The Life Of Pablo
by Kanye West
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 2238 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,797 out of 2238
  2. Mixed: 179 out of 2238
  3. Negative: 262 out of 2238
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  1. richie7886
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Pure masterpiece, the revival and reinvention of the soul sound. Its what we have all been waiting for and certainly did not disappoint . Those that do not recognize the genius of this album, are once again judging the character of the man and not the substance of his work.
  2. Jgirello
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Sonics of this album are amazing. A beautiful combination of elements from all of his previous 6 solo albums. One of his best works up with Twisted Fantasy.
  3. petepabz
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Kanye, you did it again fam! Shine them ultra light beams on the haters! Can't wait to hear some of these tunes bang out at the club. And the guardian should give its head a shake for that review. embarrassing
  4. MinorityOpinion
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Kanye West once again proves that there is no sound out there like him. And just as controversial as he is of a person this album will be controversial. This album is definitely more sound 'friendly' compare to his previous album Yeezus, but what makes this album great is not the 'friendliness'. What makes it stand out is the fact that in a span of 58 mins and 2 seconds Kanye West showsKanye West once again proves that there is no sound out there like him. And just as controversial as he is of a person this album will be controversial. This album is definitely more sound 'friendly' compare to his previous album Yeezus, but what makes this album great is not the 'friendliness'. What makes it stand out is the fact that in a span of 58 mins and 2 seconds Kanye West shows you his entire personality spectrum. From soulful Kanye "Ultralight Beam" to controversial Kanye "Famous" to Funny Kanye "I Love Kanye" and so on. This album seems more of an autobiography of his personalities than an album, but that is the beauty of it all. Kanye shows us once again that not only is he unique artist but that also his visions and ideas are ever changing. Production is masterful, lyrics are non apologetic (as should they be since he is an artist and should express himself) and Kanye West is at his Kanye Best.… Expand
  5. skouarki
    Feb 16, 2016
    8
    Kanye West produced some really good songs included in this album. I don't think it is as good as the classic "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy" who will probably remain the real album of his life. "Real Friends" and "Ultralight Beam" are real masterpiece.
  6. katyperryasg
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Man, he did it again. This time much broader sound with TLOP.
    This is not brand new, but contains very best part of each of his last release.
    And it is certainly a grower. If you didn't like it, give it another chance.
  7. zdot
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Fantastic album, disjunction shows the struggles we face in everyday life between good and evil, pride and temptation. Production is life-changing.Top 3 Kanye albums.
  8. ma_xx
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Amazing tracks from front to back, especially "Ultralight Beam", "30 Hours", "Fade", "FML", "Real Friends" and "No More Parties in LA." Overall amazing album, very polished. Sounds like a cross of College Dropout and Yeezus Ye'.
  9. nwtconner
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Absolute masterpiece. there is no denying Kanye is the greatest musician in 2016 and this album is nothing short of everything we have come to expect from this genius
  10. KTTvinny
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    The Life of Pablo is confusing, erratic, yet beautiful. We get soul sample Kanye, we get egotistical Kanye, we get wild Kanye, we get introspective Kanye, we get autotune Kanye. It seems as if every standout aspect off Kanye's previous 6 albums can be found somewhere on TLOP. Although it is by far his least cohesive project, maybe thats the point. Kanye doesn't need to define a new lane inThe Life of Pablo is confusing, erratic, yet beautiful. We get soul sample Kanye, we get egotistical Kanye, we get wild Kanye, we get introspective Kanye, we get autotune Kanye. It seems as if every standout aspect off Kanye's previous 6 albums can be found somewhere on TLOP. Although it is by far his least cohesive project, maybe thats the point. Kanye doesn't need to define a new lane in music anymore, for once he's just putting out an album as a collection of great songs instead of fitting everything into a certain aesthetic. That being said, these songs are great. Kanye delivers with bars, his melodies are 808s level, the production is fantastic, and the features all seem perfectly in place. I could do without the 3 skits however there's no complaining about a Kanye album with 18 tracks. 10/10… Expand
  11. silvas006
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Incredible experience listening to this album. Kanye is on a whole nother level bringing a fresh new sound to the world of hiphop. We are blessed to live in an era where Kanye is delivering his music to the world.
  12. saadhrahman
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    The Life of Pablo is an album that fuses all of Kanye's previous works (My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, Yeezus, 808s & Heartbreak) and seems to put together in one album. This album is a very enjoyable listen and is a great album. The collabs in this album are insane and all stand out in this album i.e. Chance the Rapper, Kendrick Lamar. It is his best album since My Beautiful DarkThe Life of Pablo is an album that fuses all of Kanye's previous works (My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, Yeezus, 808s & Heartbreak) and seems to put together in one album. This album is a very enjoyable listen and is a great album. The collabs in this album are insane and all stand out in this album i.e. Chance the Rapper, Kendrick Lamar. It is his best album since My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy and the replay value is very high (something I did not experience with Yeezus). Almost every track in this album except Facts (Charlie Heat Version) are insane and give the best of Kanye. The only problem i have with this album is that there are some tracks in which there isn't enough Kanye and the features are getting more time. Production wise, Kanye always deliver with this being one of his best produced albums, mixing gospel with soul and trap beats with a great use of drums. Lyrically, Kanye is okay but has some great punchlines. Overall, this album is insane and is an early candidate for album of the year.

    P.S. For all of you giving this album a negative review, please don't give this album a negative review just because you hate Kanye. Please actually listen to the album and give it an honest opinion/review.    … Expand
  13. DavidFulcher33
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Kanye West's personal antics are a testament to his music -- that despite how ridiculous his character may be, his art rises above and makes fans out of the most discerning skeptics. This album is no different and shows significant progress as a musician -- its many layers cannot be fully appreciated on first listen. The album really picks up at the end with songs "30 Hours" and "No MoreKanye West's personal antics are a testament to his music -- that despite how ridiculous his character may be, his art rises above and makes fans out of the most discerning skeptics. This album is no different and shows significant progress as a musician -- its many layers cannot be fully appreciated on first listen. The album really picks up at the end with songs "30 Hours" and "No More Parties in L.A."… Expand
  14. Jamal_Abdi
    Feb 17, 2016
    10
    This album is absolutely stellar, from the first song up to the last song it's just an art, Kanye isn't afraid of using avante garde background music, and thought provoking vocals to produce something that transcends not only hip hop into great music, but also great music into artefact status.
  15. Little_Taoist
    Feb 17, 2016
    10
    Best. Kanye. Album. Ever. Every listen gets better. Waves is now the best song, soon to be replaced by Real Friends. Ultralight beams. The depth of the music. The layers. Moving into Dr. Dre mode, bring in all the guests you want, its the underlying music thats the feature. Don't buy the mainstream media trying to bring Kanye down. This album is amazing. 30 Hours is as good asBest. Kanye. Album. Ever. Every listen gets better. Waves is now the best song, soon to be replaced by Real Friends. Ultralight beams. The depth of the music. The layers. Moving into Dr. Dre mode, bring in all the guests you want, its the underlying music thats the feature. Don't buy the mainstream media trying to bring Kanye down. This album is amazing. 30 Hours is as good as Last Call on The College Dropout. And thats saying something.… Expand
  16. rafaelss
    Feb 17, 2016
    8
    Its amazing how Kanye can creates a flows in his music that envolves you from the beggining to the end of the album. He tells in a mesmerizing way his scathing and bruising message. The sound is pure and simple. No exaggerations. Although he uses a lot of samples and participations, it is just enough to enrich his songs. An interessant experimental work, without border the smug. It'sIts amazing how Kanye can creates a flows in his music that envolves you from the beggining to the end of the album. He tells in a mesmerizing way his scathing and bruising message. The sound is pure and simple. No exaggerations. Although he uses a lot of samples and participations, it is just enough to enrich his songs. An interessant experimental work, without border the smug. It's just pure good music.… Expand
  17. darrenskt
    Feb 17, 2016
    10
    This album at first may sounds confusing and I know a lot of people say this but it takes a couple listens to really get it this is Kanyes first album in a long time not to have a full message behind it yeezus was a political message my beautiful dark twisted fantasy was his response to the Taylor swift incident and 808 was a response to him losing his mother and fiancé this is KanyesThis album at first may sounds confusing and I know a lot of people say this but it takes a couple listens to really get it this is Kanyes first album in a long time not to have a full message behind it yeezus was a political message my beautiful dark twisted fantasy was his response to the Taylor swift incident and 808 was a response to him losing his mother and fiancé this is Kanyes first album without a backing message since graduation! I must say I was surprised as most songs are upbeat rather than Kanyes darker tone on recent albums it's him simply being him and takes many tones similar to his past efferts such as electronic minimalist tracks such (wolves) soul sample songs that wouldn't sound out of place on graduation or the college dropout ( no more parties in la & father stretch my hands) along with more instructial efforts such as (feedback, fade or freestyle 4) this album does not feature as much rapping as yeezus it features Kanyes style evolving more into a permanent stance witch you well recognize on most tracks recurring themes but more a less Kanye is in danger of becoming more known for his personal life than his music like Michael Jackson none the less this album is so far the best album of 2016 with its amazing production and at times deeply personal lyrics none the less I will review each track individually note not including interloads

    1. Ultra light beam (Ft Chance the rapper & Kelly price)
    A deep religious number with Kanye saying to reject the depressing ways of Satan and pray for more joy also with an amazing religious themed verse from chance the rapper and a calming Minimalist beat rating 8/10

    2.father stretch my hands pt1 &2 (ft kid cudi)
    Starting off with a soul sample before changing into a more yeezus style track witch is becoming more Kanyes signature with Kanyes auto verse talking about random subjects such as anal bleaching this track is one of the more polarizing tracks on the album but a strong chorus from kid cudi a good beat and a very fitting sample of desiigners panda this track is a calming song to drive too rating 7/10

    3. Famous ( ft Rihanna & Swizz beats)
    The track that caused world wide controversy due to Kanyes lyrics (I feel like
    Me and Taylor may still have sex I mad that **** famous) the origin of the lyrics seem unknown due to some saying Taylor oked the lyrics others saying otherwise but none the less the song is the most normal on the album with a hip hop beat and a good Chorus from Rihanna of her sample Nina Simone's and some adlibs from Swizz beats and a great sample of the reggae song bang bang you might know from the interview it's one of the more "normal" songs on the album rating 8.5/10

    4. Feedback
    This song was first heard when arcade fires front man previewed it at a dj set it's a very yeezus style instruial track with a strange but good beat with Kanye showing off some
    Good bars such as (name one genius who ain't crazy) or ( if hov j every Jordan need a rodman) rating 9/10

    5.highlights (ft el de barge Young thug & the dream)

    The young thug featuring banger features both rappers going full autotune along with a great outro from the dream and good beat rating 9/10

    6. Freestyle 4 (ft designer)
    Probably the strangest songs on the album with a menacing beat this song has Kanye go full yeezus describing what he wants to do to Kim at a vogue party rating 9.5/10

    7. Waves (ft Chris brown & kid cudi)
    Most admit I must thank chance for making Kanye put this on the album a thundering unexpected chorus from Chris brown and Kanye shooting some poetic over a futuristic trap beat remicent somewhat of 808 rating 10/10

    8. FML (ft the weeknd )

    Starts off with Kanye deleviring a deep personal intro along with the weeknds strong chorus and Kanyes quick verse over a dark beat this song has Everything the album has to over rating 8/10

    9. Real friends (ft ty Dolla $ign$
    Possibly the most lyrically strong song on the album features Kanye delivering a similar message too welcome to heart break over a drake like beat it's defienltly a grower and the most radio friendly song on the album rating 8/10

    10. Wolves (ft Frank ocean)
    With sia and Vic Mensa gone it features Kanye and frank ocean delivering lyrics about hard ships and growth over an ambient along with Kanyes lone verse reminiscent of runaway rating 9/10

    11. 30 hours
    A song with help from Andre 3000 drake and pharrel can never fail with lyrics of Kanyes past over a smooth beat a for sure can't miss rating 9.5/10

    12. No more parties in la ( ft k dot)
    A very throwback song features the rappers
    Throwing some hard bars over a sample heavy beat rating 7.5/10

    13. Facts
    This Charlie Heat beat is much better than the original with some
    Nike dissing lyrics this jumpman sister track wouldn't be out of place on any future album rating 8/10

    14. fade ( ft ty Dolla $ign & post Malone)
    Over one of the best beats Kanyes ever produced over a mr fingers sample Kanye post and ty deliver smooth lyrics rt 10/1    … Expand
  18. rnbzain
    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.
  19. astroboy97
    Feb 12, 2016
    10
    As an avid Kanye fan for all my life, I had little hope for this album. I heard it through the Yeezy s3 and got a near CDQ version of the original tracklist from a good friend of mine. After listening to it through 3-4 times, this last work feels almost transcendental. It makes all the other music today almost seem "boring", maybe because it is a new album from a musical icon, butAs an avid Kanye fan for all my life, I had little hope for this album. I heard it through the Yeezy s3 and got a near CDQ version of the original tracklist from a good friend of mine. After listening to it through 3-4 times, this last work feels almost transcendental. It makes all the other music today almost seem "boring", maybe because it is a new album from a musical icon, but nonetheless I felt immersed in history in motion. The grand opening of ultra light beam represented everything about Kanye. When he makes an entrance, he makes a grand one, such was the case with the intro track. Coupled with the brighter tracks of the album, Kanye once again masterfully combines the diversity of today's hip hop while staying true to his roots of always evolving as a musician and ALWAYS, NO MATTER WHAT, being the underdog.… Expand
  20. Maj23
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Best album he's made since Dark Twisted Fantasy. Wish the songs were a little longer but I like how it isn't just 10 songs like before. I love this album like Kanye loves Kanye.
  21. BenCollier100
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Kanye West is back with one of his best projects ever. There are too many incredible tracks on this record to mention. All I'll say is that ULB is one of the best songs I've ever heard. This album oozes style and soulful swagger - perfection.
  22. Cancerbro
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Man oh man oh man, I could write an essay on this album. The self-realization of the protagonist's identity throughout the album, the progression of his sexual relationships from young innocent to wild then settling into maturity, the way kanye made the album play like a Greek epic while still having insane features (Kendrick Lamar's best verse of her career, Chance on Ultralight Beam,Man oh man oh man, I could write an essay on this album. The self-realization of the protagonist's identity throughout the album, the progression of his sexual relationships from young innocent to wild then settling into maturity, the way kanye made the album play like a Greek epic while still having insane features (Kendrick Lamar's best verse of her career, Chance on Ultralight Beam, Chris Brown on Waves). The timing of this album drop too, after receiving hate for his barrier pushing sound in his previous album, showing everyone who doubted him that he still got some of the best production skills in the game. TLOP gets a 11/10 in my book, wonderful piece.… Expand
  23. savetheroses
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    This Album Is Timeless And Deserves All The Respect It Commands. Comparable Only To The Word Of God And Bob Marleys Entire Discography. Remember, It Took The World Time To Accept Yeezus.
  24. internethandle
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Just want to add to the 10's to combat the notion that this is anything less than amazing by the critics. It's pathetic to see print/online media froth at the opportunity to take down Kanye West the character/persona and not, you know, assess the music.
  25. eli_obeid
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    You know what really ticks me off... when people like "The Guardain" and "The Daily Telegraph" who aren't even real/proper critiques and basically know NOTHING about 'Hip-Hop/Rap' give out ratings. It grinds my gears, because; 1) They don't know what they're talking about as critiquing albums isn't their profession.... and 2) They're bring down the overall rating of the album. VeryYou know what really ticks me off... when people like "The Guardain" and "The Daily Telegraph" who aren't even real/proper critiques and basically know NOTHING about 'Hip-Hop/Rap' give out ratings. It grinds my gears, because; 1) They don't know what they're talking about as critiquing albums isn't their profession.... and 2) They're bring down the overall rating of the album. Very disapointed how Metacritic even allows them to voice their opinion, their a newspaper company for Christ sake ahahaha... Anyway enough from that rant.... the album is perfect and is another "College Dropout" classic, Congrats Ye... #Yeezyseason… Expand
  26. freak4
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Too early to give a full verdict on this album, however, I will say that I enjoyed the hell out of this album. Listening to this album was like a spiritual journey; a religious experience. One of my favorite Kanye albums as of now (TOP 5), and I love the way that he effortlessly genre bends and fuses different music styles such as soul, gospel, jazz, hip hop, and pop together to create aToo early to give a full verdict on this album, however, I will say that I enjoyed the hell out of this album. Listening to this album was like a spiritual journey; a religious experience. One of my favorite Kanye albums as of now (TOP 5), and I love the way that he effortlessly genre bends and fuses different music styles such as soul, gospel, jazz, hip hop, and pop together to create a relatively cohesive and compelling body of work. A great album, that has a ton of replay value. A worthy addition to one of Hip Hop’s finest discographies.… Expand
  27. willhelmpedro
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Amazing album with absolutely crazy production. Ultra Light Beam one of the most unique and best hip-hop song OAT. Album's theme is shown by the juxtaposition of artistic, beautiful moments (Pablo Picasso) and darker beats and lyrics (Pablo Escobar). Outro to Famous, Father Stretch My Hands pt. 1 + 2, FML and Real Friends are highlights… Expand
  28. nastynol
    Feb 15, 2016
    9
    It will take a few months before I can confidently find a place for it on my "Best Kanye Albums List", but early reactions to it have me contemplating it as a top 3 effort. It feels like his most urgent, striking piece of work, especially given his place in the pop culture paradigm and current state of mind/being. Kanye is a tortured soul who needs - more than anything - to expressIt will take a few months before I can confidently find a place for it on my "Best Kanye Albums List", but early reactions to it have me contemplating it as a top 3 effort. It feels like his most urgent, striking piece of work, especially given his place in the pop culture paradigm and current state of mind/being. Kanye is a tortured soul who needs - more than anything - to express himself. I think he did that in an extremely powerful way on this album.… Expand
  29. Wooks
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Kanye West has done it again. The almost 3 year wait since his last project Yeezus (which I also loved and was critically acclaimed) was too long. You would've thought after that record, could he do anything any more outlandish and make it work? I was sceptical if this new album would live up to the name Kanye was giving it through Twitter etc... But man, when I first heard the vocals onKanye West has done it again. The almost 3 year wait since his last project Yeezus (which I also loved and was critically acclaimed) was too long. You would've thought after that record, could he do anything any more outlandish and make it work? I was sceptical if this new album would live up to the name Kanye was giving it through Twitter etc... But man, when I first heard the vocals on Ultra Lightbeam... Good lord!! A beautiful opening track and the album just gets better with Father Stretch My Hands, the Cudi we have all missed returns and good job bringing Desiigner on it too, it somehow all blended in well but I'll get to the features later. The tracks on this album are all bold, brash and giving off a massive statement and this was present too in Yeezus and that's what I love about this "New Kanye". The lyrics may not be there as much they once were for Ye but the production of this album, the way the sounds clash and come out, I think, is just amazing. From the exciting instrumental of Feedback to the Good Morning reminiscent instrumental of Famous and the menacing sound of Freestyle 4, Kanye manages to engage the listener in all these different emotions, which to be honest I feel he has managed to do in mostly all of his albums to date. There are 18 songs on this album which is quite appealing as Yeezus only had 10 which is probably the only problem I had with that record. Not to mention, the dude managed to put Facts on the album and still made it sound like an absolute banger. My favourite thing about The Life of Pablo is the fact that truly, every piece of Kanye over the years since The College Dropout can be found on this record. Songs like 30 Hours, NMPIL and Real Friends are reminiscent of Late Registration/Graduation era Kanye whereas songs such as Wolves remind me of 808s and Freestyle 4 could've easily passed as Yeezus bonus track. I also love the way he parodies that whole "Old Kanye" thing in the song (or skit?) I Love Kanye showing his awareness to the whole situation and almost clapping back at it. The features on this record are amazing. Chance did a good job, Rihanna, Cudi, Thugger's contributions were awesome, The Weeknd and hell, even Chris Brown was a good decision to put on this album. I hasten to add the man got Frank Ocean on his album before Frank could put himself on his own album... Frankie did a great job nevertheless. I feel Kanye makes the type of music you don't get or won't like at first but give it a few days, months, even years (it took me a while for Yeezus and 808s to be fair) and you'll realise the beauty behind the madness. But one thing, this record will be hard to understand if you are not a Kanye fan, I feel only strong Ye fans will love and enjoy this album, you just gotta know the history for this record. Ye is an innovative and versatile artist, always giving out a new, different sound for every album, this is a feature other big names in hip hop, lack. It's only been a couple of days yet I am thoroughly enjoying this album so far and I'm bound to keep loving it more and more. Overall, I feel Ye did a good ass job with this project, it's experimental and everything I expected for sure. I don't really have any criticisms about this project, maybe the lyrical content could be slightly better on his behalf, and was a 2 minute version of Low Lights really necessary? I feel Yeezy has delivered again on this with a mix of every album collected in one 58 minute masterpiece. A lot of people won't feel this same way although give it some time, it may not be MBDTF but believe me, it is up there. It'll get the haters for sure, I mean, it IS Kanye West here.… Expand
  30. bez123
    Feb 18, 2016
    10
    Overall, great album. A sonic masterpiece. While Kanye has never been the most amazing lyricist, he has always provided clever and memorable lines which he does throughout the album. The production throughout the album is amazing and Kanye truly has a gift for combining so many different types of sounds, samples, artists, etc. into such an amazing project. Songs like Ultralight Beam,Overall, great album. A sonic masterpiece. While Kanye has never been the most amazing lyricist, he has always provided clever and memorable lines which he does throughout the album. The production throughout the album is amazing and Kanye truly has a gift for combining so many different types of sounds, samples, artists, etc. into such an amazing project. Songs like Ultralight Beam, Father Stretch My Hands Pt.1 & 2, Famous, Feedback, Waves, FML, Real Friends, and 30 Hours are my favorites, but I like all of the other songs too. If I have any complaint about the album it's that some of the songs start out too slow, but if you let them build up you are in for a rewarding experience.… Expand
  31. Srefly
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    When I heard the first song sounded like it was being transported to heaven.
    This album sounds like it was made for me. I mean this album is worth every penny spent on it.
    The production is so perfect
    Who likes Kanye West will surely like this
    10/10
  32. JoeBenner
    Feb 12, 2016
    9
    Just downloaded it from his website, CDQ has been much better and impressive than the live rips. Wolves is without a doubt one of his best tracks released in the last 10 years. I recommend this album to anyone who enjoys old-school Kanye.
  33. DudeDude2020
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    This is not a cohesive, well put together album, as evidenced by the constantly changing name/ tracklist prior to the 2 day late release. However even they they don't flow together so well, these songs are emotional, angry and soulful, with some great modern production.
    Some of Kanye's lyrics are a bit questionable, but for the most part, he holds his own. Super neat album.
  34. mc_ryn
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    PROUD OF MY BOY KANYE.

    Best discography all time my friends.

    The instrumentation is pleasing to the now, and the past.

    Kanye = Genius..............
  35. hotlinebling
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Goat lyrics for goat beats. That Taylor thing don't change how this alberm is full of good intentions. After God shown him the way and became a god Kanye surrenders to the light beam. The life of Pablo is a huge even when Sia howls louder than Frank. Life is a blessing whoever Pablo is.
  36. Chriiispy
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    The Life of Pablo is a fantastic representation of the evolution of an artist and a producer that is Kanye West. It is a wonderful culmination of some of his best works. Songs like No More Parties in LA and Facts reflect Kanye at his rap prime, allowing reminiscence of albums such as Late Registration and Graduation. Many of the songs steal from the 808s & Heartbreak style, which may haveThe Life of Pablo is a fantastic representation of the evolution of an artist and a producer that is Kanye West. It is a wonderful culmination of some of his best works. Songs like No More Parties in LA and Facts reflect Kanye at his rap prime, allowing reminiscence of albums such as Late Registration and Graduation. Many of the songs steal from the 808s & Heartbreak style, which may have been a very controversial one, but instead change the theme from that of a melancholic, depressed man to that of one basking in his own success and greatness. And finally, any Kanye fan will instantly see a resemblance in structure to the masterpiece that was his fifth solo studio album. My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. Anybody who offers hate refuses to witness the transformation and evolution of Kanye as an artist which has been a magnificent and beautiful ride.… Expand
  37. hockey8925
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Beautifully done. Not many albums pull this type of emotion out of you. Kanye has once again created a masterpiece. Famous, FML, Waves and many other tracks create a listening experience that not many other album can rival. Congrats, Mr. West.
  38. metacement
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    This album is a masterpiece. The production as melodic as some of his previous work on Graduation at times and also drawing some neo-soul/gospel inferences from Kendrick Lamar, who he was at times in the studio with, is juxtaposed with the techno-punk and trap infused beats of Yeezus and other similar works. Most will enjoy this album as one of his best and some will see it as close to hisThis album is a masterpiece. The production as melodic as some of his previous work on Graduation at times and also drawing some neo-soul/gospel inferences from Kendrick Lamar, who he was at times in the studio with, is juxtaposed with the techno-punk and trap infused beats of Yeezus and other similar works. Most will enjoy this album as one of his best and some will see it as close to his worst, however much like Picasso (Pablo Picasso) even his worst is better than most.… Expand
  39. kuznesof
    Feb 16, 2016
    9
    Amazing album, great to listen to. However, not that cohesive and some of the songs are quite shallow compared to Yeezus for example. But all the songs are incredible listening experiences!
  40. TogetherLemon
    Feb 15, 2016
    9
    Another incredible record from Kanye. I am always impressed by his passion for creating art that does not abide by the rules of popular music today. West creates what he wants, and the sound of this record is something that hasn't been heard before. Beautiful, soulful, and sometimes angelic production pervade this album, and it is packed with fantastic guest features. Not as brash andAnother incredible record from Kanye. I am always impressed by his passion for creating art that does not abide by the rules of popular music today. West creates what he wants, and the sound of this record is something that hasn't been heard before. Beautiful, soulful, and sometimes angelic production pervade this album, and it is packed with fantastic guest features. Not as brash and harsh as Yeezus, not as maximalist and overwhelming as MBDTF, The Life of Pablo strikes an excellent balance of sound that will keep you listening to it on repeat.… Expand
  41. brockcheese
    Feb 19, 2016
    8
    I love this album, although I must admit that this album is not for everybody. Fans of Kanye should check it out but people who only like the old Kanye should stay away.
  42. usarice123
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    A natural feeling evolution of his past albums with heavy emphasis on soundscapes that take you to a whole different place. Most enjoyable album since Channel Orange in 2012 for me
  43. jotaeseche
    Feb 15, 2016
    7
    While T.L.O.P. is well-loaded and flourished with sounds, samples, countless collaborations and great hooks, it feels like this time Kanye didn't have too much to say, or at least he didn't find the most suitable ways to say it. Overall, it's a pretty enjoyable record and it will certainly please fans, but I can't help but feel that this is not the best he has thrown nor is this his mostWhile T.L.O.P. is well-loaded and flourished with sounds, samples, countless collaborations and great hooks, it feels like this time Kanye didn't have too much to say, or at least he didn't find the most suitable ways to say it. Overall, it's a pretty enjoyable record and it will certainly please fans, but I can't help but feel that this is not the best he has thrown nor is this his most cohesive or even inspiring try.… Expand
  44. Callum_Hofler
    Feb 20, 2016
    8
    Sensational production bolsters an uneven yet undeniably engaging collection of songs on Kanye West's latest, The Life of Pablo. Incredible samples, such as on the soulful, groove-worthy 'Father Stretch My Hands', are aplenty, Kanye's legendary, unparalleled team of producers (Madlib, Metro Boomin, Rick Rubin, and Charlie Heat, just to name a few) insert a plethora of variation into thisSensational production bolsters an uneven yet undeniably engaging collection of songs on Kanye West's latest, The Life of Pablo. Incredible samples, such as on the soulful, groove-worthy 'Father Stretch My Hands', are aplenty, Kanye's legendary, unparalleled team of producers (Madlib, Metro Boomin, Rick Rubin, and Charlie Heat, just to name a few) insert a plethora of variation into this 58 minute release. From the gorgeous organs and choir on 'Ultralight Beam', to the Nina Simone and Sister Nancy samples on the infectious 'Famous', to the glorious synths of 'Highlights', to the lonesome, aggressive bass that manifests in the closer (not including the bonus tracks, from 'Silver Surfer Intermission' onwards) 'Wolves', Kanye does not disappoint when it comes to the music available here. As we've come to expect from the man, Kanye delivers us an album that refuses to confide itself to a single genre; instead, we get a unique, endlessly entertaining brand of hip-hop that feels like it could only come from West himself.

    Issues become evident once one takes a deeper look at the lyricism on the record. Kanye offers some absolutely brilliant verses ('Real Friends', 'No More Parties In LA', 'FML'), but he never fully escapes his capacity for lackluster bars. On 'Waves', his verses lack considerable substance, and on 'Freestyle 4', he feels needlessly provocative, despite the addictive quality of the instrumentation. The same could be said of his now infamous line on 'Famous', where he raps "I feel like me and Taylor might still have sex/Why? I made that **** famous", only this feels like an intentionally divisive line that serves to arouse the irritation of Kanye's detractors (many of whom the man makes fun of on the hilarious 'I Love Kanye'). On 'Father Stretch My Hands Pt.1', Kanye starts his verse off with one of the most tonally abnormal bars he's ever penned, "Now if I **** this model/And she just bleached her **** I get bleach on my T-shirt/I'mma feel like an **** only this comes off as another example of Corny Kanye at his Kanye Best, extracting laughs from myself. Lyrically, Kanye underwhelms somewhat here.

    Other issues include an off-beat drum that chimes in for a short while in the middle of 'Wolves', some mixing issues present on 'Father Stretch My Hands Pt.2', and 'Low Lights', the prelude to 'Highlights', feeling far too long for its own good. Otherwise, The Life of Pablo is an enjoyable collation of top-notch Kanye material. Its supposed lack of cohesion demonstrates the reflective state that many of the songs possess. This is the first Kanye album which isn't about making a huge statement; it's just a record you can pop on and enjoy for the good-vibes.    … Expand
  45. zrvnavi
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Kanye has made a greatest hits album for himself with new songs. Taking notes from the most important albums in hip hop (his own) Kanye is able to create a celebration of his music.
  46. review2
    Feb 14, 2016
    9
    This album was extremely good. Tons of great tracks, fantastic features. Not a particularly cohesive sound but it fits the idea of Pablo Picasso being somewhat confusing. Worth the hype. Best album of Ye since MBDTF
  47. TheLifeOfJais
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Before anyone reads this, I just wanted to say that I usually never write reviews for an album, and mind you I was not an avid Kanye fan either. I was not a yeezus fan for the most part, and truly did not enjoy it. However, TLOP has changed my perspective on music. The Life of Pablo is genuinely a masterpiece. It really is a gospel album. The samples are truly amazing, and for the daftBefore anyone reads this, I just wanted to say that I usually never write reviews for an album, and mind you I was not an avid Kanye fan either. I was not a yeezus fan for the most part, and truly did not enjoy it. However, TLOP has changed my perspective on music. The Life of Pablo is genuinely a masterpiece. It really is a gospel album. The samples are truly amazing, and for the daft punk fans check out "feedback". I really have not enjoyed any albums like I did TLOP. It's also has experimental beats, which I thoroughly enjoyed. it lived up to the hype and much more. Only downside was the covert art and Kanye exclusively releasing it on Tidal(comes out everywhere else 7 days from first release). If you're still reading this, please download tidal and do the 30 day trial and enjoy the GOOD music!!… Expand
  48. ELBOYZ
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    I 100% agree with eli_obeid's review so I pasted it below. btw this album is straight fire 10/10

    You know what really ticks me off... when people like "The Guardian" and "The Daily Telegraph" who aren't even real/proper critiques and basically know NOTHING about 'Hip-Hop/Rap' give out ratings. It grinds my gears, because; 1) They don't know what they're talking about as critiquing    I 100% agree with eli_obeid's review so I pasted it below. btw this album is straight fire 10/10

    You know what really ticks me off... when people like "The Guardian" and "The Daily Telegraph" who aren't even real/proper critiques and basically know NOTHING about 'Hip-Hop/Rap' give out ratings. It grinds my gears, because; 1) They don't know what they're talking about as critiquing albums isn't their profession.... and 2) They're bring down the overall rating of the album. Very disappointed how Metacritic even allows them to voice their opinion, their a newspaper company for Christ sake ahahaha... Anyway enough from that rant.... the album is perfect and is another "College Dropout" classic, Congrats Ye... #Yeezyseason    … Expand
  49. tybasedgod
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    It's rare that you hear an album wherein the controlling emotion is self-awareness. Self-consciousness you may hear often, and even more frequently self-hate, but never have I heard an album so intoxicatingly in tune not just with the sensibilities of one Kanye West, but with those sensibilities so eloquently refracted through to the insecurities, fears and ambitions of the listener.It's rare that you hear an album wherein the controlling emotion is self-awareness. Self-consciousness you may hear often, and even more frequently self-hate, but never have I heard an album so intoxicatingly in tune not just with the sensibilities of one Kanye West, but with those sensibilities so eloquently refracted through to the insecurities, fears and ambitions of the listener.

    Put another way: I've been following, listening to and admiring West for the better part of the millennium, and the extent to which The Life Of Pablo blows his previous work out of the water is nearly comical.

    It's as grandiose as My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy yet as hauntingly pragmatic as 808s and Heartbreak; as soulful as The College Dropout while retaining the brutal, occasionally unwarranted honesty of Yeezus. To say The Life Of Pablo represents a culmination of West's career is to tragically undersell the stark importance of this album to West himself. It's as unfocused, erratic and ultimately transcendent as the artist unafraid to describe the album as "album of the life" in the same breath as a poorly thought-out twitter proclamation of Bill Cosby's innocence.

    It's no secret that on The Life of Pablo, Kanye West and his myriad guests spanning the entire artistic vanguard of 2010s hip-hop represent a disorganized mess that, nearly miraculously, manages to coalesce into an unprecedented and magnificent feat of rap music artistry. What makes it a work of genius, though, is that it's the only album in the nuance-starved, image-obsessed world of 2016 willing to say it.    … Expand
  50. tallbm03
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    GOAT Level production......Kanye really outdid himself on this one.......none of this tracks are tracks that you can just skip. This a skip up from Yeezus and I loved Yeezus. My only complaint is that the bars are average but I don't care cause I don't listen to Kanye's music for his bars.......it's all about the melodies and production and Kanye never disappoints. HE IS THIS ERA'S DAVID BOWIE.
  51. blkkkskkkn
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Best Kanye album imo. It is beautiful and i rarely find myself skipping tracks. Reminiscent of Graduation! The production is solid and lyrically it is insightful! Nicely done Mr. West.
  52. NaveedChowder
    Feb 14, 2016
    8
    Kanye channeling his inner-greatness as usual. Only aspect this album lacks is complete cohesiveness of a consistent sound. As far as features and production, not a single complaint there. Although, tracks like 'Freestyle 4', 'Feedback' and 'Facts' feel out of place.
  53. iobefwbiowef
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Great album that definitely needs to be heard a couple of times before it is reviewed. Some of the people giving this a negative review have either heard only the live version or have never heard it before, as the mastering of this album is awesome!
  54. appleboy505
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Although The Life of Pablo may not contain Kanye's best lyrical performances, it is by far his most complex and satisfying album sonically. The range of different styles and sounds within are far and vast, and this album is a great showcase of Kanye's musical talent because of that. This in many ways is Kanye's White Album, a brilliant display of his many abilities as a musician.
  55. georgecos
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Upon first listen, TLOP is the best album of the 21st century. He continues to change his musical direction while continuously creating masterful music. While there are certainly highlights from the album, each song contributes a different aspect which adds to its greatness.
  56. Biased
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    The album is fantastic. Kanye seems to be zigging while everyone expects a zag. Whats bothersome in some of the publication reviews is the constant commentary on Kanye's ego, as if that is not a subject worth exploring? As if he is not aware enough to use that to contrast his vulnerability, sensitivity, and imperfections. It may not be his best, but it falls in line with his consistentThe album is fantastic. Kanye seems to be zigging while everyone expects a zag. Whats bothersome in some of the publication reviews is the constant commentary on Kanye's ego, as if that is not a subject worth exploring? As if he is not aware enough to use that to contrast his vulnerability, sensitivity, and imperfections. It may not be his best, but it falls in line with his consistent greatness. When it is all said and done we will look back and call this another Kanye step toward all time greatness and a generational talent.… Expand
  57. shangyip
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    A combination of his work from all his previous albums put into one piece. Kanye has nothing left to prove with six of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time (not including Watch the Throne, which was fantastic), and Pablo only further cements his place as one of the greatest. The album contains soul and gospel sounds that bring out character and an interesting mix of autotune andA combination of his work from all his previous albums put into one piece. Kanye has nothing left to prove with six of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time (not including Watch the Throne, which was fantastic), and Pablo only further cements his place as one of the greatest. The album contains soul and gospel sounds that bring out character and an interesting mix of autotune and trap/heavy bass that surprisingly bangs hard. Though it contains some "controversial" lyrics, Kanye shows that he has no boundaries in his level of expression with "Famous", "Highlights", and "Feedback". His emotional and slightly insecure side comes out again in "FML", "Real Friends", and "Wolves" but he does an amazing job integrating artists like The Weeknd and France Ocean into the intended eerie feeling of the songs. Ye reminds us of his old school bars in "30 Hours" and "No More Parties in LA" which bring listeners to the edge of their seats. A well put together album that displays West's all around capabilities with tremendous production (once again) that consolidate the songs together like a movie. IMO his greatest work yet other than Dark Fantasy (hard to believe, I know), but only time will tell how much more of an impact and influence it will have. Great music, especially hip-hop, isn't meant to be digested fully in the first couple of listens and for the insensitive who aren't able to comprehend the message and sounds in the background without being offended (this is Kanye West, after all). This was an album of our time, appreciate greatness.… Expand
  58. karly11
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    We missed Da Vinci, Beethoven, Shakespeare, Genghis Khan & Mozart. Right now we witnessing Ye, enjoy the ride fam. Our own 21st century genius. This album here is artwork, don't listen to all these fools that say otherwise. Listen and enjoy this journey Kanye is taking us on.
  59. pabloo
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Kanye West returns with his long awaited follow up to 2013's Yeezus. Surprisingly, despite the hype, and continuing downward spiral in the media, The Life of Pablo appears to be yet another triumph for Kanye West. An album that gets better with each listen, as each layer gets peeled back. Although Kanye West does not break new ground on this record, he establishes this as theKanye West returns with his long awaited follow up to 2013's Yeezus. Surprisingly, despite the hype, and continuing downward spiral in the media, The Life of Pablo appears to be yet another triumph for Kanye West. An album that gets better with each listen, as each layer gets peeled back. Although Kanye West does not break new ground on this record, he establishes this as the conceptualization for the album. Rather than create a 'new Kanye', he focuses on being all of the 'old Kanyes' he has created. It appears that his twitter rants and overall abberant behaviour appear to be apart of an insane genius personality he has created, which would explain the use of the multiple Kanyes. Highlights include Ultra Light Beam, Famous, Feedback, Highlights, I love Kanye, Waves, FML, Wolves, No More Parties in L.A,, and Facts. 10/10… Expand
  60. itsbrunos
    Feb 16, 2016
    9
    I mean, this is the best work of Kanye West and you need to agree with me. I didn't liked 2 or 3 songs but it doesn't mean that it isn't an incredible art of rap culture.
  61. wuwukennywu
    Feb 16, 2016
    9
    Wish he had more time doing this, but still sounds amazing. He should've included that Only One remix with Caroline Shaw, kept Sia and Vic's part in Wolves a long with a bigger role with Frank Ocean, at least use Paul McCartney in a couple of songs. Overall the album can be played over and over. TLDR; Able to bring a Pulitzer Prize winning voice, a Beatle, a kid from Chi, and a MaloneWish he had more time doing this, but still sounds amazing. He should've included that Only One remix with Caroline Shaw, kept Sia and Vic's part in Wolves a long with a bigger role with Frank Ocean, at least use Paul McCartney in a couple of songs. Overall the album can be played over and over. TLDR; Able to bring a Pulitzer Prize winning voice, a Beatle, a kid from Chi, and a Malone vibe in an album… Expand
  62. badzyman
    Feb 17, 2016
    9
    To enjoy this album, give it a second listen. It underscores Kanye's desire to explore a wide variety of sounds and produce a chaotic album that makes more sense as you listen to it more. For those looking for experimental music with complementary lyrics and voices this is a good one.
  63. fatihaslan
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    THis Album is so inspiring !!
    Kanye change the melancholy mindset in the genre Hip HOP !! This album is a great revolution for the music
    The Life Of Pablo is certainly rich in musical range, chock a block with inspired ideas for the music. He has restored sight to his elementary basics of good output arts.
  64. alijloza
    Feb 15, 2016
    9
    Although this album arguably contains less impressive lyrical work and rapping from West, but this is definitely one of the best albums since his Dark Fantasy, and the concept fits perfectly with the chronology of his work and pop culture today. The fight between West's personna's in the album carries the torch from the angry West on Yeezus, and fits perfectly with the theme and chronologyAlthough this album arguably contains less impressive lyrical work and rapping from West, but this is definitely one of the best albums since his Dark Fantasy, and the concept fits perfectly with the chronology of his work and pop culture today. The fight between West's personna's in the album carries the torch from the angry West on Yeezus, and fits perfectly with the theme and chronology of West's previous albums. The production quality, controversial lyrics, and effort in the album continue to further prove that West is one of the most generation defining, deepest artists of the past 100 years. Dr. West didn't let us down!… Expand
  65. Yeenius
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Just about every song including the bonus tracks are wonderful. Production is absolutely top notch. Gives an interesting glimpse into this very conflicted stage of the life of Kanye West. It has beautiful gospel singing as well as absolutely vulgar rhymes (bleached t shirts) that portray Kanye's struggle trying to transition from rock star to family man.
  66. Bigpapi
    Feb 15, 2016
    9
    This is easily a candidate for album of the year already. Kanye West continues to change the game by putting out projects that are all unique to one another and not the same music every album he releases like most of the rappers nowadays. Even though this album isn't quite as good as his best album, MBDTF, it still lives up to the hype it created and more. His rhymes, production, and linesThis is easily a candidate for album of the year already. Kanye West continues to change the game by putting out projects that are all unique to one another and not the same music every album he releases like most of the rappers nowadays. Even though this album isn't quite as good as his best album, MBDTF, it still lives up to the hype it created and more. His rhymes, production, and lines are all on point and there are little to no weak points on the album. If you are a fan of hip-hop or music in general, you ned to listen to this masterpiece, it will go down as one of the albums that changed the rap game forever.… Expand
  67. Sokolymba
    Feb 16, 2016
    8
    Please, read this.
    I've collected that puzzle.
    Enjoy!

    1. Famous
    2. Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 1
    3. Pt. 2
    4. Facts
    5. Feedback
    6. Highlights
    7. Freestyle 4
    8. Wawes
    9. Silver Surfer Intermission
    10. 30 Hours
    11. No More Parties in LA
    12. Fade
    13. I Love Kanye
    14. FML
    15. Real Friends
    16. Low Lights
    17. Wolves
    18. Ultralight Beam
  68. G2TRU
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Another fantastic album from Kanye West. The life of Pablo takes bits and pieces from every album Kanye has ever released all into one. Sonically it is a masterpiece. Lyrically he holds his own. Mixing is near perfect. All the collaborators on this album stand out and complement each other. Album is a spiritual journey though all that makes Kanye so unique. You will get brash and confidentAnother fantastic album from Kanye West. The life of Pablo takes bits and pieces from every album Kanye has ever released all into one. Sonically it is a masterpiece. Lyrically he holds his own. Mixing is near perfect. All the collaborators on this album stand out and complement each other. Album is a spiritual journey though all that makes Kanye so unique. You will get brash and confident Kanye West. And you also will get Sad and Vulnerable Kanye West. Conveying the message that this is all a gods dream. Kanye is a dreamer and has vividly portrayed his dream to the masses though out his entire career. And he has done so again. Whether you love him or hate him it you should still give this a listen.… Expand
  69. aidanhicks101
    Feb 14, 2016
    9
    I didn't know what to expect going into this album, especially because it kept changing every 2 secs, but I can say I really enjoyed he album. Although the album cover does look like trash (my opinion) and there are some lyrics that go overboard (Taylor lyric, Ray J lyric, etc.) it doesn't change the album. My favorite songs would have to be Wolves (BTW FRANK OCEAN IS ALIVE!!) and No MoreI didn't know what to expect going into this album, especially because it kept changing every 2 secs, but I can say I really enjoyed he album. Although the album cover does look like trash (my opinion) and there are some lyrics that go overboard (Taylor lyric, Ray J lyric, etc.) it doesn't change the album. My favorite songs would have to be Wolves (BTW FRANK OCEAN IS ALIVE!!) and No More Parties In L.A. (the beats and some of the lyrics were too damn good). It was worth the $20 for me and I would recommend giving it a listen.

    But the only thing I ask is two things. 1. PLEASE put it on iTunes and not this TIDAL BS, because that was a complete disaster. 2. PLEASE PUT THIS ON VINYL! This is the kind of album that BELONGS on vinyl more (my opinion)

    Have a good day!    … Expand
  70. DustyCamp405
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    The Best Rapper of our generation... a living legend.................................................................................................!
  71. YungMarc
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    great!! these beats are on point and the lyrics are references to the reality
    pretty sure that album deserves an position on Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame
    please, take off some Led Zeppelin albuns and put Kanye's TLOP there
  72. shanemartin2
    Feb 14, 2016
    9
    Kanye did it again with TLOP. This album is a sonic masterpiece and a breath of fresh air when Hip Hop needs one. Lyrically, it is one of Ye's weaker efforts, but its made up for with out of this world production and aesthetics. He always manages to get the best out of his features and TLOP is no different. Young Thug, The Weeknd, and Chance all manage to fit the vibe Ye was trying toKanye did it again with TLOP. This album is a sonic masterpiece and a breath of fresh air when Hip Hop needs one. Lyrically, it is one of Ye's weaker efforts, but its made up for with out of this world production and aesthetics. He always manages to get the best out of his features and TLOP is no different. Young Thug, The Weeknd, and Chance all manage to fit the vibe Ye was trying to pursue. At first listen it may seem disorganized or without direction, which may not be for some listeners, but this really is another Kanye West masterpiece. It takes gospel influences and mixes them with unapologetic punchlines that only Kanye can pull off. This was a very daring album but I definitely have it in my top 3 Kanye albums of all time.… Expand
  73. jayjayguy2
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    I don't think you can dislike this and like music at the same time. This is a pure body of work from one of the most creative musicians. So many people will **** on this album without giving it a chance just because they dislike Kanye. Just listen to it front to back and you'll know exactly what I mean.
  74. JeffGoldblum
    Feb 14, 2016
    9
    There aren't two Kanye albums that sound alike; "The Life of Pablo" is a rich, gospel-affected affair highlighted by the opus and album-starter "Ultra Lightbeam," and suprising, last-second addition "Waves." It has a couple of dips lyrically — talk of bleaching **** isn't exactly Shakespearean — and the Good Friday tracks, while likely bonuses, don't necessarily fit sonically with the restThere aren't two Kanye albums that sound alike; "The Life of Pablo" is a rich, gospel-affected affair highlighted by the opus and album-starter "Ultra Lightbeam," and suprising, last-second addition "Waves." It has a couple of dips lyrically — talk of bleaching **** isn't exactly Shakespearean — and the Good Friday tracks, while likely bonuses, don't necessarily fit sonically with the rest of the album, but pioneering production and lyricism tidied up from "Yeezus" make "The Life of Pablo" yet another masterful addition to an already acclaimed discography.… Expand
  75. RAGE16
    Feb 14, 2016
    8
    Kanye always has a knack for making GREAT music even if his lyrics are not as great as they used to be. Production is absolutely fantastic, so varied and layered. Love that his features are always on point and always surprisingly good (ex: Chris Brown) Sounds like Kanye is having fun with his music and being so creative and makes all the other mainstream rappers seems so watered down.Kanye always has a knack for making GREAT music even if his lyrics are not as great as they used to be. Production is absolutely fantastic, so varied and layered. Love that his features are always on point and always surprisingly good (ex: Chris Brown) Sounds like Kanye is having fun with his music and being so creative and makes all the other mainstream rappers seems so watered down. Sampling work is off the charts and you just know it's a Kanye song and has that magic touch only he can provide. Love the depth of the work as well. The juxtaposition of "good, artisitc" Pablo Picasso songs (Ultralight Beam, Father Stretch My Hands, Highlights) compared to Pablo Escobar songs (Famous, Feedback, FML). Only cons to the album are some questionable lyrics that simply sound stupid, Vic Mensa and Sia not being on Wolves (even though Frank Ocean is great), and Facts is just a terrible song. All in all, an album I will be bumping in the car for months and another gem in the Kanye discography.… Expand
  76. TakeitYeezy
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    This album will probably not be commercially successful album as other Kanye's album, but sure will be one of his most album. A great album that is already a classic.
  77. Lord-Quas
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Ye's done it again! Oh my goodness, where do I begin? Mr. West is the only artist I know that stays consistent with his craft. This is the best record that's been put out since 2010's "Dark Fantasy". The overall vibe of this record's glorious! The instrumentation's grandiose without feeling too oversaturated. The only thing I can say is.... Hip-Hop's still alive. #rejoice #Kanye2020
  78. KING_KEIGS
    Feb 16, 2016
    9
    Look Kanye is a cocky dude that I some times get annoyed with but man you got to respect his music/art! Yeezus was different and good but didnt stay in my rotation for long. Life of Pablo will be bumping for months to come! One complaint is a lot of short songs and dumb skits!
  79. BeatPro
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Kanye West is back with one of the most inspiring albums ever. Production and guests are both stellar, hands down, this is church brothers and sister, church!
  80. Kasi97
    Feb 14, 2016
    9
    It's great.
    Not as revolutionary as his previous albums, but every track on this thing works out great. It's Kanye so his lyrics are a bit off sometimes and it's clear that he spent less time polishing this one than he did with his other albums.
    It was rushed, but Kanye still has an amazing talent that somehow not only saved the album, but made it awesome. Not sure if he could pull this    It's great.
    Not as revolutionary as his previous albums, but every track on this thing works out great. It's Kanye so his lyrics are a bit off sometimes and it's clear that he spent less time polishing this one than he did with his other albums.
    It was rushed, but Kanye still has an amazing talent that somehow not only saved the album, but made it awesome.
    Not sure if he could pull this off again, so I hope he takes his time with the next one. Please Kanye...    … Expand
  81. Xaviale
    Feb 15, 2016
    9
    This albums comes across as one of Kanyes more experimental types of Albums.. The album really "kept me on my toes", as I was listening. I really didn't know what to expect from the next track, nor even mid listening in to one of the tracks.

    Hand down, this album has the best build ups to any of Kanyes tracks though. "Father stretch my hands Pt. 1" & "Low Light" got me really excited    This albums comes across as one of Kanyes more experimental types of Albums.. The album really "kept me on my toes", as I was listening. I really didn't know what to expect from the next track, nor even mid listening in to one of the tracks.

    Hand down, this album has the best build ups to any of Kanyes tracks though. "Father stretch my hands Pt. 1" & "Low Light" got me really excited when hearing after multiple times..

    I dont think this album beats MBDTF nor 808's although I believe it compares fairly close. West only seems to be getting more experimental every Album and I love it..

    List of top Albums as of now..
    1. MBDTF
    2. 808s
    3. TLOP
    4. Late Registration
    5. College Dropout
    6. Yeezus
    6. Graduation    … Expand
  82. calljohno
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Ignore the noise that comes from the haters, this album is beautiful. I feel that any person that objectively listens to this album will see it for the masterpiece that it is. It isn't Kanye's best. MBDTF is still his best album, and is a pretty high standard. I strongly believe that this will likely be the best hip-hop album of the year. Kanye is at his most honest, revealing new truthsIgnore the noise that comes from the haters, this album is beautiful. I feel that any person that objectively listens to this album will see it for the masterpiece that it is. It isn't Kanye's best. MBDTF is still his best album, and is a pretty high standard. I strongly believe that this will likely be the best hip-hop album of the year. Kanye is at his most honest, revealing new truths about himself--receiving professional treatment for depression and anxiety, his early girlfriend Sumeke Rainey cheating on him, and his father leaving him and his mom. Kanye raps about himself, which some people frown upon, but I find that I am able to learn a lot about myself by listening to artists that sing/rap about themselves; it helps me to analyze my own feelings. The sound of the album is fresh and new to the mainstream. I'm sure that the version of the album that will actually be held for sale will be different from what is currently streaming on Tidal, so I will reserve a more in-depth review once the official version is released.… Expand
  83. tannerparsons
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Love him or hate him, we are living among one of the greatest musical producers ever. His talent and ability to change the game (and do it well) at the drop of a hat sets him apart from any other artist. Kanye gets away with things that no other artist ever could because he has such a unique way of crafting a song. Kanye is an egotistical maniac, but he's musically gifted, and I won't letLove him or hate him, we are living among one of the greatest musical producers ever. His talent and ability to change the game (and do it well) at the drop of a hat sets him apart from any other artist. Kanye gets away with things that no other artist ever could because he has such a unique way of crafting a song. Kanye is an egotistical maniac, but he's musically gifted, and I won't let my bias against his ego stand in the way of me recognizing that history will view Kaye as a revolutionary artist.… Expand
  84. reece2208
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Kanye sampled microphone feedback and then produced a freaking BANGER with it! Yeezy brought the fire! The world doesn't deserve beats this good. Hip-hop has changed once again and as always Kanye is the catalyst.
  85. lpcameron
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    More like a 9.5 but hey that rounds up. A brilliant combination of all his work to date TLOP should have been Kanye's first flop...the messy build up and a clear shift in priorities away from music towards fashion had me worried.

    Instead what we got was another example of Ye's ability to bring a ridiculously diverse array of genres, artists and themes together to create a masterpiece.    More like a 9.5 but hey that rounds up. A brilliant combination of all his work to date TLOP should have been Kanye's first flop...the messy build up and a clear shift in priorities away from music towards fashion had me worried.

    Instead what we got was another example of Ye's ability to bring a ridiculously diverse array of genres, artists and themes together to create a masterpiece. Falls just short of being his best album...MBDTF will never loose that status. That said we could do with a little less "She just bleached her **** and a little more "I just wanna feel liberated IIIIIIIII" but I guess that's just Kanye being Kanye.

    Best songs: Ultralight Beam, Feedback, Father Stretch My Hands Pt1 & 2, Real Friends, Freestyle 4
    Worst song: Facts (He should drop that for the physical release)    … Expand
  86. joe9685
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Best album he's made since Dark Twisted Fantasy. Wish the songs were a little longer but I like how it isn't just 10 songs like before. I love this album like Kanye loves Kanye.
  87. mrknowitall_not
    Feb 14, 2016
    8
    Not as good as Yeezus. A lot of auto-tune. Choppy and over-wrought in parts. The first 10 songs go by with few memorable moments. The end of Famous is just throwing together a bunch of samples that don't fit. "Feedback" is pretty good. Low Lights is gospel filler. "Highlights" sounds like a Kanye song from 2002. Freestyle 4 is good but sounds like half-finished song. "I love Kanye" isNot as good as Yeezus. A lot of auto-tune. Choppy and over-wrought in parts. The first 10 songs go by with few memorable moments. The end of Famous is just throwing together a bunch of samples that don't fit. "Feedback" is pretty good. Low Lights is gospel filler. "Highlights" sounds like a Kanye song from 2002. Freestyle 4 is good but sounds like half-finished song. "I love Kanye" is filler. Waves is a pop song. Not rap. FML is heartfelt but awkward with auto-tune Kanye trying to sing. Then Weeknd comes in a saves the song. Real Friends is kind of boring. Wolves is auto-tune and kind of boring. Intermission is filler. 30 Hours is boring. FACTS is the best song on the record. Fade is the second best song. My two favorite songs are the last two songs. Overall respectable effort but songs could have been more fleshed out like Twisted Fantasy or in-your-face like Yeezus.… Expand
  88. GamerAnt
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Its unreal how good this album is. I have listened to this album over and over again back to back without the need to skip a single track. Some of these songs like Ultra Light Beam and Low lights have gave me chills. Kanye has really out did himself on this work of art. This album may come across a bit random by its great in its our merit. I only wish there was a bonus track of wolves withIts unreal how good this album is. I have listened to this album over and over again back to back without the need to skip a single track. Some of these songs like Ultra Light Beam and Low lights have gave me chills. Kanye has really out did himself on this work of art. This album may come across a bit random by its great in its our merit. I only wish there was a bonus track of wolves with Vic Mensa and Sia (Which appears to be coming later) would top put it over the top. Definitely in my top 2 albums of Kanye rivaling MBDTF.… Expand
  89. olidox
    Feb 15, 2016
    8
    If you pretend that Freestyle 4 didn't exist and switch up the order of the songs, this could pass for one of the better experimental hip-hop records this century. A clever blend of gospel, house, melodic sections and stellar production as always. Most of the guests do their job extremely well as per usual on Kanye's albums.

    There are a few issues. Kanye's verse on NMPILA isn't mixed    If you pretend that Freestyle 4 didn't exist and switch up the order of the songs, this could pass for one of the better experimental hip-hop records this century. A clever blend of gospel, house, melodic sections and stellar production as always. Most of the guests do their job extremely well as per usual on Kanye's albums.

    There are a few issues. Kanye's verse on NMPILA isn't mixed that well. The version of Wolves is definitely a step down from the version we heard before. The tracks aren't really sequenced that well; you get a bit of whiplash going from beautiful melodic gospel tracks to Kanye talking about getting bleach on his d**k over trap beats.

    Best moments for me were Chance's verse on Ultra Light Beams, the outro / beat switch on Famous, FML, Real Friends and 30 Hours.

    I really wish Kanye had spent another weak or 2 fine-tuning this project. Nonetheless it is another stellar, original and creative project for Mr. West to add to his already impressive discography

    Strong 8/10 with the potential to be a 9 with a bit of tweaking    … Expand
  90. stfuadam
    Feb 18, 2016
    9
    Some tracks are unnecessary and sound like they were added at the last minute (Facts, Freestyle 4, I Love Kanye - I do like ILK though) and the album is probably SLIGHTLY longer than it needs to be, but it really is Kanye West at the top of his game and... well, being Kanye West. Best tracks: Ultralight Beam, Famous, Real Friends, FML, Wolves, Fade, Highlights.
  91. Mlungisi
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Kanye West is once again leading the music industry in a new direction.
    This album is a piece of art which speaks a lot to the modern times of Donald trump politics and plus size models.
    The world no longer accepts the idea of perfection/beauty as what we have become accustomed to and Kanye is echoing that in a way only he can. He makes it clear that he is the conductor an entirely    Kanye West is once again leading the music industry in a new direction.
    This album is a piece of art which speaks a lot to the modern times of Donald trump politics and plus size models.
    The world no longer accepts the idea of perfection/beauty as what we have become accustomed to and Kanye is echoing that in a way only he can.
    He makes it clear that he is the conductor an entirely different orchestra, and the result is magnificent.    … Expand
  92. Sukhvirlam12
    Feb 18, 2016
    10
    Phenomenal. Kanye is 7/7. How does he DO THIS? How does one continue to create so much amazingness. Thank you Kanye. Looking forward to the new released version.
  93. proterospongia
    Feb 15, 2016
    8
    The Life of Pablo brings up the most notable characteristics of previous West's albums: the megalomania of Dark Twisted Fantasy and the schizophrenia of Yeezus. But those features that worked perfectly on those two albums show their flaws on TLOP: at some points, the megalomania turns into excess and the schizophrenia turns into incoherence. After several changes in the tracklist and inThe Life of Pablo brings up the most notable characteristics of previous West's albums: the megalomania of Dark Twisted Fantasy and the schizophrenia of Yeezus. But those features that worked perfectly on those two albums show their flaws on TLOP: at some points, the megalomania turns into excess and the schizophrenia turns into incoherence. After several changes in the tracklist and in the album's title, TLOP seems like it could have worked better without some tracks and with a more cohesive approach. TLOP sounds like a well-produced mixtape and it just add to what we already know: Kanye West is one of the greatest artists of our time. The most outstanding feature here is West's well-known acid sincerity.

    Best Tracks: Ultralight Beam; FACTS, No More Parties In LA (feat. Kendrick Lamar)    … Expand
  94. BrandonTrotter
    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.
  95. danielsons
    Feb 19, 2016
    10
    HOLY **** what an amazing album since the first music you can feel that is an other level song. Totally recommended! Best Kanye album in my opinion. Worthy listening
  96. 2016starts
    Feb 17, 2016
    7
    I listened to only some tracks of his new work because I don't have a TIdal account so I listened all tracks but not all. I really like the first singles out like No More Parties In LA. Kanye is back with a kind of Old School Rap....
  97. hunterdav
    Feb 15, 2016
    8
    If Yeezus was Kanye's genius mix of protest music, The Life of Pablo is the quiet after the storm.
    This is passive music. At moments, great for the car with friends, at other moments, somber and reflective. But we expect this from Kanye West albums. What we don't expect is a record that is without cohesion. Much of the track listing feels either rushed or without purpose. Never bad, just    If Yeezus was Kanye's genius mix of protest music, The Life of Pablo is the quiet after the storm.
    This is passive music. At moments, great for the car with friends, at other moments, somber and reflective. But we expect this from Kanye West albums. What we don't expect is a record that is without cohesion. Much of the track listing feels either rushed or without purpose. Never bad, just lacking. Even the much-lauded Ultralight Beam feels, at times, empty. I ask myself, "What does Kanye want us to know with this music?" He calls it a gospel album, but that title gives a great deal of expectation that can not always be lived up to.

    On the other side, the album delivers tracks like Highlights and 30 Hours. If West expanded on the brighter moments and focused on the message, Pablo would easily become his best album to date. In its current state, it isn't quite there.    … Expand
  98. vaggelis
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Pure masterpiece. Every kanye album is different, challenging, inspired, he never rests on past glory. The life of pablo pushes the limits even further musically, lyrically and production-wise. You can choose to ignore or hate Kanye West, like there were people that ignored or hated the Beatles in the 60s. He still won't go away, his musical greatness will always be there. 10/10
  99. ricky_the_gent
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Ye brings emotion and bragging in an 18-track-long messy album and creates a stunning and highly enjoyable collection of impressionistic mood-changing splinters that only West himself would be capable of doing. The anticipation was worth it: this album deserves everything.
  100. SmithN51
    Feb 20, 2016
    10
    Great Production, Great features, Different Subject Matter, Inventive, clever, intuitive, now all is need is a CD / iTunes release.

    Least Favourite Songs; Facts (Charlie Heat Version) Freestyle 4 Feedback Low Lights Favourite Songs; No More Parties In LA Fade Waves FML Ultralight Beam Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 1 & 2 Real Friends Highlights 30 Hours Wolves I Love    Great Production, Great features, Different Subject Matter, Inventive, clever, intuitive, now all is need is a CD / iTunes release.

    Least Favourite Songs;
    Facts (Charlie Heat Version)
    Freestyle 4
    Feedback
    Low Lights

    Favourite Songs;
    No More Parties In LA
    Fade
    Waves
    FML
    Ultralight Beam
    Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 1 & 2
    Real Friends
    Highlights
    30 Hours
    Wolves
    I Love Kanye

    Songs The Could've Been Better;
    Famous

    If I could change something;
    exclude Freestyle 4, Low Lights & Feedback with Only One, All Day (maybe the Kendrick Remix) and Awesome.

    Overall Score: 10/10    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

6
#6 Most Discussed Album of 2016
4
#4 Most Shared Album of 2016

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
75

Generally favorable reviews - based on 35 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 24 out of 35
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 35
  3. Negative: 0 out of 35
  1. Under The Radar
    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.
    Read full review
  2. The Telegraph (UK)
    Apr 1, 2016
    60
    There is much to be admired here, rather less to be enjoyed.
    Read full review
  3. Uncut
    Mar 22, 2016
    70
    For better or worse, no-one else is making records quite like this. [May 2016, p.82]
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