My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy
by Kanye West
  • Record Label: Def Jam
  • Release Date: Nov 22, 2010
User Score
8.4

Universal acclaim- based on 3765 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3,245 out of 3765
  2. Mixed: 72 out of 3765
  3. Negative: 448 out of 3765
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  1. cmcdonald5
    Feb 19, 2011
    10
    I gotta hand it to kanye, he really did it with this album. It demands respect. This is one of five or six most mature, listenable, stylistically diverse hip hop/rap albums ever produced, and it is THE best album of 2010. Every song is enjoyable, but certain stand outs like Blame Game, All Of The Lights, Power, Hell of a Life, Runnaway, and Monster bear repeat listenings. In fact, II gotta hand it to kanye, he really did it with this album. It demands respect. This is one of five or six most mature, listenable, stylistically diverse hip hop/rap albums ever produced, and it is THE best album of 2010. Every song is enjoyable, but certain stand outs like Blame Game, All Of The Lights, Power, Hell of a Life, Runnaway, and Monster bear repeat listenings. In fact, I have listened to each of these songs more times than I can count, and they still show no signs of wearing out. They just sound better and more inspiring with each listen. All Of The Lights never fails to give me goosebumps.… Expand
  2. TBrownjr87
    Feb 17, 2011
    10
    Brilliance, insanity, & virtuosity condensed in 13 gripping tracks.. By far the best rap / hip hop album of the past decade. The lyrics are clever, the production is off the charts. If you love music you'll fall in love with this album.
  3. ranmancarmel
    Feb 10, 2011
    0
    Ouch, my ears! Since when did stealing others' music and shouting at people qualify as creating? This is just another example of meglomania unchecked, a man surrounded by yes-men, the critics falling into that category as a whole. Give me some great Wyclef any day over this.
  4. Sharadadavis
    Feb 10, 2011
    10
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  5. DC19
    Feb 9, 2011
    5
    The production on this album is fantastic. Truth be told, if this record featured a better lyricist I would enjoy it very much. Kanye should have stuck to being a producer. That is truly what he does best. His vocals are far too **** and ignorant to give him the kind of credit and reviews he has been getting.
  6. African_Goddess
    Feb 9, 2011
    6
    I remember the first time I listened to Kanye West. The song â
  7. dubbleq
    Feb 7, 2011
    10
    By far the best album kanye has ever made. Features 8 fantastic songs plus a few b sides. This is worth it and people with mean comments must be crazy.
  8. flexbabar
    Feb 7, 2011
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Mr. West is surely taking his music to the next level. He is clearly developing as an artist and after his latest album ( that confused a lot of his fans I admit) he has stepped up og grew a pair of balls! MASTERPIECE… Expand
  9. YZJay
    Feb 1, 2011
    8
    The sound of the album is EPIC. I think it would take 3 to 4 years for another artist to top this. The only bad thing would be the lyrics and it being VERY unorthodox,
  10. Hoshuya
    Jan 31, 2011
    3
    Whenever I hear a new Kanye song on the radio the first thing I think is, wow, this is some surprisingly bad rapping for the radio. Then I think, oh it's Kanye, that's why. His flow is really weak, his rhythm is flabby and his rhymes are boring but for some reason people really like him. Another thing that hits me is how overcrowded the beats and production are. I'm in awe of producersWhenever I hear a new Kanye song on the radio the first thing I think is, wow, this is some surprisingly bad rapping for the radio. Then I think, oh it's Kanye, that's why. His flow is really weak, his rhythm is flabby and his rhymes are boring but for some reason people really like him. Another thing that hits me is how overcrowded the beats and production are. I'm in awe of producers that can make a beat swing hard with only a few elements. Kanye's heavy layering of samples without regard to whether or not they're doing something exciting rhythmically has an amateurish sound to me. Finally, the samples themselves bug. I think that if you're going to sample, i.e. borrow someone else's idea, you've got to either make it better than the original or put it into a new context that gives it an entirely new identity. "Stronger" is a good example of his failure there. The song is really more a cover than a sample of the Daft Punk original because it's a direct lift of the chorus, but Daft Punk's version is much more thrilling and danceable. Kanye just made it worse. Kanye is obviously a great music listener because he draws samples from a very broad array of genres. But generally when I hear the original song the sample came from I think it was better off without him. Saying all that MBDTF is probably the best yet from Kanye. If I heard it as a mixtape from some unknown guy on the street I'd probably think, this guy's got something. If he keeps working at it, starts paring down that production, sharpens up his rhythm he might have something interesting. But this isn't some unknown amateur. It's Kanye West, king of the charts and supreme darling of the critics. I just don't get it.… Expand
  11. Damion
    Jan 28, 2011
    0
    It is simply appalling that this man continues to be so over credited for producing nothing but crap time and again. West must be the most over-rated "artist" the world has ever seen, thus his humongous ego being based on people who somehow find something good in one of the most talentless artists to ever record. "Fantasy," just like everything else he has recorded, sounds exactly theIt is simply appalling that this man continues to be so over credited for producing nothing but crap time and again. West must be the most over-rated "artist" the world has ever seen, thus his humongous ego being based on people who somehow find something good in one of the most talentless artists to ever record. "Fantasy," just like everything else he has recorded, sounds exactly the same as, well, everything else he has recorded, and it's just refried crap on digital. The man has made a career out of seemingly releasing the same terrible album over and over...and I wish someone would explain to me how this appeals to people...but then again, the country he is most popular in also kept "Macarena" at #1 for weeks. Kanye should be flipping burgers in new Mexico and should just never be seen or heard from again. This is THE most over-rated album of 2010. Oh look! Not one song of his on the radio...what a shock...… Expand
  12. fedelmason
    Jan 27, 2011
    9
    Kanye's best album to date by far. Im pretty sure that MBDTF is gonna be nominated to album of the year on Grammys of 2012. However, i think that it didn't had to reach #1 on Billboard 200. Nicki deserve that #1. Whatever. Great album.
  13. more
    Jan 27, 2011
    6
    yeah yeah, kanye is a nice guy, or whatsoever, and he's even able to do some good stuff on tracks. Accordingly. The only trouble, is that recycling, well, bore us faster, because we've heard the sh*t a dozen times before, this is the same accoutrement that with the latest BEPeas. Anyway, overall, i love the RZA produced song, and the lost in the world 1. And, of course there is nicky inyeah yeah, kanye is a nice guy, or whatsoever, and he's even able to do some good stuff on tracks. Accordingly. The only trouble, is that recycling, well, bore us faster, because we've heard the sh*t a dozen times before, this is the same accoutrement that with the latest BEPeas. Anyway, overall, i love the RZA produced song, and the lost in the world 1. And, of course there is nicky in monster, and that makes the record enough arguments to listen to. Anyway those are the highlights i can remember so far without checking, after 2 months, not listening to it.
    check,    … Expand
  14. nr23nr
    Jan 18, 2011
    10
    A revolutionary Album, maybe his 808s & Heartbreak Album wasn't great but it only shows that it was practice for "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy."

    -This will be an album to remember.
  15. shakeel7
    Jan 16, 2011
    9
    Without a doubt the best album to be released this year. It's good from start to finish and it's a shining example of what current rap music should sound like. It's bold and daring, using sounds that other hiphop/rap artists would be afraid to touch. But Kanye is, and always has been ahead of the pack.
  16. N3XMILLIONAIRE
    Jan 15, 2011
    10
    Kanye Wests new album My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is one of the greatest albums ever. Especially for the hip-hop genre this album is important. 14 fantastic songs, i dont know which is best, impossible to say. Kanye really shows hes a fantastic artist. If you miss this album, youre missing the 00s best one!
  17. lauranette
    Jan 10, 2011
    9
    The more I want to hate Kanye (and as a person, I do), the more I'm disappointed that I actually liked "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy." Not sure all the hype is warranted, but track after track, the album is nothing if not solid. Any of these tracks would do well on the radio but hold their own with music snobs alike. Not surprising, really, this album is a natural progression for meThe more I want to hate Kanye (and as a person, I do), the more I'm disappointed that I actually liked "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy." Not sure all the hype is warranted, but track after track, the album is nothing if not solid. Any of these tracks would do well on the radio but hold their own with music snobs alike. Not surprising, really, this album is a natural progression for me from his previous works - albeit bigger, and more exciting.… Expand
  18. DomF
    Jan 9, 2011
    5
    Over-hyped is definitely the word I'd use for this album. Admittedly, I've never been a fan of Kanye's music (or hip hop in general) and more so never been a fan of him but I decided I'd give his newest album a go. I was very disappointed, especially based on the extremely good reviews. The vast majority of songs are distinctly lack lustre and have only a few good parts to them. TheOver-hyped is definitely the word I'd use for this album. Admittedly, I've never been a fan of Kanye's music (or hip hop in general) and more so never been a fan of him but I decided I'd give his newest album a go. I was very disappointed, especially based on the extremely good reviews. The vast majority of songs are distinctly lack lustre and have only a few good parts to them. The sampling of songs like 21st Century Schizoid Man by King Crimson seems a desperate a gimmicky way to attract new fans. In spite of this there are some high points to the album - for example All Of The Lights - but in general I found the album distinctly average.… Expand
  19. timeformime
    Jan 5, 2011
    9
    Kanye is a completely unapologetic a-hole. Let us get that out of the way first. This is admittedly a somewhat reactionary review directed at those who claim that the album is revolutionary because Kanye admits he is at fault and loathes himself. Well, that's quite a misleading summation by many reviewers who wanted to find a concrete reason to give it a perfect score, and really notKanye is a completely unapologetic a-hole. Let us get that out of the way first. This is admittedly a somewhat reactionary review directed at those who claim that the album is revolutionary because Kanye admits he is at fault and loathes himself. Well, that's quite a misleading summation by many reviewers who wanted to find a concrete reason to give it a perfect score, and really not suited at all to this album, only one element of the song Runaway. The rest of the album is a dark, unapologetically twisted fantasy, as far removed from the tone of Eminem's more therapeutic Recovery as possible because, while Eminem tried to work through everything that was going down in his life, Kanye does nothing to attempt to mitigate his gargantuan ego. Instead, he celebrates it and directs his uniquely self-centered but honest personality at various aspects of what is, well, his fantasy. God only knows how you can shrink-wrap Kanye's mind into one You can try to toss various intelligent phrases into the blogosphere to sum up the album if you really feel like it, but you won't find one because it's quite sprawling in every way. It is a discussion of the excesses of being a celebrity, sure. It's also Kanye just doing what he does best, bragging. It's also Kanye making such outlandish claims and statements that nothing he says could be taken as anything but fantasy. So really, it can be summed up as Kanye spitting out his creative music visions of what goes on in his head, and, knowing him, it's probably an honest vision.

    You've heard enough about the music, but it is important to address anyway. The beats get repetitive because of the song lengths, but this isn't too much of a problem because different twists are thrown in to make it interesting. The quality of the music is unbelievable, as full orchestras are wrangled together to make a boisterous, complex, and flamboyant sound that really does transcend genres of music.

    Love him or hate him, his music is more carefully crafted and thought-provoking than most. I think he's a fascinatingly distasteful man, as are most images projected by this album. But whatever other distastefulness goes on in his life, this album harnesses the distastefulness into great music, and oddly 50 years after Bob Dylan came on the scene introspective music is still underappreciated and under-represented on the pop scene. Well, Kanye's oblique method of introspection consists of projecting every image of debauchery, excess, and egoism running through his mind's picture reel. And at the risk of inflating his ego too much, I do believe he has 21st century pop stardom pretty well pegged. God knows we've heard enough linguistically creative but utterly negative, nihilistic, "realistic" rap and hip hop to want something more creative, different, and INTERESTING. Well, hip hop fans, here it is. Pop fans, you might want to check it out too if you don't mind cussing.    … Expand
  20. seantech
    Jan 5, 2011
    8
    This album was a Kanye getting back to "rapping" I can't remember the last time I heard a Kanye song and thought it was actually a part of hip hop culture. I enjoyed the intensity of this album and the select lines which impressed me a bit. There are still a few songs on the album which are a waste of time and I rally don't see who they appeal to or why they are on there. Those areThis album was a Kanye getting back to "rapping" I can't remember the last time I heard a Kanye song and thought it was actually a part of hip hop culture. I enjoyed the intensity of this album and the select lines which impressed me a bit. There are still a few songs on the album which are a waste of time and I rally don't see who they appeal to or why they are on there. Those are definite skips and mostly the last few songs. But the begining to middle especially the ones with jay z and swiss beats on the track are pretty good listens. I like how he finally told people hey I'm an **** so what, I speak my mind, its a part of rap culture to do so and I think that a lot of his troubles, which many people share, are discussed in his songs. I like that he is using his music as a medium because it really allows him to share how he's feeling and say hey I make good music and that's all that matters. This album is definitely something you can dance to, get stuck in your head, and the thing that I use to love about Kanye is it makes you laugh. He provides a good enough balance that you can feel like the music is hard hitting but not threatening. I think this album if you really listens outlines what a rappers ego trip really stems from, because without the problems that makes him Kanye West, he wouldn't be as famous as he is. So this is him being himself.… Expand
  21. BREEZY
    Jan 2, 2011
    10
    Kanye brings his best with this album from the beats to the lyrics he couldn't be more on point. The album gives an experience you definitely won't find listening to someone else.From beginning to end every songs a hit. You feel that the album is perfected and not rushed in any way.A truly original album that doesn't get boring.My Beautiful Dark Fantasy is different and stands out as oneKanye brings his best with this album from the beats to the lyrics he couldn't be more on point. The album gives an experience you definitely won't find listening to someone else.From beginning to end every songs a hit. You feel that the album is perfected and not rushed in any way.A truly original album that doesn't get boring.My Beautiful Dark Fantasy is different and stands out as one of the best and most unique hip hop albums of all time, even if you don't like him you gotta love his music and hand it to him for such a great release.… Expand
  22. n00ne
    Dec 31, 2010
    8
    I like this album. A whole lot. It's brimming with creativity and humor without ever trying too hard. Or at least it doesn't seem to try too hard from my vantage point. But a 93? Really? The highest rated new release of 2010? REALLY? I rarely use the term "overrated". I don't like the word. But if this album isn't overrated I don't know what is. The two best hooks on the album, in myI like this album. A whole lot. It's brimming with creativity and humor without ever trying too hard. Or at least it doesn't seem to try too hard from my vantage point. But a 93? Really? The highest rated new release of 2010? REALLY? I rarely use the term "overrated". I don't like the word. But if this album isn't overrated I don't know what is. The two best hooks on the album, in my opinion, are lifted from Black Sabbath and King Crimson. And my favorite single musical moment? The opening of "Lost in the World", a Bon Iver sample. I understand that's part of hip hop. But surely original compositions are and should be more respected. On a different note, I didn't know what the fuss about Nicki Minaj was about until I heard "Monster". Jay-Z was great on that track as well.

    Finally, after listening to the album and thinking about it's content I was left with this thought, am I the only one who thinks the person who is overreacting to the "Taylor Swift incident" more than ANYONE is Kanye?    … Expand
  23. txrangersfan72
    Dec 29, 2010
    10
    All great artists need inspiration. And there isn't much stronger inspiration like becoming a social pariah and consistently being deemed a problem, even if your intentions are good. The positive side of such drama is it makes for fuel to an artist's fire. Being one of the most talented hip-hop icons of the last decade, Kanye allowed that fuel to generate an inferno in his new CD, MyAll great artists need inspiration. And there isn't much stronger inspiration like becoming a social pariah and consistently being deemed a problem, even if your intentions are good. The positive side of such drama is it makes for fuel to an artist's fire. Being one of the most talented hip-hop icons of the last decade, Kanye allowed that fuel to generate an inferno in his new CD, My Beautiful, Dark, Twisted Fantasy. Unlike 808s and Heartbreaks where his inspiration was more of a personal loss, Kanye's new inspiration is anger, hurt, embarrassment and redemption, if not socially, then at least personally. The production is grand, just like Kanye's ego, but also representative of the message he wants to send. Anyone who is in tune with Kanye's work could always separate his public **** from his artistic genius. It's impossible to be able hate this work without allowing personal feelings about Kanye or hip-hop to make its way into your criticism. Empirically, hip-hop very rarely gets this good. Kanye has done the best job anyone could ever hope to do when conveying intense feelings via their chosen artistic conduit. Lyrically, of course there are elements of the hip-hop culture that those who are not fans of choose to point to and hate, such as cursing and the dreaded N word. This is unique music, though. From the sampling, layers of music, themes, singing and, yes, rapping, Kanye has the right ingredients to cook the tastiest stew.… Expand
  24. denimbrcina
    Dec 29, 2010
    10
    This is really the best album that exists. It has incredible songs, like: Dark Fantasy, Power, So Apalled, Runaway, Blame Game and Lost in the World. The lyrics are awesome. They are funny and emotional. I have only compliments for "My beautiful dark twisted fantasy"!!!. Kanye West is the best Raper in the world!
  25. Heino
    Dec 27, 2010
    9
    http://heinverstappen.blogspot.com/2010/12/top-10-favoriete-albums-van-2010-en-de.html http://heinverstappen.blogspot.com/2010/12/top-10-favoriete-albums-van-2010-en-de.html http://heinverstappen.blogspot.com/2010/12/top-10-favoriete-albums-van-2010-en-de.html 9.0
  26. TheJones
    Dec 25, 2010
    8
    Good album. Weird but good. The reason I marked it down is because he tries to sing every now and again and he sucks, but when he's not singing it's awesome.
  27. Lambo442
    Dec 25, 2010
    10
    Yup, K did it again. Another superb record full of original, stand-out numbers. Say what you want about his character, but he seems to be growing and growing as a musician, which is nice to see as most start off good and then get worse and worse. Also good to seem him return toi rap after after his last album, which although good, wasn't what I wanted to hear from him personally.
  28. Stuie
    Dec 20, 2010
    0
    This album is nothing more than over produced Moby beats with terrible vocals and shallow lyrics. The fact that it has such a high score both from critics and users is mind boggling. The fact that it is called the best album of 2010 by sites like Pitchfork and Stereogum is even worse. I mean I sat down thinking it was going to be great and was not impressed at all. Really, what is theThis album is nothing more than over produced Moby beats with terrible vocals and shallow lyrics. The fact that it has such a high score both from critics and users is mind boggling. The fact that it is called the best album of 2010 by sites like Pitchfork and Stereogum is even worse. I mean I sat down thinking it was going to be great and was not impressed at all. Really, what is the appeal of this album?… Expand
  29. MrThistle
    Dec 19, 2010
    10
    I used to like rap at the end of the '80's and early '90's, like Public Enemy, De La Soul, and Ice Cube. But that was eternity ago. This right here? I don't get. Maybe I gotta listen a few more times, but I'm really wondering if these rappers are ever gonna stop with the N and F words all the time. Just sounds all the same to me.
  30. rollingstone82
    Dec 19, 2010
    10
    Is he the best rapper alive? Maybe. Is he the best producer right now? You bet. (sorry Dre, you gotta put out more stuff) But the question is... Is he really and truly the voice of this generation? Well.... no.
    Kanye is somewhat outlandish to be a representative of a generation. Sure, he spits some truth but musically he is on a different level. He is on level infinity (aka the Kanye    Is he the best rapper alive? Maybe. Is he the best producer right now? You bet. (sorry Dre, you gotta put out more stuff) But the question is... Is he really and truly the voice of this generation? Well.... no.
    Kanye is somewhat outlandish to be a representative of a generation. Sure, he spits some truth but musically he is on a different level. He is on level infinity (aka the Kanye level). But the fact that he isn't a voice of a generation does not diminish the significance of his role in pop music today. He is the freshest, most innovative, and most daring of all pop stars. And MBDTF is yet another testament to his genius.

    While it does seem like a culmination of his first four albums in terms of sound, lyrically it is a pumped up Kanye taking on various victims like the government, South Park, and SNL. But MBDTF also features the more vulnerable side of Kanye while also promoting the man through brilliant braggadocio. The thumping POWER features Kanye spitting "I guess every superhero needs his theme music" at the same time saying "No one man should have all that power" as if he is aware of both sides to the argument.

    The production is Kanye at his killer best. A song that could be another multiple guest bloated collabo turns out to be a truly majestic track (All Of the Lights) that retains ambition while also feeling fit without any corny elements. There is the buzzy Hell Of A Life featuring Kanye proudly saying, "I think I just fell in love with a porn star". But the real apex of Kanye's career is Runaway. It is a simple piano plinkering beat accompanied by bass and later some violins, all supporting a chorus that gives toast to the **** douchebags, scumbags, and jerk-offs in the world. The song gets even weirder when an auto-tuned Kanye sings unintelligible lines as the song's coda. Yet it all magically works.

    If you are one of those Kanye fans who simply loved College Dropout so much that they could not feel the same for his other albums, then you are not a Kanye fan and chances are you won't appreciate this album like the crackheads at Dot Music and Guardian (though the website surprisingly also gave a 80 to this same album). MBDTF is definitely the album of the year (even if it didn't make it into 2010 Grammy season). It's a dark fantasy. It's a twisted fantasy. It's a beautiful fantasy. But best of all, it's Kanye's beautiful dark twisted fantasy.    … Expand
  31. Aliciaaxx
    Dec 17, 2010
    8
    This album is great and can only be described as a brand new and original approach to hip hop. Although some songs are quite boring, the mostly brilliant tracks - to name a few examples: Gorgeous, All Of The Lights, Devil In A New Dress and Monster. Power was a great first single from the album which had me hooked for a long time and runaway was great.
  32. soundGreedy
    Dec 16, 2010
    3
    Ok, I am a big fan of Kanye. I have followed his career. I would not say this album is a disappointment since he has followed in his latest trend of mediocre lyrics coupled with synthesized sound. I am jumping off this band wagon.
  33. muzziklover
    Dec 15, 2010
    9
    Probably Kanye's best album since The College Dropout. Superb production quality, varying and eclectic styles of music mixed with self loathing, searching for the answer lyrical themes. In this album, he is more regretful but realistic about his egomaniac attitude. He doesn't really celebrate his ego but rather saying that this is how he works but is trying hard to understand why. KudosProbably Kanye's best album since The College Dropout. Superb production quality, varying and eclectic styles of music mixed with self loathing, searching for the answer lyrical themes. In this album, he is more regretful but realistic about his egomaniac attitude. He doesn't really celebrate his ego but rather saying that this is how he works but is trying hard to understand why. Kudos to West, RZA and others for putting together a collection of near flawlessly produced songs and I commend this album for being a completely different hip-hop album itself.… Expand
  34. AndrewCarroll
    Dec 14, 2010
    9
    This is Kanye's "Purple Rain". A true statement from a true artist. Plus it's "LOL" funny and you can dance to it. The fact that Kanye tempers his anger with humor and backs up his bravado with absolute killer hooks makes him the real deal.
  35. trilla
    Dec 13, 2010
    10
    superbe album de kanye west .really a great work and it gives a new version of hip-hop c'est comme tout une revolucion dans le genre we needed it something new. c'est incontestablement The Best Album Of The Year & one of The GREATEST hip-hop album ever.thank you Kanye
  36. TheEraser
    Dec 13, 2010
    10
    Magnum Opus. I've been following Kanye West before he released his first album. Every one of his last four albums has been phenomenal but this album has taken things to the next level. Gonna be difficult to top this one. ALBUM OF THE YEAR
  37. Djape92
    Dec 12, 2010
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is the best album of the year..and maybe the best album of Decade!!great and fantastic lyrics and excellent beats!!So Kanye,You are the Best!!!!!… Expand
  38. OscarPicks2010
    Dec 11, 2010
    8
    Some of the songs in here weren't as great, but the whole album overall really satifies fans of Kayne West. Runaway, Power, and a lot others received great ratings and are very rock and roll songs. Kayne is one of the artist of the year, even with the Taylor Swift episode.
  39. Paranoidandroid
    Dec 11, 2010
    8
    I hate Kanye with a passion. The guy is a total jerk. Hes so arrogant and just doesn't seem down to earth at all. But damn it the man makes some great music. There are very few weak tracks on this album. The samples are great, the lyrics are great and the guest appearances are fantastic! One of the best albums to come out in 2010 hands down. I give it a very high 8. Some weak tracksI hate Kanye with a passion. The guy is a total jerk. Hes so arrogant and just doesn't seem down to earth at all. But damn it the man makes some great music. There are very few weak tracks on this album. The samples are great, the lyrics are great and the guest appearances are fantastic! One of the best albums to come out in 2010 hands down. I give it a very high 8. Some weak tracks brought my score down but the tracks i do like, i love! I loved how he even included South Park in one of his lyrics. I thought that was hilarious. Still love that south park episode though… Expand
  40. mmasonhauser
    Dec 10, 2010
    8
    i just finished listening to the majority of it a few minutes ago. it literally made me want to find a review site so i can say this: amazing. i'm seriously not into rap or hip-hop, or whatever you want to call it. and i'm not a fan of Kanye as a person, but i can not deny that he is an amazing artist.
  41. ste88883
    Dec 10, 2010
    9
    I'm not the biggest Kanye West fan but this album is the best thing I've heard in ages. It's very complex and creative with the lyrics and the music and it kept me fully engrossed from start to finish on a long train journey. Sometimes artists are just on fire and ooze creativity and for some reason this has happened to Kanye West when he made this album. There are no club bangers orI'm not the biggest Kanye West fan but this album is the best thing I've heard in ages. It's very complex and creative with the lyrics and the music and it kept me fully engrossed from start to finish on a long train journey. Sometimes artists are just on fire and ooze creativity and for some reason this has happened to Kanye West when he made this album. There are no club bangers or breakfast radio tunes on here, its deeper than that and I commend him for not taking the lazy route.… Expand
  42. Gracianne
    Dec 10, 2010
    6
    Can't say I believe the hype. I can't help but note that reviews don't focus on the quality of the music so much as the fascinating aspects of West's character. It's not that fascinating - he has a massive ego and he likes to whinge about any criticism thereof. His rhymes are passable, his ear for sampling pretty good, but aside from that? The attempts at 'experimentation' on TwistedCan't say I believe the hype. I can't help but note that reviews don't focus on the quality of the music so much as the fascinating aspects of West's character. It's not that fascinating - he has a massive ego and he likes to whinge about any criticism thereof. His rhymes are passable, his ear for sampling pretty good, but aside from that? The attempts at 'experimentation' on Twisted Fantasy amount to little more than derivative stupidity - see Runaway's incomprehensible cello-vocoder final few minutes and those multiple climaxes on Power that just don't make any structural sense. It doesn't matter how many guests he pulls in to help him out, these cuts rarely rise above self-indulgent mediocre. And sampling Aphex Twin? On a song with such a horribly annoying hook? Pure sacrilege. I will say that the album is listenable and at moments entertaining, but really, it isn't what everyone claims.… Expand
  43. Khalid24
    Dec 8, 2010
    9
    After an artist goes through a rough time in his or her career, it usually takes that artist a fairly long amount of time to redeem himself or herself, and also takes the artist a while to regain his or her fans, for example, after Eminem released Encore, he took a five year hiatus, then released Relapse, which was generally a poor attempt for Eminem to redeem himself, but the year afterAfter an artist goes through a rough time in his or her career, it usually takes that artist a fairly long amount of time to redeem himself or herself, and also takes the artist a while to regain his or her fans, for example, after Eminem released Encore, he took a five year hiatus, then released Relapse, which was generally a poor attempt for Eminem to redeem himself, but the year after that, Eminem managed to redeem himself, and get more fans with Recovery, a second example is 50 Cent, who after released Curtis, managed to redeem his skills, but not his fanbase with 'Before I Self Destruct', and the third, and most obvious example is Kanye West, who made a living joke out of himself with '808s and Heartbreak', and now trying to redeem himself with the release of 'My Beautiful Twisted Dark Fantasy'. 'My Beautiful Twisted Dark Fantasy' has a generally good background, mainly because it indicates Kanye's return to the rap world, meaning that with this album, Kanye plans to redeem himself by rapping again, and returning to his old musical style. This Kanye album starts with 'Dark Fantasy' which starts slow for the first minutes and a half, but after that amount of time, Kanye brings in one of his best beats, smoothest rhythm, and some of his best lyrics in Kanye's career, the second track 'Gorgeous' was a strongly lyrical song, with a rock-style beat, and a strongly written chorus by Kid Cudi, so it was how I expected it, which was extremely entertaining, the third track, 'Power', which was the first single of the album, and was the best track of the album, because it has symbolic lyrics, and a very complex and powerful rhythm. Other than those three tracks, other great tracks include 'All The Lights' which has a great chorus by Rihanna, and some great rhymes be Kanye, 'Monster' was a track where Rick Ross, Jay-Z, and Nicki Minaj all delivered great flows and rhymes as guest stars, and Kanye does an as good or even a better job as the lead artist, and the track 'Hell of a Life' was strongly energies, due to its fast paced beat and rhythm, and Kanye's strong rhyming skills. The album does have some negative tracks, like 'Runaway' which lasted too long, had a very poor and corny chorus, and had a rhythm which was generally just plain boring, another bad track was 'Blame Game', due to its length, slow rhythm, and poorly written chorus, it barely sounds like a Kanye West song, and the third bad track is 'Lost in the World' which is mostly repetitive, and takes a really long time for Kanye to actually rap. 'My Beautiful Twisted Dark Fantasy' was generally a strongly redeeming album, it has strong lyrics, many great beats, and mostly energizing and entertaining rhythms, which was honestly what I wanted from a Kanye West album, however, there were some errors in the album, such as some tracks' long length, and weak rhythm, but other than that, I think that this album generally states and proves that Kanye West if finally back.… Expand
  44. InClass
    Dec 7, 2010
    6
    So Kanye is good, I understand. College Dropout.....blew my mind. I couldnt understand how he did it or where it came from. Late Registration, good memories to a great album though not perfect like his first outing. Then comes Graduation, cant say I really listened to it much, there was a song with TPain! Next was 808 and Heartbreak, ppllllllhhhpppp sucked. Now we have Kanyes Dark TwistedSo Kanye is good, I understand. College Dropout.....blew my mind. I couldnt understand how he did it or where it came from. Late Registration, good memories to a great album though not perfect like his first outing. Then comes Graduation, cant say I really listened to it much, there was a song with TPain! Next was 808 and Heartbreak, ppllllllhhhpppp sucked. Now we have Kanyes Dark Twisted Fantasy and I must say, its alright. Damn if some of his songs are not catchy as hell. The end of Power is Dr Dre quality production. Runaway is my favorite song because of the ending, more emotion there than any other album this year completely. But it ends about there, cool beats and Kanye talkin sh*t. Im over it I must say.… Expand
  45. tnoc
    Dec 6, 2010
    10
    I would give this album lower than a 10 if it weren't worth the grade. The impressive production and the ability Kanye uses is uncanny and almost too real to not receive the grade. The people who fret on the vulgar language and the ego should not judge the album based on those things as they are. Judge the album based on what those words are used with to create the album. This album looksI would give this album lower than a 10 if it weren't worth the grade. The impressive production and the ability Kanye uses is uncanny and almost too real to not receive the grade. The people who fret on the vulgar language and the ego should not judge the album based on those things as they are. Judge the album based on what those words are used with to create the album. This album looks into the psyche that comprises the most egotistical and bizarre pop culture figures in years. Kanye pushes boundaries with his proper use of autotune and his impressive list of back up vocalists and guest stars. He uses everything perfectly, granted a little too much, but that's Kanye, he is exuberant to another level. He defines a generation on his own with this material. If you don't believe me, just give the album a listen; it might not seem like much, but after its over you'll want more.… Expand
  46. TheSauce
    Dec 6, 2010
    5
    There are some songs that remind me of old Kanye, but many that remind me of 808 Kanye. Most lyrics aren't up to par with Kanye's ability, being over shadowed by good beats that make certain songs better than they should be.
  47. orinj
    Dec 5, 2010
    9
    Even though I hate Kanye as a person and dislike rap in general, I can't give this album any worse a score just because it's such interesting, well-made and compelling music. Contrasting the most breathtaking highs with the most crushing lows, exploring the limits of his mind and soul, with My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, Kanye shows how powerful and thoughtful music can be - and it'sEven though I hate Kanye as a person and dislike rap in general, I can't give this album any worse a score just because it's such interesting, well-made and compelling music. Contrasting the most breathtaking highs with the most crushing lows, exploring the limits of his mind and soul, with My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, Kanye shows how powerful and thoughtful music can be - and it's very difficult to not love him for it.… Expand
  48. GenerousZero
    Dec 3, 2010
    10
    Album of the decade.
  49. vinnie_nine
    Dec 3, 2010
    9
    I was surprised by the universal praise for a new Kanye West album, haven't picked up any of his music since his debut . This genre has been dead for quite a while now, at least commercially, and I'd completely written him off along with the rest of it.

    It's not instantly appealing, like all the best things and builds with each listen, rather than deteriorating into a spiral of radio    I was surprised by the universal praise for a new Kanye West album, haven't picked up any of his music since his debut . This genre has been dead for quite a while now, at least commercially, and I'd completely written him off along with the rest of it.

    It's not instantly appealing, like all the best things and builds with each listen, rather than deteriorating into a spiral of radio punching hatred. The lyrics are clever, but he's not trying to be too clever with them, he seems to have been influenced by song writing from sources outside of rap (unusual in hip-hop), and the music has benefited.

    It's amazing how something can sound or look when the creator has talent and really cares about the product, and not only the profit (although it's unlikely he worries about finances now; Surprisingly, he does seem to refrain from reminding the listener of this fact. Again, unusual in hip-hop.) He's made actual music here, one of the best albums of the year. Maybe the genre can all get together in a room and call it a day now, most of the rest seem incapable of creating anything anywhere near this level.    … Expand
  50. ColourSurround
    Dec 2, 2010
    6
    This album is definitely one of the highlights of the past year as far as mainstream rap releases go, but it is by no means the masterpiece that critics are making it out to be. Kanye does gives us greater insight into his fragile, yet slightly twisted psyche in a much more earnest way than on previous records, and there is certainly some of his trademark wordplay at work here, but thereThis album is definitely one of the highlights of the past year as far as mainstream rap releases go, but it is by no means the masterpiece that critics are making it out to be. Kanye does gives us greater insight into his fragile, yet slightly twisted psyche in a much more earnest way than on previous records, and there is certainly some of his trademark wordplay at work here, but there is still nothing so unabashedly personal that makes certain classic records so great. The music, arrangement, and songwriting, although catchy and fitting to most of the lyrics, is let down by a production that is saturated by current mainstream pop cliches, and that is the biggest letdown on this record. I really was expecting something more revolutionary, something that you have not yet hear on any rap, or pop recordings in recent years, but for the most part, this record sticks to the familiars. The strength of this record lies in its hooks and amusing wordplay. Standout tracks include the seismic Monster, with its barrage of guest stars and its ambition. Hell of a Life and POWER are on par with anything else in the mainstream today, but the rest. . . well it isn't bad, but it definitely is nowhere near classic status.… Expand
  51. kpcd36
    Dec 2, 2010
    10
    Simply put, in 2010, no one did pop music better than Kanye West. This record, along with the Gorillaz "Plastic Beach", pushed collaborative and pop music as a whole forward. which is really what you want. Nothing is more boring and off-putting than complacency. Justin Vernon's contributions, while subtle on tracks not named "Lost in the World", are great. Nicki Minaj murders tracks, andSimply put, in 2010, no one did pop music better than Kanye West. This record, along with the Gorillaz "Plastic Beach", pushed collaborative and pop music as a whole forward. which is really what you want. Nothing is more boring and off-putting than complacency. Justin Vernon's contributions, while subtle on tracks not named "Lost in the World", are great. Nicki Minaj murders tracks, and does exactly that on "Monster". The album is fantastic front to back. Kanye goes for it all on this album, and it works in the best way possible.… Expand
  52. big-bad-bear
    Dec 2, 2010
    10
    Loved this album and I'm glad Kayne west made another rap album. the auto tune just drove me crazy when you know Kayne can come out with something like this and i hope he keeps it coming
  53. PensEverywhere
    Dec 1, 2010
    10
    Makes every album this year feel lightweight
  54. Madvillian
    Dec 1, 2010
    10
    Kanye West even with his high ignorance showed everyone that bad attitude has nothing to do with making good music.
  55. bakertpaul
    Dec 1, 2010
    9
    As much as I dislike the man in the spotlight for his arrogance, after a couple listens through this album I couldn't help but dig on some of the beats and relate to some of the descriptive lyrics.
  56. Wired4Sound
    Dec 1, 2010
    8
    My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is one of Kanye Westâ
  57. nujerz84
    Dec 1, 2010
    8
    One of the best mainstream hip hop albums of the year.. I personally like the fact that he acknowledge his faults but at the same time gives the middle finger to his haters and critics...
  58. D-Blak
    Nov 30, 2010
    8
    I will say right off the bat that I am not a big fan Mr. West. He's arrogant, needlessly **** self-absorbed and the definition of a douche bag. But this album (production wise), is simply amazing. 9/10ths of the album are songs that you are going to rewind and listen to over and over again. Only a few select tracks are less than memorable. Lyrically...almost every track is nothing butI will say right off the bat that I am not a big fan Mr. West. He's arrogant, needlessly **** self-absorbed and the definition of a douche bag. But this album (production wise), is simply amazing. 9/10ths of the album are songs that you are going to rewind and listen to over and over again. Only a few select tracks are less than memorable. Lyrically...almost every track is nothing but nonsense. It's purely expletives and an extreme lack of effort (yes even from Jay-Z). Don't Expect any soul searching, in-depth knowledge/insight or even catchy punchlines. It's is literally just an album that sounds good but doesn't say anything. If your looking for something that literally just sounds good to listen to on the ride home from work, or if you need to just veg out on a Sunday afternoon, this album should be at the top of your list.… Expand
  59. Drewcifer1985
    Nov 30, 2010
    10
    I'm sure I don't have much to say that hasn't already been said. This album is a fantastic voyage, I love getting lost in it every day on my way to work. Particularly the first 7 tracks. The only thing that urkt me is Jay-Z didn't exactly attempt to bring his A game but hey, he's **** Jay-Z so he doesn't have to. Nikki was incredible on Monster and if you haven't seen the short filmI'm sure I don't have much to say that hasn't already been said. This album is a fantastic voyage, I love getting lost in it every day on my way to work. Particularly the first 7 tracks. The only thing that urkt me is Jay-Z didn't exactly attempt to bring his A game but hey, he's **** Jay-Z so he doesn't have to. Nikki was incredible on Monster and if you haven't seen the short film that accompanies the album, stop what you're doing and go watch it. It's an accomplishment. Congrats Mr. West. Instant Classic. You can do whatever the hell you want now, this is your Sgt. Pepper.… Expand
  60. LancelandHts
    Nov 30, 2010
    9
    This album is dope- Sooooo good. Lush with sound. Beats that shake your chest. Turns of verse that make you laugh and shed a tear at the same time. It's all here if you like like the enormous sound to go along with the enormous ego/star power Kanye possesses. He's the next MJ- don't deny it haters. Yeah I'm talking to you clowns that scored this album a zero just because you don'tThis album is dope- Sooooo good. Lush with sound. Beats that shake your chest. Turns of verse that make you laugh and shed a tear at the same time. It's all here if you like like the enormous sound to go along with the enormous ego/star power Kanye possesses. He's the next MJ- don't deny it haters. Yeah I'm talking to you clowns that scored this album a zero just because you don't like Kanye and/or his type of music. Then why are you going out of your way to push your negativity on people? Silly hatin' clowns.… Expand
  61. rodericrinehart
    Nov 29, 2010
    9
    Kanye returns with a very strong actual rap album. This is the album that has stirred inside his head for 20 years. Despite the fame, money, and women, he truly is a psychologically troubled individual who straddles the line between unbridled ego and unbearable agony. He is a black William Burroughs - the "American Rapper."
  62. SquishSquish
    Nov 29, 2010
    10
    Talyor Swift fans out in full force.Kanye Snatches mics and still gets 90+ metacritic scores
  63. davidwiley
    Nov 29, 2010
    8
    Don't want to hate on the album, it's pretty good but extremely over hyped. No wonder his ego is so big the way people feed him with these reviews.
  64. schmidtface
    Nov 29, 2010
    6
    The song 'Stronger' I don't know what the heck he was thinking when he added the other verse that was previously unheard before the album released. I like the extension and all, but the lyrics and the delivery of the line: "...lost in translation, with a whole **** nation, they say I was the abomination of Obama's nation..." I was actually embarrassed for him. Please if you don't know whatThe song 'Stronger' I don't know what the heck he was thinking when he added the other verse that was previously unheard before the album released. I like the extension and all, but the lyrics and the delivery of the line: "...lost in translation, with a whole **** nation, they say I was the abomination of Obama's nation..." I was actually embarrassed for him. Please if you don't know what I'm talking about, you got to go listen to this part of the song right now. You know Kanye, with Pro-tools there is a 'undo' button just press ctrl+z and re-do it. I heard too many takes on this album that could have been recorded better, it automatically loses a point and soils the whole song. It's laziness and unacceptable. However, Mr. West, does improve in one area with each album, his overall music behind the words is nothing short of amazing. Seems weird when I look back thinking Kanye's College Dropout was the best album of 03-04. which I gave a 10 (including lyrics and delivery, one of the only albums I ever gave a perfect score) Since though it's always been his lyrics and delivery holding him back in my opinion. His downfall is in his aim to please certain people, whether it be his idea of what is expected from the street, or the label, whatever it is it's obvious it's not all the way him. You can tell by his swag, certain songs his delivery is on point, others it's just eh...Take the song 'So Appalled' for example, by far in my opinion the least favorite on the album. If it wasn't for Jay's verse I wouldn't even listen to it. You can tell in this song as well as 'Monster' whenever Jay spits, he is in the moment and his emotion is captured perfectly. Kanye on the other hand seems to rely on vocal effects when his emotion isn't all the way with the music to help it blend. I also don't know if Kanye knows what a bridge is, after all these years I have yet to hear a real bridge, closest one I can think of off top is from 'Drunk and Hot Girls, (and it's not even his voice and it's fading into the end of the song). He seems to rely on instrumental break-downs and track extensions for his change ups. One last note about his flow, second verse of Gorgeous is very amateur especially going back into the hook. Now, onto his lyrics, honestly nothing was super impressive, still lots of un-necessary cussing. My favorite punch-line was the 'Family Matters' reference, seemed to be one of his most thought out rhymes on the album. Song concepts were good though, I can't say anything about that, even if it's a love letter to Lucifer. The album is truly a complete project tho, and can be listened to from beginning to end. Its just what I expected when I heard the whole album for the first time. I love the music, my only concern is, I love all Kanye's music but it seems way to often I find out that he only ripped off other songs and turned them into his own. I don't show any sympathy for his sampling style. I think its nothing short of plagiarism. If he is getting as much paper as he claims then he should be held responsible to be 100% original. Don't get me wrong I love a good remix and samples, I realize this is a big chunk of his style, but to parade around and say that your a musical genius while your hits used to be somebody else's hits, it doesn't give him much room to throw temper tantrums for not winning awards. I'm sure this project will be different, I expect him to do well. Thanks-… Expand
  65. AaronM
    Nov 29, 2010
    5
    Until Kanye West returns to his roots and puts out an album close to the lyrical skill and production of The College Dropout, I will continue to be disappointed. That said, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy can be praised for its uniqueness and sound. But some songs last way too long and for the amount this CD cost to make and the time it took, it should have more than 12.5 tracks.
  66. bcrklein
    Nov 28, 2010
    10
    Beautiful, the perfect mix of Kanye's rapping and his exquisite taste in music. Absolutely the best album he's made to date, the perfect recovery from 808s and his recent history. Kanye's back, and he's rewritten the rules of rap once again!
  67. kkmh
    Nov 28, 2010
    10
    This is a Genius What a great Album. Comes from Kanye's heart. This album is to everyone who has questioned Kanye West's artistic abilities. Very deep, and a new approach to hip-hop. Is this album going to change Hip Hop for good?
  68. Kreft
    Nov 28, 2010
    0
    I was very disappointed in this album. I read from reviews that it was a good album so I bought it. well after listening to it a few times, I can safely say that the money I spent for it was wasted. There really is not that much entertainment value in this album and I'm a huge fan of music as well as rap. Mr. West's ego is just too much. Nobody should have an ego as large as his, not evenI was very disappointed in this album. I read from reviews that it was a good album so I bought it. well after listening to it a few times, I can safely say that the money I spent for it was wasted. There really is not that much entertainment value in this album and I'm a huge fan of music as well as rap. Mr. West's ego is just too much. Nobody should have an ego as large as his, not even people with the greatest contributions to the world (i.e. great scientists like Stephen Hawking, Albert Einstein, Charles Darwin, etc. Those men have changed the world in so many good ways, and even from them I would not understand having this large of an ego). What have been Mr. West's accomplishments? Well he has put out a few albums. And while many may have liked them, they surely have not changed anything for the better. All this album is is some average rhymes/lines with him bragging about how great and what a "genius" he is. and while, granted, that's what most rap is, Mr. West takes it to an unnecessary level. DO NOT BUY THIS ALBUM UNLESS YOU WANT TO LISTEN TO SOME WHINY RAPPER TALK ABOUT HOW GOOD HE IS.… Expand
  69. sosa
    Nov 27, 2010
    10
    Wow, this album is amazing! This is hands down the best Kanye album since Late Registration. Every track is is great, no skips and the massive amounts of guests do not weigh it down nor drown out West. I didn't expect this album to be as good as I thought, I would gladly buy 2 of them as gifts.
  70. BlueLotusPoet
    Nov 26, 2010
    9
    Well, Kanye came back pretty strong. This album is a huge step up from 808s & Heartbreak, but he still maintains a good sense of experimentation with his music. Whether it be him dabbling in an outside genre or even features like Bon Ivers or sampling world music tunes, that essence of Kanye looks like it isnt going anywhere. He remains to be lyrically solid and growing, despite whomeverWell, Kanye came back pretty strong. This album is a huge step up from 808s & Heartbreak, but he still maintains a good sense of experimentation with his music. Whether it be him dabbling in an outside genre or even features like Bon Ivers or sampling world music tunes, that essence of Kanye looks like it isnt going anywhere. He remains to be lyrically solid and growing, despite whomever may despise his "arrogant" personality. He isn't lyrically clever just for cheap entertainment, he's also got something behind most of those punches, none of which he pulls for most of the album. What weakened this album were merely the performance of some of Kanye's cameos. Its ok to have features, but not if they are going to water down your performance. Overall, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy will prove to be one of the biggest new albums of this time, completely shunning the hopes those that (after the Taylor Swift incident) wished "he [Kanye] never sold another record ever again"… Expand
  71. brettmickey
    Nov 26, 2010
    9
    All in all this album is great to say the least. Kanye deserves a lot of respect for taking a chance on something so unfamiliar and unique. It seems as though the more I listen to it the more it grows on me and the more I become acclaimed to this new sound. The only concerns I have deal with the overly done music solos and the speaking sections of some songs. Besides those 5 minutes of theAll in all this album is great to say the least. Kanye deserves a lot of respect for taking a chance on something so unfamiliar and unique. It seems as though the more I listen to it the more it grows on me and the more I become acclaimed to this new sound. The only concerns I have deal with the overly done music solos and the speaking sections of some songs. Besides those 5 minutes of the 70 minute long album, Kanye's work is gold.… Expand
  72. MadJ
    Nov 26, 2010
    10
    Hey "Better Music," if you say you give this album a 1/10, why did you give it a 0/10? Also, if you like Eminem so much, wouldn't you know that he just released a crappy album this year? (which, by the way got a 63 on MC, as opposed to Kanye's 93.) And as far as Dre goes, his partner Big Boi released an amazing disc this year, so shouldn't you be a little satisfied? "You can try and readHey "Better Music," if you say you give this album a 1/10, why did you give it a 0/10? Also, if you like Eminem so much, wouldn't you know that he just released a crappy album this year? (which, by the way got a 63 on MC, as opposed to Kanye's 93.) And as far as Dre goes, his partner Big Boi released an amazing disc this year, so shouldn't you be a little satisfied? "You can try and read these lyrics off this paper before I lay them, but you can't take the sting out these words before I say them." You think those are good lyrics? Those are lyrics about lyrics: they're empty. Kanye's lyrics are about heartbreak, loss of a lover, loss of a mother, an evolved perspective about his image in the public eye and the responsibility he has as a result. Not only are his lyrics more mature than ever before, his music is genre-expanding, having evolved far beyond the typical constraints of hip-hop and pop music in general. This album flows from spoken-word poetry, to improvisational instrumentals, to ballads, to hardcore ciphers, not to mention that ALL of the production is immaculate, not by some amateur (which is a laughable criticism.) I honestly don't understand how you could say that. The sound is complex, crisp, quiet, then loud, then quiet again, not compressed, and perfectly balanced. There are no cheezy synths; auto-tune is used artfully (Runaway, Lost in the World); samples aren't just jacked, but truly made a part of the music (especially with bon iver). And to say that he copped Moby's style is just wrong. He didn't. This doesn't sound like Play at all. But even if he was influenced by it, that's not a bad thing, for all music has some influence. And for those who criticize the language just don't get art. Good art is often evocative (like his cover) and as long as it's done tastefully (which this is), profanity and the like is an essential part of the music and the art (take Cee-Lo's **** You" - who even cares about the radio edit "Forget You"?)

    What impresses me most is how he does so many things with just 1 song. They flip and turn and mutate into some other form of the same track from an alternate genre. The sequencing is perfect, making the songs flow seamlessly into one another. In fact, the songs build on each other and pick up from the previous song's momentum. The album is simple and complex all at once, revealing more and more with each listen - Kanye's chef-d'oevre.    … Expand
  73. heartdriven
    Nov 26, 2010
    10
    I can't get over how great this album is. I've been playing it nonstop since I bought it and I still have the same feeling of amazement each and every time I listen to it. Never have I heard a song that brought on so many different emotions as Blame Game did. It's a sad song, but the addition of the Chris Rock spoken word at the end adds some humor. After a while I realized that the ChrisI can't get over how great this album is. I've been playing it nonstop since I bought it and I still have the same feeling of amazement each and every time I listen to it. Never have I heard a song that brought on so many different emotions as Blame Game did. It's a sad song, but the addition of the Chris Rock spoken word at the end adds some humor. After a while I realized that the Chris Rock bit was what Kanye was hearing on the phone and that made it even more sad, but strangely it was still funny. Too many great points in this album to go into detail. I just suggest you give it a try and decide for yourself.… Expand
  74. Tunmise
    Nov 26, 2010
    10
    Didn't expect anything less from Kanye. He just doesn't know how to put out a wack album. No other Hip-Hop Artist can do what he does. it's a definate 10/10 for me...20/10 if possible.
  75. Gdaddy26
    Nov 25, 2010
    10
    Heat for the street! This cd has the arrogance of LL's Bigger and Deffer, the with of Slick Ricks Adventure of....,the boldness of Ice Cubes Amerikkka's most and the conscienceness of PE's It takes of million..
    Definitely a masterpiece!!!!!!!!!!
  76. BetterMusic
    Nov 25, 2010
    0
    I got this album thinking hey it might be good. Power was a pretty good song, but then I heard the album. All the beats besides Power sound like they were produced by some crappy amateur which I know Kanye isn't after hearing some of his other beats. The singing get's annoying most of the time, and I wish he would stop. How many rap songs have to rap about porn stars, and all theI got this album thinking hey it might be good. Power was a pretty good song, but then I heard the album. All the beats besides Power sound like they were produced by some crappy amateur which I know Kanye isn't after hearing some of his other beats. The singing get's annoying most of the time, and I wish he would stop. How many rap songs have to rap about porn stars, and all the other typical rap stuff. A couple of the songs are okay, but then you read the lyrics and then you give up on Kanye completely. You can try and read these lyrics off this paper before I lay them, but you can't take the sting out these words before I say them.

    This isn't Kanye's case, because besides the beats there's nothing new, and it's the same **** At least in Eminem's case he changes it up a little. In Jay-Z's case he at least does it with a cool style. Overall some of the beats are okay, but Kanye doesn't execute it correctly and it's the same lyrical **** as before and he hasn't matured at all since his first two releases (the ones I can actually listen to). He tries to be original but he fails. I give this album a 1/10 for me, but for some people's taste in music a 3/10. I hope that Eminem or Andre 3000 come out with some new material soon. Rap needs it.    … Expand
  77. adhamhany
    Nov 25, 2010
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. EPIC!!!! BIZARRE!!! INSANE!!! RAW!!!

    This is, without a doubt, the crowning acheivement of this man's career.

    A towering performance of raw emotion. From the sound of his voice, you can't help but wonder if Kanye has lost his sanity. Yes, the lyrics and emotions are THIS intense.

    This is, of course, a rap album. But it certainly shattered all the boundaries of traditional hip-hop. It borders on many diverse musical styles that reminds me of The Clash's London Calling back in 1980. You'll find almost everything here: violins, cellos, guitar solos, piano solos, greek choruses, pop beats, and soul. But despite the diversity, you will find that the album is whole and consistent, because the lyrical themes are the main drive here, and as far as they go, they are universal.

    However, the review doesn't end here. I've only talked about the music, lyrics and emotion. While that seems like all to some, we mustn't forget what this album represents.

    Not since Pink Floyd's The Wall has an album transcended its medium with such genius. A cover art that looks like a Picasso painting, and a music video that reminds us of Michael Jackson's Thriller. The Wall was the last album of the golden age of Rock 'n' Roll. I see history repeating itself here, i don't see how anybody, even Kanye West himself, can top that album in its artistic quality. I feel that a new era for music is upon us; and who is going to be on top, i have no idea. All i know is that everything rap went through, from Run DMC to The NWA to the Chronic all the way to Eminem, Jay-Z and Lil Wayne, has come down to this, a watershed moment in music history that proves once and for all that Rap like its predecessor (Rock) was the voice of this generation.

    Nothing will ever be the same again.

    Thank you, Kanye West, for this album of biblical proportions. Like Pink Floyd, you took this music genre to the height of its power. I hope, unlike Pink Floyd, you don't break down like them. However, i think you will.    … Expand
  78. iamtrent424
    Nov 24, 2010
    10
    this is kanye west best album so far. One of the best hip hop album i ever heard in a long time. I think kanye is brilliant all songs is amazing. This is the best hip hop album of the year and top five album of the year. this is a classic album .If you are a fan of hip hop you should own this album. A true hip hop fan recognize good hip hop albums. So happy kanye came back with a classicthis is kanye west best album so far. One of the best hip hop album i ever heard in a long time. I think kanye is brilliant all songs is amazing. This is the best hip hop album of the year and top five album of the year. this is a classic album .If you are a fan of hip hop you should own this album. A true hip hop fan recognize good hip hop albums. So happy kanye came back with a classic hip hip album 808 was a good album but it wasn't a classic type of album like this one. Good job kanye west… Expand
  79. YeahRight
    Nov 24, 2010
    9
    Kanye shows the deepest side of him in My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. He tried to exploit it on 808's And Heartbreak, but really succeeded on his fifth album. I personally bought the Deluxe edition with the Runaway movie, and I have to admit that I had to listen to the movie to really love My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. I'll say that the movie and the album really complete thisKanye shows the deepest side of him in My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. He tried to exploit it on 808's And Heartbreak, but really succeeded on his fifth album. I personally bought the Deluxe edition with the Runaway movie, and I have to admit that I had to listen to the movie to really love My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. I'll say that the movie and the album really complete this masterpiece. The original art-cover is simply amazing, but sadly banished. For a radio success, I really can't find a single song that could be a success on Billboard's Hot 100, and that's perfect for people like me who prefers albums to singles. As a whole artistic entity, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is awesome, not as much to my eyes than 808's and Heartbreak (even if 808's And Heartbreak sounded more for the radio). The use of auto-tune is clearly reduced on this new opus. I recommend this album to any Kanye fan, any quality rap fan (this means no 50 Cents fans). Good job Mr. West, keep up the good work.… Expand
  80. Antinet
    Nov 24, 2010
    3
    This album is a blatant ripoff of Moby's sound and production techniques, most notably from Play and 18.
    Kanye does a competent job of copying that style, and then proceeds to ruin it by putting aggressive, angry, insanely self-obsessed rapping over it. We're not talking Eminem-style intensity or originality in rapping style either. West can conjure interesting lyrics, but his rhythmic    This album is a blatant ripoff of Moby's sound and production techniques, most notably from Play and 18.
    Kanye does a competent job of copying that style, and then proceeds to ruin it by putting aggressive, angry, insanely self-obsessed rapping over it. We're not talking Eminem-style intensity or originality in rapping style either. West can conjure interesting lyrics, but his rhythmic delivery is quite average. I must admit I'm a fan of the video, and supposedly he directed it, but it's clear much of the credit needs to go to the director of photography. Kanye employs a bunch of strange imagery regarding some model that falls to earth, and is physically perfect, but she's a bird, and his friends won't accept her. Seriously? Get real and get a plot and a clue. Dark Fantasy's package is very appealing, but ultimately it's too much of a ripoff of someone else's musical style for my taste, and more importantly, the sentiment expressed is the same old poor-liittle-me-I'm-so-put-upon public persona that we've all gotten really tired of.    … Expand
  81. jhereko
    Nov 24, 2010
    10
    why the hell include dot music's (or yahoo music) review they gave take 6that's new album 8/10 and kanye's 6/10 douchebags. speaking of douchebags, let's have a toast.
  82. TristonDaShorty
    Nov 24, 2010
    9
    Really really loved this album. Kanye really steps his sampling level up a notch. I loved the sampling on this thing. Also his raps are vary tight and original. And he featured the right people, they all contributed just the right thing to the album. The only reason this album didn't get a perfect score from me is that beginning section of the song All of the lights. It just soundedReally really loved this album. Kanye really steps his sampling level up a notch. I loved the sampling on this thing. Also his raps are vary tight and original. And he featured the right people, they all contributed just the right thing to the album. The only reason this album didn't get a perfect score from me is that beginning section of the song All of the lights. It just sounded generic, but I was very happy when Kanye and Rhianna Started to rap on it. It ended up being a good song.… Expand
  83. sccameron91
    Nov 24, 2010
    10
    Welcome the new king of pop! A completely different breed from 808. Tracks such as power and lost in the world show that kanye is back in career best jesus walks territory. This really is an artist who is willing to take risks and evolve. hate him or love him but lets be honest the man is a genius.
  84. Truly
    Nov 24, 2010
    10
    When you check the user-reviews, either you find extremely high-ratings or extremely low-rating. That's the way it is with Kanye. It started with the 808's and heartbreak, either you absolutely loved it or you just really thought it was crap. That's what happened between the critics too. But in this album they're unanimously saying that it's a classic and I agree. It's just phenomenal, theWhen you check the user-reviews, either you find extremely high-ratings or extremely low-rating. That's the way it is with Kanye. It started with the 808's and heartbreak, either you absolutely loved it or you just really thought it was crap. That's what happened between the critics too. But in this album they're unanimously saying that it's a classic and I agree. It's just phenomenal, the production and the raps. They might be rude and seem very vulgar but hey, check the album title. It's supposed to be that way, it's just that kanye is one of the very few daring enough to speak his mind and the whole theme of the album was to explore his mind. Either you hate Kanye and therefore hate his music or you just hate him. Or you absolutely love him or hate him and love his music. What sets out kanye from the rest is the emotional reactions he gets everywhere from critics and just plain listeners. All in all, you either hate kanyes album or you love it, just like 808's and Heartbreak. I for one love them both. Just like most music lovers do.

    10/10 for it's brilliant production and possibly one of the very few classic albums of the 2000's so far.    … Expand
  85. yogibbear
    Nov 24, 2010
    9
    I generally have no feelings towards Kanye (and don't own any of his music), I usually listen to Radiohead as my staple music listening diet. This CD so far is AWESOME... it actually has interesting things to say and is decent to listen to.. I think this music really is inspiring and perfect for so many different moods.. I think i've heard about 80% of it on the radio and youtube. Going toI generally have no feelings towards Kanye (and don't own any of his music), I usually listen to Radiohead as my staple music listening diet. This CD so far is AWESOME... it actually has interesting things to say and is decent to listen to.. I think this music really is inspiring and perfect for so many different moods.. I think i've heard about 80% of it on the radio and youtube. Going to buy it tomorrow. The Bon Iver track is GOLD! Bon Iver rocks. Glad it's not just ripping it up and he actually dragged the guy in to lay down some vocals.… Expand
  86. realgamefan
    Nov 24, 2010
    10
    Kanye West My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is the best hip hop album in years. It is the best so far this new decade of the 10's. My opinion of Kanye is he is the most talented rapper alive. This album sh***** on the haters. Kanye crafted a masterpiece and it needs to be bought this holiday season!!! From the RZA crafted Dark Fantasy to the mind blowing Lost In The World, this album isKanye West My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is the best hip hop album in years. It is the best so far this new decade of the 10's. My opinion of Kanye is he is the most talented rapper alive. This album sh***** on the haters. Kanye crafted a masterpiece and it needs to be bought this holiday season!!! From the RZA crafted Dark Fantasy to the mind blowing Lost In The World, this album is pure fire, chaos, love and redemption. A beautiful dark twisted fantasy Kanye, you did hip hop proud!!!… Expand
  87. Neville2MUFC
    Nov 24, 2010
    10
    My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is the best album in 2010, (for a little better than Eminem's Recovery). All of the songs are just great. I was expecting this for a long time, and I couldn't imagine so good album. everything less than 10 would be stupid.
  88. doddy911
    Nov 24, 2010
    10
    ALBUM OF THE YEAR! this is pure "Ye" brilliance here yo! pure genius! the rhymes are pure and flowing, and funny as hell! all the hype that basically built this album really pulled through and has given us something soo amazing i would like to thank yeezy for this 10/10 album... i love it!
  89. metaskrillex
    Nov 23, 2010
    9
    One of the most ambitious and engaging albums I have ever heard. Kanye West puts himself at the top of the game with this one, proving that he can do more than just rap about how much bling and **** he has. The way he can examine himself and has the balls to point out his douchebag ways in songs like "Blame Game" and "Runaway" is unheard of in the hip hop genre today. In addition, theOne of the most ambitious and engaging albums I have ever heard. Kanye West puts himself at the top of the game with this one, proving that he can do more than just rap about how much bling and **** he has. The way he can examine himself and has the balls to point out his douchebag ways in songs like "Blame Game" and "Runaway" is unheard of in the hip hop genre today. In addition, the production on the album is about as elegant as it gets. We, as a society, view Kanye as this outspoken, obnoxious guy and the redeeming feature of My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is the fact that we get an inside look into the psyche of West and ultimately, sympathize with him. Furthermore, the beats and lyrics, two main things I always look for in a hip hop album, are there 100 percent and make most all other rappers stuff look meek. Overall, the way Kanye is able to put his heart and soul into this one while not letting that hold him back from providing 13 amazing hip hop tracks that you could listen to individually and say "Wow!" is something I have never seen before and sets a new standard for the whole genre.… Expand
  90. MG1595
    Nov 23, 2010
    0
    **** nothing more I can say about this album, I mean I never like him, but now hes a fckn pain in my ears, cant handlle too many **** coming out of the mic...
  91. Kibago
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    Flawless. Absolutely flawless. I never thought I could gain such inspiration and feel so drained from any rap album.
    Kanye defies genre and even music in the goal of being an artist, instead of a musician, and he nails it at a level that...there are no words. The flow is incredible and the songs complement each other, feeding off and referencing to make it clear that they're a true    Flawless. Absolutely flawless. I never thought I could gain such inspiration and feel so drained from any rap album.
    Kanye defies genre and even music in the goal of being an artist, instead of a musician, and he nails it at a level that...there are no words. The flow is incredible and the songs complement each other, feeding off and referencing to make it clear that they're a true album...and yet, you can still listen to them as individuals and not know that you're missing anything.
    Every single song would earn a 10/10 from me - Monster was a close call, but Minaj killed her part (of all the people...)
    There is no greater hope for our ears than this remarkable Schizoid Man. We may survive in America after all.
    Thank you, Kanye West.
    Thank you.    … Expand
  92. TheStephen77
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    An absolutely triumphant album. In many ways, this is his Exile On Main Street. These are albums where everything musically, from the artists past, comes together in a darker, louder, more decadent sound. Add in the fact that like EoTM, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy contains lyrics of regret, excess, ego, drugs, religion and hints at psychological despair. And simply put they bothAn absolutely triumphant album. In many ways, this is his Exile On Main Street. These are albums where everything musically, from the artists past, comes together in a darker, louder, more decadent sound. Add in the fact that like EoTM, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy contains lyrics of regret, excess, ego, drugs, religion and hints at psychological despair. And simply put they both rock. My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, while probably not the better record, is definitely more personal than EoMS though. Furthermore, when has any rapper, of Kanye's magnitude, been as personal as this on record; putting everything out there on the line for both his many fans and critics to observe? It's a special record, one that will be enjoyed more and more upon repeated listens. The best album of the year, and an immediate early candidate for album of the decade.… Expand
  93. vinzenzart
    Nov 23, 2010
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Great album, close to perfection. Every song is a masterpiece and a milestone in hip hop music. nas wasnt right mourning -hip hop is dead-, kanye flipped over the genre.… Expand
  94. MattSDC
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    Likely the best album of the year, and arguably the best hip hop album since The Blueprint, if not of all time. Not only is this further proof that Kanye is one of the most creative people (not to mention the best producer) working in music today, but he's finally come into his own as an MC, which is just icing on the cake. This is his masterpiece, and only time will tell if he can topLikely the best album of the year, and arguably the best hip hop album since The Blueprint, if not of all time. Not only is this further proof that Kanye is one of the most creative people (not to mention the best producer) working in music today, but he's finally come into his own as an MC, which is just icing on the cake. This is his masterpiece, and only time will tell if he can top it... but at this point, I wouldn't bet against him.

    Also, to those who appear to be giving negative reviews solely based on their dislike for Kanye as a person, consider that whether or not someone is a jerk has no bearing on the quality of his or her work. And to those who appear to be giving negative reviews based solely on the frequency of bad language in the lyrics, consider that you're probably not in any position to be reviewing the quality of a hip hop album.    … Expand
  95. darryltrini
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    Kanye West is officially back. One of his best pieces of work ever. No one is currently in his league. The album is well crafted and it is ART. Art, like only Kanye can do it. The production is superb and on point. The masterpiece, classic and Kanye's Thriller!!!! Well done!
  96. Kernzzi
    Nov 23, 2010
    2
    dont see what all the hype is about to be honest...
  97. dcj321
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    I'm still kind of new to Metacritic so if you've noticed some of my other reviews, it appears that I like to hand out great reviews. Eventually I will get around to trashing some stuff, but not before I uplift this album as the best album of 2010. This is such a great album that I wish I could afford to buy 10 copies of it. I've always thought Kanye has made great albums in my opinion, butI'm still kind of new to Metacritic so if you've noticed some of my other reviews, it appears that I like to hand out great reviews. Eventually I will get around to trashing some stuff, but not before I uplift this album as the best album of 2010. This is such a great album that I wish I could afford to buy 10 copies of it. I've always thought Kanye has made great albums in my opinion, but this has to be his best one yet. He definitely sets the bar for the next decade of music. If you ignore this because of the Taylor Swift/VMA incident, then you are stupid and it will be your loss. This is the work of a true artist.… Expand
  98. lightcraver27
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    Everybody's favorite a--hole is back and better than ever. "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy" without a doubt will stand as his masterpiece. I don't want to reveal too much as this album is better to be experienced first hand. His lyricism is masterful and his beats are immaculate. Somehow he is able to carry the theme of his album so effortlessly throughout each song. The album standsEverybody's favorite a--hole is back and better than ever. "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy" without a doubt will stand as his masterpiece. I don't want to reveal too much as this album is better to be experienced first hand. His lyricism is masterful and his beats are immaculate. Somehow he is able to carry the theme of his album so effortlessly throughout each song. The album stands alone as a work of art, rather than the usual single driven albums we are all too used to hearing. Maybe now we can see the real Kanye when he finally gets the recognition he's been craving. Even the Kanye haters will find this album hard to ignore.… Expand
  99. monstersjuice
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    Beautiful. Dark. Twisted.....and an Amazing Reality. Not many albums like this one come across in one's lifetime. A superb blend of genres along with the deeply personal lyrical content delivered bi-polarly from start to finish. This is the most definitive progressive rap album to hit the mainstream pop world. Kanye continually redefines the rules of the rap/pop genre while making aBeautiful. Dark. Twisted.....and an Amazing Reality. Not many albums like this one come across in one's lifetime. A superb blend of genres along with the deeply personal lyrical content delivered bi-polarly from start to finish. This is the most definitive progressive rap album to hit the mainstream pop world. Kanye continually redefines the rules of the rap/pop genre while making a classic that ranks up there with Illmatic and 36 Chambers. Kanye's ability to express the travels and emotions that have occurred through his Hell Of A Life(the highlight of the album for me) is the reason that combined with extravagant yet sublime production ....that this is one Hell Of An Album.… Expand
  100. Beats
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    This Album is the best album in the past ten years. He has discovered the fact that people don't buy music anymore and buy releasing tracks online every friday makes him a true legend. He has also included 5 covers and a movie for $3 more on the album. I mean what artist has ever done that. The production is amazing as well, he switches up the vocals on blame game so the listener canThis Album is the best album in the past ten years. He has discovered the fact that people don't buy music anymore and buy releasing tracks online every friday makes him a true legend. He has also included 5 covers and a movie for $3 more on the album. I mean what artist has ever done that. The production is amazing as well, he switches up the vocals on blame game so the listener can recognize that there is two people talking to each other. All of the Lights has to be my personal best. I mean what rap artist has transformed a song by putting Rihanna, Fergie, Elton John, Kid Cudi, La-Roux's Lead Singer, The Dream, John Legend, and Ryan Leslie all on one track. People have criticized this man long enough for his "stealing of moments" ...give me a break. I haven't heard a hip hop album this moving since about the time Nas released Illmatic. This man deserves true respect and loves his job. The least you can do is check out some of the previews then buy it because a true hip hop fan would know that is a good choice.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best Album of 2010
1
#1 Most Discussed Album of 2010
1
#1 Most Shared Album of 2010

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
94

Universal acclaim - based on 45 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 43 out of 45
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 45
  3. Negative: 0 out of 45
  1. Uncut
    Sep 19, 2012
    80
    West is far from rap's deftest lyricist but his neurotic grandstanding is compelling and often pretty funny to boot. [Feb 2011, p.84]
  2. Consequence
    Sep 17, 2012
    100
    There is no question that this album is a game changer. It's Kanye West's greatest work.
    Read full review
  3. Mojo
    Apr 20, 2011
    100
    My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is genuinely a great record. [Feb. 2011, p. 108]
See all critic reviews »