untitled unmastered.
by Kendrick Lamar
  • Record Label: Top Dawg
  • Release Date: Mar 4, 2016
User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 932 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 854 out of 932
  2. Mixed: 31 out of 932
  3. Negative: 47 out of 932
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  1. KDizzle
    Mar 4, 2016
    10
    Kendrick lamar's throwaways put together and all I have to say is that this project is amazing. Im not going to compare it to his previous projects due to the fact that it is too short. just enjoy it.
  2. 1jaytrain
    Mar 4, 2016
    10
    if you're expecting a "good kid,m.A.A.d city bamber well you're dissapointed this b-side album is in a way a mirror image of to pimp a butterfly which tracks did not amke the final cut it's an unfinished work but raerly sound like it i loved to pimp a butterfly and ditto with untiled unmastered
  3. bsides15
    Mar 4, 2016
    9
    Don't expect "fire" or a complete idea or thought like To Pimp a Butterfly but its remarkable how his songs not good enough for the album are better than most other rappers.
  4. proterospongia
    Mar 6, 2016
    8
    Whatever "untitled unmastered." is, it's intense, rich, smart. The artistry of Kendrick Lamar is so out of this world that even a compilation album with the rejects of his last album sounds like a solid full studio album. Although this is more flawed than his previous works (on purpose, maybe, which adds to its beauty), untitled unmastered. can serve either as a epilogue or a prologue toWhatever "untitled unmastered." is, it's intense, rich, smart. The artistry of Kendrick Lamar is so out of this world that even a compilation album with the rejects of his last album sounds like a solid full studio album. Although this is more flawed than his previous works (on purpose, maybe, which adds to its beauty), untitled unmastered. can serve either as a epilogue or a prologue to TPAB.

    Best Tracks: untitled 02 06.23.2014; untitled 04 08.14.2014; untitled 05 09.21.2014.    … Expand
  5. mc_ryn
    Mar 5, 2016
    10
    kendrick lamar is transcending beyond what a rapper is. by incorporating many different styles and themes tracks on this ep, lamar displays his versatility as an artist and hope for hip-hop in the modern era. #legendstatus
  6. tylerrbarney
    Mar 4, 2016
    10
    Probably the worst of his 4 albums, if you can even call it an album. However, thats like saying Jordan's worst championship team, still amazing. 10/10
  7. israelvg49
    Mar 5, 2016
    10
    This obviously sounds like the leftovers of To Pimp a Butterfly, although some of these songs are probably better than some tracks on TPAB. Hate to say it, but Kendrick should've added some of these songs on a deluxe edition. Even though they aren't exactly perfect to be in the album, I believe these tracks were phenomenal.
  8. Bew4T
    Mar 4, 2016
    9
    It took me a few listens to fully get into the album, but they really grew on me. I was so impressed by how these were songs that didn't make the cut in TPAB, yet we're still great. It just that speaks to say how Kendrick's "trash" is still treasure. I'm excited for what he'll do next.
  9. tristanengen
    Mar 16, 2016
    10
    Ironic how something so raw can be so precise. Rather than merely dabbling in Jazz, Kendrick jumps full in on this EP, and gives the listeners a groove-sesh feel.
  10. LinttaFlamingo
    Dec 2, 2016
    9
    Leftover stuff that didn't make the final cut of TPAB. Nice production, lyrics work, catchy and all that good stuff. Kendrick is a genius once again but you knew that already.
  11. Allion
    Mar 22, 2016
    8
    Cornrow Kenny, he was born with a vision. Damn right he was. Kendrick is now in a group of elite artists who have struck gold on ALL their projects. Kendrick can do no wrong now
  12. SergioV
    Apr 5, 2016
    8
    83/100. Definitely not Kendrick's best album, but still a gold mine. Best songs on the album are untitled 2, 5, and 6. Still meaningful lyrics, and a great incorporation of real instruments into the beats.
  13. TheBison24
    Mar 10, 2016
    10
    This album shows again why Kendrick is in the top-5 rappers right now. The beats are different to other todays rappers, who just have a boring, low bass rhythms. Kendrick has interesting beats, many of them even made with real instruments, which is pretty rare in todays music. And of course the rapping is straight fire like we have got used to with Kendrick.
  14. thethoughthere
    Apr 23, 2016
    9
    It's a true testament to the genius of Kendrick Lamar that a collection of his throwaways, demos and behind-the-scenes recordings can be such a compelling, visceral and beautiful listen. Functioning almost as the epilogue to To Pimp A Butterfly (which itself was a masterpiece), untitled unmastered may very well earn a spot in the top 5 albums of 2016 when all is said and done.
  15. MovieLover123
    Jul 15, 2016
    10
    Head is the answer! Do you want more lyrical hip-hop with a socially conscious edge?! Take a minute or two to listen to this expanded view into Kendrick's mind during the creation of TPAB. Pimp, pimp, HOORAY!!
  16. Connorcox1997
    Feb 15, 2019
    10
    Untitled Unmastered by Kendrick Lamar may not be a studio album, but even a compilation album is Fantastic. It contains eight demo song on the compilation album that weren't on TPAB. The eight songs on the album are beautiful. I highly recommended.
  17. RadioheadLuv17
    Mar 5, 2016
    10
    Good Kid M.A.A.D. City was a masterpiece. To Pimp A Butterfly was a masterpiece. And masterpieces are great, but at the same time masterpieces can be exhausting. An 8-song punch filled with menacing jazz, oddly shaped and constantly morphing verses on the apocalypse, fame and love making is something that will never be exhausting. Especially when every second is filled with relentless earGood Kid M.A.A.D. City was a masterpiece. To Pimp A Butterfly was a masterpiece. And masterpieces are great, but at the same time masterpieces can be exhausting. An 8-song punch filled with menacing jazz, oddly shaped and constantly morphing verses on the apocalypse, fame and love making is something that will never be exhausting. Especially when every second is filled with relentless ear candy. This is a classic, not because its changing the game, but because its the moment when we knew Kendrick Lamar was inarguably the best rapper in the game. And its gonna get more plays its two predecessors for sure. And definitely more plays than the three-years in the making **** The Life Of Pablo.… Expand
  18. NaveedChowder
    Mar 4, 2016
    10
    Album with throwaway tracks, yet it is still very cohesive and surprisingly polished. Kendrick experiments with different flows and instrumentals, and it is terrific. Though a b-side project, lyricism and delivery is still as strong as any Kendrick project. Amazing artist.
  19. NickSiscoe
    Mar 4, 2016
    10
    Kendrick's throw away's are better than most music that has come out in the past year and this EP is cohesive and fit together and are all very enjoyable. I can not wait for what he will do next
  20. TrentRey
    Mar 4, 2016
    9
    An outstanding b-side album. This is not his best, but this album is still, a very great hip-hop album. It has the "To Pimp A Butterfly Feeling to it." The lyrics on this album are similar to the ones on his previous album. The theme is the same. Kendrick music is becoming the definition of hip hop. The album might end up being the best album of the year and also the best hip hop album ofAn outstanding b-side album. This is not his best, but this album is still, a very great hip-hop album. It has the "To Pimp A Butterfly Feeling to it." The lyrics on this album are similar to the ones on his previous album. The theme is the same. Kendrick music is becoming the definition of hip hop. The album might end up being the best album of the year and also the best hip hop album of the year. Hopefully better hip hop albums are release this year.… Expand
  21. giu3
    Mar 5, 2016
    10
    Après Kanye qui nous a sorti un album fini qui ressemblait à une accumulation de démos, Kendrick sort au contraire une accumulation de démos qui n'a rien à envier à la plupart des albums finis. Flow au top, voix au top, prises de risque au top, paroles au top, que dire... Plusieurs titres sont vraiment excellents, très peu de temps faibles sur l'ensemble (les intros de la 1 et de la 5Après Kanye qui nous a sorti un album fini qui ressemblait à une accumulation de démos, Kendrick sort au contraire une accumulation de démos qui n'a rien à envier à la plupart des albums finis. Flow au top, voix au top, prises de risque au top, paroles au top, que dire... Plusieurs titres sont vraiment excellents, très peu de temps faibles sur l'ensemble (les intros de la 1 et de la 5 peut-être mais ce ne sont que des chutes de studio on ne demande pas la perfection non plus). S'il en a d'autres comme ça on est preneur… Expand
  22. xavinoya
    Mar 5, 2016
    9
    With this album, Kendrick proves he is, currently, one of the best rappers in the industry and that he will be here for a long time. As it is supposed to be an unfinished record, it looks like a finished, mastered one.
  23. DeanOrDie
    Mar 5, 2016
    9
    K.Dot? One word - brilliant! So soon after dominating the Grammys, he surprises us with something to help us remember exactly why he did. TPAB"s baby brother, untitled unmastered, boasts a perfect fusion of hip hop, jazz and funk; perfect features and an overall superb sound. Album or EP, not too sure which is which but one thing for sure is Kendrick Lamar is here to stay. GOAT? Wouldn'tK.Dot? One word - brilliant! So soon after dominating the Grammys, he surprises us with something to help us remember exactly why he did. TPAB"s baby brother, untitled unmastered, boasts a perfect fusion of hip hop, jazz and funk; perfect features and an overall superb sound. Album or EP, not too sure which is which but one thing for sure is Kendrick Lamar is here to stay. GOAT? Wouldn't bet against that notion. This is excellent work, and another Grammy contender I'm sure.… Expand
  24. SPQR
    Mar 5, 2016
    10
    Kendrick is way above the whole music industry right now. He is confident and original. An EP of leftovers is better than most of the solo projects these days. Kendrick is a confirmed legend
  25. eli_obeid
    Mar 4, 2016
    10
    Perfection... absolutely perfect. This EP is slightly under TPAB.... but deserves in the 90's easy.. its funny how Kendrick can put out a little EP like this and easily dominate the game with minimal effort. Heres a quick breakdown of the EP;

    Untitled 1 - GKMC rap on a TPAB beat Untitled 2 - GKMC Untitled 3 - TPAB Untitled 4 - Interlude Untitled 5 - TPAB Feat. Jay Rock Untitled 6 -    Perfection... absolutely perfect. This EP is slightly under TPAB.... but deserves in the 90's easy.. its funny how Kendrick can put out a little EP like this and easily dominate the game with minimal effort. Heres a quick breakdown of the EP;

    Untitled 1 - GKMC rap on a TPAB beat
    Untitled 2 - GKMC
    Untitled 3 - TPAB
    Untitled 4 - Interlude
    Untitled 5 - TPAB Feat. Jay Rock
    Untitled 6 - TBAP
    Untitled 7 - GKMC
    Untitled 8 - TPAB with a hint of GKMC

    Untitled 1,2,3,7,8 are all 11/10.... The rest all 10/10

    Enjoy this work of art !    … Expand
  26. anish289
    Mar 4, 2016
    10
    Although these are his cast offs, the "album" still has a sort of cohesion to it because they were written around the time TPAB was being created and his extra thoughts are put together in this 'unmastered-piece' .
    Love it for what it is.
  27. swagkonyjohnson
    Mar 16, 2016
    8
    untitled unmastered. is a masterful, cohesive extension of Kendrick's previous project To Pimp A Butterfly. It obviously doesn't reach the monumental heights that TPAB achieved, but this project is so intricate and the lyrics are so dense, just like it's predecessor. This EP hardly feels "unmastered."
  28. AmirAbdiJama
    Mar 5, 2016
    9
    With Religious Theme Lines Still This Feels An Extension Of TPAB, With Topics Such As Self-Conflict And Feeling Desperation Because Of The Hood, Idealogy Regarding Cultures, Acceptance Of Self With The Flaws, And How It's Hard To Be Unique Where Such Gift It's Regarded A Curse And Fought Against, And Supporting Ladies Where Realising The Hardships They Face, It's Great Album Seen As TheWith Religious Theme Lines Still This Feels An Extension Of TPAB, With Topics Such As Self-Conflict And Feeling Desperation Because Of The Hood, Idealogy Regarding Cultures, Acceptance Of Self With The Flaws, And How It's Hard To Be Unique Where Such Gift It's Regarded A Curse And Fought Against, And Supporting Ladies Where Realising The Hardships They Face, It's Great Album Seen As The Conditions It's Delivered.… Expand
  29. linalexander
    Mar 6, 2016
    9
    After the incredible To Pimp a Butterfly album, i really wanted more. This album is probably all the tracks that didn't make it to the last album, but still good enough to blow any other artist out there out of the water. I bought it and listened through it the first day it came out and surprise it was. It will be too much to expect the greatness of the last album, but this is notAfter the incredible To Pimp a Butterfly album, i really wanted more. This album is probably all the tracks that didn't make it to the last album, but still good enough to blow any other artist out there out of the water. I bought it and listened through it the first day it came out and surprise it was. It will be too much to expect the greatness of the last album, but this is not unmastered. The music itself is great without the theme :).… Expand
  30. matttyc123
    Mar 28, 2016
    8
    This just established Kenny as a GOAT. Crazy how a bunch of B-Sides are better than a good chunk of stuff out there now. The great lyrics are standard, along with a jazzy sound that I'd argue is even more prominent then what we heard on TPAB. Obviously not the flair or cohesion of a studio release, but you shouldn't come into this project expecting that. This along with TPAB should keep meThis just established Kenny as a GOAT. Crazy how a bunch of B-Sides are better than a good chunk of stuff out there now. The great lyrics are standard, along with a jazzy sound that I'd argue is even more prominent then what we heard on TPAB. Obviously not the flair or cohesion of a studio release, but you shouldn't come into this project expecting that. This along with TPAB should keep me satisfied for the next few years until his next studio release comes out.

    Fave Songs: 1, 6, 7, 8    … Expand
  31. longjetty7
    Mar 7, 2016
    6
    This is no To Pimp a Butterfly (I'm not sure if anything he does will ever surpass that), but nevertheless, it's not without its merits. It seems like this is a collection of songs that Lamar had sitting around for a while (judging from the dates in the titles) and didn't quite know what to do with. They're interesting and jazzy and experimental, just like the stuff on TPAB, but it feelsThis is no To Pimp a Butterfly (I'm not sure if anything he does will ever surpass that), but nevertheless, it's not without its merits. It seems like this is a collection of songs that Lamar had sitting around for a while (judging from the dates in the titles) and didn't quite know what to do with. They're interesting and jazzy and experimental, just like the stuff on TPAB, but it feels like an album of B-sides. Granted, Lamar's B-sides are better than many artist's A-sides, but untitled unmastered does have kind of an unfinished feel to it. It's nice enough, although I don't really see it as an album I'll be returning to very often.… Expand
  32. nzyeezy
    Mar 5, 2016
    4
    The songs we had already heard sounded one thousand times better live than the plain lifeless studio versions. The album feels like one long song for the most part, but not in a good way. I dont know why he still feels the need to use so many different voices but it grew tiresome along time ago.
  33. thewave
    Apr 29, 2016
    1
    Throw aways that did not make it on to pimp a butterfly. Honestly sounds horrible and very unbearable to listen to. This throw away album is by far his worst project to date. Yet people who aren't real fans of music will try to declare this to be one of the best rap albums of the past 15 years. The kendrick empowerment wave has to end soon and he needs to actually supply us with good musicThrow aways that did not make it on to pimp a butterfly. Honestly sounds horrible and very unbearable to listen to. This throw away album is by far his worst project to date. Yet people who aren't real fans of music will try to declare this to be one of the best rap albums of the past 15 years. The kendrick empowerment wave has to end soon and he needs to actually supply us with good music like he did with good kid maad city… Expand
  34. TimW001
    Mar 10, 2016
    9
    I can only describe it as a really strong rap-funk album. I really enjoyed these songs. Great use of horns, bass guitar, drums. All the songs are enjoyable to listen to, aside from 07 and 02. This is the best album of 2016 thus far, better than Macklemore's better than Kanye's TLOP.
    A must listen.
  35. Brian8781
    Mar 7, 2016
    9
    Great EP from Kendrick even tho it's leftovers from TPAB sessions, I enjoyed it quite a lot and I'm happy Kendrick decided to share these songs with the fans.
  36. mlarch
    Apr 23, 2016
    6
    I feel like it's just me, but I did not love this album. I like what he did here, I like the jazz-y/relaxed feel, but as a whole I just don't love it. I can't see myself listening to this over and over again. Kendrick Lamar is such an influential artist and this album does not make me think any less of him.

    Favorites: untitled 2, untitled 8
  37. Palinodia
    Apr 16, 2017
    8
    Again a great piece of work by Kendrick. Even the trash songs of ''Butterfly'' are incredible. He knows what he is doing, he has a strong character and the music he makes - cooperates is creative, outside of the box.
  38. DBrown7
    Dec 18, 2017
    9
    Funk. A project that consisted of "b-sides" or throw away songs left on the cutting room floor from "To Pimp A Butterfly". its a testiment to To Pimp A Butterfly that the quality of the album was so great that even this collection of material that didnt make it could be so good. It still amazes me now to think that these tracks are essentially throw-aways, i cannot think of another rapperFunk. A project that consisted of "b-sides" or throw away songs left on the cutting room floor from "To Pimp A Butterfly". its a testiment to To Pimp A Butterfly that the quality of the album was so great that even this collection of material that didnt make it could be so good. It still amazes me now to think that these tracks are essentially throw-aways, i cannot think of another rapper - or many artists in general that would be able to just throw something together like this and have it come out so great. Jazz/Experimental/Funk whatever you wish to label it as, it is a nice collection of tracks that while may not live up to the heights of To Pimp A Butterfly (not that much would) gives you a nice bit more of that good stuff.… Expand
  39. KripBop
    Jun 25, 2017
    10
    definetly slept on project easily one of kendricks most fluent albums ever its lyrics and beats show tht for demos they are potential hits the tpab missed in tht sense but however lacks some of the element hes known for best tracks untitled 8, 7, 3 and 2 obviously not his best but definetly a underrated classic jazz rap album and also slept but give it a listen guys its gd
  40. RegenT_A_1300
    Dec 23, 2022
    10
    super underrated and levels above DAMN in every single way. best side Bs from the best album ever
  41. geedup
    Mar 9, 2016
    8
    "b" sides compliation, or tracks that were laying around, call it what you want, but these are not the most outstanding of K.Dot's efforts. These unmastered tracks, at times, almost seem like outakes that were packaged. That being said, some of these are banging with word play and real talk. Always like Kendrick's take on things, even if they do conflict with one another from time to time."b" sides compliation, or tracks that were laying around, call it what you want, but these are not the most outstanding of K.Dot's efforts. These unmastered tracks, at times, almost seem like outakes that were packaged. That being said, some of these are banging with word play and real talk. Always like Kendrick's take on things, even if they do conflict with one another from time to time. His lyrics are tightly woven. All in all, if this was a studio album, i'd be disappointed, but since its additional, its nice to take in.… Expand
  42. Jribs
    Mar 21, 2016
    9
    If this were not a compilation of b-sides and tracks that for some reason was not on To Pimp a Butterfly, I would give it an eight. Albums like untitled unmastered are made to give listeners deeper insight to the artist. Kendrick hamfisted this sentiment by naming every song 'untitled', though this is to no fault of his. Though it is not a perfect album, it is a must for anybody interestedIf this were not a compilation of b-sides and tracks that for some reason was not on To Pimp a Butterfly, I would give it an eight. Albums like untitled unmastered are made to give listeners deeper insight to the artist. Kendrick hamfisted this sentiment by naming every song 'untitled', though this is to no fault of his. Though it is not a perfect album, it is a must for anybody interested in the phenom.

    The tracks on this album do not follow a typical pop structure. There are long intros and long outros throughout. They are never unnecessary parts of a track either, usually they set an emotional tone and the occasionally dispersed lyrics make the tracks' meaning more clear. You will not find any radio songs here, but this does not mean the tracks are not catchy. Some of them are, and will insert earworm choruses into your head.

    Of the few downsides to the album, the instrumentation on the album does not feel as raw as it should for such an esoteric listen. Some more live instruments that are not saxophones would benefit Lamar greatly, as his recent live sets gain an invaluable energy from a fleshed out band.

    You will not find lyrical flaws here. I will simply say, his lyrics here are on par with To Pimp a Butterfly. There are more dark tracks here than on Butterfly, so you'll be hearing some highly deep lyrics. The lyrics remain Afrocentric and pays attention to the wretched in society. Any middle class person, however, will be able to heavily relate to the lyrics, race aside. It's a very human, and very emotional listen.

    Listen to this album if you like deep and esoteric hip-hop, like Kendrick Lamar's previous rapping, and/or are comfortable with odd song structures. Hip-hop heads and Kendrick fans only.    … Expand
  43. lucas0150
    Mar 6, 2016
    8
    While deliberately meant to feel like an incomplete, imperfect piece, this collection of B-sides manages to hold its own just fine. Highlights include the urgent, noir jazz drumming of 'Untitled 05' and the splendidly catchy 'Untitled 08'.
  44. frienderman
    Jul 3, 2016
    9
    Where To Pimp a Butterfly was immediate with its approach, this collection of b-sides is triumphant in its hidden messages, slowly building with every progressive verse.
  45. Cypher_ATL
    Mar 13, 2016
    8
    When it comes down to it, this is not Kendrick’s best output. With that being said, his quote on quote “worst album” if you want to put it in those terms before this would be Section.80, and that was one of the best albums of 2011. I love the idea of an unfinished album, and I think people tend to forget that the original title of To Pimp a Butterfly was in fact “untitled.” with a blank,When it comes down to it, this is not Kendrick’s best output. With that being said, his quote on quote “worst album” if you want to put it in those terms before this would be Section.80, and that was one of the best albums of 2011. I love the idea of an unfinished album, and I think people tend to forget that the original title of To Pimp a Butterfly was in fact “untitled.” with a blank, black cover art, and I love how he applies his original idea to this unfinished, untitled work of art. It’s unfortunate that this is the best project I’ve listened to this year, and yet it’s his outtakes from To Pimp a Butterfly that didn’t fit in with the final track listing. My favorite songs on the album are untitled 02, 05, 08. If I had to pick a lackluster song on the album, I guess I would pick 03 or 04, but I still really enjoy both of these tracks. In the end, I feel that this a soothing and enjoyable album that many Kendrick and TDE fans should appreciate.… Expand
  46. nirvanafreak
    Mar 6, 2016
    8
    Favourite Songs: Untitled 2, Untitled 6, Untitled 8
    Least Favourite Songs: Untitled 7
    I didn't think these songs would ever get released because of what Kendrick said about them in interviews but thanks to LeBron James voicing the world's need for these 'To Pimp A Butterfly' outtakes it's happened and we're all better off because of it. Despite what the title might suggest, this thing is    Favourite Songs: Untitled 2, Untitled 6, Untitled 8
    Least Favourite Songs: Untitled 7
    I didn't think these songs would ever get released because of what Kendrick said about them in interviews but thanks to LeBron James voicing the world's need for these 'To Pimp A Butterfly' outtakes it's happened and we're all better off because of it. Despite what the title might suggest, this thing is cohesive as hell and it doesn't sound nearly as unmastered or raw as you'd expect, with the exception of the 7th track's final few minutes of studio jamming, which is an unnecessary addition to the project but for big Kendrick fans is entertaining. Another track that I would have liked to see polished a bit more is the third track. I'd been anticipating a studio version of this ever since it was performed on Colbert well over a year ago but this version lacks the intensity of the live performance, mainly because of Kendrick's plain delivery and the lack of Terrace Martins intense saxophone building up in the final seconds. Aside from that it all sounds pretty fresh and not just for hardcore fans of the artist like these demo albums usually are. It's basically a continuation of his last album; you've got the 'King Kunta' like final track with its pumping synthesised bass, the jazzy dark sounding second track which reminds me a lot of 'U' and a lot of religious and political themes being explored throughout the project. The only thing I can notice that's drastically different is the features. Apart from Thundercat, Bilal and Anna Wise on track 3 there's a bunch of collaborations we never got to hear, most notably the soulful Cee-Lo Green assisted track. Because 'To Pimp A Butterfly' was a 10/10 album this is unsurprisingly a great compilation. If 'To Pimp A Butterfly' was Kendrick's 'Kid A', 'Untitled Unmastered' is his 'Amnesiac'.
    Better Than Previous Project?: No
    Try This If You Like: To Pimp A Butterfly by Kendrick Lamar    … Expand
  47. DavidV293
    Mar 8, 2016
    10
    Literally the beats, the vibe, and the lyrics are what makes this one of my favorite albums. Kendrick, can spit rhymes like it's something normal to him. To Pimp A Butterfly is genuine and beautifully written. This is one is perfect in every way. Love how he combines his beats. To me, he's the king of lyrics. Please don't hate, it's just my opinion. King KUNTA!
  48. VictorAkinola
    Nov 2, 2016
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Lush beautiful and soulful. Warmer than his previous effort. Far from a Demo. well though out throwaways. Still prove Kendrick is enjoying his prime. Audience treated to thought provoking topics. Kendrick debates and is still looking for answers on this one just like on TPAB. Great effort from a master demonstrating his glowing ability.… Expand
  49. Myggdreper
    Mar 15, 2016
    9
    Kendrick unexpectedly dropped a collection of throwaway tracks from To Pimp a Butterfly, and it’s now up to discussion if Kendrick makes classics effortlessly. If these were songs that weren’t GOOD enough for TPAB, we can look forward to tons of quality music from Kendrick in the future. However, you notice why they were scrapped from the album, as you have to make an effort to connect theKendrick unexpectedly dropped a collection of throwaway tracks from To Pimp a Butterfly, and it’s now up to discussion if Kendrick makes classics effortlessly. If these were songs that weren’t GOOD enough for TPAB, we can look forward to tons of quality music from Kendrick in the future. However, you notice why they were scrapped from the album, as you have to make an effort to connect the songs into one storyline.

    The EP/LP opens with Kendrick describing the apocalypse delivered to the door by God, discussing religious issues and how he should interpret his own Christian faith. Not unlike him, he also brings up racism, only this time, he includes more races than just the blacks and whites in a thought provoking track. Onwards he displays his skepticsism towards the government, the celebration of TPAB’s success, and of course the record includes the outstanding track “Blue Faces”, which he performed on Late Night With Jimmy Fallon.

    It’s all accompanied with excellent beats, including funk you can’t sit still to, jazz and neo-soul in beautiful harmony, more modern and hard trap beats, and even elements of ASMR! And it’s all accentuated by Kendrick’s alternate form of a chameleon. This dude can rap over ANYTHING. He’s showcasing a new and different flow in every track, which he often changes in the middle of a song, a verse or a line. The same abrupt change is also applied to his delivery, utilizing it masterfully to create memorable and quoteable lines. Levitate, levitate, levitate, levitate!

    However, it can be a little overwhelming and too much of the good stuff. At some points there where too many sounds crammed into one bit, and as mentioned, I miss a more clear structure of the storyline. Other than that, nothing to complain about.    … Expand
  50. Samdaman
    Mar 6, 2016
    10
    Kendrick Lamar is back at it again with another masterpiece. Truly an amazing surprise of an album that just captivates the listener in each of its songs. Its got an underground feeling to it that just allows it to stick out from all other modern day hip hop albums. Kendrick Lamar is an incredibly talented artist with amazing flow rhymes beats and anything you could ask for from a rapper.Kendrick Lamar is back at it again with another masterpiece. Truly an amazing surprise of an album that just captivates the listener in each of its songs. Its got an underground feeling to it that just allows it to stick out from all other modern day hip hop albums. Kendrick Lamar is an incredibly talented artist with amazing flow rhymes beats and anything you could ask for from a rapper. This album felt like a madvillain project to me, which truly gives me nostalgia to classic hip hop days. Easy 10/10.… Expand
  51. agibbons_96
    Mar 8, 2016
    8
    This unexpected release from Compton rapper Kendrick Lamar acts as an extension to his magnum opus “To Pimp a Butterfly”, with these eight untitled tracks being (for one reason or another) left off the album. Recorded between 2013 and 2016, it gives an invaluable insight into the recording process of arguably one of the best albums in recent memory. Many of the styles featured on TPAB areThis unexpected release from Compton rapper Kendrick Lamar acts as an extension to his magnum opus “To Pimp a Butterfly”, with these eight untitled tracks being (for one reason or another) left off the album. Recorded between 2013 and 2016, it gives an invaluable insight into the recording process of arguably one of the best albums in recent memory. Many of the styles featured on TPAB are front and centre on this release, especially jazz and avant-garde, which were prevalent (but played down slightly) on TPAB. The seventh track in particular gives an insight into how light-hearted nature of the recording sessions were, even though some of America's biggest socio-economic problems were being discussed and exploited to their fullest as well. Although these are meant to be “unmastered” tracks, many sound very rich and almost like full finished songs in their own right, showing that most of Lamar's rejected cuts here are better than most A-sided studio releases (by the way, Kid Cudi, THIS is how you create a classic album with a great extras disc, you release the record first, and if well received, THEN you release the demos, NOT all at once to create one unlistenable mess!). A great surprise and a real treat for Lamar's fans, and a must for any fans of TPAB. It's an excellent conclusion to a project that has been given the right level of attention, the right level of praise for all of the right reasons.

    Album Highlights – "Untitled 01", "Untitled 02", "Untitled 05" and "Untitled 08".    … Expand
  52. Purple_Joker
    Mar 6, 2016
    10
    Beautiful. Incredibly enjoyable. It is genius how Kendrick can mix genres. A lot of people see this EP as a bunch of throwaway tracks, but really it is some of Kendricks best work, as he mixes jazz and rap possibly better than he done in to pimp a butterfly. Plus, it was great to hear Kendrick do something i thought he would not do again in untitled 7, as he shows his versatility.
  53. tpab
    Mar 7, 2016
    7
    Nothing but solid leftovers and ideas from "to pimp a butterfly". This might hurt the chances of a cole x lamar collab mixtape, album etc. overall solid ep
  54. simpla
    Mar 6, 2016
    10
    definitely a game changer and a masterpiece, here Kendrick is showcasing his lyrical prowess irrevocably, this is gonna enjoy its time on all the world hip hop and rap charts, though the most interesting fact about it is that he is representing his roots at the same time minding the classiness
  55. AlexHeyns
    Mar 10, 2016
    7
    One of the biggest surprise releases of the year so far, how does it hold up?

    In general I find Kendrick Lamar's music really hard to get into, but that's only because it's written for a very specific audience. It's definitely not everyone's cup of tea, but even then Lamar manages to achieve universal appeal by incorporating strong messages into his music and favouring a more old    One of the biggest surprise releases of the year so far, how does it hold up?

    In general I find Kendrick Lamar's music really hard to get into, but that's only because it's written for a very specific audience. It's definitely not everyone's cup of tea, but even then Lamar manages to achieve universal appeal by incorporating strong messages into his music and favouring a more old school, more 90's-influenced hip hop approach.

    With this little surprise EP Lamar brings us a few cuts that didn't make it onto any of his previous records. From the initial marketing to the final release it was quite clear that this release was a detour - something rather placed on the side instead of another full, well-mastered piece of work.

    Fans familiar with his grammy-award winning album, 'To Pimp a Butterfly', will feel right at home here, as this EP follows a very similar production style by incorporating elements of jazz, soul and even a bit of funk. It's a great body of work and there's definitely a few tracks that truly stand out. The opening track has a great booming bass line and the trap-influenced second track is a great rap song overall, really keeping the listener gripped with good bars from Kendrick and a clever use of high hats along with a subtle saxophone in the background.

    Even though the album is presented to the listener as rough draft, it felt a little too incomplete at times. Certain aspects like abrupt cutouts of tracks, mediocre transitions and muddy drums affects the overall flow of the EP at times - but even then the final product remains a quality piece of work. For an album filled with throwaway tracks, the majority of the content presented on here is surprisingly very polished.

    Is this release as good as any of his previous projects? Of course not, but that's because it's not meant to be. Overall, this was a decent EP - with a few minor flaws - but the fact that these tracks are considered 'throwaways' really says something about Lamar's talent as an artist.

    Personal favourites from the EP: 'untitled 02 | 06.23.2014', 'untitled 03 | 05.28.2013' and 'untitled 05 | 09.21.2014'

    - Alex Heyns. Cape Town, South Africa    … Expand
  56. stomas
    Mar 8, 2016
    10
    As an EP this is another masterpiece by Kendrick. Although it doesn't quite live up to the standards of his last 2 albums it is still a great way to end the TPAB era. Listen and enjoy.
  57. djemast
    Apr 3, 2016
    8
    Brilliant! Kendrick gives us a vibe similar to TPAB, but also something we have never seen before. The best B-Sides album, to be released since Amy Winehouse's.
  58. iHateKayla
    Apr 2, 2016
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. levitate, levitate, levitate, levitate.
    The compilation 'untitled unmastered.' by Kendrick Lamar is like 'To Pimp A Butterfly 1.5'. Its very post-apocalyptic, dark, jazzy, soul, classical hip hop experimentation as seen on 'To Pimp A Butterfly'. I think, after listening to this album thoroughly, I can see a lot of relatedness and a lot of repetition from its predecessor. That could be a good reason why this is a demo/leftover album, however, its right to rate it on its stand alone project instead of DLC from a major video game(To Pimp A Butterfly). So, Kendrick Lamar came through with what he was trying to go for, and he did it pretty good for a demo/leftover project.    … Expand
  59. Mesmerize
    Aug 9, 2016
    8
    8.5
    zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
  60. Neasy
    Apr 22, 2017
    9
    Even the B-sides from To Pimp a Butterfly are lyrically and musically amazing. Kendrick can't go wrong at this point whether it be poetical, conscious or contemporary with levitate (the intro to untitled 7)
  61. FruitJuice
    Jul 17, 2017
    8
    great album............................................................................................................................................................
  62. Atum_
    Jun 8, 2020
    9
    Kendrick's B-sides are way better than most artists' best albums. I don't know if there's much more to say. This album is a great album in itself, and when you consider it was the throwaway tracks from TPAB, it just becomes even better. Kendrick is truly a blessing to our ears. Favorite track: Untitled 08
  63. DamonAubergine
    Sep 24, 2018
    9
    'Untitled Unmastered' is Kendrick Lamar's best album to date. It contains 8 incredible songs that could easily have made it to 'To Pimp a Butterfly', and would have made it even better than it already is.

    Untitled songs 2, 3 and 8 are highlights, with crisp beats and sound vocals that show the lyrical gift that Kendrick Lamar possesses. The only thing that makes it a 9 and not a 10    'Untitled Unmastered' is Kendrick Lamar's best album to date. It contains 8 incredible songs that could easily have made it to 'To Pimp a Butterfly', and would have made it even better than it already is.

    Untitled songs 2, 3 and 8 are highlights, with crisp beats and sound vocals that show the lyrical gift that Kendrick Lamar possesses.

    The only thing that makes it a 9 and not a 10 is that there were only 8 songs. If it would have been a 10-12 album then it would have made it to that next level of a 10 out of 10. But apart from that small detail, the album is a masterpiece in Hip Hop.    … Expand
  64. ea_sergio24
    May 28, 2019
    10
    Considering that this project is made up of a bunch of thrown away songs just shows how amazing it is. Only Kendrick Lamar can pull this off. The project is amazing
  65. GabrielPaz
    Feb 9, 2020
    8
    Em um dia sem fazer nada Kendrick Lamar juntou umas sobras de músicas e lançou nas suas plataformas digitais, um álbum desfigurado mas mesmo assim conseguiu acertar, eu chamaria ele pra um churrasco aqui em casa...
  66. MolokoPlus
    Oct 11, 2019
    9
    The expirmental nature of the album is a pleasing change of course for kendrick. Though many of his fans regect it for this fact alone, it is still a great work of art from an outside perspective.
  67. juliosocas
    Oct 15, 2020
    10
    The fact is throways is better than half of the hip-hop albums out there is thrilling. This man is at another league.
  68. Macrofficial
    Mar 25, 2020
    7
    As an album of throwaways, this album is very good. There are a couple of songs on the album that don't particularly interest me, but that's acceptable considering it's an album of throwaways. untitled 02, and untitled 07 are the best songs on the album in my opinion.
  69. JakeWLovesRap
    Apr 2, 2020
    8
    I'd say this is the perfect end to what I consider Kendrick's first era of music. Really like an epilogue to TPAB and GKMC that gives some unpolished songs a chance to still impact listeners. The songs alone sound like a package meant to be on a TPAB deluxe, but the soundbites of Kendrick and his friends give off a GKMC vibe. The songs are beautiful, jazzy, and still pack the meaning we'dI'd say this is the perfect end to what I consider Kendrick's first era of music. Really like an epilogue to TPAB and GKMC that gives some unpolished songs a chance to still impact listeners. The songs alone sound like a package meant to be on a TPAB deluxe, but the soundbites of Kendrick and his friends give off a GKMC vibe. The songs are beautiful, jazzy, and still pack the meaning we'd expect on a Kendrick project. Overall a great project.… Expand
  70. magic_jam13
    Nov 25, 2020
    8
    These are leftovers from to pimp a butterfly and it's still amazing. That just comes to show how good tpab was. But then again then is just a leftover album so it can only be so good but it's still better than most albums released these days. More people should listen to this. Standout tracks are untitled 02 and untitled 07.
  71. Macklee
    May 14, 2022
    10
    This is a leftover album yet its some of the most beautiful jazz rap i've ever heard
  72. decwilclay
    May 13, 2022
    7
    ‘Untitled Unmastered’- unbelievable that these songs didn’t make the album. The best bunch of left overs ever but it doesn’t flow amazingly for an album.
  73. DenzelJamie
    Jun 20, 2022
    10
    This throwaway rap album is literally better than most of the rap albums being released nowadays. Most rappers would have had this album as their best album of all time in their discographies if it was made by them. This album proves that Kendrick Lamar is in a league of his own, and none of his peers can match up to him.
  74. MKUltra7
    Jul 17, 2022
    10
    This throwaway EP is shockingly great - in fact, it's better than majority of the current rap albums.
  75. JkXclusive
    Aug 21, 2022
    9
    Even his b sides or leftovers records are better than most other rappers albums. It's stunning atp!
  76. Tubbs
    Oct 2, 2022
    8
    Even Kendrick's L's are still W's. His standards are through the roof and it shows here. Even all these bangers aren't good enough.
  77. Eddinebl
    Feb 8, 2023
    7
    Ha sido una buena decision por parte de Kendrick leakear sus propias canciones y darnos un album tan bueno.
  78. ChiIIaoi
    Jul 19, 2023
    8
    Review só pra lembrar a nota que eu dei pro album:
    album mt bom, agora só escrever pra passar dos 75 caracteres.
  79. kaka_mota09
    Jun 26, 2023
    7
    how are the reviews so high on this, this is the worst Kendrick project by far and its not a 6 only because untitled 07 is really good
  80. user0857
    Aug 4, 2023
    0
    it sucks sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo baaaaaaaad

Awards & Rankings

28
#28 Best Album of 2016
18
#18 Most Discussed Album of 2016
19
#19 Most Shared Album of 2016

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
86

Universal acclaim - based on 31 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 31 out of 31
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 31
  3. Negative: 0 out of 31
  1. Uncut
    Apr 27, 2016
    70
    It's typical of Lamr's artistry that even a comp of offcuts comes formatted and conceptualised. [Jun 2016, p.75]
  2. Record Collector
    Apr 22, 2016
    80
    The songs here appear to be fragments sewn together so looking to find any cohesive narrative is beside the point, nor is there any pressure for there to be any obvious hits on the album. The effect is that the focus is shifted to Lamar’s vocal performance and serves as more evidence that he’s not only the foremost rapper of his generation, but is fast becoming one of the most effective vocalists full-stop.
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  3. No Ripcord
    Apr 13, 2016
    80
    Kendrick Lamar’s talent is superficial in the extreme, plumbing his own creative depths with an unerring attention to detail. With untitled unmastered., he has found another way to sheathe people in his compelling vision.
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