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8.4

Universal acclaim- based on 1302 Ratings

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  1. TimT
    Aug 26, 2005
    9
    It is better than College Dropout. More cohesive, skits suck, but all of the tracks are above average. BE is better, but this is almost as good, would be deserving of the 5 star Rolling Stone review if it was 5-6 tracks shorter.
  2. J.M.Sarabia
    Aug 27, 2005
    10
    Kanye West outdoes himself lyrcialy from his freshman debut. A much better rounded album. A new CLASSIC for the world of hip-hop. 01. Wake Up Mr. West (ft.Bernie Mac) 02. Heard 'Em Say (ft.Adam Levine Of Maroon 5) 9.5/10 03. Touch The Sky (ft.Lupe Fiasco) 9.5/10 04. Gold Digger (ft.Jamie Foxx) 10/10 05. Skit #1 06. Drive Slow (ft.Paul Wall & Glc) 10/10 07. My Way Home (ft.Common) Kanye West outdoes himself lyrcialy from his freshman debut. A much better rounded album. A new CLASSIC for the world of hip-hop. 01. Wake Up Mr. West (ft.Bernie Mac) 02. Heard 'Em Say (ft.Adam Levine Of Maroon 5) 9.5/10 03. Touch The Sky (ft.Lupe Fiasco) 9.5/10 04. Gold Digger (ft.Jamie Foxx) 10/10 05. Skit #1 06. Drive Slow (ft.Paul Wall & Glc) 10/10 07. My Way Home (ft.Common) 10/10 08. Crack Music (ft.The Game) 8.5/10 09. Roses 10/10 10. Bring Me Down (ft.Brandy) 8/10 11. Addiction 10/10 12. Skit #2 13. Diamonds (Remix) (ft.Jay-Z) 10/10 14. We Major (ft.Nas & Really Doe) 10/10 15. Skit $3 16. Hey Mama 10/10 17. Celebration 10/10 18. Skit #4 19. Gone (ft.Consequence & Cam'Ron) 10/10 20. Diamonds From Sierra Leone (Bonus Track) 10/10 21. Late (Hidden Track) 10/10 Expand
  3. JayN
    Aug 27, 2005
    10
    Heard 'Em Say, Touch the Sky, Roses, Bring Me Down, Hey Mama, Celebration, and Gone could be their own album, and I'd give that 10 as well. And for the review that said this album wasn't as "lively" as College Dropout quite OBVIOUSLY hasn't even listened to Late Registration.
  4. Ben
    Aug 27, 2005
    9
    Yeah, this won't stay at 9.5 Quasimoto was at 9.5 after like 7 reviews and look at it now 7.8 :(
  5. salmonpc
    Aug 27, 2005
    8
    everyone who has ever picked up a musical instument(or not in the case of most modern "musicians", is superior to Sufjan Stevens. Seriously.
  6. ChristopherK
    Aug 28, 2005
    9
    What if Kanye West and Sufjan Stevens did an album? Oh my God, that would be beautiful. I think this is one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time and well deserving of many many great scores. Crack Music!!! listen and purchase this milestone in rap/music history! But don't forget Sufjan.
  7. davet
    Aug 28, 2005
    10
    Best hip-hop album of the year, right next to Common's BE. Chicago is on FIRE!! Best songs are Hey Mama and Heard 'em Say.
  8. SlimJin.
    Aug 28, 2005
    10
    Gets better with every listen and a vast improvement on College Dropout as far as the depth of the album. Kanye has come back stronger than anybody could have expected. No sophomore slump for the college dropout.
  9. BigAL
    Aug 28, 2005
    10
    Unbelievable production. So imaginative, just plain ... good. Some may overlook this wondering where the club bangers and gangsta vibe are ... but, to those true *music* lovers, this is a masterpiece.
  10. petes
    Aug 29, 2005
    9
    Kanye has certainly transcended the label of being purely a "hip-hop" artist. This album is certainly more poetical and mature than The College Dropout; however, I'm not sure that, for everyone, this album is as original sounding as it could have been. Overall, it's great album, and alot of work went into its production.
  11. jonr
    Aug 29, 2005
    10
    wow.....crack music. dont worry all, sufjen and kanye can exist in the same universe.
  12. tony
    Aug 29, 2005
    10
    incredible!
  13. AaronS
    Aug 29, 2005
    10
    The best rap album of the year. In fact, one of the best records of the year period.
  14. BrandonC
    Aug 29, 2005
    10
    Maybe the lyrics aren't a ten but this has to be one of the well-produced, most listenable, complete albums in modern hip-hop. There's little filler, if any, and repeat listens are rewarding.
  15. KanyeEast
    Aug 31, 2005
    10
    read the rolling stone review, it basiclaly sums up how genius this album really is
  16. RobE
    Aug 31, 2005
    9
    I'm so sick of the claims of Kanye's arrogance and poor MC skills. He is so arrogant that he devotes songs to his family in the hospital, his mother and his struggles with addictions. Few of the best MCs in the game could keep our ears glued and our guts bustin with this type of material. Kanye does it with ease. Ye has made an album that does not contain the so-called "fun I'm so sick of the claims of Kanye's arrogance and poor MC skills. He is so arrogant that he devotes songs to his family in the hospital, his mother and his struggles with addictions. Few of the best MCs in the game could keep our ears glued and our guts bustin with this type of material. Kanye does it with ease. Ye has made an album that does not contain the so-called "fun tracks" that we heard on Dropout, but one that's possibly even more entertaining to listen to. The only reason that I would not give the album a 10 is because I honestly don't think we've seen the best of West yet. Expand
  17. JimW
    Aug 31, 2005
    8
    This CD is not as great as COLLEGE DROPOUT, but Kanye still delivers with humor and wit. His lines are fresher, but he has lost some from his first CD. As for Gnarles, Kanye is not at all overrated. Late Regis. might have been a bit overhyped, but College Dropout was a legend, one of the few quality Hip-hop cd's to come out in the pas 3 or 4 years.
  18. Tricky
    Aug 31, 2005
    10
    the best
  19. JimmieP
    Aug 31, 2005
    9
    A brilliant follow up to he College Dropout, it shows growth and unparalled originality. Once again, a breath of fresh air for hip hop!
  20. DwayneW
    Sep 11, 2005
    9
    Kanye is definately 1 of the most ambitious& talented artistes to have emerged in recent memory, and Late Registration cements that fact! Jon Brion brings texture & depth to an otherwise overlong (can you honestly name 1 rap album except for Common's BE, that isn't overlong & self-indulgent?), though interesting album. The album also showcases West's growth as an MC in Kanye is definately 1 of the most ambitious& talented artistes to have emerged in recent memory, and Late Registration cements that fact! Jon Brion brings texture & depth to an otherwise overlong (can you honestly name 1 rap album except for Common's BE, that isn't overlong & self-indulgent?), though interesting album. The album also showcases West's growth as an MC in songs like Diamonds Are Forever & We Major. A very memorable album, though even I must admit that it has nothing on the instant classicism of last year's College Dropout (the album, in my opinion, that should have won the Album of the Year Grammy!). I'm very disappointed in popmatters w/a rating of 7, & very surprised w/Rolling Stone & pitchfork w/ratings of 5stars & 9.5 respectively! M.I.A.'s Arular aside, Late Registration may very well be the album of the year ( though i'm yet to hear Sleater-Kinney's The Woods, Sufjan Stevens Illinoise &The New Pornographers' Twin Cinema)! The string instrumentations are lush & vivid! Touch the Sky is definately the opus' highlight (how ironic, the song was produced by Just Blaze!). Other great tracks- Heard 'Em Say, Gold Digger, Drive Slow, Crack Music, Roses, Celebration & Gone! Kudos for Kanye for again raising the bar on what rap and MUSIC should sound like! Expand
  21. RicardoL
    Sep 11, 2005
    10
    The only albums this album doesn't compare 2 are Only Built 4 Cuban Linx,De La Soul is Dead,and The Low End Theory,otherwise its 1 of the greatest albums made.don't hate
  22. DaveB
    Sep 22, 2005
    9
    Not as good as the College Dropout, but only because Kanye set the bar so high with his debut. A solid album. Interestingly, it seems all the people who gave it bad scores are people who don't really like rap and only bought it because of the hype. Obviously if you don't appreciate the genre, you won't like the album, no matter how good it is, bitches.
  23. JC
    Sep 26, 2005
    8
    First I'd like to say that I'd give this an 8.5 if I could, but I can't... Secondly...you must realize that this album takes some listening to get used to. You probably won't like it the first time you play it through. All of you that give this album less than a 7 either need to stop hating or give the album a few more chances. I'll admit it, my first go-around, I First I'd like to say that I'd give this an 8.5 if I could, but I can't... Secondly...you must realize that this album takes some listening to get used to. You probably won't like it the first time you play it through. All of you that give this album less than a 7 either need to stop hating or give the album a few more chances. I'll admit it, my first go-around, I was very disappointed. I only liked "Gold Digger" and "Diamonds from Sierra Leone (Remix)". But after a few more listens, a few more songs grew on me..."Heard 'Em Say" is probably my favorite song on the album. "Touch the Sky", "Hey Mama", "Roses", "Bring Me Down", "Gone", "Addiction", and "Crack Music" also grew on me. "We Major" is a major letdown, its really two songs rolled into one...I mean come on, it has 2 choruses, he's not fooling anyone. "My Way Home" is half a song and I really wish Kanye dropped a verse on that. I'm starting to like "Drive Slow" too. The only songs I skip are "Late" and "Celebration". Be patient people...give the album a second, third, fourth chance if you need to...it really is a great album. Expand
  24. TyeN.
    Aug 13, 2006
    10
    This album is my second favorite of 2005. Who would have thought that getting Jon Brion to produce would turn out to be such a great move? I love Jon Brion and Kanye, but it just didn't seem like a good match. That is, until I heard it. The production is amazing, and the album is filled with wonderful songs. My favorites are "Gone", "Diamonds (From Sierra Leone)", "Hey Mama", "Crack This album is my second favorite of 2005. Who would have thought that getting Jon Brion to produce would turn out to be such a great move? I love Jon Brion and Kanye, but it just didn't seem like a good match. That is, until I heard it. The production is amazing, and the album is filled with wonderful songs. My favorites are "Gone", "Diamonds (From Sierra Leone)", "Hey Mama", "Crack Music", "Addiction", "Heard 'Em Say", "Roses", and "Touch The Sky". The entire album is amazing though. Kanye West has become one of the few artist who's albums I always look forward to. I hope the rumors are true that he and Chris Martin did a song together for his third album...that would be amazing. Expand
  25. JimbrowskiI.
    Nov 20, 2007
    9
    What is the purpose of skits on rap albums again? Illmatic doesn't have single skit, which is probably why it's so short, but it's also why I love it so much (I've noticed that also with many rap artists in the Eighties, I like them to). Anyways, minus the skits, fantastic rap album. I was glad Graduation didn't have any skits.
  26. hiphoplover
    Mar 26, 2008
    9
    Until i heard "stronger", i never really liked Kanye West's music,but i herd stronger and i loved it. Plus my mate recommended Late Registration to me so i asked for it for my birthday. i got it and listened to it, and i thought it was brilliant! Not exactly what id call proper Hip-Hop, but still a pretty good album! I can listen to every track all the way through without getting Until i heard "stronger", i never really liked Kanye West's music,but i herd stronger and i loved it. Plus my mate recommended Late Registration to me so i asked for it for my birthday. i got it and listened to it, and i thought it was brilliant! Not exactly what id call proper Hip-Hop, but still a pretty good album! I can listen to every track all the way through without getting bored of it (except for "late," which is why the album gets a 9) and every track is on my ipod! (which is rare coz normally no more than 5 songs on average from an album make it onto your ipod, and most of the time its the albums singles...) Definitely fits into the top 10 albums i own. Shame some people still don't like it, but i suppose everyone has a different taste in music. anyways still a decent album in my opinion which i recommend to anyone... Expand
  27. AndyW
    Nov 15, 2005
    10
    "I think I died in an accident cuz this must be heaven!!" As well as a good line that fits perfectly well in a great song, it also states what this album is like. Kanye has soul in his music, and he knows it. He tries to show it through every song he makes. Whether it's his past releases such as "Jesus Walks", or some of the new songs he's written, including the mini monologue "I think I died in an accident cuz this must be heaven!!" As well as a good line that fits perfectly well in a great song, it also states what this album is like. Kanye has soul in his music, and he knows it. He tries to show it through every song he makes. Whether it's his past releases such as "Jesus Walks", or some of the new songs he's written, including the mini monologue at the end of "Crack Music", this guy just keeps on hammering away one perfect song after the next. If you tried to put West in the middle of the field with sheep, in matter of seconds, you'd probably see them wooless, because he's made a pimp jacket out of all of the wool. He'd probably have em dancing too! The point I'm trying to get at, is that Kanye West is a master of his domain, and he should stay that way for a while, until it comes to a time where he needs to change. Even then, he'll bust out some rhymes that are so amazing, YOU'D think you died and went to heaven (hence the topic sentence!) Late Registration is the greatest rap album ever. Period! Expand
  28. MattB
    Nov 17, 2005
    8
    There's only one thing more entertaining than listening to a bunch of "true heads" write off Kanye while playing up mediocre stuff like Blackalicious or Sage Francis, and that's listening to his work. Maybe not the unabashed genius of his debut, but there's a ton to like here, and with "Gone," he turns in his most accompished verse to date. Hate on him all you want: this is There's only one thing more entertaining than listening to a bunch of "true heads" write off Kanye while playing up mediocre stuff like Blackalicious or Sage Francis, and that's listening to his work. Maybe not the unabashed genius of his debut, but there's a ton to like here, and with "Gone," he turns in his most accompished verse to date. Hate on him all you want: this is the best Sophomore Slump in years. Expand
  29. LINDAG
    Nov 28, 2005
    10
    I'm 56 and a mother of a 21/31 daughters who luv rap. They played this for me and I stole the CD from them. Takes me back in the day. Luv this generation, however, you can't make music like we did back when--so sweeties just embrace as Kanye has--let it flow. CD is Awesome--HipHop for the older folks--Can he do it again?
  30. KEvinA
    Dec 16, 2005
    10
    This CD is spectacular... from every track to every verse, Kanye did it again.
  31. Jun 12, 2011
    9
    Terrific album, not perfect, but geniunely enjoyable, some tracks need work, but the rest works. BEST SONG ON THIS TRACK IS: TOUCH THE SKY FT. LUPE FIASCO. Kanye knows how to please, and does with this album.
  32. Nov 9, 2010
    10
    absolutely amazing its in my top fave albums i love it to death. not my favorite kanye album but it is amazing Diamonds From Sierra Leon is one of my favorite songs i could listen to that for years and years doesnt get old. very amazing one of the best raps ever
  33. Nov 11, 2013
    9
    Late Registration is nothing short of ambitious, self-assured, and an instant mile-stone. Mr. West was no victim to the sophomore slump, pushing himself even further to stardom with each hit. Every track holds something distinct and worthwhile, while also showing off Kanye as the great MC he is. The production is bombastic in this record, sometimes going very minimal as well, like he doesLate Registration is nothing short of ambitious, self-assured, and an instant mile-stone. Mr. West was no victim to the sophomore slump, pushing himself even further to stardom with each hit. Every track holds something distinct and worthwhile, while also showing off Kanye as the great MC he is. The production is bombastic in this record, sometimes going very minimal as well, like he does in "Drive Slow".

    All In All, Late Registration is a brilliant follow up to "College Dropout" A-
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  34. May 8, 2011
    10
    THIS IS THE BEST ALBUM OF THE DECADE. This album was amazing i loved every song on this album. its my favorite kanye west album. its perfect. it deserves 5 stars. this album shows people how talented kanye west is. great album!!!!!!!! 10/10 pure genius
  35. Jul 19, 2011
    10
    This Album is brilliant, influential and has to be one of the best Albums of 2005 and also of all time. I thought it would be impossible for him to do an Album which is either better than College Dropout or on same level.
  36. j30
    Sep 28, 2011
    9
    Really an excellent album. It gives me hope in Hip-Hop again. This album builds off it's predecessor, like the rest of his albums that follows (with an exception of 808's and Heartbreak).
  37. Aug 22, 2011
    10
    With this album Kanye made it known that he'll be around for a while. Great album my favorite from mr. West. Kanye West showed his lyricall greatness, his **** expressed his feelings all on one album.
  38. Nov 23, 2012
    8
    Another top album from Mr West, one of the few hip hop/rap artists where I can listen to an entire album. This has got some great singles and has the fantastic "Gold digger". Production is flawless, only thing that I don't like are the "skit" tracks which ruin the flow of the record for me. If your not a fan of the genre (and in general, I'm not) this guy is still worth checking out.Another top album from Mr West, one of the few hip hop/rap artists where I can listen to an entire album. This has got some great singles and has the fantastic "Gold digger". Production is flawless, only thing that I don't like are the "skit" tracks which ruin the flow of the record for me. If your not a fan of the genre (and in general, I'm not) this guy is still worth checking out. Really find myself enjoying his records. Expand
  39. Feb 20, 2012
    6
    Meh...I never quite connected with this album, sure the singles from this were great stompers but overall it all feels like an extension of the first album and without the impact due to the massive influx of stars invading his work.
  40. Nov 14, 2012
    9
    Kanye established his skill in College Dropout, but Late Registration is when he truly shines. The beats are expanded to new horizons and his lyrics are just as good. He does a great job of sampling songs and there's several guest appearances that amplify his own ability as well. Great album, I really do believe it's an instant classic. I think about it this way: Kanye always has thatKanye established his skill in College Dropout, but Late Registration is when he truly shines. The beats are expanded to new horizons and his lyrics are just as good. He does a great job of sampling songs and there's several guest appearances that amplify his own ability as well. Great album, I really do believe it's an instant classic. I think about it this way: Kanye always has that arrogant "I'm one of the greatest ever" kind of attitute, but after I listened to all of Late Registration, I caught myself starting to think that he may not be completely wrong. Favorites: Heard Em' Say, Gold Digger, Gone. Least Favorite: Bring Me Down. Expand
  41. Feb 4, 2014
    9
    This album is a near-perfect mix of braggadocio, raw emotion, and socially conscious lyrics. Also, the features work beautifully and contribute to the impact of this album. There's 2 or 3 songs that could have been left out, but Late Registration is without a doubt an elite LP. ~ 8.5/10

    Best track: "Touch The Sky" Other notable tracks: "Gold Digger", "Crack Music", "Roses", "We Major",
    This album is a near-perfect mix of braggadocio, raw emotion, and socially conscious lyrics. Also, the features work beautifully and contribute to the impact of this album. There's 2 or 3 songs that could have been left out, but Late Registration is without a doubt an elite LP. ~ 8.5/10

    Best track: "Touch The Sky"
    Other notable tracks: "Gold Digger", "Crack Music", "Roses", "We Major", "Hey Mama", & "Diamonds From Sierra Leone" (remix and original)
    Expand
  42. Mar 22, 2015
    8
    8.5/10................................................................................................................................................
  43. Mar 2, 2015
    10
    Ten years on Late Registration has aged brilliantly compared to Kanye West's other critically acclaimed work. The production is still the best Kanye contribution to date, and is arguably one of the finest to ever in it's genre. The guest verses are unconventional, especially at the time, yet they work in perfect harmony with Mr West. Such crisp production and light on the ear rhymes areTen years on Late Registration has aged brilliantly compared to Kanye West's other critically acclaimed work. The production is still the best Kanye contribution to date, and is arguably one of the finest to ever in it's genre. The guest verses are unconventional, especially at the time, yet they work in perfect harmony with Mr West. Such crisp production and light on the ear rhymes are what continue to make Late Registration a timeless classic. Expand
  44. Apr 12, 2015
    10
    WAKE UP MR. WEST!! The second album of Kanye's career proves to be another masterpiece. Never one to overuse a style, West noticed almost instantly after College Dropout that his sped-up soul sample was starting to become an industry cliche, so he shook it up a little. This resulting album's instrumentation is still pretty ahead of it's time. West cleverly uses the other side of theWAKE UP MR. WEST!! The second album of Kanye's career proves to be another masterpiece. Never one to overuse a style, West noticed almost instantly after College Dropout that his sped-up soul sample was starting to become an industry cliche, so he shook it up a little. This resulting album's instrumentation is still pretty ahead of it's time. West cleverly uses the other side of the 60s/70s songs he so loves to give them pop appeal. For example, the blaring horns on "Touch the Sky", the daunting keys on "Drive Slow" and Jamie Foxx's humorous interpretation of a random Ray Charles line on "Gold Digger." He also mixes the type of dramatic orchestral instrumentation usually found in movie soundtracks, courtesy of Jon Brion. Lyrically, the album doesn't showcase West's ability any more than "College Dropout" he can still tell a good story and has plenty of clever, if not a little immature, punchlines ("If you're a stripper named Porsche and you get tips from many men, then your fat friend her nickname is Mini-Van.") That type of self-aware ego is common on this album, with several skits featuring Kanye in a penniless fraternity called "Phi-broke." There's still time for serious messages however, creating goosebumps worthy songs in "My Way Home", where Common laments over a Gil Scott-Heron sample, "Crack Music", a stark look at hip-hop's place in white America, "Roses", which looks at his grandmother's hospital stay and the medical industry as a whole and a "Diamonds from Sierra Leone" Remix that more directly tackles the title. This is the album that showcases Kanye's star quality and it's a hard one to dislike, no matter how obnoxious he can get. Expand
  45. Apr 28, 2015
    10
    A really great second album from Kanye who shows he can be consistent in his work, staying true to his ambitions while refreshing a bit his style. Like the previous one, a sharp production from the guy who brought you most of the beats on Jay-Z's Blueprint and a Chicago sound sure to please any fan of Chicago's hip-hop.
  46. Jan 5, 2016
    6
    The album isn't bad, it has the power of a real rap album, but not all the songs are good. The best songs are surely "Heard 'Em Say", a perfect example of melodic rap, and "Gold Digger", maybe one of the best rap songs ever, the flow and the vocal performance of Jamie Foxx are unique. but songs like "Diamonds from Sierra Leone" and "Crack Music" are not too much good, and a little boring.The album isn't bad, it has the power of a real rap album, but not all the songs are good. The best songs are surely "Heard 'Em Say", a perfect example of melodic rap, and "Gold Digger", maybe one of the best rap songs ever, the flow and the vocal performance of Jamie Foxx are unique. but songs like "Diamonds from Sierra Leone" and "Crack Music" are not too much good, and a little boring. The album has a few of masterpieces and a lot of boring rap songs, but generally it's a medium/good album Expand
  47. Oct 28, 2016
    9
    This album embodies Ye's incredible ability to fuse hip-hop ballads with foot-tappers and head-nodders. Tracks like "Gone" and "Touch the Sky" make you want to learn all the words and forget where you are. They are nicely contrasted by "Addiction" and "Roses", which still have engrossing beats but lyrics that reflect his side that contradicts the impression of an egotistic pseudo-manic.This album embodies Ye's incredible ability to fuse hip-hop ballads with foot-tappers and head-nodders. Tracks like "Gone" and "Touch the Sky" make you want to learn all the words and forget where you are. They are nicely contrasted by "Addiction" and "Roses", which still have engrossing beats but lyrics that reflect his side that contradicts the impression of an egotistic pseudo-manic. Overlaid by skits that show the hardship of living in poverty, partially due to the color of one's skin, the album flows nicely, cementing Ye's career as a producer and an intense lyricist. This is an album that will be remembered for decades to come. Expand
  48. Nov 29, 2016
    9
    what an album... the variation on this project was just perfect. there were heartfelt songs like roses and hey mama, but there were also more upbeat songs like touch the sky and we major. the jazzy production was very fitting to the theme and vocals of this LP. my only complaint is that the skits were a little unnecessary. i liked the input of them, but they didn't seem to fit what waswhat an album... the variation on this project was just perfect. there were heartfelt songs like roses and hey mama, but there were also more upbeat songs like touch the sky and we major. the jazzy production was very fitting to the theme and vocals of this LP. my only complaint is that the skits were a little unnecessary. i liked the input of them, but they didn't seem to fit what was being said in the tracks before and after them. a really really enjoyable listen.
    fav tracks: touch the sky, gold digger, crack music, roses, bring me down, diamonds from sierra leone[remix w jay z], we major, gone
    Expand
  49. Jan 27, 2017
    9
    An excellent follow-up to College Dropout and it pretty much follows the same concept of his debut. Solid album, another classic from Mr. West, best album of 2005
  50. Jul 28, 2019
    8
    An album that is great in just about everything. The production is outstanding, with jazz and soul thoughtfully implemented, is consistent from start to finish, displays the charisma and confidence that was so prevalent on TCD, and has potent themes throughout. A classic album.
  51. Jul 14, 2017
    10
    A great follow up to one of the greatest debuts albums ever, which is pretty impressive. With this album Kanye proved that he was not just a one hit wonder and that he was in fact here to stay.
  52. Jul 17, 2017
    7
    good album............................................................................................................................................................
  53. Oct 4, 2017
    10
    I didn't like Kanye West. The first album I ever heard from him was Yeezus, and that album was awful. But then a friend convinced me to listen to Late Registration. This is incredible. With so much soulful production, some of the most honest lyrics I've ever heard, Mr. West has scored my 15th favorite album of all time. 10/10
  54. Mar 24, 2018
    9
    This album when it first came out was better than the debut album. This album has two of my favorite Kanye tracks in "Touch the Sky" and "Diamonds". The remix to "Diamonds" when it released was so impactful to what was going on during hip-hop and the Roc that it literally gave me the feels when Jay's verse came on.

    1. Wake Up Mr. West 2. Heard 'Em Say feat. Adam Levine - B+ 3. Touch
    This album when it first came out was better than the debut album. This album has two of my favorite Kanye tracks in "Touch the Sky" and "Diamonds". The remix to "Diamonds" when it released was so impactful to what was going on during hip-hop and the Roc that it literally gave me the feels when Jay's verse came on.

    1. Wake Up Mr. West
    2. Heard 'Em Say feat. Adam Levine - B+
    3. Touch the Sky feat. Lupe Fiasco - A+
    4. Gold Digger feat. Jamie Foxx - B
    5. Skit #1
    6. Drive Slow feat. Paul Wall & GLC - A-
    7. My Way Home feat. Common - B+
    8. Crack Music feat. The Game - B+
    9. Roses - A-
    10. Bring Me Down feat. Brandy - A
    11. Addiction - A-
    12. Skit #2
    13. Diamonds from Sierra Leone feat. Jay-Z (Remix) - A+
    14. We Major feat. Nas & Really Doe - A
    15. Skit #3
    16. Hey Mama - A
    17. Celebration - A
    18. Skit #4
    19. Gone feat. Consequence & Cam'ron - A
    20. Diamonds from Sierra Leone - A+
    21. Late - B+
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  55. May 22, 2019
    9
    Still to this day, Kanye's best lyrically written album. However, he plays it a bit safer than he has with all of his other albums, not experimenting as much with his production. That being sad, his production is still great (just not as great as his other projects), but his rapping skill and song writing keep this a excellent album.
  56. Jun 11, 2020
    8
    Only a 1,5 years after his debut, Kanye was back with a brand new album featuring one of his most popular tracks of all time: Gold Digger. This album is great, though not as good as his first one. This is very different from his first one, more orchestral and with more sting instruments. He still talks about what he usually does, however he is no longer the humble underdog that took theOnly a 1,5 years after his debut, Kanye was back with a brand new album featuring one of his most popular tracks of all time: Gold Digger. This album is great, though not as good as his first one. This is very different from his first one, more orchestral and with more sting instruments. He still talks about what he usually does, however he is no longer the humble underdog that took the world by storm the year prior. The standout tracks on this album is great, I love both the beginning and the end, however the middle part (My Way Home to Skit #2) feels kinda boring at times, and the beats are a bit boring, but the good really outshine the bad on this one. Expand
  57. Apr 16, 2019
    10
    Kanye West is a top name for rap and every one of these songs stands out on there on terms. It may not be dropout, but it's amazing in its own right.
  58. Dec 12, 2018
    10
    amazing. heard em say is maybe the deepest rap song until kanye came to top it on later albums. touch the sky feels like cocaine and the production is unmatched. this is where we start to see a unique and profound artist
  59. Sep 5, 2019
    10
    This is one of the best albums of all time, along with the majority of Kanye's work. The production is phenomenal as always, I just don't know how he is the most talented artist of all time but he is. Heard em say is such a relaxing nice song. Gold digger was a radio hit. Hey mama is beautiful. Drive Slow is head bobbing. Crack music is personally my least favorite but still an awesomeThis is one of the best albums of all time, along with the majority of Kanye's work. The production is phenomenal as always, I just don't know how he is the most talented artist of all time but he is. Heard em say is such a relaxing nice song. Gold digger was a radio hit. Hey mama is beautiful. Drive Slow is head bobbing. Crack music is personally my least favorite but still an awesome song. my way home and the skits were nice. I just simply love this album. Diamonds from Sierra Leonne and the remix. so much in this album is perfect. Expand
  60. Jul 13, 2019
    6
    Gdyby tylko wyciągnąć z tego albumu 10-12 najlepszych piosenek spokojnie mógłby to być jeden z najlepszych albumów dekady. Niestety, Kanye postanowił wypchać album po brzegi nie bacząc na ogólne flow całości. Heard 'em Say, Touch the Sky i gold digger to piosenki, które już od początku nadają "Late Registration" dynamiki i rumieńców, niestety zaraz po nich pojawia się utwór Drive Slow,Gdyby tylko wyciągnąć z tego albumu 10-12 najlepszych piosenek spokojnie mógłby to być jeden z najlepszych albumów dekady. Niestety, Kanye postanowił wypchać album po brzegi nie bacząc na ogólne flow całości. Heard 'em Say, Touch the Sky i gold digger to piosenki, które już od początku nadają "Late Registration" dynamiki i rumieńców, niestety zaraz po nich pojawia się utwór Drive Slow, który w teorii być może brzmiał dobrze, ale na dłuższą metę jest męczący. Takich utworów, które postawione w newralgicznych punktach psuja odbiór albumu jest niestety więcej, "Celebration", "Bring me Down" nudzą, a "We Major" przez 7 minut zmierza donikąd i daje do zrozumienia, że tacy raperzy jak Nas do mikroświata Kanye Westa po prostu nie pasują. W brzmieniu albumu można wyczuć delikatnie poważniejsze, bardziej melancholijne podejście tak do spraw prywatnych (Roses) jak i społecznych (Diamonds from Sierra Leone) chociaż nie braknie też typowe humoru z poprzedniej płyty w postaci skitów czy utworu Gold Digger. Ogólnie "Late Registration" to album udany na którym można znaleźć sporo dobrych utworów, jednak z powodu nadmiaru i nierównej jakości materiału jest trochę ciężki do przełknięcia jako całość. Expand
  61. Oct 19, 2019
    0
    Independent Artist/Producer from Prince George's County Maryland. This Album is a classic.
  62. Oct 25, 2019
    6
    Feels like it's a continuation of the previous album, and it's honestly better, with more memorable tracks
  63. Jan 23, 2020
    0
    Insant flop. This is the worst album of all time. Nothing can be worst than this. This is the **** piece of music
  64. Jan 22, 2020
    10
    This is my second favorite Kanye album, and for good reason. This project takes a lot of what Ye does so well on College Dropout and improves on it. He continues to create melodic, ear pleasing hip hop music that can be enjoyed by the average listener or a hardcore rap/hip hop fan.
  65. Jan 22, 2020
    0
    Average MC. Average production. Really an average album plain and simple...
  66. Mar 10, 2020
    9
    Late Registration is my favorite Kanye album. I listened to College Dropout, Graduation, and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy before this album and absolutely loved all three of them. I was expecting to like this album as much as those 3, not less or more. Then, I listened to the album.
    It's a near perfect album, and while MBDTF may be more popular, I personally think this is his best
    Late Registration is my favorite Kanye album. I listened to College Dropout, Graduation, and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy before this album and absolutely loved all three of them. I was expecting to like this album as much as those 3, not less or more. Then, I listened to the album.
    It's a near perfect album, and while MBDTF may be more popular, I personally think this is his best album, even if just barely. It's near perfect.
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  67. Mar 13, 2020
    10
    I love this album. Ye' managed to perfectly follow up the College Dropout, and make an even better album. The production is great, the skits are just as funny if not even funnier than The College Dropout. Although the lows tend to be pretty dull, the high's are amazing, and unmatched by anything else Kanye's ever done. Classic!
    Favorite Tracks:
    Diamonds From Sierra Leone Roses Heard
    I love this album. Ye' managed to perfectly follow up the College Dropout, and make an even better album. The production is great, the skits are just as funny if not even funnier than The College Dropout. Although the lows tend to be pretty dull, the high's are amazing, and unmatched by anything else Kanye's ever done. Classic!
    Favorite Tracks:
    Diamonds From Sierra Leone
    Roses
    Heard Em' Say
    Hey Mama
    We Major
    Addiction

    Least Favorite:
    Crack Music
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  68. Dec 11, 2020
    10
    Some of the best production in Kanye's discography. I guess this is why people miss the old Kanye.
  69. Jul 21, 2020
    7
    I like the production of this album, this proves that Kanye was (or is) a talented producer. The problem of this album that it's too long, some of the tracks seem out of place, some parts are not needed. His rap is okay. "Hey Mama", "Celebration" and "Heard Em Say" are beautiful songs. And this album is cohesive, it can be the most enjoyable album for me, of all of Kanye's discography.
  70. Aug 16, 2021
    7
    As i've slowly been getting into rap, I thought i should check out Kanye West and i started with this project.
    I must say, it's a good first impression, my favourite tracks are; Touch the Sky (Great celebratory instrumental and lupe fiasco's great lyrical talent shine), Drive slow, Diamonds from Sierra Leone and gone.
    Everything else is good, with the exception of some tracks being a
    As i've slowly been getting into rap, I thought i should check out Kanye West and i started with this project.
    I must say, it's a good first impression, my favourite tracks are; Touch the Sky (Great celebratory instrumental and lupe fiasco's great lyrical talent shine), Drive slow, Diamonds from Sierra Leone and gone.
    Everything else is good, with the exception of some tracks being a bit boring.
    Expand
  71. Aug 30, 2021
    0
    It's such a boring album! That's all, just boring, nothing special. Sorry...
  72. Aug 31, 2021
    10
    The best album of all time, all tracks are goat material, great flow, great hooks, great production, great beats, everything about this album is absolutely perfect
  73. Sep 13, 2020
    0
    This album is carried by a lot of collaborations, borrowing from the greats (see Ray Charles) but in the end still fails to deliver.
  74. Oct 2, 2020
    0
    Unoriginal work, it feels like Kanye was trying to hard but the results did not pay out.
  75. Oct 23, 2020
    0
    The album brings nothing special, just another attempt to say something original without the power to follow through with it.
  76. Dec 21, 2020
    9
    Fantastic album that makes me miss the Old Kanye. 9/10. Would definitely recommend.
  77. Jan 6, 2021
    10
    Not even coming close to a good album. To think that Kanye's biggest song Gold Digger is actually built on the back of Ray Charles' classic...
  78. Jan 24, 2021
    9
    Somehow surpassing it's predecessor, this album is awesome. Songs like Touch the Sky, Gold Digger, Roses, and the Diamonds from Sierra Leone Remix are more than enough to push album above The College Dropout.
  79. Apr 16, 2021
    8
    Pretty good. Includes some very High highs, but also some forgettable tracks personally. But it's a perfect sequel to The College Dropout
  80. Mar 29, 2021
    9
    this album is a 9 this album is a 9 this album is a 9 this album is a 9 this album is a 9
  81. Oct 2, 2022
    9
    the album is a great successor to The College Dropout and shows a massive improvement in his sampling he brings more rapping to the album and really succeeds in his skills
  82. Nov 15, 2021
    9
    Another Kanye classic.
    After his critically acclaimed debut album Kanye surprises his public with an orchestral sounding opus with great production and great songs. Ironically, he neglect the lyrics in favor of a better sound.
    In this masterpiece he speaks about racial issues, how it feels to have made it and he talks about his past. The sound is better treated than the college dropout
    Another Kanye classic.
    After his critically acclaimed debut album Kanye surprises his public with an orchestral sounding opus with great production and great songs. Ironically, he neglect the lyrics in favor of a better sound.

    In this masterpiece he speaks about racial issues, how it feels to have made it and he talks about his past. The sound is better treated than the college dropout one with an amazing orchestral production. Every song has it purpose and the whole sounds magnificient. He improves his sample ability giivng to the public a really hear plesaure. The skits are funny and fit perfectly with the school theme portrayted from the preveus album. Unfurtunatly he worked a little bit less on the lyrics despite having some of the great verse here. Overall it has higher highs and lower lows. Very enjoiable.
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  83. May 22, 2023
    10
    Even better than college dropout, an absolute classic, and a chill vibe album. Favorite song: Hey Mama
  84. Mar 30, 2022
    9
    goodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgood
  85. Feb 13, 2022
    10
    Late Registration is Ye's magnum opus. Weird to say that right? But it's true. No other work he's done has front to back amazingly produced, well written, and structured tracks. From beginning to the end of the album, we're shown Ye in rare form.
    Favorite Tracks: All (except one)
    Least Favorite: Celebration (not even bad, it's just not something I ALWAYS put on)
    I'm feeling a 10.
  86. Mar 19, 2022
    9
    After Kanye's debut album The College Dropout I think most figured he would never top it, a one time wonder if you will. However after listening to Late Registration it was clear that not only was he not a one time wonder, but he was still improving. Late Registration is everything I loved about The College Dropout 10x.
  87. Mar 17, 2022
    10
    Every aspect of this album is so good, I've heard this album 20 times now and i started hearing kanye's songs like a month ago, if you like rap this is a MUST BE in your discography, one of kanye's best albums.
    and it has one of my personal favourite's songs of kanye: "We Major".
  88. Mar 26, 2022
    8
    one of kanye's best albums, builds off of the strengths of The College Dropout with new orchestral themes

    best song: roses

    worst song: celebration
  89. May 2, 2022
    10
    My favorite album of all time. Every track on this album is a hit. No skips, fantastic intro track, Emotional all throughout. Sequencing is fantastic. Instrumentals and orchestration are immaculate. Lyrics are on point. Features are iconic. Just perfect. PLEASE listen to this. You owe it to yourself.
  90. May 5, 2022
    10
    Late Registration is Kanye's victory lap after his incredible debut 'The College Dropout'. Kanye managed to release two of the best hip-hop albums of all time in just two years. The track 'We Major' perfectly summarises the triumphant attitude put into this project.
  91. Jan 26, 2023
    8
    极为优秀的一张专辑,可以评为kanye前三的专辑,下面凑字数xnsjdbuebsjsnsjjsbshzuusbsbajaiwnsnsjussjjsjsjs
  92. Jun 27, 2023
    10
    My favorite kanye album that he has published so far heard em say is such a great opener, then touch the sky and gold digger right after is just perfect. We major is probably top 1 kanye and so many great songs on this record i love it.
  93. Jul 18, 2023
    9
    One of my favorite Kanye albums to date i absolutely am in love with this album favorite track has to be roses
  94. Aug 14, 2023
    9
    Kayne's follow-up 2nd studio album to TCD hit's really hard. Once again, the lyricism and instrumentals live up to (and sometimes exceed) my expectations. I feel as if the interludes are a tad bit harder to listen through with this project, along with some of the songs feeling a little more bland. But Kanye does evolve his music with this record, having incredible flows, after incredibleKayne's follow-up 2nd studio album to TCD hit's really hard. Once again, the lyricism and instrumentals live up to (and sometimes exceed) my expectations. I feel as if the interludes are a tad bit harder to listen through with this project, along with some of the songs feeling a little more bland. But Kanye does evolve his music with this record, having incredible flows, after incredible flows. This album still holds up strong and is amazing.

    Favorite Track - Gold Digger
    Least Favorite Track - Skit #3
    Favorite Track - Gold Digger
    Least Favorite Track - Skit #3
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  95. Aug 28, 2023
    10
    An underrated follow up to the College Dropout that serves as a better project than its older brother. I was always one of those people that said that College Dropout was much better and that Kanye had a sophomore slump. Well, I said that until I listened to it, there is not a single miss and I cannot believe how people don't talk about this more.
Metascore
85

Universal acclaim - based on 31 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 27 out of 31
  2. Negative: 0 out of 31
  1. Feb 17, 2011
    70
    Late Registration's salvation (and, undoubtedly, Kanye's own) are when it basks in the sunshine after the rain.
  2. Jan 3, 2011
    90
    Each of these songs offers more exquisite details than I could earmark in twice this space, many of them literary, which the English prof's dropout son rightly claims as his calling. But secret brilliance is more likely to emerge from the sops to his hip-hop base.
  3. Late Registration can't replicate the novelty of last year's College Dropout, but otherwise, this is an impressively more mature and labored-over album.