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. nikoziko
    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
  2. PashaPS_
    Feb 14, 2016
    9
    What I like about Kanye - If he said that he will do a great material - he do a great material. It can be an upstart and rude - but his talent is incredible!
  3. wyatt124uu
    Feb 16, 2016
    9
    Kanye tops his critically acclaimed Yeezus which was released 3 years ago, The Life Of Pablo is very experimental as Kanye tends to be but more enjoyable to fans than Yeezus.
    As I found, Yeezus was not as well received as I felt it deserved.
    TLOP obviously has some amazing production, it's pretty much flawless in that area, one thing I noticed worth mentioning is the vocal samples. A lot    Kanye tops his critically acclaimed Yeezus which was released 3 years ago, The Life Of Pablo is very experimental as Kanye tends to be but more enjoyable to fans than Yeezus.
    As I found, Yeezus was not as well received as I felt it deserved.
    TLOP obviously has some amazing production, it's pretty much flawless in that area, one thing I noticed worth mentioning is the vocal samples. A lot of songs in the track list have vocal samples used mixed in with the beats or in another way. Songs like Fade, Famous, Waves, and Wolves are phenomenal examples of this. All four of these songs have a strong showing of vocal sampling mixed in with the overall production, and all of them come out fantastic. Sister Nancy's song Bam Bam is vocal sampled on the second half of the song Famous and is easily one of the most jaw dropping moments on the album. The song turns from Kanye rapping a lot of braggadocio over a very shining banger type beat, to an incredible soulful, and in a weird way, hope giving beat with Nancy's vocals fitting in perfect. Swizz Beatz ad-libs throughout the song are also incredibly enjoyable, not too much is enough. As recognizable as the Nancy sample is, it still comes in as beautifully and will remind you how you felt when you first heard it (and if you haven't heard the sample before you are in for quite a feeling).
    The album kicks off incredibly strong with Ultralight Beam, featuring GOOD Music's own The-Dream, Chance The Rapper and Kelly Price if I'm not mistaken. It is a beautiful, soul touching gosepl record which is a suprise from someone like Kanye, but it is does to perfection, with Dream and Kelly's vocals bring their game and a choir in the background making the track really feel like a "God dream" as Kanye states in the track. Chance brings a powerful verse to put the cherry on top of the sundae.
    FML is also a mentionable track which features The Weeknd, it is another twisted love story from Kanye talking about how he always "F*cks his life up". The song starts off very slow, but picks up after the first hook which is a quick but powerful show of emotion from The Weeknd.
    The interlude/skit "I Love Kanye" is a hilarious, awesome little jab at all the people who say they miss the "old Kanye" and it is epic.
    Theres a song for everyone on here and some songs are hard not to like. From fun listens like No More Parties In LA, Highlights & Waves to gruff songs that might convince you Kanye is an insane genius like Freestyle 4, Feedback and Facts. The album is a thrilling roller coaster, the mood can change up incredibly in just a few songs, you'll go from near tears from the dark Wolves track with Frank Ocean, to dancing with no care to No More Parties In LA with Kendrick Lamar.
    In conclusion, this isn't Kanye's best work, but it is definitely another impressive entry to his discography, which is already on of the strongest in music history.
    I'm giving this a Strong 9.7    … Expand
  4. AmirAbdiJama
    Feb 14, 2016
    9
    Explored Sound Is A Highlight Of The Album, It's So Diveresed But Still It Doesn't Leave A Theme That Kayne West Already Build With The 1st Song, The Production Is Really Excenllent, And Lyrics Is Good With A New Direction And Honesty Kayne Presented Is Impressive With Talking About And Comparing The Past With Future
  5. 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
  6. redjackb123
    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.
  7. 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.
  8. vinzdakid
    Feb 14, 2016
    9
    It's a great album, could have been better though. Wolves in particular should have included Sia and Vic. Other than that, well-produced album with memorable songs such as "Father Stretch My Hands" and "Highlights".
  9. 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
  10. micahmilton
    Feb 14, 2016
    9
    Great album. There were high expectations going into it and I came out satisfied and then some. There are a few lackluster songs but the good far outweighs the bad. Kanye has once again proven that no matter how strange of a celebrity he is in public, he is ultimately a great musician
  11. 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
  12. 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
  13. CelineDion69
    Feb 15, 2016
    9
    Absolutely stunning. From the moment the choir comes in on Ultralight Beams to the last note of Fade, you get Kanye firing on all cylinders. The most grueling album I've heard in a long time, and that is the best compliment I could give an album. There is so much beauty and soul to get through, it's almost overwhelming. Kanye only had one misstep: the misogynistic and perplexing Taylor Swift line.
  14. SavioLira
    Feb 15, 2016
    9
    Only an artist like Kanye West can produce a unfinished album and make this CD sound incredible, to universal music standards. But the real question is: Is this album matchable to Kanye West's standards? It can easily be seen that Kanye lacks certain goals that he didn't even have to sweat to overcome in his previous albums. Then again, does he need a point to his work? We are talkingOnly an artist like Kanye West can produce a unfinished album and make this CD sound incredible, to universal music standards. But the real question is: Is this album matchable to Kanye West's standards? It can easily be seen that Kanye lacks certain goals that he didn't even have to sweat to overcome in his previous albums. Then again, does he need a point to his work? We are talking about a true phenomenon, in which people just want his music to come out.
    It's still too early to even compare The Life of Pablo to the 2013 album Yeezus, and it obviously doesn't reach the level of College Dropout, Late Registration, Graduation, and MBDTF. Yet again, it's a better album then 808's and heartbreak, and just maybe better compared to Yeezus.
    The production is outstanding (typical of Kanye West), and a uncommon point of this work is that the collaborations are fantastic. He really didn't need to make fabulous lyrics. He had a great team for that.
    One of the only counterpoints is that it does sound unfinished. In his antecedents CDs, it can easily be seen where the album started and finished. In The Life of Pablo, Fade is definitely not a an outro. A song like Who will survive in America, Late, or Last Call is missing.
    Returning back to the main question, this is not Kanye West's best work, but compared to other artists, this just maybe a masterpiece. So it reaches Kanye West's standards. A rare fact is that Kanye is in a level in the hip hop game that is considered "legend." Not even Nas, Jay Z, or even Tupac had the consistency that Kanye has in all his discography. He did it again, just accept it.    … Expand
  15. meekmiLL
    Feb 15, 2016
    9
    This album is fantastic. In fact it is very fantastic but what stops it from being a classic album such as his previous work (MBDTF and Late Registration) is the lack of cohesion and consistency with the albums which might be because of his irregular thought pattern of changing everything about the album all the time. Nonetheless, it's a Kanye album. Of course it's gonna be fantastic.
  16. theandyguthrie
    Feb 15, 2016
    9
    Some really strong tracks, a lot of really inventive sampling and emotional moments. Let down by a few weak interludes but I don't think that takes away from the strength of this album.

    Could be Kanye's best yet.
  17. draediamond
    Feb 15, 2016
    9
    This is a REALLY great album! This album will be underrated by a few rap fans because it's not as lyrical as some would like but the level of art on this album is unmatchable by anybody making music today. Drake, Lamar, Cole, and Future may never even come close to this album. It again pushes the boundaries of rap and mixes all sounds of Kanye that we love. The Life of Pablo is comparableThis is a REALLY great album! This album will be underrated by a few rap fans because it's not as lyrical as some would like but the level of art on this album is unmatchable by anybody making music today. Drake, Lamar, Cole, and Future may never even come close to this album. It again pushes the boundaries of rap and mixes all sounds of Kanye that we love. The Life of Pablo is comparable to 2010's Twisted Fantasy and sets Kanye as possibly the all-time king of rap music.… Expand
  18. 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
  19. 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!
  20. 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.
  21. 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!
  22. 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
  23. 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.
  24. SergioV
    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.
  25. popcornnsprite
    Feb 17, 2016
    9
    Some of the beat switches got on my nerves initially and could have been executed more smoothly in my opinion. I have started to get used to them after multiple listens and can really enjoy almost every single song on this album (freestyle 4 aside). Ultralight Beam is amazing. Fantastic album with many highs.
  26. Thelifeofreview
    Feb 17, 2016
    9
    Em primeiro lugar o religioso 'So Help Me God', em segundo lugar o curto 'SWISH', em terceiro o sutil 'Waves' e enfim o misterioso 'The Life Of Pablo'.

    The Life Of Pablo é o sétimo álbum solo de estúdio do rapper Kanye West. Lançado oficialmente em 12 de Janeiro. Após uma longa pausa de 3 anos, enfim Kanye West está de volta. Após alguns singles e desfiles, ele volta com tudo, enfim    Em primeiro lugar o religioso 'So Help Me God', em segundo lugar o curto 'SWISH', em terceiro o sutil 'Waves' e enfim o misterioso 'The Life Of Pablo'.

    The Life Of Pablo é o sétimo álbum solo de estúdio do rapper Kanye West. Lançado oficialmente em 12 de Janeiro.

    Após uma longa pausa de 3 anos, enfim Kanye West está de volta. Após alguns singles e desfiles, ele volta com tudo, enfim com um relacionamento sem turbulência, ele recebe de Deus seus dois novos anjos e suas roupas em total evidência. Kanye West apresenta nesse novo álbum uma nova pessoa, um Kanye que nós ainda não tínhamos conhecimento.

    O álbum conta com participações de Chance The Rapper, Chris Brown, Desiigner, Frank Ocean, Kendrick Lamar, Kid Cudi, Kirk Franklin, Post Malone, Rihanna, Sia, Ty Dolla $ign, Vic Mensa, The Weeknd & Young Thug. UFA!

    E nas produções destaco; Cashmere Cat, Kanye West, Madlib, Metro Boomin & Rick Rubin.

    A Pitchfork compara Kanye a Picasso, aqui nesse texto comparo o álbum ao quadro de Les Demoiselles d'Avignon.

    Les Demoiselles d'Avignon: A composição de Picasso, 'As Senhoritas de Avignon', levou nove meses para ser feita, vindo a se tornar uma das obras responsáveis por revolucionar a história da arte, formando a base para o cubismo e a pintura abstrata. O Álbum é complexo, como é a pintura. As participações do álbum são como as cores da pintura, todas estão distribuídas perfeitamente, não há excessos, e todos estão em seus devidos lugares.

    Como a pintura, o álbum trocou de nome diversas vezes. A pintura foi incompreendida pelos amigos de Picasso, e o álbum está sendo incompreendido por alguns não fãs. Kanye referiu-se ao álbum como o álbum da vida, já Picasso referiu-se a pintura como sua primeira verdadeira pintura. Ambos também tem influencias da cultura africana. Picasso relatou que a pintura se retrata de tudo que ocorreu/correrá em 50 anos, o álbum retrata tudo que ocorreu na vida do Kanye e tudo o que ele deseja ocorrer. Muitos estilos em uma única tela. Muitos estilos musicais em único álbum. A possibilidade de fazer tudo que vem a sua mente. A possibilidade de rimar sobre qualquer assunto. A ousadia de Picasso. A ousadia de Kanye em 'Famous', 'Feedback' 'Freestyle 4' & 'FACTS'.

    O álbum não é de fácil entendimento como 'Graduation', você levará algumas semanas para admitir que é um bom álbum. O que Kanye passou para mim é que, ele fez o álbum expondo tudo que viveu e para seus fieis fãs. O álbum não se prende em só em um estilo, ele varia, o que é ótimo. Porém, Kanye deveria ter realizado a distribuição de faixas com mais delicadeza, algo que sempre o destacou. As letras estão no ponto, com rimas fortes e letras emocionantes tais como; 'Ultralight Beam', 'Real Friends' & 'Wolves'. Produção também é um destaque, conta com a lenda Rick Rubin, o produtor do momento, Metro Boomin e também o seu fiel companheiro Mike Dean, que produz conjunto desde Graduation. Como praxe, Kanye dá uma aula de samples no álbum, contendo samples de 'Stand Up and Shout About Love' por Larry Graham Jr, 'Do What You Gotta Do' pela Nina Simone, elementos sonoros do jogo 'Street Fighter II' e '(I Know) I'm Losing You' de Rare Earth.

    Enfim, é um bom álbum. Não se compara ao clássico 'My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy'. porém está em um alto nível. Kanye West nunca decepciona.

    Músicas de destaque: 'Ultralight Beam', 'Real Friends' & 'No More Parties in L.A.'    … Expand
  27. steeze_abiola
    Feb 18, 2016
    9
    The album presents itself to somewhat artistic, revealing a spiritually elusive sonic ambiance. Of all the intended album titles, TLOP interprets the aberrational and con-jointed musical effort of his publicly unacceptable persona and the younger novel Kanye West.

    Just like @JeffGoldblum said; no two Kanye albums sounds alike. If you are finding difficulties liking this album, Read up    The album presents itself to somewhat artistic, revealing a spiritually elusive sonic ambiance. Of all the intended album titles, TLOP interprets the aberrational and con-jointed musical effort of his publicly unacceptable persona and the younger novel Kanye West.

    Just like @JeffGoldblum said; no two Kanye albums sounds alike. If you are finding difficulties liking this album, Read up on Pablo Picasso and see how he started off with the generally acceptable form of art and grew up to be more personal, expressional and deviant.

    Some reviewers think its an incomplete sound, Kanye has taken a impressionist approach to how "beautiful" is defined. Take a cue from his clothing line; appreciating ugliness as an aesthetic defiance is the mode he has been creating music upon, not having to be the harmoniously balanced keys of Marvin Gaye.

    The overly collective mix of different sounds and samples suggests Kanye's ability to extract rhythm and combine a generational ascension of sounds.

    The -1 from my score is the harmful image the lyrical contents adds to his personality. He tries to reinvigorate the humorous Kanye to which he poorly misrepresented into something harsh and intense.    … Expand
  28. tpab
    Feb 22, 2016
    9
    The Life Of Pablo, arguably the first major hip hop release of 2016, lived up to most hype. The great punchlines, combination of some of his older projects, and excellent producing makes this album what it is, a amazing album.
  29. mrgarcia
    Mar 9, 2016
    9
    Yeezy just doesn't stop. Keep dropping great albums and revolutionizing hip-pop. The album bumps hard! Both new and old kanye are geniuses!!! If you don't like kanye as a person ...cool but, give him props for his artistry
  30. cfc38
    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..
  31. areslol1
    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.
  32. emanuel_ruiz
    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
  33. rwessmyer
    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
  34. AKthaBeast
    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
  35. Atum_
    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.
  36. stnull
    Jul 6, 2019
    9
    9/10-----------------------------------------------------------------------
  37. Vittormoises
    Sep 18, 2019
    9
    Kenye W. The best rapper and producer, like always give us a album amazing and fantastic, like a bird flying...
  38. Lleay
    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.
  39. Kyle_Peake
    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!
  40. Sopranzzz_
    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
  41. SpartanBlood_17
    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.
  42. musicnerd1997
    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!
  43. monkeeh
    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
  44. BigDJohnWick
    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.
  45. carisio
    Sep 8, 2021
    9
    favorite kanye album tbh, his 2nd version is way better than the original one
  46. narolo
    Mar 30, 2022
    9
    goodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgood
  47. ColinFrags
    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
  48. swiftswift
    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.
  49. saraysamuel
    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
  50. JonBon
    Jan 9, 2023
    9
    probably shouldve retired on this album:///////////////////////////////////
  51. Dtoppy
    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
  52. 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
  53. Super-Evil-DOOM
    Feb 17, 2016
    8
    Somewhere in here it feels like there's an amazing album that just isn't polished or fully formed. TLOP is a bit chaotic in nature with a few tracks that feel both unfinished and like filler. There are 8-9 truly wonderful songs on the track list, a few of those such as Feedback or Fade STILL feel like they could probably be more than what they are even though their current state is stillSomewhere in here it feels like there's an amazing album that just isn't polished or fully formed. TLOP is a bit chaotic in nature with a few tracks that feel both unfinished and like filler. There are 8-9 truly wonderful songs on the track list, a few of those such as Feedback or Fade STILL feel like they could probably be more than what they are even though their current state is still extremely replayable. Overall, this is still a very exceptional album that can feel a bit exhausting at times, but it does grow with each listen.… Expand
  54. ReubenIsAGod
    Feb 15, 2016
    8
    Yeah it's really good. Not really being a Kanye fan i thought this thing was pretty based. Also the production on this thing, and the general vibe feels so much rawer and a lot more mature opposed to his other stuff. More personal maybe. Good **** check it out of tidel and buy the album
  55. arnmlr6
    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.
  56. 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
  57. LBJ6
    Feb 18, 2016
    8
    The lack of cohesion and focus evident on TLOP is unlike West, leaving the album as a whole to appear a bit messy and lacking a concept. However, individually the tracks are, with the exception of 4-5 songs, what one would expect from an artist of West's caliber. The production, as on all of his previous projects, is more or less flawless and the features dazzle. Not his best body of work,The lack of cohesion and focus evident on TLOP is unlike West, leaving the album as a whole to appear a bit messy and lacking a concept. However, individually the tracks are, with the exception of 4-5 songs, what one would expect from an artist of West's caliber. The production, as on all of his previous projects, is more or less flawless and the features dazzle. Not his best body of work, but another great album to add to his incredible discography. 8.2/10. Highlights include: Waves, FSMH pt.1&2, Ultralight Beam, Real Friends, FML, No More Parties, Highlights, and Famous.… Expand
  58. 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.
  59. lucas0150
    Feb 16, 2016
    8
    Religious yet profane. Insane yet serene. Introspective yet outgoing. This could have rivaled 'Dark Fantasy' in terms of beats, colaborators, and sheer creativity, and could have outshone 'Yeezus' in terms of confidence and outright ambition. Only problem is, Kanye forgot to finish it. Some bits feel like a work in progress, one reviewer said, and I concur with him. Still, songs such asReligious yet profane. Insane yet serene. Introspective yet outgoing. This could have rivaled 'Dark Fantasy' in terms of beats, colaborators, and sheer creativity, and could have outshone 'Yeezus' in terms of confidence and outright ambition. Only problem is, Kanye forgot to finish it. Some bits feel like a work in progress, one reviewer said, and I concur with him. Still, songs such as opener 'Ultralight Beam', featuring a glorious mix of gospel choir and downtempo rap, and 'No More Parties in LA', the long-awaited collab between Kanye and Kendrick, make it a solid addition to Ye's discography.… Expand
  60. 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
  61. 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
  62. 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
  63. LukaGoncalves
    Feb 15, 2016
    8
    The first impression I got upon listening to TLOP for the first time was that it is not as cohesive as MBDTF or Yeezus which it clearly revisits and attempts to fuse, and even though it's growing on me with each listen, TLOP sounds somewhat unfinished and a little step too far from the sheer greatness of MBDTF or the raw emotion of Yeezus. However there are some excellent pieces of musicThe first impression I got upon listening to TLOP for the first time was that it is not as cohesive as MBDTF or Yeezus which it clearly revisits and attempts to fuse, and even though it's growing on me with each listen, TLOP sounds somewhat unfinished and a little step too far from the sheer greatness of MBDTF or the raw emotion of Yeezus. However there are some excellent pieces of music here like No More Parties in LA, FML, Wolves, Waves or Famous. The messy release of TLOP, Kanye's latest weird tweets and the suprise edited version of Wolves are in order with the raw and disorganized nature of TLOP. Maybe he should have worked on it for a little longer but TLOP is in no way a bad album and sets the scene to Kanye's future music endeavours. 75/100… Expand
  64. sybtonline
    Feb 18, 2016
    8
    If you took all Kanye’s previous albums, dropped it in a pot and cooked it, The Life Of Pablo is what you will get. The Life Of Pablo is messy in a good way, noisy in a beautiful way and all over the place in an orderly way (I dont even know what that means but it sounds good right?) This album is sonically out of this world as you would expect a Kante album to be, the album however fallIf you took all Kanye’s previous albums, dropped it in a pot and cooked it, The Life Of Pablo is what you will get. The Life Of Pablo is messy in a good way, noisy in a beautiful way and all over the place in an orderly way (I dont even know what that means but it sounds good right?) This album is sonically out of this world as you would expect a Kante album to be, the album however fall shorts in terms of great lyricism -sybt.tv… Expand
  65. jkerlol
    Feb 15, 2016
    8
    I'm a huge kanye fan, and I love all his work, but this one falls a little short just because of the lack of new ideas, it's still an great album. Every album since the college dropout has been so different and innovative that I was expecting more. This is more like a culmination off all his work. Again still a really good album tho
  66. gabriel1
    Feb 18, 2016
    8
    Tonnes of fantastic content and impeccable production, but the ordering of the track list plus a few tracks (Waves, Highlights, Freestyle 4, Silver Surfer Intermission) suck some of the greatness out of the overall album.
  67. drewskie2010
    Feb 15, 2016
    8
    the production is consistently thrilling and entrancing. However, his rapping has been better in the past. The production alone makes this album must-listen though. The featured guests did a fantastic as well.
  68. PuffFishTorch28
    Feb 25, 2016
    8
    I wasn't crazy about Yeezus, but this one has started to grow on me. Not crazy about every track, but overall it's a good album and I enjoyed the majority of it. It sounds unfinished, which is ironic since it is his most delayed release since his first album (Completed through 1999-2004). It's certainly not my favorite Kanye album, though there are some great moments on this that made meI wasn't crazy about Yeezus, but this one has started to grow on me. Not crazy about every track, but overall it's a good album and I enjoyed the majority of it. It sounds unfinished, which is ironic since it is his most delayed release since his first album (Completed through 1999-2004). It's certainly not my favorite Kanye album, though there are some great moments on this that made me laugh, and it leaves me wishing Kanye was rapping on every track minus skits/interludes.… Expand
  69. KuntaKinteJr
    Feb 14, 2016
    8
    The heart of this album lies in its sound. Kanye may not be at his lyrical peak, but the mixture of the well executed instrumentals and Kanye's lyrics lead to another innovation in his sound. Cant wait to hear the next project from him.
  70. 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
  71. 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.
  72. 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
  73. 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.
  74. 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
  75. AndrewLambert
    Mar 13, 2016
    8
    The circus surrounding TLOP's release couldn't have been any more Kanye, and fittingly on his 7th album he delivers his most divisive album yet. It's inconsistent, indulgent and unapologetic while also endlessly creative, highly original and breathtaking throughout.

    Ultimately, The Life Of Pablo is the kind of flawed, spectacular mess that only West could make- an intense, at times    The circus surrounding TLOP's release couldn't have been any more Kanye, and fittingly on his 7th album he delivers his most divisive album yet. It's inconsistent, indulgent and unapologetic while also endlessly creative, highly original and breathtaking throughout.

    Ultimately, The Life Of Pablo is the kind of flawed, spectacular mess that only West could make- an intense, at times infuriating journey inside the psyche of the 21st century's most conflicting and contentious artist.

    It is only after all the drama, hyperbole and general ridiculousness is over that we are left with the real significance and sense behind Kanye's work; the lasting, innovative and utterly unique music that's kept us talking about him for the last decade. It's good to have him back.    … Expand
  76. Bretto66
    Feb 25, 2016
    8
    While it is tempting to be disappointed. This one is a grower that gets better after each listen. Yeezy is still the man. Mr West is still searching and again we see another facet of his undoubted talent.
  77. ajbryson
    Feb 29, 2016
    8
    Let me start by saying that after my first listen to this album i probably would have gave it a 9 or 8. I enjoyed my first listen but I think I was unfairly comparing it to MBDTF. However, after countless listens after (either straight though or bits and pieces) this album is just flat out fantastic. I feel as though the reason it is polarizing for most fans is because: 1) lyrics are notLet me start by saying that after my first listen to this album i probably would have gave it a 9 or 8. I enjoyed my first listen but I think I was unfairly comparing it to MBDTF. However, after countless listens after (either straight though or bits and pieces) this album is just flat out fantastic. I feel as though the reason it is polarizing for most fans is because: 1) lyrics are not priority on this album some are even laughably embarrassing (but i still shout them out each time) 2) The album is a mess when listened chronologically and its completely on purpose 3) Many people, fans or not, rate Kanye albums based completely on his character in the time leading up to its release and his character was completely ridiculous leading up to and including the actual release of this project. That being said this album is for fans of Kanye and that is it. This is a Kanye album wether you like it or not. It beautifully combines his last three albums into a sundae with sprinkles of the first three albums. Lets go track by track.

    Ultra Light Beam: sonically booming and utterly beautiful with chance the rapper stealing the show and giving me chills every time
    FSMH pt 1: CUDI!!! every time it drops after "ima shoot you" i feel like im being beamed up to the heavens where cudi greats me with a smile. it does contain an extremely strange line about a model and some bleach but damnit if i dont rap along EVERY time
    Pt 2: this track bangs but thats about it for me
    Famous: probably one of my favorites this is just a certified banger with Ye bringing bars, rihanna smashing the hook, and swiz masterfully sampling Bom Bom
    Feedback: great song funky beat #bars
    Low Lights: the only low part on the album not sure what he was going for here but i don't like it. it wouldve been an ok intro but as an interlude its just ridiculous
    Highlights: yet another banger with Thugger being himself and the Dream doing nice work and i smile every time Kanye says "sound like me?"
    Freestyle 4: this is what Yeezus needed to sound like, only complaint is it isn't longer
    I love Kanye: hahahaha
    Waves: good, not sure why chance wanted it on the album so much its not bad but not great for me
    FML: my favorite track Weeknd absolutely kills and Kanye gets beautifully introspective
    Real Friends: Kanye at his best
    Wolves: Very good song but i think I enjoyed the Vic Mensa and Sia version a bit more but hearing Franks voice makes up for it
    Silver surfer intermission: meh same thing with lowlights
    30 Hours: this one is personally polarizing for me i love it and kanye come with bars thanks to drake her (ironic isnt it) but Andre 3000 comes on just to sing 2 words?? disappointing to say the least and the second half of the song its completely unnecessary would've enjoyed it more if 3000 did something like what Chris Rock did at the end of Blame Game on MBDTF
    No more parties in LA: Kanye and Kendrick... enough said
    Facts: better than the original but still just ok
    Fade: interesting concept but the sample begins to annoy me quickly so it probably wont get many plays    … Expand
  78. djemast
    Apr 2, 2016
    8
    Definitley not Kanye's best, but that doesn't mean much when he's put out some of the greatest music of our generation.
    I like this better than 808's, other than that every Kanye album is better.
    But that is a VERY good thing, because Kanye has yet to make bad music. Not big on 30 hours or Wolves. But i still like them. If you hate this album, you don't hate the music, you hate Kanye.    Definitley not Kanye's best, but that doesn't mean much when he's put out some of the greatest music of our generation.
    I like this better than 808's, other than that every Kanye album is better.
    But that is a VERY good thing, because Kanye has yet to make bad music.
    Not big on 30 hours or Wolves. But i still like them.
    If you hate this album, you don't hate the music, you hate Kanye. Look, I know he's a mess. But he is incredibly talented.
    This is his least lyrical album, though. The beats and producing are the highlight of the album.    … Expand
  79. Mesmerize
    Aug 9, 2016
    8
    8.5
    zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
  80. poeer123
    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.
  81. SumitSumbria
    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
  82. Eduardo_Santos
    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.
  83. billytrev24
    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
  84. victorcarter
    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
  85. fifi3
    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
  86. Fib3r
    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.
  87. HiMyNamesEthan
    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
  88. TaipeiJoey
    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
  89. ChrisSoTru
    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
  90. gabrielcipriano
    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.
  91. Shaymooose
    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
  92. xxchilipepperxx
    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
  93. dankchu
    Jun 26, 2021
    8
    critics need they lives revoked for giving this a 75 lmfao this is at least an 84/100 cmon bruh
  94. hiphopplatinum
    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
  95. sodovich
    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.
  96. ISETAEME
    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.
  97. garfield7081
    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
  98. MonkeMan
    Apr 6, 2022
    8
    It’s pretty good. Lots of stand out tracks and some of Ye’s most memorable bars of all time.
  99. Blonisco
    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
  100. frapsed1
    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
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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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