User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 2238 Ratings

User score distribution:
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this album

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
  1. Aug 28, 2023
    9
    sonidos muy variados como cualquier alum de kanye , pero la versatilidad de este alum ademas de tener su mejor cancion liricalmente hablando hace que sea un clasico automaticamente
  2. Aug 19, 2023
    10
    Kanye at his modern prime, the perfect in-between of Yeezus and Donda. 30 hours an underrated masterpiece.
  3. Jul 24, 2023
    9
    It's a good album, I love the album, I think "famous" it's a really good song and others songs how "wolves" or "saint Pablo are greats songs good instrumental and a perfect album
  4. May 22, 2023
    10
    Imo the best ye album till this date, the tracks have themes, they make sense, lyrics are good, the vibe of the album is point on. The cover is crazy good. I can't desribe how good this is. Favorite song: Wolves/Ultralight Beam
  5. Apr 10, 2023
    8
    "Messy in a good way" - that sentence perfectly describes the album. Almost every track is a hard hitter. I think this album is going to stand the test of time. It is a long track list, but there are rarely any skips, and the interludes are top-notch.

    FAVORITES: Freestyle 4, FSMH pt.1, Feedback, Facts (Charlie Heat Version). 30 Hours
  6. Jan 26, 2023
    8
    集大成制作……………………凑字数凑字数凑字数凑字数凑字数凑字数凑字数凑字数凑字数凑字数凑字数凑字数凑字数凑字数凑字数凑字数凑字数凑字数凑字数凑字数凑字数
  7. Jan 9, 2023
    9
    probably shouldve retired on this album:///////////////////////////////////
  8. Oct 23, 2022
    10
    Best kanye album no cap aged like wine and it's good bro i am just filling the word limit lmao just listen to the album
  9. Oct 2, 2022
    8
    another amazing album with a messy tracklist that is done on purpose playing into the title of the album with no track sounding the same and switching style with every track there are misses though like pt. 2, freestyle 4, and highlights
  10. Sep 9, 2022
    10
    quien es kanye west?
    para el ciego, es la luz
    para el hambriento, es el pan
    para el enfermo, es la cura
    para el solitario, es el compañero
    para el triste, es la alegría
    para el prisionero, es la libertad
    para el pobre, es el tesoro
    para el deudor, es el perdón
  11. Aug 23, 2022
    9
    i love kanye but i cant cover my eyes to certain comments made by him and i say his music would be better if he didnt talk so much **** about women. anyway, he's still excellent as always. the album is wonderful.
  12. May 3, 2022
    10
    Initially, this was my least favorite Kanye album by far. But, after several listens, It's a masterpiece. One of Kanye's best albums and the best album of 2016, Blonde can eat it's heart out. I just can't quite describe why I love this album so much, you just have to hear it to get it.
  13. Apr 27, 2022
    10
    Amazing lyrics and amazing production and so heartfelt lyrics its a beautiful masterpiece.
  14. Apr 24, 2022
    10
    My personal favorite Ye album of all time. It's really important for me. What i have to say about a album with Father Stretch My Hands Pt.1, Waves, FML, No More Parties in LA, Famous? Bruh, and i need to say in especial about Real Friends. BRUH. That **** hits everytime i play. Tears and more tears. Who dislikes this album, don't have my respect.
  15. Apr 6, 2022
    8
    It’s pretty good. Lots of stand out tracks and some of Ye’s most memorable bars of all time.
  16. Mar 30, 2022
    9
    goodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgood
  17. Mar 27, 2022
    10
    The Life Of Pablo is one of ye's greatest albums and one of the best Hip Hop albums of the past decade. If you find yourself disagreeing with these statements, then please bang your head against the nearest available wall.
  18. Mar 25, 2022
    8
    would've been a 9 if it weren't for the horrible ordering of the album. this could've been one of kanye's best albums, but it feels like he took all the songs off the tracklist and threw them into a random order

    best song: saint pablo

    worst song: freestyle 4
  19. Mar 17, 2022
    10
    It feels raw and badly produced, but it is an underrated masterpiece that pictures the mind of one of the greatest genius in this planet.
  20. Mar 2, 2022
    9
    So eclectic and revolutionary. Not many people liked this album when it came out, but it grew on us as we realized he influenced the whole game with this album. From upbeat bragadocious songs like Father Stretch My Hands to sensitive songs like Wolves and Ultralight Beam, Kanye continues to raise the bar on hip-hop greatness. I must add that FML and Saint Pablo are my favorites on thisSo eclectic and revolutionary. Not many people liked this album when it came out, but it grew on us as we realized he influenced the whole game with this album. From upbeat bragadocious songs like Father Stretch My Hands to sensitive songs like Wolves and Ultralight Beam, Kanye continues to raise the bar on hip-hop greatness. I must add that FML and Saint Pablo are my favorites on this album, with the former for its melody and matter-of-fact raps and the latter for its heartfelt and honest message on how Kanye feels at this point in his life. Expand
  21. Feb 17, 2022
    10
    eu te amo eu te amo pablo eu te amo porra eu te amo pra caralho melhor album do kanye
  22. Feb 4, 2022
    7
    Na minha opinião um dos trabalhos mais marcantes da carreira do Kanye ou Ye, aqui podemos ver alguns traços do que veríamos mais para frente em Jesus is King e Donda. Corais grandiosos em algumas faixas, colaborações se encaixando perfeitamente com a vibe do álbum e instrumentais que dão arrepios marcam The Life Of Pablo.

    Meu top 5 faixas: Father Stretch My Hands pt. 1 Famous Wolves
    Na minha opinião um dos trabalhos mais marcantes da carreira do Kanye ou Ye, aqui podemos ver alguns traços do que veríamos mais para frente em Jesus is King e Donda. Corais grandiosos em algumas faixas, colaborações se encaixando perfeitamente com a vibe do álbum e instrumentais que dão arrepios marcam The Life Of Pablo.

    Meu top 5 faixas:
    Father Stretch My Hands pt. 1
    Famous
    Wolves
    Ultralight Beam
    Waves
    Expand
  23. Jan 10, 2022
    8
    Este álbum, a nivel de producción y letra es excelente.
    Si que es verdad que sobra alguna canción que otra, el reabrir el beef con Taylor Swift no fue necesario, y saber lo que le pasó después en el tour de este proyecto es algo triste.
    Aún así, un álbum muy disfrutable.
  24. Dec 25, 2021
    8
    Definitely a good piece, "The Life of Pablo" is a great example where a good producer makes the difference, you can see it clearly in the "Father Stretch My Hands" parts I and II.
  25. Dec 12, 2021
    10
    The Life of Pablo is really good, with some stand out tracks with Father Stretch my Hands and Saint Pablo that rival his older works, Kanye West once proves again that there is no one like him in the music industry.
  26. Sep 8, 2021
    9
    favorite kanye album tbh, his 2nd version is way better than the original one
  27. Sep 6, 2021
    10
    A MASTERPIECE
    Kanye has outdone himself
    and Created something Fresh and Unique
  28. Sep 3, 2021
    10
    The first album with automatic uploading DLC with some absolute bangers, although still not up to MBDTF, but what is?
  29. Aug 31, 2021
    9
    In few words, a organized mess. The album arrived great with really different songs, all good of course, the more Kanye updated the album, the better it got, must listen.
  30. Aug 31, 2021
    10
    Top 3 favorite album of all time. Album was evolving and constantly changing with songs being added after the initial roll out. Could not recommend more
  31. Aug 29, 2021
    10
    The life Of Pablo é completamente genial, a sonoridade é de um boa gosto e a forma como ele se exalta e se trata como Deus, a melhor faixa é saint Pablo e a melhor faixa com clipe é famous
  32. Aug 2, 2021
    10
    This is hands down the best album of all time in my opinion. I need to add more characters so here.
  33. Jul 26, 2021
    9
    The Life Of Pablo is the project to go to for a demonstration of Kanye's ability to blend several genres. It's such a confident mix of the themes on all of his albums with a lot of his very best songs like Ultralight Beam, Saint Pablo, FSMHP1, Wolves, Real Friends and many others, the only real miss being Freestyle 4. It was my first and go to project for new Kanye listeners because justThe Life Of Pablo is the project to go to for a demonstration of Kanye's ability to blend several genres. It's such a confident mix of the themes on all of his albums with a lot of his very best songs like Ultralight Beam, Saint Pablo, FSMHP1, Wolves, Real Friends and many others, the only real miss being Freestyle 4. It was my first and go to project for new Kanye listeners because just how consistently sonically and lyrically it is as well as some of the best instrumentals in all of hip-hop. The only thing holding this project back is it can be slightly boring in places but as a whole is a true masterpiece and holds so much respect from myself. Expand
  34. Jun 26, 2021
    8
    critics need they lives revoked for giving this a 75 lmfao this is at least an 84/100 cmon bruh
  35. Mar 30, 2021
    9
    The almost perfect album... if only Pt.2 and Freestyle 4 didn't exist... very unnecessary tracks, but not bad. It's a good album, by the way.
  36. Mar 29, 2021
    10
    this album is a 10 this album is a 10 this album is a 10 this album is a 10
  37. Mar 20, 2021
    7
    The Kanye Scrapbook: the album. You are bound to have heard a weighted negative reception of this 2016 staple in relation to his whole discography:"unfinished " "messy" "overstuffed "
    Whilst all those might be true I think they are intentional. "The Life of Pablo" is intended to be living art depicting a dynamic narcissist. It explores many themes with deep irony and contrast,eg.bleached
    The Kanye Scrapbook: the album. You are bound to have heard a weighted negative reception of this 2016 staple in relation to his whole discography:"unfinished " "messy" "overstuffed "
    Whilst all those might be true I think they are intentional. "The Life of Pablo" is intended to be living art depicting a dynamic narcissist. It explores many themes with deep irony and contrast,eg.bleached **** God's love, monogamous marital bliss and then swan dives into looking for the freakest **** out there.
    With just those examples you have enough insight to fortell how the twenty songs will go- thematically. This doesn't veer into predictability. Features ground Ye's ambitions whilst uplifting his production,probably why the best parts arrive at "ultralight beam"&"father stretch my hand ". This collaborative quality makes this album feel less like an actual album than a mixtape . Roughness is what this album does best. A reclaimed wood masterpiece. "Ultralight Beam" delivers on Ye's gospel album announcement. From the adorable slightly precocious sample of a four year old from Instagram to the dream and kanye trying to meditate on peace before kelly price grieves her circumstances alluding to her racial disposition. Chance the Rapper follows suit slyly ,simultaneously dropping one of the best verses of both his life and of a rap feature. Considering this happens in only the first song the second half lag is compensated for. The two part "father stretch my hand" arrives with the then controversial lyric about bleached **** leaving stains and what that makes him but even in surface level foolishness he ponders sexs weight and connective power.
    The auto-tune and pastor Barnett assist create a religous fervour . Family,seems to reoccur in contrast with the pitfalls of fame which interrogate his own duplicity . Production on a Kanye project is never an issue. That's one thing he's always aced. This streak isn't ended here. Graduer,gluttony, hubris and sex coulor each word. From the juxtaposition of a family portrait and an instagram models picture on the artwork to the egotistical suggestion of the title we are given a glips into the warring parts of Kanye the holy man,kanye the husband and kanye the celebrity. On the relentless "Facts" we get him at his most uncomfortable. That might not be apparent based on the lyrics claims and bragging but within this showboating he seems overwhelmed as he goes from discussing Rob then Ray J's misogynistic song about his wife. He seems as if he's trying to remind himself what this all was for. The Kendrick Lamar assist "no parties in l.a" dwells on the consequences of celebrity but the privilege it allows.
    It's understandable if this album underwhelmed fans and critics as it came after the industrial masterpiece Yeezus&black MBDTW,two records which saw a stark departure from the other, like levels on a step leading up. But now Kanye doesn't innovate with this one,not saying he doesn't experiment eg.wolves&i love kanye,but it's things he has done and honed on previous releases. This lack of a new soundscape,erratic rollout and mixtape vibe can make it seemed rushed or over thought but at this time kanye had everything:a to be successful sneaker brand,pop culture juggernaut for a wife and family&relevance. He doesn't need to prove himself like he did on previous records. This is a victory lap he's won enough Olympics to jog through and still get gold. Favourites:father stretch my hand pt1,30hrs,ultralight beam&wolves.
    Expand
  38. Nov 29, 2020
    10
    10/10

    ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
  39. Oct 9, 2020
    10
    Kanye’s best album since MBDTF, once again shows his innovation and creativity as an artist. The production and unique samples and instrumentals really make this album a home run.
  40. Aug 20, 2020
    7
    I liked the album, but IMO, it was a very inconsistent it has some of his best songs to make up for it though
  41. Jul 25, 2020
    9
    Kanye's most ambitious album in my opinion. He explored everything from his selfish thoughts, to his sins, family life, friendship. Not only that but the cultural impact is HUGE! Amazing album!
  42. Jun 8, 2020
    9
    This is the best album Kanye has made in newer times, especially when the mixing was finished. I love the duality of the man Kanye is vs the man God wants him to be. It's a great concept and is executed greatly on the album. The production and features on this thing as well are excellent. Could've done without Fade though. Favorite tracks: Ultralight Beam & Saint Pablo.
  43. Mar 25, 2020
    9
    TLOP is Kanye's experiment to make his music easy and accessible to everyone (in contrast with his Yeezus, defenitely his hardest work to listen to), and he completely succeeds in his purpose. The intro, Ultralight Beam, is probably one of the best Ye has ever made, accompained by awesome Kelly Price and Chance verses. All of the following songs (apart from Pt.2, which is one of the worseTLOP is Kanye's experiment to make his music easy and accessible to everyone (in contrast with his Yeezus, defenitely his hardest work to listen to), and he completely succeeds in his purpose. The intro, Ultralight Beam, is probably one of the best Ye has ever made, accompained by awesome Kelly Price and Chance verses. All of the following songs (apart from Pt.2, which is one of the worse songs) deliver a solid performance, fantastic instrumentals and excellent features, such as Rihanna, Kid Cudi, The Weeknd, Kendrick and Sia. Every song fells like an unique experience, matched by Kanye's fantasic lyricism and vocals. This album just proves, as if it was needed, to demonstrate how Kanye's music is just sensational, perfect in every occasion and in every mood: you goy hype tracks like NMPILA and Facts (which, by the way, was a pure genius shot at Drake and Nike), and you got chill tracks like Wolves and Real Friends. It's a pity some gems like "Frank's track" are just very short.
    Overall, this is a top 3 Kanye album and my favourite Ye's album. It's just so good to listen to.

    FAVOURITE TRACKS: Ultralight Beam, FSYH, Famous, Feedback, Highlights, Freestyle 4, Waves, FML, Real Friends, Wolves, NMPILA, Facts and Saint Pablo
    LEAST FAVOURITES: Pt.2 and Fade
    Expand
  44. Feb 13, 2020
    10
    The Life Of Pablo has, over the years, cemented its self as one of Kanye's best albums. It contains three of Kanye's best songs he's ever released in No More Parties In La, Real Friends, and Saint Pablo. The mixture of different themes and genres was done perfectly here. Kanye blends hype songs, lyrical tracks, and even a bit of gospel with this album. One of the more experimental albumsThe Life Of Pablo has, over the years, cemented its self as one of Kanye's best albums. It contains three of Kanye's best songs he's ever released in No More Parties In La, Real Friends, and Saint Pablo. The mixture of different themes and genres was done perfectly here. Kanye blends hype songs, lyrical tracks, and even a bit of gospel with this album. One of the more experimental albums in Kanye's discography, and I don't think anyone is complaining. The album is nearly perfect and is, in my opinion, Kanye West's best project to date. Expand
  45. Jan 28, 2020
    9
    Love how the album blends Kanye's different career styles of music; it's all over the place but that's the intended purpose!
  46. Dec 2, 2019
    10
    Can’t believe such laymen are giving negative reviews. This album is 10/10. The Life of Pablo is the seventh studio album by American rapper and producer Kanye West. It was released on February 14, 2016, through GOOD Music and distributed by Def Jam Recordings.
  47. Oct 29, 2019
    9
    One of my favorite albums from Kanye. T.L.O.P. is packed with bangers that have solid production and lyrics. I like the idea of the album being a living and breathing artwork. Definitely a must-listen.
  48. Oct 27, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Melhor álbum dele, as músicas e tudo os v1adinhos da bc charts que espumem a vontade, kanye west artista e nem adianta chorar Expand
  49. Oct 25, 2019
    7
    Pretty good I guess Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
  50. Oct 2, 2019
    8
    It's pretty good. Kanye is an amazing artist and this is a great album to help introduce yourself to him
  51. Sep 18, 2019
    9
    Kenye W. The best rapper and producer, like always give us a album amazing and fantastic, like a bird flying...
  52. Aug 17, 2019
    8
    Super Underrated.

    Best Tracks: Ultralight Beam, Real Friends, Waves, FML, Famous, Wolves, Feedback, Fade, Pt.2., Saint Pablo, No More Parties in LA.
    Worst Tracks: 30 Hours, Facts
  53. Aug 9, 2019
    8
    Similar to Tyler, the Creator's "Flower Boy", the album's first half is amazing, featuring stand-out tracks like "Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 1", "Famous", and especially "Waves" and "Ultralight Beam". The biggest gripe I have is how, again like Flower Boy, the ending is really weak. "Saint Pablo" seems like a track that'd play in the middle of the album. As a result, this album has aSimilar to Tyler, the Creator's "Flower Boy", the album's first half is amazing, featuring stand-out tracks like "Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 1", "Famous", and especially "Waves" and "Ultralight Beam". The biggest gripe I have is how, again like Flower Boy, the ending is really weak. "Saint Pablo" seems like a track that'd play in the middle of the album. As a result, this album has a rather abrupt ending. Overall, this album is definitely worth a listen for those who like a "cinematic" album. Expand
  54. Jul 28, 2019
    8
    The album is messy, not cohesive, random, seems cobbled together at points... still, somehow, it is an enriching experience to listen to, especially over time. It really has aged well and is a weirdly terrific mash up of alter musical egos of 'Ye. It might be a not cohesive and flawed album, but Kanye's musical genius still makes it an album that is so easy to go back to. Given theThe album is messy, not cohesive, random, seems cobbled together at points... still, somehow, it is an enriching experience to listen to, especially over time. It really has aged well and is a weirdly terrific mash up of alter musical egos of 'Ye. It might be a not cohesive and flawed album, but Kanye's musical genius still makes it an album that is so easy to go back to. Given the tracklist is long, it doesn't really drag at all, so the sheer amount of quality tracks is enough to bump it's rating. Strong 7 to Light 8. Expand
  55. Jul 6, 2019
    9
    9/10-----------------------------------------------------------------------
  56. Jun 25, 2019
    10
    the more you listen... the better it gets. such a masterpiece, it ages like wine.
    perfect.
  57. May 6, 2019
    10
    This is such a underrated album. Its a album people will appreciate 20 years from now. Its just sonically pleasing.
  58. Apr 25, 2019
    10
    This is one of Kanye's most underrated albums of all time. It hard to keep a 20+ track album consisently good tracks on it. But Kanye does that with this album.
  59. Dec 21, 2018
    8
    Kanye put on a single album all that he lived in good years for his fans, and it was not a commercial album but to see what he was going through. It may take a while to accept, but it's his best album and he can have many partnerships, but all of them, and with surprising productions and compositions. Flawless rhythms.
  60. Jul 8, 2018
    10
    Kanye at his most vulnerable while also at his most manic and egotistical resulting in a storm of emotional perfection.
  61. Mar 25, 2018
    9
    A bounce back to the Kanye West you are expecting to hear. TLoP is a really good album that can be argued as one of his best works

    1. Ultralight Beam - A+ 2. Father Stretch My Hands, Pt. 1 - A 3. Pt. 2 - A+ 4. Famous - A- 5. Feedback - B+ 6. Low Lights - B 7. Highlights - B+ 8. Freestyle 4 - B 9. I Love Kanye - A 10. Waves - A 11. FML - B+ 12. Real Friends - A- 13. Wolves -
    A bounce back to the Kanye West you are expecting to hear. TLoP is a really good album that can be argued as one of his best works

    1. Ultralight Beam - A+
    2. Father Stretch My Hands, Pt. 1 - A
    3. Pt. 2 - A+
    4. Famous - A-
    5. Feedback - B+
    6. Low Lights - B
    7. Highlights - B+
    8. Freestyle 4 - B
    9. I Love Kanye - A
    10. Waves - A
    11. FML - B+
    12. Real Friends - A-
    13. Wolves - A+
    14. Frank's Track
    15. Siiiiiiilver Surffffeeeeer Intermission
    16. 30 Hours - B
    17. No More Parties In LA - A
    18. Facts (Charlie Heat Version) - B
    19. Fade - A
    20. Saint Pablo - B
    Expand
  62. Feb 24, 2018
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This album is unlike any other album that Kanye West has ever done. However, what West has always continue to do is influence the rap genre to a great extent. The Life of Pablo is not perfect. In fact, the album was not even completely thought out on its initial release, but what goes over peoples heads the most is WHY this album is brash, emotional, and strangely "Hollywood". Most people would tell you the cover art is nonsensical and pointless. I agree the album cover is absurd and very off compared to other cover arts. An orange background, two images randomly placed, and a continuous text of the album's title. However, the images of a black wedding, and a supermodel standing on the rooftop inside the urban area are intentionally parallel to the question in the cover: "WHICH ONE?" This question perfectly fits the theme of this inconsistent album. From switching to beautiful black gospel sound that calls out the almighty power of the Lord, to the extravagant "going-out" tunes that you'd be used to hearing when thinking of a place like the Hollywood Hills where all the stars live out their baller lives. Kanye is weighing his options between what is typically seen as the good and evil, and his temptation to keep going big and collide with the media sometimes overshadow his heritage. The sounds of the album matches these two very well when they need to. It is not a full intention of what Kanye thinks of Taylor Swift or his haters, but rather what runs in his mind thanks to his new privileges.

    The collaborations in the album are well-fitted, especially with Chance on Ultralight Beam. While Pt. 2 first came off to me as an unnecessary sample track, it was a great way of transitioning to Kanye's present-day life and struggles. There is a few instances where the lyrics go nowhere, however, and it kind of distorts the feel of the tracks, but it is a good follow-up the optimistic and in-your-face lines of Yeezus. The production, as usual in a Kanye album, is dynamic. Fade, Father Stretch my Hands Pt. 1, No More Parties in LA, and especially Wolves. Overall, this album does take time to get used to, but it should come to nobody's surprise that Kanye West plays the role of Kanye West.

    Kanye knows he may never make the albums that mirror the charm of The College Dropout and Graduation, but in the words of Kanye himself: "This is fame bro!"
    Expand
  63. Feb 1, 2018
    9
    this album really improved since it was realised kanye did a lot of changes that turn this album from being kinda mediocore to a great album and one of the best 2016 albums
  64. Nov 24, 2017
    7
    Yeezy himself comes back with 'The Life of Pablo' after a 3 year hiatus and the return is... interesting. 'Yeezus' was an experimental album that a lot of people liked (myself included) and a lot of people disliked. In a lot of ways, TLOP is experimental and doesn't know what it is at time. However, as lone songs this album is incredible - Ultralight Beams is, I would say, Kanyes bestYeezy himself comes back with 'The Life of Pablo' after a 3 year hiatus and the return is... interesting. 'Yeezus' was an experimental album that a lot of people liked (myself included) and a lot of people disliked. In a lot of ways, TLOP is experimental and doesn't know what it is at time. However, as lone songs this album is incredible - Ultralight Beams is, I would say, Kanyes best produced song he's ever made and the gospel feeling is beautiful. TLOP overall is a solid album but it might be difficult for new comers to Kanye to like.1 Expand
  65. Oct 15, 2017
    8
    8/10 - Kanye's most recent album, The Life of Pablo, is a testimony to how Kanye manages to stay relevant in the Hip Hop culture whilst experimenting with different sounds and pioneering a different direction of producing and rapping. The Life of Pablo shows significance amongst Kanye's previous albums with the more extended use of religious vocals and lyrics. The production on this album8/10 - Kanye's most recent album, The Life of Pablo, is a testimony to how Kanye manages to stay relevant in the Hip Hop culture whilst experimenting with different sounds and pioneering a different direction of producing and rapping. The Life of Pablo shows significance amongst Kanye's previous albums with the more extended use of religious vocals and lyrics. The production on this album is what really shines as he works with Metro Boomin and Mike Dean to create a very unique sound that exerts a high degree of spiritual emotion, adding to the religious imagery used in this album. In general, the album sounds good and shows that Kanye is still pioneering music and taking different perspectives of Hip Hop in general. Most of Kanye's albums, whether one likes them or not, are finely crafted and are of very good quality. However, some songs in this album almost give me a sensation of "That's it?" Most of the tracks on this album deliver well to the bar Kanye has set in his previous album, however my opinion on the album has degraded because it feels almost rushed and unfinished for many of the tracks. I have seen this on many other occasions, however this scenario is not quite as bad as for the most part the album was still received well and displays a number of phenomenal tracks that will stand the test of time. Favorite track: Father Stretch my Hands Pt.. 1 Expand
  66. Oct 2, 2017
    7
    68/100. I really like the first half of the album, but the second half got me kinda bored. The production is amazing, almost as good as the 2010 My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. But the lyrics are weak and lazy for me. A good album, but not really a fire one.
  67. Jul 18, 2017
    7
    good album............................................................................................................................................................
  68. Jul 7, 2017
    8
    Despite being Kanye's messiest album to date, its still better then most other albums that gets put out these days. The album include some of his best songs but also some of his worst, even though his worst songs still are pretty good.
  69. Jun 19, 2017
    9
    I liked this better than Yeezus. Great sampling choices assure catchy beats and every song has a lot of Kanye's original ideas. Cameos are on point too. Lot of stuff to enjoy here.
  70. Jun 16, 2017
    7
    his best album yet and most raw and intelligent. However a few slips in production may have made this album just a little better

    Best Song(s):
    Waves
    FML
    Wolves
    Famous
    Ultralight Beam

    Worst Song(s):
    Saint Pablo
  71. Apr 19, 2017
    9
    Following Yeezus, Kanye's instrumental descent into madness (in a good way), he once again reinvents his sound, this time providing more accessible production for his listeners. This album is fractured, schizophrenic, and very much in-your face, as the album opens with an orchestral rap/gospel mesh with Ultralight Beam, then transitions into the two-part trap banger that is Father StretchFollowing Yeezus, Kanye's instrumental descent into madness (in a good way), he once again reinvents his sound, this time providing more accessible production for his listeners. This album is fractured, schizophrenic, and very much in-your face, as the album opens with an orchestral rap/gospel mesh with Ultralight Beam, then transitions into the two-part trap banger that is Father Stretch My Hands. Now, of course, this was very much Kanye's intention. He most definitely aims to create parallels with himself and Pablo Picasso on this album, and I personally feel that he nails it. Picasso's pieces go from jaw-droppingly beautiful to downright terrifying, and this album does the same, with Waves representing the former and Freestyle 4 the latter. I'm personally not a fan of gospel, as I feel the majority of the genre is too repetitive, but Kanye manages to meld hip-hop and gospel into a beautiful coexistence. For songs like Ultralight Beam, Low Lights etc., the emotion and joy expressed in these tracks are so vivid that they'll even have an atheist putting their hands to the sky. Per the usual, Kanye's unequivocal ego returns once again on this album in full force; cuts like the eternally controversial Famous and Highlights showcase Kanye at his most confident, the kind of ego that's only possible after ruling the musical stratosphere since 2004. Expand
  72. Apr 16, 2017
    9
    Have so much to say about this Album... every time Kanye puts something out, I feel like it is his take on something (e.g. yeezus with more sonic/harsh tones, 808's & Heartbreaks with more autotune somber synth singing, etc.). While this album is a take on his life and experiences with a lot of things (hence the name The Life of Pablo). While people will say this piece "is all over theHave so much to say about this Album... every time Kanye puts something out, I feel like it is his take on something (e.g. yeezus with more sonic/harsh tones, 808's & Heartbreaks with more autotune somber synth singing, etc.). While this album is a take on his life and experiences with a lot of things (hence the name The Life of Pablo). While people will say this piece "is all over the place stylistically", I think he meant for it to be like that, much like his life. There's upbeat jubilant moments like Highlights, then there's more introspective moments about the trials and tribulations of life like FML. I personally find this album extremely relatable. Kanye never ceases to bring something new and different to the table. It may not always be welcomed at first, but it always grabs everyone's attention and Certainly changes the music game. Expand
  73. Apr 16, 2017
    7
    Perhaps Kanye's most hyped album ever, this project is scatty, catchy and shamelessly unorganised. However the messiness of this album offers an insight into its creator's mind-set, and in doing so Kanye creates a hugely personal album in which he exposes many signs of weakness throughout. The album is religiously influenced, particularly the incredible 'Ultralight Beam' and this album hasPerhaps Kanye's most hyped album ever, this project is scatty, catchy and shamelessly unorganised. However the messiness of this album offers an insight into its creator's mind-set, and in doing so Kanye creates a hugely personal album in which he exposes many signs of weakness throughout. The album is religiously influenced, particularly the incredible 'Ultralight Beam' and this album has a lot of interesting content to offer despite its lyrical drawbacks. TLOP's downfall is in its choppy transitions between tracks and several outrageously bad lines. This album is easily Kanye's worst project to date, however still a solid piece of hip-hop with many positives to it. Expand
  74. Apr 6, 2017
    7
    Kanye has once again proven himself to be a dominant force in the hip hop scene. Pristine flow and production that will take back to the early days of hip hop. Not his best as I will say it is a little lengthy but still a fun listen.
  75. Mar 11, 2017
    7
    We rarely get an album with this many collaboration it's almost like Kanye was like I want an album for everyone, and he does this very well there's a song for everyone, Father Stretch My Hands Pt, 2 and No More Parties In LA are bangers, there are songs like Ultralight Beam and Waves, and then there's Famous. The only issue I have is that there is no story or end goal to this album butWe rarely get an album with this many collaboration it's almost like Kanye was like I want an album for everyone, and he does this very well there's a song for everyone, Father Stretch My Hands Pt, 2 and No More Parties In LA are bangers, there are songs like Ultralight Beam and Waves, and then there's Famous. The only issue I have is that there is no story or end goal to this album but instead it's just a bunch of singles. Expand
  76. Feb 23, 2017
    7
    Okay, this is not as bad as many people suggested me. I heard MBDTF and was pleased with it, although I find his debut and sophomore album way better. I liked 808s, but Yeezus was just a continuation of the sound with a tinge of brashness (which was the reason why I didn't like it, not because of the lyrics or the instrumentals or anything like that). Then came TLOP, and I was quiteOkay, this is not as bad as many people suggested me. I heard MBDTF and was pleased with it, although I find his debut and sophomore album way better. I liked 808s, but Yeezus was just a continuation of the sound with a tinge of brashness (which was the reason why I didn't like it, not because of the lyrics or the instrumentals or anything like that). Then came TLOP, and I was quite impressed that Kanye didn't make it as underwhelming as Yeezus. The whole album is like a compilation album of everything Kanye has done, except with new material. Therer's glossy produced tracks like Famous, then there's gospel-influenced tracks like Ultralight Beam, and what more! I love the messy, kaleidoscopic, Tumblr-like aesthetic. However, sometimes the album goes down in quality with tracks like Highlights, Freestyle 4, and Fade (I didn't mention Facts because that beat is impressive), However, it regains its momentum back with more better produced tracks like Ultralight Beam, Famous, Feedback, FML, Real Friends, Wolves, No More Parties In LA, and Saint Pablo. There are underwhelming cuts such as Father Stretch My Hands (even though that beat drop is insane), Waves, and 30 Hours (punchlines on point though). it's a mixed bag. A mixed bag is something I hate, but Kanye makes the term seem a bit more positive. This is not a Pitchfork 9, nor a Rolling Stone 9. This is just an album with the highs being very high and the lows being very low. The highs are more, so it's a 7.2/10 for me. Expand
  77. Feb 16, 2017
    9
    Unlike the razor-sharp Yeezus, The Life of Pablo is more of a collage. Relaxed songs give way into the classic angry rapping that Yeezus was acclaimed for. The Life of Pablo also has a much more gospel feel to it.
  78. Nov 29, 2016
    8
    Kanye puts together a chopped soul & gospel mixtape of sorts with help from lots of rappers he **** with, even Max B. He keeps the sound very patchwork sounding and minimalistic. Favorite songs Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 1, Feedback, Waves, and Fade
  79. Oct 22, 2016
    10
    amazing album he really did a great job with lyrics and production.wow
    i cantw wait for the next album because i know it will be even better yassssssss
  80. Sep 28, 2016
    9
    Really great album, it's experimental but in a good way, the album starts with Ultralight Beam, the song that gives it a flavor of gospel, then comes Father Strectch My Hands, which sets the experimental trap-ish/old kanye-ish tone only negative thing about this project are the sometimes unnecessary trap snares that dont fit into some songs
  81. Sep 7, 2016
    10
    Easily my favourite album of his! Took a while to get used to it & the way it was released was annoying as I don't subscribe to TIDAL/Spotify so I had to find each up date on PB but 100% worth it once I got it. Every track is good with the excpetion of Pt. 2 (Panda is annoying asf).
  82. Aug 24, 2016
    10
    In all honestly, TLOP is (so far) my favourite album of 2016. Musically, the range of sounds is extremely compelling, the lyrics of songs such as Real Friends (the best song on the album, in my opinion) are extremely real and deep yet other songs such as I Love Kanye are extremely entertaining and humorous. This balance makes for a great listening experience. However, songs such asIn all honestly, TLOP is (so far) my favourite album of 2016. Musically, the range of sounds is extremely compelling, the lyrics of songs such as Real Friends (the best song on the album, in my opinion) are extremely real and deep yet other songs such as I Love Kanye are extremely entertaining and humorous. This balance makes for a great listening experience. However, songs such as Siiiiiiiiilver Surffffeeeeer Intermission seem unnecessary and are skippable however this does not make the album any less entertaining and pleasing to the ears. Expand
  83. Aug 15, 2016
    9
    The more you listen to this album and understand the themes of it, the more you'll like it. This project takes a very unusual approach for Kanye music, but it definitely gets the job done. This album is a huge step-up from Yeezus and Cruel Summer.
  84. Aug 9, 2016
    8
    8.5
    zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
  85. Jul 28, 2016
    9
    In what state must a person be to make an album like this. Messy, disjointed, provocative, sometimes cheap, rarely disappointing, always mad. Always genius..
  86. Jun 29, 2016
    8
    A very nice album which is quite impressive but not upto Kanye West's level. Anyway, it spunds great. "Ultralight Beam" is very emotional and soulful song. "Famous" is a gem. These both tracks are the highlight of the album.
    Favourite tracks - Famous, Ultralight Beam
  87. Jun 16, 2016
    9
    New Review: 86/100.

    With the addition of "Saint Pablo", this dynamic album changes again, and for the better. Really an overall listenable album, where almost every song is playable and memorable for everyone who cares to listen.
  88. May 31, 2016
    10
    This is one of the best albums ever by Kanye, an extremely divergent and weird masterpiece that has a lot of gospel in it and a controversial reference to Taylor Swift but is a really magnificent album! Promise! This album will go down in history as one of the best rap albums ever!
  89. May 20, 2016
    8
    The Life of Pablo is 19 tracks of pure off-the-wall entertainment. Whether I was getting into the songs like Ultralight Beam and Real Friends, or your laughing at some of the funniest lines in rap history, this album will stick. I found myself constantly disgusted with what I was hearing, but also totally loving it at the same time. There are the cringe-worthy songs, such as, Feedback,The Life of Pablo is 19 tracks of pure off-the-wall entertainment. Whether I was getting into the songs like Ultralight Beam and Real Friends, or your laughing at some of the funniest lines in rap history, this album will stick. I found myself constantly disgusted with what I was hearing, but also totally loving it at the same time. There are the cringe-worthy songs, such as, Feedback, Facts, etc. There are bangers like, Pt. 2, Fade, Waves. And then, somehow, Kanye finds room on this album for real, emotional songs, like Real Friends, Wolves and No More Parties in LA. This is the most confusing album I've ever heard. There is never a complete thought, and I can't tell if that is this album's bright-spot or its downfall.

    Fave songs: Ultralight Beam, Father Stretch my Hands Pt. 1, Highlights, Wolves and Fade.

    Least: Feedback, Pt. 2 and 30 hours.

    76/100
    Expand
  90. May 18, 2016
    10
    one of the best albums ever recorded. Kanye is a genius.
    I invented Kanye
    There wasn't any Kanyes
    And now I look and look around
    And there's so many Kanyes
  91. May 13, 2016
    7
    t.l.o.p. is an amazing album! it's better than drake's album but worse than zayn's and beyonce's ;p waves is my biggest jam! Kanye is one of the most talented rappers.
  92. May 8, 2016
    10
    yes yes yes yes yes yes yes ye ye ye ye ye ye ye ye ye ye yes yes yes yes yes. GOAT album I do not care what y'all say. goat goat goat goat goat G.O.A.T GOAT
  93. May 7, 2016
    8
    After finally hearing TLOP when it began streaming in places other than TIDAL I was pretty okay with it but it definitely wasn't album of the year material. However, for weeks afterwards I found myself with about half of the album on repeat in my head. There's an intoxicating mood of ego, spirituality, and hip-hop to the music that JUST might stick in my head for the rest of the year.
  94. May 1, 2016
    8
    I like Kanye West, and the album is pretty good, but It's far from a "808s & Heartbreak", his best project. It's a excelent album but I think he rushed the release and not complete as it should.
  95. Apr 29, 2016
    7
    This is not his best work as it had weak moments, the production was strong but the lyrics were sloppy and worst than Yeezus. Way too many features on this, thought it was his weakest album to date.
  96. Apr 25, 2016
    9
    Kanye West has never disappointed me with his work. The Life Of Pablo is a Masterpiece but it is one of my least favorite Kanye albums (which is not a bad thing at all). I was expecting a better album than Twisted Fantasy but i was somewhat disappointed on that the album felt like it was unfinished and rushed but still the album is a gem.
  97. Apr 23, 2016
    7
    A perfectly acceptable album from Hip-Hop's most controversial figure, The Life of Pablo comes forward with a few fantastic songs, a handful of good, a handful of bad and a couple terrible tracks. Not much more to say that hasn't been said already.

    It's good, not great, and that's OK. Much better than Yeezus, but still nowhere close to My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy or any other
    A perfectly acceptable album from Hip-Hop's most controversial figure, The Life of Pablo comes forward with a few fantastic songs, a handful of good, a handful of bad and a couple terrible tracks. Not much more to say that hasn't been said already.

    It's good, not great, and that's OK. Much better than Yeezus, but still nowhere close to My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy or any other classic Kanye record.
    Expand
  98. Apr 10, 2016
    8
    The album was well made even though it contained 3 fillers. But even those fillers had meaning to them. This album is definitely not as good as MBDTF but it has a few bangers and it displays West's emotion well. His choice for featuring artists was good, too.
  99. Apr 10, 2016
    7
    there are a couple of good songs but not enough of them it make it his best album. It tells a lot that i don't think its a great Kanye album but an amazing general album.
  100. Apr 9, 2016
    10
    Not his best, but still a very solid album by one of the greatest to ever do it. I liked it a lot, very different, very original, very Kanye. It's Kanye pushing the boundaries once, Kanye has made The Life Of Pablo a living breathing thing. It's fascinating.
Metascore
75

Generally favorable reviews - based on 35 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 24 out of 35
  2. Negative: 0 out of 35
  1. Apr 6, 2016
    55
    There is plenty here to suggest that West's magic has not entirely left him, but as a statement of art or true intent, this is a significant misstep from an artist with so much to praise.
  2. 60
    There is much to be admired here, rather less to be enjoyed.
  3. Uncut
    Mar 22, 2016
    70
    For better or worse, no-one else is making records quite like this. [May 2016, p.82]