Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers
by Kendrick Lamar
  • Record Label: pgLang
  • Release Date: May 13, 2022
User Score
8.8

Universal acclaim- based on 1481 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,343 out of 1481
  2. Mixed: 42 out of 1481
  3. Negative: 96 out of 1481
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  1. Kelvin23
    May 17, 2022
    10
    This is by far the most human Kendrick Lamar has ever been, He puts himself first brfore expectations, religion and critics and that helps him sees the struggles of others. Kendrick really shows here that it's not about you, Instead of you thinking because of your religion, tradition, culture or personal beliefs on whether you should accept people like Trans. Maybe just maybe it's notThis is by far the most human Kendrick Lamar has ever been, He puts himself first brfore expectations, religion and critics and that helps him sees the struggles of others. Kendrick really shows here that it's not about you, Instead of you thinking because of your religion, tradition, culture or personal beliefs on whether you should accept people like Trans. Maybe just maybe it's not about you and that they shouldn't require your acceptance or approval to live their lives as people only get 1 shot on this earth. Why should they spend it no being themselves to make you happy? I am really grateful for this genius of a man. Called Lamar… Expand
  2. jeffer21
    May 13, 2022
    8
    Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers is melodic, versatile, intimate, classy and personal
  3. AshmasterXX
    May 15, 2022
    10
    It should not be underestimated of how lucky it is to experience a moment in time, when beautiful art like this graces the earth and is so fresh and new. 10.
  4. SkyrimGod
    May 13, 2022
    9
    We waited 5 years for this and Kendrick Lamar has delivered a profound statement that
    will take many listens to understand fully. The production goes hard and its really well done.
    I would hve to say this album is a 9 for me. Some tracks I wasn't feeling as much but
    for the most part this album is consistently great. Theres a reason K Dot is one of the greats.
  5. seancoz
    May 13, 2022
    9
    This man is simply put cut from a different cloth. Greatest Rapper of All Time
  6. suawiiii
    May 15, 2022
    10
    Beautiful production, flows and lyrics. It's very introspective and unique.
  7. killer1237
    May 13, 2022
    8
    Overall this album provides a good mixture of mainstream and experimental sounds, almost feeling like a hybrid of Damn and GKMC/TPAB. The production is extremely good and the performances are *mostly* quite impressive. However I have a big problem with this album involving the longevity of it. The songs are good at first glance but I have already grown tired of a few of them. There is notOverall this album provides a good mixture of mainstream and experimental sounds, almost feeling like a hybrid of Damn and GKMC/TPAB. The production is extremely good and the performances are *mostly* quite impressive. However I have a big problem with this album involving the longevity of it. The songs are good at first glance but I have already grown tired of a few of them. There is not a lot of variety on quite a few of the tracks and as a result, listening to a song once feels like you've listened to it five times. Only time will tell if this is a truly good album, but regardless, it is still likely to be one of the best albums to come out this year.… Expand
  8. jfallen1990
    May 18, 2022
    10
    Great Album. Good for Kendrick fans and new fans. Favorite songs are United in Grief. N95.Die Hard. Savior. and Mr Morale. I cant stop listening to it So happy it did not disappoint.
  9. All_ButTrU4
    Sep 5, 2022
    7
    Originally reviewed:13/05/22
    Original score: 8.9
    Mr. Morales and the big steppers:8.9/10 Kung Fu Kenny is back! His near messianic return one of the most anticipated releases of this year and given this double albums achievements it's for good reason. KDot is a great observer, this is what empowers his craft so much as he is able to capture and relay details so specific and loaded with    Originally reviewed:13/05/22
    Original score: 8.9
    Mr. Morales and the big steppers:8.9/10
    Kung Fu Kenny is back! His near messianic return one of the most anticipated releases of this year and given this double albums achievements it's for good reason. KDot is a great observer, this is what empowers his craft so much as he is able to capture and relay details so specific and loaded with meaning they either make you uncomfortable or overwhelmed! He journeys eloquently into his past from his actions to his experiences.

    I can already see how divisive this record will be . Firstly it subverted the rumored expectations of a 70's heavy record with perhaps the same density as "To Pimp A Butterfly " but instead those are subverted. The record shares it's genes with the commercial career peak "Damn"given that it's more accessible and direct. His flows choose a more understated cadence which might leave those starving for Lamars rougher deliveries unsatisfied. It also is ,at least so far ,his least proficient and challenging recording. Baby Keem and Kodac Black might also leave confusing verses but it seems like features that deserve time to fully set and Keem's involvement only makes sense given this record focus on family ties.

    But why it doesn't make me question my reception of this is that it's still Kendrick at the top of his game, still observing just from the perspective of a throne. It's one of the first records by a male rapper I've heard excavating the black dissonance in our community where black masculinity seems to be in crisis. Going from points of aspiring for whiteness through the hatred of black women to expressing hate on communities that they treat the way whiteness treated them. In what's soon to be the most talked about song off this record "Aunt Diaries " is Kendrick telling of his experience with an aunt who came out as trans and eventually pushed him to reevaluate his own relationship with God/Christianity. What makes it controversial is his use of the F slur, which creates a question of consciousness where you debate if what he's saying matters more than how he said it. As a gay guy I found that risky choice to be necessary as when the verse continues he ends up saying "f-bomb" to illustrate the word was utilized to awake the cis black community to the hypocrisy of their religious based homophobia. I hope the song isn't completely written off as it stands as an unprecedented moment in music where an acclaimed successful rapper broaches homophobia with empathy.

    This is the most real Kendrick lamar has ever been in terms of his personal life(which he keeps private). Laying bare his infidelity, trauma with familial sex abuse and misogynoir. It can be crippling at times with it's seriousness but Kendrick flow keeps you involved without being suffocated.
    This is seemingly Kendrick Yeezus in spirit alone . And I'm so excited to see how it stands months from now .
    Favorites:Unititled in grief,we cry together, aunt diaries ,mother|sober
    Rescore:7.7/10
    After furher inspection MM&TBS is an undercooked would be masterpiece ftom one of raps greats. Uncharacteristically demure in execution this record is a cloying misstep that oversells itself. It attempts to deconstruct his own canonization but his method of seeking to repell through raw ugliness feels without the expected perspective he's been adept at giving. Such as the random crackers line or the compulsion to have a convicted offender as a hige feature. KDot seems out of touch as jf he doesn't believe what he preaches on 'savior ". Nonetheless they are some of his most stunning songs such as the dense turmoil of "mother I sober" ,the wounded wisdom of "father time" or the opening self reflection of "united in grief" . Moments like those feel like disjointed pieces of a scrapped masterpiece, they feel noticeably better than a majority of the records music.    … Expand
  10. Fabpata1
    Jun 25, 2022
    9
    Ok……………,,,,,……………………………….::::::::…………………………………………………::::::::…….:.:::::::
  11. Claw_PL
    May 14, 2022
    10
    This album is such a impressive and complex creation that it's really hard to say something constructive about it. It's simply different, it seems to be to eccentric for a mainstream artist which only works in it's favour and helps with creating an instant classic. Kendrick proved once again that he is the GOAT
  12. The_kman
    May 19, 2022
    10
    A beautifully crafted masterpiece that touches on social issues that are considered taboo in the black community.
  13. MusicGuyMack
    May 29, 2022
    10
    Though a few inconsistent, self-indulgent and blatantly commercial spots crop up throughout "Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers," they're never anywhere near enough to meaningfully derail Kendrick's masterfully realized vision, with both the ambitiously exquisite production and the rapper's lyricism that's brutally frank yet tender in cutting to the heart of generational/racial/LGBTQ+ bias,Though a few inconsistent, self-indulgent and blatantly commercial spots crop up throughout "Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers," they're never anywhere near enough to meaningfully derail Kendrick's masterfully realized vision, with both the ambitiously exquisite production and the rapper's lyricism that's brutally frank yet tender in cutting to the heart of generational/racial/LGBTQ+ bias, fatherhood, the pressures of fame and more with scalpel precision deftly reaffirming him as the voice of a generation.

    Choice Cuts: "United in Grief," "Worldwide Steppers," "Purple Hearts (feat. Summer Walker and Ghostface Killah)," "Count Me Out," "Auntie Diaries," "Mother I Sober (feat. Beth Gibbons)"    … Expand
  14. Jherreram11
    May 15, 2022
    10
    Amazing! Mr Lamar did it again, what a honest well composed album! On repeat!
  15. MARTINCARDENAS
    May 13, 2022
    10
    This album is sublime, the wait is over and the great Kendrick Lamar returns with a powerful album and a very precise concept. The lyrics, the production are perfect and innovative. This is the big comeback of my favorite rapper...
  16. BlackJay
    May 18, 2022
    10
    If you think this album ain't great, work on yourself. Because this doesn't sound the way you expected doesn't make it less of a classic.
  17. kman1014
    May 19, 2022
    10
    A deep album about generational trauma, domestic abuse, and several other social factors considered taboo in the black community. Definitely worth listening to (especially more than once).
  18. GenreBuster
    May 17, 2022
    10
    One of the most thoughtful and self reflective albums I’ve ever heard. Among Kendrick’s best.
  19. Lizard_8
    Jun 5, 2022
    9
    Even though some songs were getting boring at time, the lyrics are very powerful, I can surely tell that "Father Time" was my favourite out of all, great delivery of Kendrick's thoughts, 9/10 in total.
  20. Hurrdof
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Sounds like a perfect/no skips album to me. Totally worth the wait, lyrics and instrumentals are just magical
  21. lazomgmt
    May 18, 2022
    10
    Well worth the wait. A one of a kind talent showcasing why he is the absolute greatest rapper on the planet right now. His storytelling elevates the art form itself, and this might be my third favorite Kendrick album, he is truly a gift to art and music.
  22. irriy
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Another Masterpiece for Oklama, Less accessible than DAMN. But great album too !
  23. wafflzz
    May 15, 2022
    9
    amazing album, different from most of what we get today in the rap game. people complain that it doesn’t have any “bangers” as if every album needs to be mainstream.
  24. EusojGms14
    May 15, 2022
    10
    Simplemente hermoso, comprendo que no a todos les parezca el mejor álbum o nisiquiera un buen álbum pero el mensaje, la producción, la escritura, todo está en otro nivel, con cada vez que lo oigo se vuelve aún mejor.
  25. chewybacca
    Oct 2, 2022
    10
    kendrick doesnt miss . . .
  26. Urgametrash
    May 26, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Artism in its true form,
    these are the rest of the letters it takes 75 for me to be allowed to post this cuz metacritic rules    … Expand
  27. xx_progamer_xx
    May 13, 2022
    10
    best **** ever i loved with all my soul pls god when i die open the heaven with this song
  28. Tom_Supreme
    May 16, 2022
    10
    Nobody can do what Kendrick did. Again. This man is not able to bring out a bad album.
  29. royh24
    May 13, 2022
    8
    definitely we underrated baby keem’s style and hope this album let everybody know how influential baby keem is
  30. DigitalXtremeHG
    May 13, 2022
    9
    A magnificent display of versatility of Kung Fu Kenny , Becoming Kung Fu Hip Hop master and in which we as the listeners get to give the artist their "Flowers" or respect for a job well done beforehand , A display of the true state of the art .
  31. AttendantHeart
    May 13, 2022
    10
    silencio todos, Kendrick ya está sonando. silencio todos, Kendrick ya está sonando. silencio todos, Kendrick ya está sonando.
  32. ChunkDump
    Jul 11, 2022
    9
    what a come back for my own personal reasons. i was NOT a fan of his DAMN project. brought back that classic K. Dot sound but also catering to the newer hip hop audience. first things first that "we cry together" track was the realest **** i ever heard as a song. silent hill, count me out, father time, die hard and united in grief are my top tracks. a couple misses here and there but heywhat a come back for my own personal reasons. i was NOT a fan of his DAMN project. brought back that classic K. Dot sound but also catering to the newer hip hop audience. first things first that "we cry together" track was the realest **** i ever heard as a song. silent hill, count me out, father time, die hard and united in grief are my top tracks. a couple misses here and there but hey this album still bangs.… Expand
  33. LISOCHIKOTOSA
    Dec 14, 2022
    10
    As always, Kendricks perfomance on this album is interesting, thought-provoking and mind-blowing. He goes deeper on the topics of fatherhood, trauma and depression. Some of my favorites are father time, n95, count me out, mr morale and rich spirit
  34. theactualbeastr
    May 15, 2022
    10
    Tracklist is really solid, album helps to humanize Kendrick in a way never quite seen before. Tackled many touchy/deep subjects in an astounding fashion. As close to perfect as an album can get.
  35. Diegohh99
    May 15, 2022
    10
    Worth the wait, such a complex artist with universal ideas and a pure heart. Genius piece of work from the best artist of his generation.
  36. bryanbranly
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Kendrick Lamar returns with another triumphant victory with Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers. The themes on this album are incredibly deep and a emotional story is told. The long wait was worth it.
  37. leumassregor
    May 15, 2022
    9
    Kendrick Lamar returns after 5 years of absence... and he returns with a bang. This album comes through with a multiverse of Kendrick's rapping ability -- with hints of his 2017 album "DAMN." coming through on songs like "N95" and hints of his theatrical album "To Pimp A Butterfly" on songs like "We Cry Together".

    Some people may say: "What's more important? Production or lyrics?" and    Kendrick Lamar returns after 5 years of absence... and he returns with a bang. This album comes through with a multiverse of Kendrick's rapping ability -- with hints of his 2017 album "DAMN." coming through on songs like "N95" and hints of his theatrical album "To Pimp A Butterfly" on songs like "We Cry Together".

    Some people may say: "What's more important? Production or lyrics?" and Kendrick's response to that would most likely be "both of them!" Kendrick on this album comes through with both incredible production, with my favorite production moments on songs like "Mirror" and "N95", and incredible lyrical moments that'll make your jaw drop on songs like "Auntie Diaries" and "We Cry Together".

    Although there are some songs that left me like "meh" on Disc 1, this album is essentially amazing all around. It's simple, but it's also complex... how is that even possible? Oh yeah, it's Kendrick **** Lamar. That's how.    … Expand
  38. Grant__
    Jun 21, 2022
    9
    A thoughtful and catchy album full of emotion. Kendrick hits it out of the park again with this musical masterpiece.
  39. stillyazid
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Amazing album one of the best i heard in years, the album makes u laugh,cry, dance and think while still maintaining a fresh sound. I heard every sub genre of hip hop in yhis album
  40. Jmar007
    May 13, 2022
    9
    This album plays like a Theatrical play. Deep and Dense. I put it behind TPAB, Section 80 and GKMC.
  41. Thonyo
    Aug 13, 2022
    9
    Para mim, esse é o melhor álbum de 2022 pra mim até o momento, é bastante profundo, cheio de reflexões sobre o mundo pós-quarentena e sobre a vida de Kendrick, mostrando que ele não é o salvador de ninguém ou uma espécie de "Deus" como as pessoas o vêem, muitas faixas me emocionaram bastante como "Crown" e "Mirror". Além de sere um álbum que não tem músicas necessariamente ruins. Mas temPara mim, esse é o melhor álbum de 2022 pra mim até o momento, é bastante profundo, cheio de reflexões sobre o mundo pós-quarentena e sobre a vida de Kendrick, mostrando que ele não é o salvador de ninguém ou uma espécie de "Deus" como as pessoas o vêem, muitas faixas me emocionaram bastante como "Crown" e "Mirror". Além de sere um álbum que não tem músicas necessariamente ruins. Mas tem músicas bem fracas como "We Cry Together" que apenas é uma briga de casal, sendo a faixa menos boa do álbum, "Silent Hill" é genérica, porém divertida de se escutar , "Rich Spirit" para mim é muito superestimada.

    Um ponto chave do álbum é a exploração de coisas novas que o tornam único como o desapontamento de Kendrick sobre as pessoas acharem que ele tem sempre de se posicionar e também sobre a LGBTfobia citada nas faixas "Worldwide Steppers" e principalmente em "Auntie Diaries" que retrata especialmente da transfobia, que é algo extremamente arriscado para um rapper falar sobre isso, devido a cultura homofóbica do hip-hop.

    Mr. Morale é um álbum excelente e entrega o que pretende, é um álbum onde cada pessoa que o escuta, interpreta de forma diferente. Nota: 9.5/10

    Faixas que eu recomendo: N95, Mr. Morale, Auntie Diaries, Crown, Mirror, The Heart Part 5, Count Me Out.    … Expand
  42. Bill35632
    May 16, 2022
    10
    Amazing good grate greatest album of all time Ok Amazing good grate greatest album of all time gif and repair work on my
  43. Merciless7231
    May 15, 2022
    10
    A project that requires replays to dissect and appreciate genuinely. However, Kendrick delivers his most personal and introspective album yet. This album is about his own faults and holding up a mirror to society. Kendrick steps off the saviour pedestal that we as fans have put him on to show he is human with flaws like everyone else. The instrumentals are unlike previous albums yet theA project that requires replays to dissect and appreciate genuinely. However, Kendrick delivers his most personal and introspective album yet. This album is about his own faults and holding up a mirror to society. Kendrick steps off the saviour pedestal that we as fans have put him on to show he is human with flaws like everyone else. The instrumentals are unlike previous albums yet the MMBS is mixed phenomenally.… Expand
  44. Juanjo_
    May 13, 2022
    10
    this is incredible, I have no words to describe everything that he transmitted to me, what a magnificent album, all my respects to Kendrick, thank you for blessing us with this masterpiece of rap
  45. piet61
    May 15, 2022
    10
    Kendrick delivers once again with an amazing album that rivals his best work.
  46. semillogarcia
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Simply a master piece, the wait has a reason, kendrick did it, an beautiful painting as a music album
  47. ROTSA2
    May 17, 2022
    8
    RATING: 81%
    While not his most consistent, Kendrick Lamar returns with a catchy album with some intelligent lyrics and well-produced beats.
  48. MJCuse
    May 16, 2022
    10
    An album with layers and layers of meaning. This is a seminal album for Hip Hop as a whole, touching on subjects taboo to the culture and the world at large.
  49. SmashingReviews
    May 15, 2022
    8
    The fifth studio album by the north american rapper has some really high and interesting moments, but Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers in some occasions - Rich Spirit and Silent Hill - feels like a step down from Kendrick's previous works, both lyrically and production wise. This two songs realy sound like something you'll get from a Lil (Something), and not from one of the best rappers andThe fifth studio album by the north american rapper has some really high and interesting moments, but Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers in some occasions - Rich Spirit and Silent Hill - feels like a step down from Kendrick's previous works, both lyrically and production wise. This two songs realy sound like something you'll get from a Lil (Something), and not from one of the best rappers and lyricists of the 21st century. Also, this and a couple more songs don't seem to be aligned with the narrative presented with the dual album, making this choice also questionable. Overall, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers is a really good album if thought of as a single piece and not two different albums.… Expand
  50. PatchWurk777
    May 13, 2022
    9
    Mr. Morale and The Big Steppers is an amazing album that takes a while to get in it’s groove, but when it does, it’s absolutely glorious.
  51. FreelipeKapudo
    May 15, 2022
    10
    F**k, this is just perfect, it make me feels like i have either daddy issues, wtf, this man is unbelievable
  52. asLOCKY
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Mais um clássico para sua discografia. Kendrick prova a cada trabalho que merece sim um lugar de respeito no Olimpo do Hip-Hop e de toda Blackmusic. Um trabalho consistente e uma discografia invejável, esse ultimo projeto mostra toda sua experiência artística adquirida com o tempo e como utilizar suas influências da forma mais correta e saudável possível.
  53. LasseLong
    May 16, 2022
    10
    This album had me confused at first (honestly, it still does) but the more I listen, the more I love it.
  54. Johnsmtih
    May 21, 2022
    8
    Not kendricks best work but extremely daring and different. Had a rough time with it first listen but I let it sit for a bit and revisited the project with a 2nd listen overall kennys 3rd best project
  55. Nano5922
    Jun 2, 2022
    9
    The heavier theme and minimal sound composition made Kendrick Lamar even better.
  56. junkdot
    May 16, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. An absolutely beautiful album, with high energy and extremely emotional tracks. The album resembles JAY-Z's 4:44, which touched on infidelity and healing. Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers sets its own sound early on, with United In Grief revealing some of the album's subject matters. Kendrick dives into sensitive subjects and speaks on some events and cultural shifts of the past 5 years. The grueling lyrics and sound of Mother I Sober featuring Beth Gibbons made me shed a tear, which is quite rare when listening to music for me.
    Kendrick delivered once again. I hope this album grows for those, who did not vibe with it at first. For me it was a great experience on the first listen, and grew better on every listen.    … Expand
  57. Jholm
    May 16, 2022
    10
    Album of the year so far. It's hard to judge Kendrick so soon, but so far I'm loving this album. I'm a Weeknd fan, and prefer this overall to Dawn FM, which I think is a great album.

    Production is thoughtful and masterful. You can hear in Baby Keem influence even in songs where he is not on vocals.
  58. spacemanrecords
    May 26, 2022
    10
    Look yall... Its a 10 and it will be a 10 in 10 years... Full review to follow
  59. AdrianOst077
    Jan 30, 2023
    8
    Disc 1 Rating: 83
    Disc 2 Rating: 83
    Mr. Morale is unlike any projects he's put out before. It's more delicate in some ways and has more emotional moments than the previous albums (Mother I Sober, Father Time, Crown). At first, I didn't like it as I was used the style of songs from DAMN., GKMC and TPAB that you can put on and just have a good time listening to, feeling uplifted with the    Disc 1 Rating: 83
    Disc 2 Rating: 83
    Mr. Morale is unlike any projects he's put out before. It's more delicate in some ways and has more emotional moments than the previous albums (Mother I Sober, Father Time, Crown). At first, I didn't like it as I was used the style of songs from DAMN., GKMC and TPAB that you can put on and just have a good time listening to, feeling uplifted with the energetic beats and the hype with songs like Money Trees, Swimming Pools, HUMBLE., Alright. Mr. Morale does have some of these type of songs like N95, Die Hard, but most of these songs fit better more listening through the concept of the album to truly understand the meaning of this album. Listening to Mr. Morale again, I understood what Kendrick was trying to achieve and it made me appreciate the album more. Looking at interviews where Kendrick talks about his past growing up in Compton, the hardships he has faced since the age of 5, battles with depression and family issues, made me understand more of what was accomplished here. He has talked about these 3 things before in the past albums, but it's in Mr. Morale where he truly elaborates more and the elaboration made me relate to Kendrick more and feel the emotion that he expresses here.

    Kendrick is a powerful lyricist and made people remember after his 5 year hiatus, reminding people why select rappers and rap fans, including me, regard him as on of the greatest rappers of all time, his talent and passion for music is truly special and a gift that Kendrick was blessed with and shared with us. With every album, he touches someone's heart and soul with the stories he portrays in his songs that he has experienced and others coming from similar backgrounds can relate to. From struggling African Americans living in violent neighbourhoods in Compton that GKMC touches upon, to personal struggles due to the colour of one's skin, family issues and mental health troubles in TPAB and Mr. Morale. Kendrick truly makes the listener understand his message and empathise with him as I have with some of the songs on this album which truly made me appreciate Mr. Morale.

    Is it a must hear album? Yes, it's Kendrick, end of.

    HONOURABLE SONGS: United in Grief, Father Time, Crown, Mother I Sober.

    (This review probably makes no sense is a bunch of nonsense but I tried putting it together the best way I could whilst being absolutely shattered and exhausted, so excuse it).    … Expand
  60. Macklee
    May 13, 2022
    8
    Easily Kendrick's most introspective and intimate album. Modern production with hints of older sounds too. Very animated vocals. Some songs are easily in his top 50 and others just feel like they don't belong. Overall it's an incredible record. Big tracks that stuck out to me were N95, Die Hard, Father Time, Purple Hearts, Silent Hill (especially this one), Auntie Diaries, Mother I Sober,Easily Kendrick's most introspective and intimate album. Modern production with hints of older sounds too. Very animated vocals. Some songs are easily in his top 50 and others just feel like they don't belong. Overall it's an incredible record. Big tracks that stuck out to me were N95, Die Hard, Father Time, Purple Hearts, Silent Hill (especially this one), Auntie Diaries, Mother I Sober, and Mirror. Better than DAMN imho, but still not quite as good as tpab and gkmc. Close for sure though.… Expand
  61. Roan0209
    May 16, 2022
    10
    Amazing messages delivered with great flows and lyrics. Production is top tier. My expectation were very high. this wasn't what i expected, but i'm in no way disappointed. 9.6/10
  62. SamuraiNugget90
    May 15, 2022
    9
    This is not an album that's kind to first listens.  There's a good chance the strange, skeletal beats and off-kilter flows on tracks like United in Grief and Worldwide Steppers will throw you off.  There's a good chance that it won't be until We Cry Together at Track #8 when the song quickly commands you to stop tap dancing around the conversation - or maybe even not until Track #10 CountThis is not an album that's kind to first listens.  There's a good chance the strange, skeletal beats and off-kilter flows on tracks like United in Grief and Worldwide Steppers will throw you off.  There's a good chance that it won't be until We Cry Together at Track #8 when the song quickly commands you to stop tap dancing around the conversation - or maybe even not until Track #10 Count Me out begins with saying there's a "breakthrough" - that the earlier tracks begin to click and make sense.  Only then is it revealed that this album is a comprenshensive therapy session for Kendrick, one where he's going over all of his flaws in painstaking detail, from his celebrity (Rich Spirit), to toxic relationships (We Cry Together), all the way to childhood trauma (Mother I Sober).  For those willing to trudge along to this point and truly dive in, you will be rewarded with an ambitious, albeit imperfect gem full of absolute classics, much like its creator.  All of the flaws with this project reside in the first disk*.  I say that with a heavy asterisk because this disk is chalk full of amazing highlights.  Most people's first true love hete will probably be with Father Time, which is a straightforward, stunning bar-filled banger on toxic masculine fathers.  The explosive acting and emotion paired with an amazing beat by the Alchemist make We Cry Together an absolute spoken word classic in the vain of classic Eminem tracks.  And again, understanding the concept of the album later on makes earlier complex tracks like United in Grief rewarding to come back to, as they're filled with so much deep, lyrical meat to sink your teeth into with the context in tow.  Even with the context though, some of the tracks here flat out do not live up to the quality of the rest album around them.  Mainly the low-key melodic Die Hard and Rich Spirit are okay, inoffensive tracks but sound dull in comparison to rest of the album, even on repeated listens for me. Once you get past the first disk though I challenge anyone to find any more faults here.  The 2nd disk is where Kendrick lays his soul to bear and truly exorcises some demons and, no exaggeration, it's some of the best music you will ever hear in your life, period.  From challenging the concept of idols and his own savior complex on the aptly named Savior, to his ever evolving relationship with Trans members of his family, to literally killing off the "generational curse" of a deep-seeded childhood trauma, the 2nd half is a mind-blowing masterpiece front-to-back filled with stunning moment after stunning moment.  This album would potentially uproot TPAB if it was just this 2nd disk alone. As it stands, despite a couple shortcomings in the first half, this is one of the most powerful artistic expressions on personal mental healing I've ever heard.  It's definitely a heavy favorite for album of the year and this easily takes 2nd place for me in Kendrick's discography behind TPAB.… Expand
  63. Kmearkle
    Jun 2, 2022
    10
    This album gets better each time I listen through it. One of the most introspective pieces of music I’ve ever listened to.
  64. Julio_orellana
    May 16, 2022
    10
    the best album of the year just by listening to the first second you are amazed
  65. Flamedz
    May 13, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Firfire fire fire fire fire fire fire this is all that I got to say FIREEEE… Expand
  66. Peacefulblack
    May 13, 2022
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. After about 6 listens, this effort from Kendrick Lamar. Definitely feels like personal therapy session in album form. He’s exercising his demons and speaking on personal matters such as homophobia, transphobia, and his vices that have effected his family life and his relationships. This is a very different Kendrick than the one I grew up with and that’s fine. It’s not his best work and it’s not his worse. It’s simply a decent Kendrick Lamar album in my mind. Maybe it’ll grow on me after a couple more listens but atm I’m not mad at this project but I definitely understand that some of these songs will shock and anger some.… Expand
  67. garfield7081
    Jun 25, 2022
    9
    An incredible album with even better lyricism, kendrick gets even more personal then he ever has before.

    best song: father time

    worst song: we cry together
  68. CeazyEU
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Perfect album I love everything about it was worth the wait and I suggest listening to it more than 1 time to catch everything, the beat, the lyrics everything is phenomenal.
  69. Joffnatic
    Jun 28, 2022
    9
    I truly haven't heard something so truly honest and touching since 808s & Heartbreak. Listened through the whole thing and was pulling myself from crying listening to this. Truly an amazing experience. Although Kodak Black's appearences left me a little confused lol.
    My favorite songs are United In Grief, N95, Father Time, Rich Spirit, We Cry Together, Purple Hearts, Count Me Out, Crown,    I truly haven't heard something so truly honest and touching since 808s & Heartbreak. Listened through the whole thing and was pulling myself from crying listening to this. Truly an amazing experience. Although Kodak Black's appearences left me a little confused lol.
    My favorite songs are United In Grief, N95, Father Time, Rich Spirit, We Cry Together, Purple Hearts, Count Me Out, Crown, Savior, Auntie Diaries and Mother I Sober.    … Expand
  70. Lamarwest
    May 16, 2022
    10
    Another masterpiece by Pulitzer prize winner, Kendrick Lamar, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, Kendrick lets us in on the trials and tribulations of his stardom and his human struggles within and leaves us with what’s sure to be remembered as Kendrick's most personal albums.
  71. AlooAloo
    May 14, 2022
    8
    Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers is by far Kendrick's most personal album, and his most unique album so far. This album has some amazing songs, and I love the concept of this album.
    But there are a few problems with this album, many actually.
    This album has a lot of skips and misses, a little too many if you ask me. This doesn't have any TDE Features even though it's his last TDE Album. The    Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers is by far Kendrick's most personal album, and his most unique album so far. This album has some amazing songs, and I love the concept of this album.
    But there are a few problems with this album, many actually.

    This album has a lot of skips and misses, a little too many if you ask me.
    This doesn't have any TDE Features even though it's his last TDE Album.
    The features on this album were kinda boring. I liked Baby Keem and some other features, but most of the features were just mediocre. I did appreciate Kendrick Lamar trying something new, and on some songs he delivered perfectly, but most of the songs didn't work out on being unique. Some of the songs are also way too long, and I love long Kendrick Lamar songs, but the length of some of these songs are just unnecessary.
    And I do love the double disc album idea but there were just way too many misses. But at the same time you do need to give some of these songs time.

    Highlights of this album are: United In Grief, Mother I Sober, Worldwide Steppers, Father Time,
    We Cry Together and Saviour - Interlude.    … Expand
  72. Wubmayne
    May 16, 2022
    7
    Looks like Kendrick has won over the liberal media bias, because this album isn't a 100. As a matter of fact, it's possibly his worst album. There are good songs on this album, but it's few and far between. It doesn't matter how strong your "message" is if the music is lacking. After all, this is supposed to be music right? Not an audiobook.
  73. Enigm8tic
    May 17, 2022
    10
    Kendrick is good at painting pictures. In this case, he paints a Picasso. It's a twisted, emotional, dark, confusing and emotional ride through just a minor glimpse of Kendrick's real life & what goes on in his head. It shows the transition of someone who is unfortunately ignorant from his upbringing but correctly portrays the image of a man who learned from his life experiences and grewKendrick is good at painting pictures. In this case, he paints a Picasso. It's a twisted, emotional, dark, confusing and emotional ride through just a minor glimpse of Kendrick's real life & what goes on in his head. It shows the transition of someone who is unfortunately ignorant from his upbringing but correctly portrays the image of a man who learned from his life experiences and grew to became what he would consider to be a modern savior. This album gets 10 out of 10 from me!… Expand
  74. MachCritics
    May 14, 2022
    9
    Nice music to my ears, the other great rappers should be proud of this album
  75. dsopinions
    May 13, 2022
    8
    Great album, flawless production, and great songwriting. There are only two things from this album that really could have been better even though in the context of kendrick, are still OK nonetheless.

    1. The track listing and the order. The order of the album while good towards the end. Sounds a bit discomforted in the first half. 2. This album sees kendrick reinventing his sound yet    Great album, flawless production, and great songwriting. There are only two things from this album that really could have been better even though in the context of kendrick, are still OK nonetheless.

    1. The track listing and the order. The order of the album while good towards the end. Sounds a bit discomforted in the first half.

    2. This album sees kendrick reinventing his sound yet again with a more classical/experimental hip-hop twist and it comes off as mostly great and new and like a breath of fresh air. The negative side of this is that, I don’t feel as though we got all of Kendrick’s emotions. Like on TPAB or DAMN. There were many vocal changes and tone differences whilst on this one, it seemed to not be as diverse emotionally. Apart from this, Mr Morale and the Big Steppers is one to remember, pretty comfortably album of the year and it lays a groundwork for future PG Lang artists    … Expand
  76. Aleks356
    May 13, 2022
    9
    Very experimental album from K.Dot in my opinion.We have many classical music vibes,many piano sequences.Is it a masterpiece?I can't tell,time will say.But it is really interesting album and new kind of rap vibe from Kendrick.I wish it is just a begining of Kendrick's return on stage.Oh!and kodak black? He's not that bad as many could think;)
  77. calmus
    May 13, 2022
    8
    King Kendrick is back after 5 years with a new album, but is it a return to form? For me not exactly. I had very high hopes for this album, I think most people of the general public had the same thoughts. So when I listened the entire album in the morning from front to back in one sitting, it felt a little bit less grandiose than previous albums. Don't get me wrong, the album is still anKing Kendrick is back after 5 years with a new album, but is it a return to form? For me not exactly. I had very high hopes for this album, I think most people of the general public had the same thoughts. So when I listened the entire album in the morning from front to back in one sitting, it felt a little bit less grandiose than previous albums. Don't get me wrong, the album is still an amazing body of work. Kendrick raps beautiful poetry about his life and his family, with the kind of lyrics he's been known for for years. The feature list is kind of small and some of which you can call "underground talent", but then again this proves to the general public that Kendrick doesn't need mainstream talent to make a great body of work. For me, all songs (except We Cry Together) are above a 6 in either production and songwriting or both, with my favorites being Mirror, Savior, Mother I Sober, Die Hard, and Silent Hill. So in conclusion, Mr. Morale and The Big Steppers stands on its own as a beautiful testimony about Kendrick's personal life, but compared to classics like Good Kid, M.A.A.D City or To Pimp a Butterfly, Mr. Morale lacks that more burst of energy. 8/10… Expand
  78. Erick7
    May 13, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Álbum impactante, e sem defeito, álbum do ano . Perfeito, sem palavras , nota 10… Expand
  79. dondl
    Sep 23, 2022
    9
    its so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits soits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so goodits so good… Expand
  80. Wisi
    May 13, 2022
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. GOAT, toda la esencia de kendrick renovada.
    No es repetitivo y liricamente esta a otro nivek como siempre    … Expand
  81. HelaDitto
    May 13, 2022
    9
    A profound album worked with the heart, It's like been on a theater play...
  82. Fausto0197
    May 16, 2022
    10
    If I'm being honest, the first listen was not what I was expecting and it felt like this album was going to be a flop!!! but after listening to it the third time production level is unmatched. This album feels very very personal and I can genuinely say that this is Kendricks's most mature & vulnerable project to this day.
  83. decwilclay
    May 13, 2022
    9
    ‘Mr Morale & The Big Steppers’ - Great addition to Kendricks discography. An amazing raw sound and he once again proves why he’s one of the best to ever do it.
  84. alexsvnder
    May 13, 2022
    10
    the wait was long but the work was rewarding. Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers is an instant classic!
  85. Kivooo
    May 13, 2022
    10
    His most introspective work. Different in so many ways than the previous works but still great in its own right. Took me 3-4 listens to fully grasps and enjoy what I was hearing
  86. bmunge
    May 13, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is a wonderful album from Kendrick. My first listen I wasn’t completely sold because it’s so different from anything I’ve heard before. The production is absolutely magical and so instrumental. Kendrick uses this album to process things he’s holding on to, it’s basically a therapy session where we get insight into Kendrick’s experience and mind over the past 5 years. He also begins to lose his perspective of himself as a savior or a prophet and realize that he’s just a man trying to do his best for himself and his loved ones. He closes out the album repeating “I choose me, I’m sorry.” No need to apologize Kendrick, we’ll always sing about you.… Expand
  87. J-Mattei
    May 13, 2022
    9
    It took me halfway through my second listen to realize how smart these albums are. They're both beautify mixed and written, and show a willingness from Kendrick to open up completely. I'm so happy with the direction he decided to take this, these are easily my favorites projects from him, right up there with TPAB.
  88. real_mark_one
    May 14, 2022
    10
    His most personal and profound album yet. When he could dropped an album solidifying his supremacy in the rap game, he chose to deconstruct his revered persona and find healing in front of the whole world.
  89. Carrava
    May 27, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Amazing album. A 9/10 easily with the passing of time it's a 10/10 for sure… Expand
  90. fakinnong
    May 13, 2022
    10
    a produção experimentalista + o lirismo incrível que já de tornou comum de se associar a kendrick só mostrar como este é um projeto especial
  91. BurntCrisp
    May 13, 2022
    9
    Kendrick did it again. He created an absolute masterpiece for us to listen to. This album encapsulates the perfect amount of everything. The struggles, the hardships, the grief, and the overcoming of all of it by the last track with many mentions of it throughout all tracks. The double album is astonishingly well put together and made. His production and lyrics are incredibly well made.Kendrick did it again. He created an absolute masterpiece for us to listen to. This album encapsulates the perfect amount of everything. The struggles, the hardships, the grief, and the overcoming of all of it by the last track with many mentions of it throughout all tracks. The double album is astonishingly well put together and made. His production and lyrics are incredibly well made. Not the best we’ve seen, but definitely still great. On first listen, many of the sounds can be awkward and very distant. But, after you listen more and more, it becomes something inexplainable. They are masterfully crafted and genius. This isn’t the best album Kendrick has in his discography, but it is definitely another amazing album made by the GOAT.… Expand
  92. SanMargueri
    May 13, 2022
    10
    A pesar de las barreras lingüísticas, he podido comprender el mensaje que deja en cada una de sus canciones, y debo decir, que es profundo, crudo y liberador. Su lírica y story-telling siempre está a otro nivel. También, debo decir que a nivel de producción es el mejor álbum en ese sentido, nunca deja de innovar y hacer algo diferente.
  93. Xahdemino
    May 13, 2022
    10
    I think it will take me a while to process this so I guess this is more my initial gut instinct response, but I think this is a remarkable achievement. I think the production is at least as complex and captivating as TPAB , which I did not think.id be saying when comparing to an album which had some free flowing jazz sections! His ability to ride each beat, or even each 4 bar sectionI think it will take me a while to process this so I guess this is more my initial gut instinct response, but I think this is a remarkable achievement. I think the production is at least as complex and captivating as TPAB , which I did not think.id be saying when comparing to an album which had some free flowing jazz sections! His ability to ride each beat, or even each 4 bar section perfectly, matching transitions perfectly and just the technical ability in his rapping takes your breath away, before you can even contemplate the message behind it .

    I'm still trying to tease out all of the themes running through the project, but one of the things which stood out was the range of his viewpoints. I thought in TPAB he took a more macro view of the world, discussing the black struggle in a grand magnum opus. DAMN seemed to turn inward, each track representing a different shade of his and explored to death. This seamlessly seems to flit between sticky intimacy and then transition to oblique commentary on psychological shackles. I'm really impressed but I'll of course continue to absorb it over the next few weeks to make sure it's lustre holds once novelty is gone. But I'd be surprised, I think Kendrick has already proven that he isn't worrying about what will sell or what people will like. He's making his vision, and I don't think there's any argument against him being in the very upper echelon of people making music today as a whole. I'll defer to Pusha's phraseology, but Kendrick really is only chasing two ghosts.    … Expand
  94. Loganc17
    May 13, 2022
    10
    We are witnessing Kendrick’s attainment of catharsis in the package of a phenomenally produced, sonically diverse, and deeply thought provoking hour and fourteen minute soul bearing proclamation.
  95. Andal
    May 13, 2022
    7
    Better poetry than music, Kendrick's new album focuses heavily on lyricism, but without the strong melodies of his prior albums.
  96. M1-
    May 13, 2022
    10
    Such a good addition to his discography. Very personal and emotional; one of his best.
  97. Jlozano5
    May 13, 2022
    10
    Astonishing, challenging, vulnerable and lyrical. Kendrick never fails to keep me on the edge of my seat.
  98. Horaci70
    May 13, 2022
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Disfrutable, letras crudas, a ratos lenta, y puede quitarte de onda, pero la segunda parte es digna de ser llamada el AOTY.… Expand
  99. Stiegve
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Kendrick Lamar is starting to feel like an even deeper version of Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell and Leonard Cohen all put together as a songwriter. I would say there are less catchy commercial hits and I dont mind it at all. The album flow is amazing and it gets better with each playthrough as I am able to notice more and more of the lyrical intricacies. Easy 10
  100. Guinoou
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Simply a master piece, the wait has a reason, kendrick did it, an beautiful painting as a music album
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Awards & Rankings

35
#35 Best Album of 2022
6
#6 Most Discussed Album of 2022

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
85

Universal acclaim - based on 26 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 24 out of 26
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 26
  3. Negative: 0 out of 26
  1. Uncut
    Jun 20, 2022
    80
    By far the most compelling persona on Mr Morale & The Big Steppers is the Kendrick who is trying to make sense of his own family. ... ["Mother I Sober" is] a tour de force, almost but not quite as revelatory as "DUCKWORTH", a similar family saga off 2017's DAMN. And the best moment is when the strings swell and Lamar's voice changes. [Aug 2022, p.24]
    Read full review
  2. RapReviews.com
    Jun 17, 2022
    90
    Through over 70 minutes of Lamar’s latest, every facet of life for the young Compton rapper is held up to the light. Love, pain, hope, despair, triumph, defeat, it’s all there. ... He’s a rapper who understands rapping is more than just a good beat, a good punchline, or a good vocal tone. He’s blessed to have all of that but he takes the platform he got from it and makes art that will last a lifetime.
    Read full review
  3. The Wire
    Jun 15, 2022
    50
    Introspective, emotionally charged pieces such as “Father Time”, “We Cry Together” and “Savior” provide high – or jarring – points on the record, but elsewhere there are periods of lull absent on previous efforts. ... As sonically impressive as his latest album may be, his approach to the topics under discussion doesn’t feel sufficiently thought out. [Jul 2022, p.48]
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