantastic songs on here, but I don't like the pitching up of his vocals on Nikes and some other tracks. That ruined Nikes for me unfortunately. That being said, my favorite tracks are Ivy and Godspeed… Expand
  72. chidime
    Aug 24, 2016
    6
    First three songs on the album are reallly good. Especially Pink+White. After those three the album starts to drag and drag, giving me the impression that there isnt much more to it. Then, bamm, the drum break on Pretty Sweet comes and hits me smack on the face. That was a lesson in epicness. It drags on for a little bit and then picks up with about the last 3/4 songs. All-in-all, whatFirst three songs on the album are reallly good. Especially Pink+White. After those three the album starts to drag and drag, giving me the impression that there isnt much more to it. Then, bamm, the drum break on Pretty Sweet comes and hits me smack on the face. That was a lesson in epicness. It drags on for a little bit and then picks up with about the last 3/4 songs. All-in-all, what this album desperately needs is some drums. It shines best when there are some sort of drums/instrumentation. I don't think I'll be listening to this a second time in it's entirety, as that's a bit painful to me, but some songs do shine.
    Best: Pink+White, Pretty Sweet (just for that drum break), Nikes
    Worst: Solo Reprise, others range from tolerable to ok.
    6/10    … Expand
  73. joethealien
    Oct 6, 2017
    6
    Frank Ocean released his iconic debut album, Channel Orange, in summer 2012, and it became a pop classic very quickly with it's collection of superb and innovative alt-R&B bangers and power ballads. Frank had already proven his potential with the way in advance, timeless single Thinkin Bout You, which will be on wedding and coffeeshop playlists for years to come (I mean this in the mostFrank Ocean released his iconic debut album, Channel Orange, in summer 2012, and it became a pop classic very quickly with it's collection of superb and innovative alt-R&B bangers and power ballads. Frank had already proven his potential with the way in advance, timeless single Thinkin Bout You, which will be on wedding and coffeeshop playlists for years to come (I mean this in the most complimentary way I promise), as well of course as the moving Beyoncé ballad I Miss You. I remember just about half of my senior year class singing Forrest Gump passionately to the sky in the final days of our high school careers.

    to be blunt, Frank hits an unfortunate sophomore slump with Blonde. there are remnants of his deep emotional warmth in tracks such as the Beyoncé assisted Pink + White, the surf-rock inspired Ivy and the sweet and simple Skyline To. what I don't understand is that all of Ocean's most splendidly penned songs have been located on others' records. Bey's Superpower, Kanye's New Slaves to name a few. Blonde unfortunately doesn't continue the mark of excellence placed onto American pop culture that Channel Orange graciously gifted us. instead Frank's voice and songwriting quickly becomes grating and tiring with the unsettling squeals of Self Control and the obnoxious Pretty Sweet, which goes nowhere melodically. by no means is Frank Ocean a bad songwriter, in fact I still believe he has massive potential, but Blonde does little in terms of advancing him in the pop music zeitgeist.    … Expand
  74. andressolis
    Oct 26, 2016
    6
    Too much praise for just "another album" on the market. His sounds in Blonde aren't as unique as the concept of "channelORANGE". Having such a good debut album raises the bar for a much better sophomore one. He gave us an album that was expected, but didn't amuse on being alternative or different.
  75. alanstrang
    Apr 23, 2021
    6
    A decent R&B album. I am having difficulties understanding how it could be considered one of the best (according to Pitchfork the best) albums of the 2010s.
  76. Jammy
    May 7, 2017
    5
    Having put off listening to Blond until the hype died down, I'm disappointed by this mixed bag of tracks. There are some highlights courtesy of Pink + White and Nights, and Frank's vocals are undoubtedly beautiful. But for every solid song, there are a handful of duds.
    Throughout Blond there are moments crying out to be capitalised upon, flickers of genius that Frank and company let slip    Having put off listening to Blond until the hype died down, I'm disappointed by this mixed bag of tracks. There are some highlights courtesy of Pink + White and Nights, and Frank's vocals are undoubtedly beautiful. But for every solid song, there are a handful of duds.
    Throughout Blond there are moments crying out to be capitalised upon, flickers of genius that Frank and company let slip through their fingers in favour of meandering into something new, like a kid with ADHD uncomfortable with letting a moment linger long enough to be memorable or moving. Unintentionally hilarious chipmunk vocals, odd production choices and needless interludes pepper the album, too. Nobody wants to be the ghost at the feast, but a few delicious morsels on top of a bland salad doesn't make a feast.
    Although Frank is a talented r'n'b crooner with far more depth than many of his peers (see: The Weeknd), Blond is a weak album. However, his potential to create something truly special remains.
    Score: 5/10 [Average]    … Expand
  77. Gasphunter
    Aug 31, 2016
    4
    There is something I am not getting here. This is music? Where are songs like Novocain or Swim Good??This feels like a long boring monologue. SOLO yo! 4 points for what I am not getting.
  78. TerribleCoin9
    Jan 10, 2022
    2
    How could you possibly say this is the greatest album of all time and it doesn't feature a single drum beat of any kind? Overrated
  79. longjetty7
    Dec 5, 2016
    1
    I'm legitimately baffled at how this is getting such good reviews. To me, this is just another album in an annoying trend of pretentious minimalist R&B/soul albums with 17+ tracks and a handful of minute long spoken word excursions that add nothing of value. There really aren't any songs on here, just a bunch of meandering and rambling. I was really hoping I would enjoy this album afterI'm legitimately baffled at how this is getting such good reviews. To me, this is just another album in an annoying trend of pretentious minimalist R&B/soul albums with 17+ tracks and a handful of minute long spoken word excursions that add nothing of value. There really aren't any songs on here, just a bunch of meandering and rambling. I was really hoping I would enjoy this album after seeing the awesome reviews, but I am utterly confused how anyone can enjoy this mess.… Expand
  80. BustaDimes
    Mar 16, 2022
    1
    If i have to be quite Frank... this album doesn't deserve the cult Ocean's narcissisitc / obssessed fans have for it. "Channel Orange"'s production was way more compelling and well-structured. His songwriting is more pretentious than emotional. The annoying vocal editing on the tracks mostly take away the only thing that could make this record less dreadful, Frank's voice. Don't try toIf i have to be quite Frank... this album doesn't deserve the cult Ocean's narcissisitc / obssessed fans have for it. "Channel Orange"'s production was way more compelling and well-structured. His songwriting is more pretentious than emotional. The annoying vocal editing on the tracks mostly take away the only thing that could make this record less dreadful, Frank's voice. Don't try to justify "Ivy" and "Nikes" vocal editing saying that it's "artisitic", it just sounds f*cking terrible, as simply as that is. "Pink + White" might as well be prescribed as an alternative choice to sleeping pills. Where the production was supposed to come out as psychedelic, it came out as noisey, and where it was supposed to be soothing, it's sleepy.

    Frank Ocean this time succeeded in one thing though: staying away from easy listening music. The problem is that these songs are not an easy-listen because of how much they're unpleasant to listen to.

    6 years have passed and the dude has not made a follow up yet. And this album makes me not sad about it at all. Frank Ocean stans, I'm sorry. Sorry, for the realness    … Expand
  81. IBlackout
    Aug 28, 2016
    0
    Compared to other great albums released this year, I seriously don't find this one impressive. I tried listening it in full many times, but I simply can't.
  82. FinestDeity
    Sep 10, 2016
    0
    I'm trying to understand what he was aiming for with this album. When I listen to it I feel as though I'm on a bad emotional acid trip. There's not a single song on the album that makes sense to me. Every song is slow, his voice is distorted for most of the tracks, and it gives a feeling of being intoxicated. It's unfortunate that we've waited so long for this. I guess that goes to showI'm trying to understand what he was aiming for with this album. When I listen to it I feel as though I'm on a bad emotional acid trip. There's not a single song on the album that makes sense to me. Every song is slow, his voice is distorted for most of the tracks, and it gives a feeling of being intoxicated. It's unfortunate that we've waited so long for this. I guess that goes to show you can't rush art.… Expand
  83. Rakala
    Oct 21, 2016
    0
    There is something I am not getting here. This is music? Where are songs like Novocain or Swim Good??This feels like a long boring monologue. SOLO yo! 4 points for what I am not getting.
  84. SsidddD
    Jan 8, 2023
    0
    A very wavy produced simple piece of love, loss, heartbreak. It is like feeling summer and cold at the same time. Those simple tunes give the most complex emotions to somebody who is either with/not with or moving on from you. Its different and relatable for everyone. Man named an album "Boys don't cry" and then not just boys everybody cried. No way to hate this bruh Love ain't funny.....
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Awards & Rankings

14
#14 Best Album of 2016
10
#10 Most Discussed Album of 2016
14
#14 Most Shared Album of 2016

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
87

Universal acclaim - based on 38 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 37 out of 38
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 38
  3. Negative: 0 out of 38
  1. The Wire
    Nov 8, 2016
    80
    The sum is Ocean’s most thorough reading of his world to date. [Oct 2016, p.65]
  2. Magnet
    Oct 18, 2016
    90
    This is an album of mostly beatless soul whose heart nevertheless pumps vividly and loudly throughout its 17 tracks. [No. 136, p.61]
  3. American Songwriter
    Oct 5, 2016
    80
    This is music that fascinates on first listen but requires multiple spins for its complexities and idiosyncrasies to take hold.
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