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
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this album

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. ScissorS666
    Jul 4, 2022
    10
    Kendrick Lamar is god Kendrick Lamar is god Kendrick Lamar is god Kendrick Lamar is god Kendrick Lamar is god Kendrick Lamar is god Kendrick Lamar is god Kendrick Lamar is god
  2. Uzyuzy
    Jul 6, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Kendrick Lamar must be the number one contender for greatest artist of all time, This album cemented that, after what he did with Good kid MAAd City (which is the greatest album of all time)… Expand
  3. sshtrfmv
    Jul 8, 2022
    10
    this album will be the best album of the year. Tracks "we cry together" and "savior" are so emotional. Like it
  4. MKUltra7
    Jul 17, 2022
    10
    Album of the year surely. Kendrick has now solidified his GOAT status with this album.
  5. DannYukon
    Aug 1, 2022
    10
    His most personal and experimental album to date. Kendrick Lamar comes back to give us another reason why he's considered the best in the genre.

    With songs like "United in Grief", "Auntie Diaries", and "Mother I Sober" these songs are incredibly therapeutic and gems to what's already a legendary discography. A lot of loose ends find their conclusion on this album. From Kendricks days    His most personal and experimental album to date. Kendrick Lamar comes back to give us another reason why he's considered the best in the genre.

    With songs like "United in Grief", "Auntie Diaries", and "Mother I Sober" these songs are incredibly therapeutic and gems to what's already a legendary discography.

    A lot of loose ends find their conclusion on this album. From Kendricks days in Compton, his woes from TBAP, and is self doubt in DAMN. Mr Morale & The Big Steppers sees a new Kendrick who has learned to grow and accept his past, and work towards a brighter future. With a mesh of stage music, and cinematic sound this album is truly a masterpiece.    … Expand
  6. JkXclusive
    Aug 21, 2022
    10
    A future classic and this one just confirms to me that he's in fact the greatest rapper of all time. The storytelling, the production, the many layers of this album and the vulnerability of Kenny are all on another level. An undisputed and not to be debated stellar discography in the 21st century that can't be duplicated. This **** made me tear up a bit towards the end with Mother I Sober.A future classic and this one just confirms to me that he's in fact the greatest rapper of all time. The storytelling, the production, the many layers of this album and the vulnerability of Kenny are all on another level. An undisputed and not to be debated stellar discography in the 21st century that can't be duplicated. This **** made me tear up a bit towards the end with Mother I Sober. I have Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers neck and neck with its predecessor album DAMN. in my top 3 album interchangeable at number 2 and 3 respectively!… Expand
  7. ianlindodemais
    Nov 11, 2022
    10
    quase chorei escutando, um dos melhores albuns que ouvi, muito bom jesus cristo
  8. aidansangle
    Oct 31, 2022
    10
    Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers is beautiful. The storytelling within this album is incredible, showing a much deeper side of rap. Kendrick describes trauma of his past, as well as his sex addiction that nearly tore his life apart. He describes how he has become a better person through experience, choosing humanity over religion in the case of his uncle and cousin, as well as touching onMr. Morale & the Big Steppers is beautiful. The storytelling within this album is incredible, showing a much deeper side of rap. Kendrick describes trauma of his past, as well as his sex addiction that nearly tore his life apart. He describes how he has become a better person through experience, choosing humanity over religion in the case of his uncle and cousin, as well as touching on things that are typically tough to talk about like the f-slur and n-word. He briefly touches on how he notices that many rappers have been made from abuse, and even describes his anger towards the situation before setting himself free. This album is incredibly emotionally impactful, more-so than any other album in history in my opinion. This album must be heard by the masses.… Expand
  9. ebbo
    Oct 24, 2022
    10
    One of the top albums this year. Kendrick Lamar comes back from his hiatus with one of his better albums. This album especially deals with Kendrick's emotions in some of his best story-telling.
  10. Punfisito
    Oct 26, 2022
    10
    Un mensaje muy profundo, que se logra transmitir con una buena producción y letra que consiguen crear un proyecto denso pero a la vez sólido.
  11. Swiifitie
    May 21, 2023
    10
    Que album! Sempre entregando, e que capa maravilhosa desse álbum. Letra e beats 10/10
  12. EER14
    Aug 29, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This album talks in a more introspective way about Kendrick's life. Although his previous work good kid, m.A.A.d city already opened up about Kendrick's life in Compton, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers dives deeper into the issues Kendrick lives and has lived with in the past. This is a genius self-reflecting work from him.… Expand
  13. brockcheese
    May 16, 2022
    9
    Kendrick returns in full form. This album is clearly his most personal, focussing on specific childhood trauma that he experienced then reaching outward to make a statement about trauma in general.
  14. funkyhomosapien
    May 14, 2022
    9
    Daha önce de söylediğim gibi bu albüm, kendrick lamar’ın en kişisel albümü. Bu albüm herkese göre değil, herkesin beğeneceği bir albüm de değil. Daha çok kendrick’in terapi sessionında gibi hissediyorsunuz ve eckhart tolle’nin sesini sık sık duyuyorsunuz. Albümün diğer anlatıcısı ise kendrick’in karısı whitney alford. Onun dışında albümde sık sık tap dance seslerini duyuyorsunuz ve bigDaha önce de söylediğim gibi bu albüm, kendrick lamar’ın en kişisel albümü. Bu albüm herkese göre değil, herkesin beğeneceği bir albüm de değil. Daha çok kendrick’in terapi sessionında gibi hissediyorsunuz ve eckhart tolle’nin sesini sık sık duyuyorsunuz. Albümün diğer anlatıcısı ise kendrick’in karısı whitney alford. Onun dışında albümde sık sık tap dance seslerini duyuyorsunuz ve big steppers kısmı buradan yola çıkıyor. Prodüksiyonu ve konuk sanatçıların performanslarını çok beğendim, onlarla ilgili bir sıkıntım yok, kendrick’le ilgili şikayetlerime birazdan gelicem ama track-by-track incelememize başlayalım.

    Bu albüm, bazılarınızın beklentilerini karşılamamış olabilir, bazılarına göre hayal kırıklığı veya kötü de olabilir. Bunu anlarım, belki de 5 yılın beklentisi bu olmamalıydı. Ben kişisel olarak albümü çok sevdim, rotasyona alacağım bir çok şarkı var. Bu albümün genel kanısını ise zaman gösterecek. Ben yine de Kendrick’e teşekkür etmek istiyorum, kariyerinin en kişisel işini yaptı, en insancıl hallerini yine gösterdi. Bunu ne yazık ki herkes yapmıyor. Eksikleri ve hatalarını da görmezden gelemem elbette ama genele baktığımda yine kaydadeğer bir iş var elimizde.

    8.5-9/10    … Expand
  15. Pablors
    May 13, 2022
    9
    Poderoso, fresco, poderoso, nuevos sonidos, poderoso, bella composición, poderoso, tremendamente bailable y MUY PODEROSO.
  16. LBthaLedge
    May 13, 2022
    9
    It’s too early to properly rate. But this album is so different to what I was expecting, after a few listens I can now see the genius in it
  17. 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.
  18. seancoz
    May 13, 2022
    9
    This man is simply put cut from a different cloth. Greatest Rapper of All Time
  19. FonteRenzo
    May 16, 2022
    9
    Everything I wanted from a Kendrick album, while the concept isn't as strong as previous titles such as GKMC or TPAB, Mr Morale and the Big Steppers is an incredible experience front to back and offers more variety in sound than those projects. Kendrick experiments with new flows, cadences and production styles on this project more than ever before, even the contrast between the pianoEverything I wanted from a Kendrick album, while the concept isn't as strong as previous titles such as GKMC or TPAB, Mr Morale and the Big Steppers is an incredible experience front to back and offers more variety in sound than those projects. Kendrick experiments with new flows, cadences and production styles on this project more than ever before, even the contrast between the piano driven intro of "United in Grief" compared to the synth heavy anthem that is N95 is massive, yet Kendrick manages to keep the whole album consistent in quality and cohesive with his incredible rhymes, personal and introspective subject matter and great storytelling.

    In terms of sonics, Mr Morale and the Big Steppers could arguably be Kendrick's most cinematic album to date. Baby Keem's "Savior - Interlude" is an incredible example of this. While Kendrick isn't vocally on this track, you can tell he was behind the boards as Keem was recording his verse, rapping about family troubles and experiences over some regal and elegant strings that wouldn't be out of place from a classic Stanley Kubrick flick.

    Overall Mr Morale and the Big Steppers is a vision fully realized by one of rap's biggest artists right now, an auditory film of Kendrick's life from when we last heard from him on 2017's DAMN, in the words of Tyler, The Creator - “He’s trying new voices. He’s trying new **** He’s still learning. You can tell he was off his phone for a few months.”    … Expand
  20. Fabpata1
    Jun 25, 2022
    9
    Ok……………,,,,,……………………………….::::::::…………………………………………………::::::::…….:.:::::::
  21. RocketHamster
    May 13, 2022
    9
    Just wow. Kendrick is truly the goat, the features are perfect, the instrumental, lyrics everything about the album is magical
  22. Bukyx
    May 15, 2022
    9
    Kendrick vuelve despues de 5 años esperando desde DAMN en 2017, un album buenisimo que o rectifica como el rey del genero
  23. 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.
  24. 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.
  25. liyema_mpompi
    May 13, 2022
    9
    His capacity to tackle points that are tormenting African American community and are as yet awkward to defy is praiseworthy. Mr morale and Big steppers has perfect elements, applaudable song arrangement, however much this is a twofold collection a limit for a decent undertaking project is 16 melodies, F word should have been censored same way as N*****, I'll give this one a 9/10 sinceHis capacity to tackle points that are tormenting African American community and are as yet awkward to defy is praiseworthy. Mr morale and Big steppers has perfect elements, applaudable song arrangement, however much this is a twofold collection a limit for a decent undertaking project is 16 melodies, F word should have been censored same way as N*****, I'll give this one a 9/10 since despite the fact that everybody is qualified to their own truth yet presence of mind should let you know that somethings are left obscure.… Expand
  26. 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 .
  27. 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
  28. 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
  29. 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.
  30. schottip
    May 14, 2022
    9
    ++ INITIAL THOUGHTS FIRST, FINISHED REVIEW AFTER++
    (GAVE IT A 5/10 initially!)
    (1) First listen through and some replays of "mr morale" or "united" (because i remembered some of their melody parts): Altough topics seem really great for Americas ego "culture" problems. its feeling a little like medieval ages for the rest of the western world. it might be ignorant by me, but I can only    ++ INITIAL THOUGHTS FIRST, FINISHED REVIEW AFTER++
    (GAVE IT A 5/10 initially!)

    (1) First listen through and some replays of "mr morale" or "united" (because i remembered some of their melody parts): Altough topics seem really great for Americas ego "culture" problems. its feeling a little like medieval ages for the rest of the western world.
    it might be ignorant by me, but I can only judge from my perspective and I know that we all know that that's okay if we have compassion for each other.

    I'm not convinced that lyrics alone can make a track.
    I see the most enhancement opportunity in the track-list of our critiqued album, because every song has that monotone-monologue going on for them and thats not my personal taste.
    To extend, it's exhausting to keep up with the melody to me.

    I think the album would be a lot more fulfilling if there would be one explosive track in contrastive, just in terms of mixing volume of melody and lyrics to convey subtext of choice.

    "Heart 5" (as a foreword for this album) had that explosive wanted characteristic. the purist smokey voice and melody in harmony.

    In that matter it is a little bit of a letdown for me compared to Maad, Tu Pimp or DAMN for me.
    I respect it, but I think I wouldn't listen to any of these tracks again, aside individual tracks that might grow on my like Mr. Morale maybe.

    ~ Will update review when I change my mind when listening more to it.~

    (2) I literally missed all the bangers although I my initial impression was rock solid there was no catchy stuff. Thinking of:
    -'Rich Spirit' (MELODIC BANGER WTH) no words needed.
    -'Silent Hill' where Kendrick jumps into newschool making me vibe to a literal "lil uzi vert" vibe
    -'Saviour' (i.e at 1:05) with its establishing shot back to "we cry together" right into a "political correctness.. how you keep an opinion?" just to use that as a heavy feeling drop

    instant classics.
    This album is a deep meditation and reflection by one individual about different ego influenced topics. But not only for himself but for a mass so contrastful ranging from gang culture to mainstream, ready for YOU to explore. Drop your ego and explore the transformation. one thing is certain "CHANGE IS INEVITABLE"

    (altough like said in day 1 "medieval ages" since theres even(!) more topics to be explored like this intellectually e.g. conscious living, de-attachment, (over)consumption, welfare systems in automatized world or animal ethics - just to name a few)

    give it a try even though it feels different, its a transformation to go    … Expand
  31. Jmar007
    May 13, 2022
    9
    This album plays like a Theatrical play. Deep and Dense. I put it behind TPAB, Section 80 and GKMC.
  32. 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
  33. Alanozz
    May 15, 2022
    9
    I loved the concept of the album, and how personal it got in the last moments. The only song I didn’t enjoy was Rich Spirit. I think that was more like a filler song and didn’t need to end up in the album.
  34. shekmeister
    May 15, 2022
    9
    I'm on my fourth listen of this record and I can safely say that this is one of the best sonic experiences i've ever had the pleasure of witnessing. However, I don't really like the production on this record as much as I liked the production on "To Pimp A Butterfly", but that's just a personal opinion. Kendrick will no doubt go down in history as one of the most influential artists, andI'm on my fourth listen of this record and I can safely say that this is one of the best sonic experiences i've ever had the pleasure of witnessing. However, I don't really like the production on this record as much as I liked the production on "To Pimp A Butterfly", but that's just a personal opinion. Kendrick will no doubt go down in history as one of the most influential artists, and this album further bolsters that statement.… Expand
  35. BrawlerShazam
    May 14, 2022
    9
    Even though it’s not Kendrick’s best work, but he definitely made a powerful comeback.
  36. 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.
  37. Nano5922
    Jun 2, 2022
    9
    The heavier theme and minimal sound composition made Kendrick Lamar even better.
  38. gjv0923
    May 14, 2022
    9
    After 5 full listens of this album I can say with confidence this thing is so nearly 10. The subject matter that Kendrick is talking about is so close to him and who he is. This is Kendrick at his most vulnerable. The expectations he faces from "To Pimp a Butterfly" and "good kid m.A.A.d city" to a sorta underwhelming in comparison "DAMN" have built immense stress in his life and haveAfter 5 full listens of this album I can say with confidence this thing is so nearly 10. The subject matter that Kendrick is talking about is so close to him and who he is. This is Kendrick at his most vulnerable. The expectations he faces from "To Pimp a Butterfly" and "good kid m.A.A.d city" to a sorta underwhelming in comparison "DAMN" have built immense stress in his life and have highlighted deep rooted problems in himself which he has noticed and seen in others surrounding himself such as other rappers and family members. This album is Kendrick lyrically breaking himself down in order to build a better future for him and his family. My only real issue with this album is that the track "Auntie Diaries" just feels a bit out of place here. The track itself has a great message behind it, but I feel in the overall theme of the album its just kind of out of place here. That is really the only issue I have with the album, the production is very good and different from anything else Kendrick has done, Kendrick's lyrics are outstanding as always and overall the album has a lot to say and a lot to reflect on from Kendrick.… Expand
  39. Westy_
    May 13, 2022
    9
    Highlights for me:N95, Die hard, Father time, Rich spirit, Purple hearts, Count me out, Silent hill, Saviour, Mr.Morals, mirrors
  40. 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
  41. 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
  42. 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
  43. mortoandriggs
    May 13, 2022
    9
    like the rest of his albums he touches on current problems and current events in this album, the first half seems more experimental, it sounds smooth and you get on some songs almost boom bap, the first half seems to feel it’s more about love and the problems that come along with them. while on the other hand the second half seems more modern rap and hip hop, i genuinely thought one oflike the rest of his albums he touches on current problems and current events in this album, the first half seems more experimental, it sounds smooth and you get on some songs almost boom bap, the first half seems to feel it’s more about love and the problems that come along with them. while on the other hand the second half seems more modern rap and hip hop, i genuinely thought one of them was a don toliver song, and it tackles the normal made it out of the hood and also talks on modern topics. overall a pretty good album, when i started writing this review i had it at an eight, but as i was thinking about it i thought about tpabf and how it was monumental and how you can listen to it and remember all the problems and topics of 2015 to 2016. i started thinking that i could listen to this song in about five years and remember everything that happened this year. also the production on the album is amazing as always… Expand
  44. MachCritics
    May 14, 2022
    9
    Nice music to my ears, the other great rappers should be proud of this album
  45. brizzlies
    May 13, 2022
    9
    experimental, honest, with realities that people cant face. great body of work.
  46. 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;)
  47. Notladz
    May 13, 2022
    9
    This album is another themed album from Kendrick Lamar. Themes of theater and classical music are littered throughout. While Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers has “no radio hits” it does not need them. To Pimp a Butterfly did not have instant radio ready hits. This album sounds new, fresh and relevant. It is exactly what we need for this place, this time, this life. That is Kendrick. 9/10
  48. Jaiyeko
    May 13, 2022
    9
    70 mins of Kendrick depicting his art at a new level, all the while giving you many food for thoughts!
  49. 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
  50. 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
  51. HelaDitto
    May 13, 2022
    9
    A profound album worked with the heart, It's like been on a theater play...
  52. 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.
  53. HorriblyAwkward
    May 13, 2022
    9
    Sometimes an artist shift in a way that makes us feel uncomfortable or overlooked as fans of their art. I always welcome when an artist makes music for them and not us. Kendrick continues to show us how self dedicated he is. This isn't music...it's performance art over a beat. Cheers
  54. 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.
  55. 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
  56. 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
  57. Spirit42672
    May 14, 2022
    9
    This Album is complex. If you go in with expectations, you are going to miss it. It literally feels like the Audio of a play or opera. It’s like a one man show. With ocassional guest appearance to assist during specific acts. THE CREATIVITY IS JUST STUPID. One of those pieces of work where you just need to sit! Kendrick become void vulnerable and bares his soul. Not worried aboutThis Album is complex. If you go in with expectations, you are going to miss it. It literally feels like the Audio of a play or opera. It’s like a one man show. With ocassional guest appearance to assist during specific acts. THE CREATIVITY IS JUST STUPID. One of those pieces of work where you just need to sit! Kendrick become void vulnerable and bares his soul. Not worried about critics (although he has rave reviews again), or streams, or sales. It’s just an honest piece of therapy, by one great artist. Definitely not made for the culture but definitely something this wack ass culture needs. For those of us it reaches, I say THANK YOU FOR SHARING. Aunties Diariea, We Cry Together, Mother I Sober, Die Hard, Roch Spirit, Mr Morale, Solent Hl, Saviour, I mean just the album as a whole. It’s a lot to digest, but I love music that takes me out of my comfort zone.

    IT IS A MAGNIFICENT PIECE OF ART!!!! He chose Him….and shouldn’t be sorry! I love it!    … Expand
  58. Betcoo
    May 14, 2022
    9
    This album won’t work for everyone in Kendrick’s fan base or general audience, but this album takes risks, directions, and cues from many different places and artists in such an incredible fashion, it’s baffling. There’s moments where Kendrick is just being himself in the best way possible, such as the controversial but passionately beautiful Auntie Diaries, or the amazing storytelling inThis album won’t work for everyone in Kendrick’s fan base or general audience, but this album takes risks, directions, and cues from many different places and artists in such an incredible fashion, it’s baffling. There’s moments where Kendrick is just being himself in the best way possible, such as the controversial but passionately beautiful Auntie Diaries, or the amazing storytelling in Mother I Sober, but surprisingly, the traditional Kendrick songs are a minority among this track list. While Baby Keem and Kendrick’s cyclical influence is obvious here, what shines even harder is Kanye West’s. Songs here are structure like there ripped straight from The Life Of Pablo. Count Me Out and N95 sound gritty and gloating just like West’s signature style. Kendrick takes inspiration from Common, GZA, and many more, yet one thing rings through all of these, he does it, on average, better than they all do. It’s incredible the growth in artistry, writing, and weight that Kendrick shows on this amazing project. The only reason this isn’t a 10, is due to the lackluster WorldWide Steppers and the middling Silent Hill, besides that, almost every song is perfect in it’s own way.… Expand
  59. SMCV
    May 17, 2022
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is an album that differs from previous themes delved into on prior albums by Kendrick. Mr. Morale and The Big Steppers is a significantly introspective album about who Kendrick is as a person and how he has grown since his earliest days. It is profoundly human, and what I believe to be an album that Kendrick made for himself more so than to “please everyone.” Production is also top-notch, and combined with k-dots signature poetic lyricism there is enough for me to deem this album an instant classic. 94/100.… Expand
  60. JayMVP
    May 15, 2022
    9
    SUCH a great album. Even lowkey better than DAMN. and that was one of my favorite albums of all time! The beats are great, Kendrick performs ridiculous flows, the lyrics are immaculate and the variation is good enough. Absolutely no skips and overall the best album we have had in a few years!
  61. anuelAA3412
    May 16, 2022
    9
    it’s one of the best albums that i've heard in all my life, is simply a masterpiece.
  62. iluvart
    May 20, 2022
    9
    Fake wokes complaining about Kendrick using homophobic slurs. I don't even know if they listen to the full song or not. Like Tyler said "some people find everything offensive"
  63. dumdummoron
    May 16, 2022
    9
    This is Kendrick’s most personal album yet, he lays it all out from his childhood trauma to his current mental state. He touches on many important topics in really hard hitting ways and it’s so beautiful to see such a massive artist unshackling themselves from preconceived notion’s and being so… human.
  64. BrutusMaximus
    May 16, 2022
    9
    Well hasn’t this been one of the most divisive and polarising albums of the year! Long awaited, highly anticipated and now heavily debated, Kendrick Lamar dropped his latest album ‘Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers’ last week and there has been no shortage of discussion online and in barbershops and street corners around the globe.

    Full review at:    Well hasn’t this been one of the most divisive and polarising albums of the year! Long awaited, highly anticipated and now heavily debated, Kendrick Lamar dropped his latest album ‘Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers’ last week and there has been no shortage of discussion online and in barbershops and street corners around the globe.

    Full review at: https://rawsidehiphop.com/review-kendrick-lamar-mr-morale-the-big-steppers    … Expand
  65. jake47jake
    May 17, 2022
    9
    I enjoyed this album a lot. i was very excited for this project and it met my expectations.

    Favourite tracks- united in grief, N95, We cry together, auntie diaries and mother I sober
  66. Cyzzyx
    May 18, 2022
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers is a change of perspective from Kendrick Lamar, consequently providing us with a unique soundscape while simultaneously giving us some solid bangers. It is a deep dive into Kendrick's psyche, with the framing of a therapy session. The execution of this perspective is near flawless with the separation of the first and second disk. Some tracks seem a bit generic or weak to me (Die Hard, Purple Hearts), but still holds solid ground in the context of the album.

    Favorite Tracks: United In Grief, N95, Worldwide Steppers, Father Time, Rich Spirit, Crown, Savior, Auntie Diaries, Mother I Sober, Mirror

    Least Favorite Tracks: Die Hard, Silent Hill    … Expand
  67. Kaitra
    May 18, 2022
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. With the three previous Kendrick albums I expected a lower grade album for Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, and that’s what he delivered. The album is not perfect with records like Rich Spirit and Silent Hill being the weaker parts. Those very songs skewed my view of the album after the first listen. Still after all this I kept listening to the album as you do with Kendrick’s albums to really try to understand his composition and lyrics. After a few days of this album on repeat I’ve found myself appreciating part 2, Mr. Morale a lot more. The grand production of Mr. Morale really brought home this theater-like feeling that’s carrying every song throughout the album. As a Baby Keem fan I really enjoyed the chemistry between him and Kendrick’s production (since I thought production was the weaker part of Baby Keem’s album Melodic Blue). Mr. Morale also has a more hard hitting lyrical themes with Mother I Sober and Auntie Diaries. Part one, The Big Steppers, also had its grand songs. United in Grief, Worldwide Steppers and Father Time were the peaks of this part for me. While We Cry Together is insanely beautiful it’s not a track I walk around and listen to as often at the others because I would rather not listen to two people arguing for 4 minutes. Just to end it off I want to mention my favorite tracks in no particular order.
    United in Grief
    Worldwide Steppers
    Father Time
    Count Me Out
    Savior
    Auntie Diaries
    Mother I Sober Mirror    … Expand
  68. Ju4nes
    May 18, 2022
    9
    Realmente es una pieza que precisa atención, consigo tiene una producción agradable con sonidos instrumentales precisós y ni hablar de su lirica que destaca a lo largo del álbum más que todo dónde LAMAR da puntos, ideas, explicación, reflexiónes sobre un entorno familiar y personal.
    En conclusión es un álbum bien elaborado para escuchar esta parte solidamente pasiva, leve de KENDRICK LAMAR    Realmente es una pieza que precisa atención, consigo tiene una producción agradable con sonidos instrumentales precisós y ni hablar de su lirica que destaca a lo largo del álbum más que todo dónde LAMAR da puntos, ideas, explicación, reflexiónes sobre un entorno familiar y personal.
    En conclusión es un álbum bien elaborado para escuchar esta parte solidamente pasiva, leve de KENDRICK LAMAR
  69. Mlf
    May 20, 2022
    9
    Kendrick is becoming an artist with the best set of albums it’s crazy. Not a average album yet: 4/4.
    This album is incredible. Could’ve done without the 4th track.
  70. sadboiinfinite
    Jun 14, 2022
    9
    In some ways, this is Kendrick's best album. It has the catchiest songwriting, the most personal lyrics and stories, and the most diverse production on any Kendrick release to date. However, the abundant use of homophobic slurs on "Auntie Diaries" and the extremely Kanye-esque production of "Mr. Morale" keeps me from loving this album as much as 'To Pimp a Butterfly". I do prefer the mixesIn some ways, this is Kendrick's best album. It has the catchiest songwriting, the most personal lyrics and stories, and the most diverse production on any Kendrick release to date. However, the abundant use of homophobic slurs on "Auntie Diaries" and the extremely Kanye-esque production of "Mr. Morale" keeps me from loving this album as much as 'To Pimp a Butterfly". I do prefer the mixes on this album, as they're very intimate, putting Kendrick's vocals and lyricism at the forefront of every track, even when there's a lot of nuance in the instrumentation, whereas the hook of "Wesley's Theory", for example, can be misinterpreted easily. These crystal clear vocals make the lyrics of even the more trap centric songs more potent. This is, overall, a beautiful return to music for Kendrick Lamar.… Expand
  71. laycelsv
    Jun 20, 2022
    9
    On first listen I was confused. On second listen I was intrigued. Third listen and I was starting to fall in love with it. Now that it's been a month since it released I feel comfortable saying that this album is incredible. My only complaints are that the production on die hard and purple hearts is a tad weak. Kendrick's verse on purple hearts is also not my favorite thing that I've everOn first listen I was confused. On second listen I was intrigued. Third listen and I was starting to fall in love with it. Now that it's been a month since it released I feel comfortable saying that this album is incredible. My only complaints are that the production on die hard and purple hearts is a tad weak. Kendrick's verse on purple hearts is also not my favorite thing that I've ever heard, but everything else here is personal, beautiful, textured and exciting. Kendrick continues to raise his own bar with every release, and this album only further cements his legacy as one of the greatest to ever do it. Bravo k-dot, bravo.… Expand
  72. jeevscas
    Jun 24, 2022
    9
    Kendrick yet again evolves. An introspective and at times indulgent journey into his psyche and in turn an examination of our collective psyche. Powerful, poignant and artistic as always
  73. FreddySam_
    Jul 15, 2022
    9
    This is something I've been craving, ever since it was announced. Kendrick Lamar, Rapper, Poet, "Prophet", and Modern Hip Hop Great, has been one of my favourite artists to Ever exist. 'To Pimp A Butterfly' and 'Good Kid Maad City' are definite all time favourites for me, and I think 'Untitled Unmastered' and 'Section 80' are phenomenal landmarks in Hip Hop of the last decade in my humbleThis is something I've been craving, ever since it was announced. Kendrick Lamar, Rapper, Poet, "Prophet", and Modern Hip Hop Great, has been one of my favourite artists to Ever exist. 'To Pimp A Butterfly' and 'Good Kid Maad City' are definite all time favourites for me, and I think 'Untitled Unmastered' and 'Section 80' are phenomenal landmarks in Hip Hop of the last decade in my humble opinion. "Mr Morale And The Big Steppers" is his first album since his 2017 hit "DAMN." An album that I didn't love as much as I wanted to, and have only got less interested in over the years. But, I was Highly looking forward to this album nonetheless, and I am not disappointed and quite Love. But, not immediately though, This is an album, that from my first listen, I knew required some extra time to digest and appreciate the details. Even more so than Complex albums like TPAB, due to the sudden shift he's made here, both sonically and substantially. The album is kind of a mess, that doesn't really give you a constant sonic pallette like his previous classics, Nor does it have a coherent storyline. It's kind of similar to DAMN in that respect, but also has less radio appeal. This is what I think resulted in the relatively poor reception at the beginning by a lot of fans, since it doesn't hit you at the head with a certain appeal right off the bat.

    But, I think what makes this a Must listen and singularity in his catalogue, is it's fantastic expressiveness and Instability of psyche. It finds Kendrick in a constant sense of instability and vulnerability. This leads in him not being able to come to a conclusion in either the sound palette or the thematic ideas of the record. It's immersively dizzy as the album flips from jazzy piano instrumentation and strings and Hard bass drops and trap with no warning. The Opener "United In Grief" is a fantastic example of this, and also indirectly prepares you for whatever the rest of the record has in store for the listeners in terms of it's sound. While this does clearly lead in the album being all over the place and kinda inconsistent, it also makes it very unpredictable, and It's a much more coherent and consistent mess than, say, DAMN. It also has much more purpose to it as well.

    The album shows the introspective side of Kendrick yet, and it doesn't hold you back at that. It is quite exactly the therapy session of Kendrick, that runs unpredictably through topics ranging from Anxiety, Depression to Fatherhood and Sin. I love the Opener "United In Grief" and the following banger "N95". I also love "The Worldwide Steppers" and it's very monotonous and moody instrumental, and the focus set so well on Kendrick, as he delivers some very reflective poetry with some very creative flows. "Die Hard" being a melodic track, is one that I still think miles and leaps ahead of the ones on DAMN like "LOVE." The very beautiful features by blxst and Amanda Reifer make it a very enjoyable cut. And "Father Time" sees Kendrick reflecting on his responsibilities as a father, and acknowledges his issues in it as well, and Sampha gives a fantastic hook, making up for a classy and cinematic cut. "Rich Spirit" has a very breezy and atmospheric instrumental, topped by some great melodic lines by Kendrick, and I love the thoughtful poetry too.

    "We Cry Together" adds a bit more layer to the very theatric and cinematic tone of the record, with it's very eerie alchemist beat, and Intense, Dramatic performances from Kendrick and Taylor Paigue. I also love how it adds to the Instability of Kendrick on the record. "Count Me Out" is a great introduction to the second disk, which immediately sets for a more hopeful and less unstable tone to it, which I think is also very relative to it's themes. "Savior" is a very cinematic cut, with some fantastic features from Baby Keem and Sam Dew, and also has Kendrick acknowledging that he really isn't a saviour, which he "made people feel like", but he really isn't. "Auntie Diaries" feature some phenomenal storytelling and cinematic string buliding string embellishments. I do acknowledge the slur controversy here, But I really am not on the demographic who can comment on it, But the fantastic meaning and it's expression makes it a career highlight for me. "Mr. Morale" is a very interesting cut, that features some dark James Blake-ish Psychedelic arps, that are weirdly immersive. "Mother I Sober" is the most introspective and emotional cut on the record, giving it much more depth and emotional potency. And "Mirror" ia a fitting outro to the record.

    The album is also clearly very all over the place, and while it's mostly coherent at that, it does feel choppy at more than enough points. I also think, it could feel kind of incomplete for a double record, and is paced weirdly. But, Keeping aside it's little inconsistencies and incoherence, "Mr Morale & The Big Steppers" is a very important addition to Kendrick Lamar' respected catalogue, that sees him at his most human.    … Expand
  74. daniflag
    Aug 20, 2022
    9
    More commercial than others Kendrick's albuns like DAMN and TPBAB, with no much talking experimental beats, but is so good.
  75. JonBon
    Jan 9, 2023
    9
    very different from his previous in both sound and theme but it shows his development during the course of the 2 discs
  76. visiblybillie
    Apr 12, 2023
    9
    Kendrick returns to form: a portrait of raw, real intimacy delving into the nooks and crannies of black masculinity often overlooked in mainstream hip hop. Stepping into his post-TDE era, Lamar seeks to find himself in an album that cannot be defined by one concept or sound, traversing the genres of neo-Jazz, old-school hip-hop, trap, and R&B alike to produce a deeply emotional record thatKendrick returns to form: a portrait of raw, real intimacy delving into the nooks and crannies of black masculinity often overlooked in mainstream hip hop. Stepping into his post-TDE era, Lamar seeks to find himself in an album that cannot be defined by one concept or sound, traversing the genres of neo-Jazz, old-school hip-hop, trap, and R&B alike to produce a deeply emotional record that may lack his usual technical mastery but evokes true feeling.… Expand
  77. Diego_19
    Jan 31, 2023
    9
    ‎
    ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎
    ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎
    ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎
    ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎
    ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎
    ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎
    ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎
  78. j444cks
    Mar 2, 2023
    9
    Great album. Well thought out, and well executed. Truly a masterpiece in Lamar's already fantastic discography!!!
  79. VanZizek
    Mar 6, 2023
    9
    It was difficult to listen to the first time because of my expectations after "The Hart pt.5" but as I started to understand its structure I could realize that it is half of the album, the second part of "DAMN." and at the same time a new project post-covid and for his family.
  80. SleepyHal0
    Mar 24, 2023
    9
    I love how Kendrick talks about his childhood trauma in a way that was not hurtful, I love the beats and the production was amazing to.
  81. Mattyice
    May 13, 2022
    8
    Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers is very different from the rest of Kendrick's discography in terms of its sound being far more soft and poetic than hip-hop, and that's not a bad thing in some respects. The album provides a very intimate, human, and powerful look at the inner thoughts of Kendrick's psyche and how his history shaped him today. However, unlike some of his other works, I don'tMr. Morale and the Big Steppers is very different from the rest of Kendrick's discography in terms of its sound being far more soft and poetic than hip-hop, and that's not a bad thing in some respects. The album provides a very intimate, human, and powerful look at the inner thoughts of Kendrick's psyche and how his history shaped him today. However, unlike some of his other works, I don't find as many songs on this album to be as digestible and replay-worthy. Nevertheless, this is no doubt a powerful album from Kendrick and one far more soulful than his past works, for better and for worse.… Expand
  82. billzhq
    May 13, 2022
    8
    A great double disc, provided listeners with a wide spectrum of tracks, fans received an album which combined his previous style to showcase his songwriting and deep ideas that trouble kendrick and he has given us a full palate of tracks to satisfy every type of fan, this isn’t an album on a single subject but more broad ideas on each track, but certain songs resonate with the world weA great double disc, provided listeners with a wide spectrum of tracks, fans received an album which combined his previous style to showcase his songwriting and deep ideas that trouble kendrick and he has given us a full palate of tracks to satisfy every type of fan, this isn’t an album on a single subject but more broad ideas on each track, but certain songs resonate with the world we live in today, it isn’t for everyone but for the Kendrick Lamar fan which loves to listen to the words of Lamar, top notch production as always. Song construction is cohesive, genius and engaging.… Expand
  83. Clap4Everything
    May 13, 2022
    8
    Sonically speaking, this album sits right between Good Kid Maad City & To Pimp a Butterfly, with sprinkles of DAMN! On the more radio friendly cuts. Production is at best magical & at worst uninspired, Lyrically, Kenny is in TOP form...listen to it. A.O.T.Y contender for sure But definitely NOT Kendricks best work It has some filler A few skips but ultimately a Great body of work to capSonically speaking, this album sits right between Good Kid Maad City & To Pimp a Butterfly, with sprinkles of DAMN! On the more radio friendly cuts. Production is at best magical & at worst uninspired, Lyrically, Kenny is in TOP form...listen to it. A.O.T.Y contender for sure But definitely NOT Kendricks best work It has some filler A few skips but ultimately a Great body of work to cap off a legendary 5 album run… Expand
  84. destinyfan1
    May 14, 2022
    8
    This is actually the first kendrick album that i am fully experiencing and i must say i am impressed. (listened to damn but very late)Lyrically this is on a whole other level than stuff that i am used to . Sonically it is also great but there are some tracks that i still need to get used to but also a bit underwhelming.
    The best tracks right now are
    - savior - worldwide steppers -    This is actually the first kendrick album that i am fully experiencing and i must say i am impressed. (listened to damn but very late)Lyrically this is on a whole other level than stuff that i am used to . Sonically it is also great but there are some tracks that i still need to get used to but also a bit underwhelming.
    The best tracks right now are
    - savior
    - worldwide steppers
    - united in grief
    - we cry together (lmao, bold attempt at a song but i rock with it)
    - die hard
    and much more but these are my top 5 right now
    tracks that are the weakest but nowhere near bad:
    - crown(Lyrically good but i think the production is boring)
    - purple hearts
    - rich spirits
    I might get used to them but in some way i kinda doubt it since i like the other tracks way more.
    Is it aoty? Lyrically and conceptually it is probably the best i heard this year but in terms of replayability i like denzel's album a bit more for now but this might change over time.    … Expand
  85. jeffer21
    May 13, 2022
    8
    Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers is melodic, versatile, intimate, classy and personal
  86. 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
  87. royh24
    May 13, 2022
    8
    definitely we underrated baby keem’s style and hope this album let everybody know how influential baby keem is
  88. MetacriticOnur
    May 13, 2022
    8
    excellent
    [ ek-suh-luhnt ]

    adjective
    possessing outstanding quality or superior merit; remarkably good.
  89. 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.
  90. 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
  91. 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
  92. 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
  93. 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
  94. 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
  95. 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
  96. 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
  97. 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
  98. miamalkova
    May 13, 2022
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I need shocking track and album's musical shocking.Maybe my ears should be changed??… Expand
  99. yoro932
    May 13, 2022
    8
    When compared to Kendrick's past albums, it is a slight let down. However, it's still an exceptional album, and lyrically, it is Kendrick at his best.
  100. Isaacrodzam
    May 13, 2022
    8
    Volvemos a tener después de 5 años al mismo Lamar de siempre, un excelente álbum que no Innova ni tampoco experimenta.
    Simplemente un buen álbum con buena instrumental y excelente contenido lirical
Page:

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]
See all critic reviews »