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. kanbarux
    May 15, 2022
    10
    No se necesita buscar una buena producción como la encontramos en DAMN. para considerar este nuevo álbum: una obra de arte. Tenemos lo que siempre hemos tenido (y apreciado) de oklama; que es una composición y letras increíbles, con grandes rimas y flow.
  2. 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!
  3. MultiTaskNAsasN
    May 15, 2022
    10
    Amazing! Transcends hip hop! Everyone should give this amazing piece of art their time!
  4. 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
  5. Patdaddy25
    May 15, 2022
    10
    Might possibly be Kendrick’s best work of art. Just when you think he can’t possibly outdo himself what does he do? He creates his most artistic and complex piece of work. Simply amazing
  6. Falkiion
    May 15, 2022
    10
    simply amazing. every listen it gets better and better to the point where i think it might be my favorite Kendrick album.
  7. jr_sourav10
    May 15, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Sourav Mahato is an Indian Entrepreneur. He was born on 20 Nov 2000 in Canning Town. He is the active ceo and founder of "Label By KR", a digital marketing company. The best way to keep up is to learn from and support each other as we continue pushing the boundaries of innovation in marketing.… Expand
  8. Iddo
    May 15, 2022
    10
    We’ve seen Kendrick go from a scared boy in Compton in GKMC to becoming a type of prophet in TBAP to the culmination of a cultural savior figure with DAMN. It seems now though he is talking to himself as much as anyone when he says “I am not your Savior.”
  9. Jherreram11
    May 15, 2022
    10
    Amazing! Mr Lamar did it again, what a honest well composed album! On repeat!
  10. 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
  11. ParackObama
    May 15, 2022
    10
    Greatest hip-hop record of the past couple of years. There’s nothing more to say.
  12. Mxl_vxn
    May 15, 2022
    10
    Man, Kendrick has done it again. This album was so immersive, and a lot of songs were that real **** Mirror, crown, rich spirit, aunties diaries, silent hill, savior, we cry together and united in grief are my favourites
  13. 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
  14. 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.
  15. Nicatovic
    May 15, 2022
    10
    This is the greatest album of the 2020s so far. The whole project is basically if good kid, m.A.A.d city, and DAMN had a baby, and it's perfect.
  16. ThePentientOne
    May 14, 2022
    10
    The best album Kendrick Lamar has released to date and my favourite album of all time. Every song is a joy to listen to, and songs like Auntie Diaries, Mother I Sober and Mirror brought me to tears and addressed serious issues. Amazing bangers such as N95, Die Hard, and Silent Hill. Every song I haven't already listed is a jammer as well. Will be credited as the most important album of the decade.
  17. lliir123
    May 15, 2022
    10
    Wow.. Many unexpected Songs, theres so much hidden in the lyrics and this album is so personal. You going trought every Emotion. Great Production and writing.
  18. mystery_x
    May 15, 2022
    10
    Кендрик — мужчина. Самый взрослый и личный альбом, при этом затронет намного больше людей, чем TPAB. Браво.
  19. suawiiii
    May 15, 2022
    10
    Beautiful production, flows and lyrics. It's very introspective and unique.
  20. Anjel09
    May 15, 2022
    10
    After more than five years finally a new Kendrick album, it was an amazing project, and i hope some more of this new Kendrick style can come out more often.
  21. Milesfoley
    May 14, 2022
    10
    In **** credible. One if the best albums ive ever heard. So much layers in the production and in lyrics content. Artist of the generation
  22. Ashenky0
    May 14, 2022
    10
    I loved it. Not because I waited for 5 years for a kendrick album or because he sounds different, but because of the concepts he explores throughout the album. The sound is so unique and futuristic, in my opinion there is profound Kanye influence throughout the album but this isn’t a bad thing. He didn’t specifically borrow other artist’s sound rather he built his own sound onto hisI loved it. Not because I waited for 5 years for a kendrick album or because he sounds different, but because of the concepts he explores throughout the album. The sound is so unique and futuristic, in my opinion there is profound Kanye influence throughout the album but this isn’t a bad thing. He didn’t specifically borrow other artist’s sound rather he built his own sound onto his influences. It definetly will get better overtime for me, as his previous albums did as well. I still don’t think I’ve understood all the references and topics he explored within the album, even after 7 full listens. Thank you Kendrick. But I still don’t understand the oklama and Mr. Morale aliases. Are they related to each other? I don’t know.… Expand
  23. Darth_Bulldog
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Still too early to process the album. Only time can tell how this album preforms. It's his deepest album, almost like a therapy session for him, as he reveals the struggles of his past and how they still haunt him. Superb mix of deep songs (Mother I Sober) and hype songs (N95) which all deliver.
  24. BrawlerShazam
    May 14, 2022
    9
    Even though it’s not Kendrick’s best work, but he definitely made a powerful comeback.
  25. MachCritics
    May 14, 2022
    9
    Nice music to my ears, the other great rappers should be proud of this album
  26. kennyslick16
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Better than DAMN. Honestly people are just hating tl hate. This album is simply amazing
  27. Philg0413
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Breathtaking. Just, breathtaking. The amount of emotion in each song, the lyricism as always. Amazing
  28. AndreBorba
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Alright, this is gonna be hard. I'm writing this in English although is not my main language, but i want to reach the max people i can. Right now at the moment, i'm been through a rough depression, my days are completely trash and i feel like the ugliest and worst person alive. Constantly i have suicidal thoughts and most part of the things i've liked in some point of my life just don'tAlright, this is gonna be hard. I'm writing this in English although is not my main language, but i want to reach the max people i can. Right now at the moment, i'm been through a rough depression, my days are completely trash and i feel like the ugliest and worst person alive. Constantly i have suicidal thoughts and most part of the things i've liked in some point of my life just don't seems the same thing.

    But this album... Really did something.

    I was really excited to the new Kendrick album, but in the same week he was dropping i had some real bad crisis. When it dropped i was awake in the dawn, and i thought with myself: "Ah, alright, i don't have nothing more to do, let's listen to that".

    And man, it was really special. Every track showing some really deep narrative, great melodies, an absolute insane production. I wasn't expecting something so good as it is this one.

    Some tracks i will bring to my entire life, like "Die Hard", "Father Time", "Rich Spirits", and specially "Count Me Out".

    This is the prime Kendrick again in the scene.

    I don't think my depression disappeared, but i'm really better after that, when i'm down i'll always listen to this album, cause it's really impactful in my life.

    Thanks a lot Kendrick Lamar, you're one of my main inspirations in life. 10/10.    … Expand
  29. 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.
  30. lolrindo
    May 14, 2022
    10
    apenas kendrick lamar fazendo as coisas como tem que ser feitas, tudo perfeito.
  31. Plebser
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Kendrick Lamar has gotten to a difficult point in his career. It's the realization that the only man people compare him to is himself. This album isn't about the industry or some greater picture. It's about Kendrick Lamar, his thoughts, his struggles, and his growth. That's what makes this album so unique compared to anything else he has ever released before. The sound may be more modernKendrick Lamar has gotten to a difficult point in his career. It's the realization that the only man people compare him to is himself. This album isn't about the industry or some greater picture. It's about Kendrick Lamar, his thoughts, his struggles, and his growth. That's what makes this album so unique compared to anything else he has ever released before. The sound may be more modern than what people are used to from Lamar, but it's executed well. It definitely grows on you over time. I don't know that this album is for sure a 10, but seeing the album rated a 0 as if it has no worth is frustrating and I am compensating for that.… Expand
  32. Bus_Boy
    May 14, 2022
    10
    After 5 long years we get this masterpiece of music, a beautiful mix of what music is and what it needs to be
  33. Bensaknob
    May 14, 2022
    0
    Shiiiiite. Can't understand a word. Sings too fast. Not a candle on classics like jada ding dong and give that wolf a banana.
  34. Plu
    May 14, 2022
    10
    I've listened to this front to back and I love it. I know it doesn't have a stand out hit song or songs like DAMN. but it's more of a continuous look in how he sees the world and how he got to that viewpoint and I like that. N95 is great too.
  35. 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.
  36. hamidwaziri
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Big steppin, biiiiiiiiiiiiig steppin, Best album, album of the year, album of the decade.
  37. S0uthsid317
    May 14, 2022
    5
    Why do I always seem to be going against the grain of public opinion?...I just don't understand y'all... You call Revival a flop, and then say this is a 10? Is it so hard to form your own opinion without following the hype?.... Don't get me wrong...No hate here. Kendrick will always have my respect. This album isn't trash ... Duh.... course it's not.. it's -Kendrick La-fukin-mar-.. butWhy do I always seem to be going against the grain of public opinion?...I just don't understand y'all... You call Revival a flop, and then say this is a 10? Is it so hard to form your own opinion without following the hype?.... Don't get me wrong...No hate here. Kendrick will always have my respect. This album isn't trash ... Duh.... course it's not.. it's -Kendrick La-fukin-mar-.. but thats why I'm holding it to such a high standard... and in my opinion; this album doesn't live up to his potential... And by giving this a 10, you're definitely not going to drive him to push anything better out.. Good idea people … Expand
  38. 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.
  39. PablitoConalepp
    May 14, 2022
    10
    All the songs r very good, they have the same feeling but that does not make them identical, they are completely different songs but very good in all aspects
  40. Pcm
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Loved every song from the album and Kendrick brings a new sound combined with his old sound, Real instant classic.
  41. 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!
  42. lucccca
    May 14, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I feel like this album is the perfect follow up to the story line that kendrick built along the years, the album has no skips and maybe a single filler “Die Hard”, except that the album is perfect and i love it… Expand
  43. Drtung
    May 14, 2022
    2
    Kendrick decided to make an art piece, but didn’t realize this is what he was doing all along, by doing his craft of groovy hiphop, r&b, and funk. This is performance of art, not art, and is missing the musicality, energy, and cutting rhymes of past work. It probably feels like you’re sharing in the cleverness by squinting to see the genius here, but tell me if you’re still listening aKendrick decided to make an art piece, but didn’t realize this is what he was doing all along, by doing his craft of groovy hiphop, r&b, and funk. This is performance of art, not art, and is missing the musicality, energy, and cutting rhymes of past work. It probably feels like you’re sharing in the cleverness by squinting to see the genius here, but tell me if you’re still listening a month from now?… Expand
  44. Diknalite
    May 14, 2022
    10
    This is after 4 listens. The production on this album seemed original and fantastic. Along with the content, lyrics, and messaging make this a 10/10. Only weak things about the album IMO are that his vocals and singing sounded off to me
  45. lwishc
    May 14, 2022
    10
    nwnwjwjwjwkidudhqhwhwjisidiwjqjnwnsnsnhwhwhwhwuwuuwususuuwuwuwuwueuuwueuhdhshwjjwjwjwjwjwjjwjejejjejej
  46. julianes16
    May 14, 2022
    10
    A majestic piece of art. From top to bottom. The quality of the lyrics, the production behind every single song, the way everything is expressed, cohesive, sensitive, hard, even funny. Absolutely amazing.
  47. MerryChef
    May 14, 2022
    3
    After a long wait this album felt under-par for Kendrick. Nothing really stuck out to me other than the more sensitive songs but as songs they're unfortunately not that great. Massive Kendrick fan so really let down by this.
  48. Nephilym
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Incredible production, mix, themes, the album is dense so you need some listen to understand it and appreciate it.
  49. 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
  50. YoungNiga
    May 14, 2022
    0
    Yall call this music? Dude isn't even rapping on beat
  51. 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
  52. santirp04
    May 14, 2022
    10
    masterpiece. worth the wait. beautiful album about heavy and personal topics
  53. Fantanstic
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Como siempre Kendrick no decepcionando, gracias Kendrick por esta bella obra.
  54. 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
  55. Musicnrd
    May 14, 2022
    10
    The lyrical prowess and outstanding production as well as Kendrick’s tragic storytelling make this one of the best albums I have hear.
  56. Fassoni
    May 14, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Genius. Genius.Genius. Genius.Genius. Genius.Genius. Genius.Genius. Genius.Genius. Genius.Genius. Genius.Genius. Genius.Genius. Genius.Genius. Genius.Genius. Genius.Genius. Genius.… 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. 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
  59. 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
  60. VukMimovic
    May 14, 2022
    10
    This album sure is different from Kdot's previous albums. While the public opinion has been split about it, i personally really like it. The production is good and Kendrick's performance is amazing as always. The thing that stood out to me the most was the multiple appearances of Kodak Black on the album
  61. Brianf305
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Kendrick Lamar’s most raw, personal, emotional album.

    Kendrick is a human being with flaws and he is not anyones savior.
  62. Khlap9
    May 14, 2022
    0
    Meh. Big Kendrick fan. I understood what he was rapping about and stuff, but wasn’t really feeling this album. I didn’t think it sounded very melodic.
  63. meeep
    May 14, 2022
    6
    In my opinion this is a good album, but a bad Kendrick-album. Its a huge step-down from his last albums. The lyrics and flows are amazing. But the instrumentals were so boring. Except for a few tracks, I just couldn't really enjoy the album.
  64. lino22
    May 14, 2022
    10
    it's something beyond any rapper has done in the last 20 years it"s chaotic, reflective, sensible and visceral all at the same time Kendrick is one if not THE artist of our generation
  65. Mathedus
    May 14, 2022
    0
    Trash, the same **** of TPAB kkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk
  66. semillogarcia
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Simply a master piece, the wait has a reason, kendrick did it, an beautiful painting as a music album
  67. Mindocas
    May 14, 2022
    10
    A great álbum, a masterpiece.
    Kendrick is a Genius, and always make great music.
  68. Flavio9228838
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Lenda manoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo te amo kdot fdpppppppppppppppppppppppp
  69. 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
  70. Baller96jay
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Such an amazinggggg album. The content, the engineering, everything. Enjoyed every moment. Mother I Sober is one of the greatest songs I’ve ever heard. I’d be surprised if this album doesn’t win every Grammy it possibly can. Kendrick the KING. Long live
  71. Bkunene21
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Masterpiece, nothing more nothing less. From the overall production, to the song song writing everything is just impeccable.
  72. Mrholdmybeer
    May 14, 2022
    10
    This album is only but a confirmation that Mr. Morale actually achieved the breakthrough that he claims in his psychological exploration of his psyche. Despite few moments of awkwardness of the beats and rhymes of some tracks, MMTBS is nothing less than a masterpiece that's well thought out and executed. The world should be glad that he took his time to grow before saying something again.
  73. 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
  74. Hurrdof
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Sounds like a perfect/no skips album to me. Totally worth the wait, lyrics and instrumentals are just magical
  75. Ktior
    May 14, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Best rap album of the decade best album of all genre in all categories
    He is certified Goat    … Expand
  76. Tudollapac
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Everything from the album art cover to the hype I rate it a 10 out of 10. Music and the way everything connects and ties in to the theme of the album is 10 out of 10. This was kendricks therapy album and it shows how mature and talented he still is after 5 years enjoyed everything about this album nothing negative.
  77. Super-Evil-DOOM
    May 14, 2022
    10
    A living legend, Kendrick proves to be one of the most captivating storytellers music has ever seen, able to implement and blend so much different sound and subject matter into one album.
  78. irriy
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Another Masterpiece for Oklama, Less accessible than DAMN. But great album too !
  79. Josepesteves
    May 14, 2022
    0
    Estou completamente extasiado após ouvir o disco, o Kendrick mais uma vez soube inovar e e entregar uma completa obra de arte.
  80. DenoBe90
    May 14, 2022
    10
    I really love the deepness in this album. I expected something completely else but love this beautiful piece of art displaying his insights.
  81. Kos501
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Best album in History. So inspirational, so emotional, so true. He is the most real artist after Tupacs death.
  82. 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.
  83. Exyys
    May 14, 2022
    10
    His best work behind TBAP. Kendrick re-invents himself again, producing a deep and moving record.
  84. ButcherBlaviken
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Kendrick stayed true to himself, again going mainstream with conscious rap. The album's themes are expanding on what he started on TPAB and DAMN with a lot of personal touch and storytelling which is something new and welcoming for Kendrick, who preferred to tell the stories of other people. No bangers but 10/10 still
  85. SPAMPLSILIKEIT
    May 14, 2022
    10
    A very personal album from Kendrick. Introspective, lyrically great ,fantastic beats. Fans waited 5 years for this album and i don't think the majority is disappointed. I believe that Mr. Morale and The Big Steppers will age beautifully and is a Contender for AOTY.
  86. PreciseShots
    May 14, 2022
    10
    There are a lot of words I can use to describe how this album hit me personally and how it is portrayed from Kendrick’s view, but let me tell you that the depth, emotion and sound portrayed in this album is just flawless. I love every aspect of this album and every song in it tells an individual story that goes beyond music. I can pull each song out of this album and say that theThere are a lot of words I can use to describe how this album hit me personally and how it is portrayed from Kendrick’s view, but let me tell you that the depth, emotion and sound portrayed in this album is just flawless. I love every aspect of this album and every song in it tells an individual story that goes beyond music. I can pull each song out of this album and say that the individuality of each outdoes the others in some way or form. This album I can’t even say is just music…it’s a pure work of art.… Expand
  87. Victor2202
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Com certeza um dos melhores álbuns nos últimos 5 anos, só perdendo pra ele mesmo em DAMN.
  88. hliaspap
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Outstanding storytelling and messages provided in this masterpiece of an album .
  89. liftedrifter
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Another inscrutable opus from Compton's finest. This is what we've been waiting for.
  90. IdkHowToPotty
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Sonically there is simply no other album like this - it is a rap record but it is not hip hop. While there are certain tracks which have some trap, jazz, r&b or even classical influence, the sound of this album is uniquely Kendrick. Lyrically this album is also some of Kendrick's best work. Stand-out tracks for me were Auntie Diaries (with some of the most beautiful lyrics I've ever heard)Sonically there is simply no other album like this - it is a rap record but it is not hip hop. While there are certain tracks which have some trap, jazz, r&b or even classical influence, the sound of this album is uniquely Kendrick. Lyrically this album is also some of Kendrick's best work. Stand-out tracks for me were Auntie Diaries (with some of the most beautiful lyrics I've ever heard) and We Cry Together (an insanely creative, engaging and memorable track).… Expand
  91. deen786
    May 14, 2022
    10
    It’s not as immediate as a GKMC or a TPAB, but it’s still an insane record.
  92. raulrauter
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Its a classic by the second/third listen, an album made for him as a counselling session. Raw, genuine and progressive. Perfect for his final TDE album. Now he can go make fun stuff with his own label PgLang
  93. Lor714z
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Incredibile album, i will say that is maybe even better than tpabf, the first disc off the album contains incredible tracks such as we cry togheter, the second disc has a sound less jazzy but it's still incredible.
  94. 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
  95. BillieElle
    May 14, 2022
    10
    There's nothing to say. This album is ***ing perfect. Song 8 is so much fun.
  96. Seattleite
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Kendrick is now truly in a league of his own. He is beyond comparisons to 2pac and the like now. This is about the 3rd time he has completely evolved as an artist. Good Kid Mad City, To Pimp A Butterfly, And now This.. wow. Witness greatness.
  97. Guinoou
    May 14, 2022
    10
    Simply a master piece, the wait has a reason, kendrick did it, an beautiful painting as a music album
  98. 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
  99. Fran_Kcyo
    May 14, 2022
    10
    El mejor álbum que he escuchado en mi vida, maldita sea es tan perfecto, desde N95 hasta Wey Cry Together, simplemente perfecto
  100. Danut
    May 14, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I think it's a great album with insane production. At the same time kendrick lyriscim is always top tier with this album feeling more like a therapy through all the songs.… Expand
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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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