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

Universal acclaim- based on 3765 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3,245 out of 3765
  2. Mixed: 72 out of 3765
  3. Negative: 448 out of 3765
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  1. greenTYPEWRITER
    Nov 23, 2010
    9
    Excerpt from http://green--typewriters.blogspot.com/ .........................................................I personally relate the excellence of My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy to the fact that this album could, and probably should, have been awful. There was so much pressure stacked against this album and it is jaw dropping that this is what was produced out of all that hate. KanyeExcerpt from http://green--typewriters.blogspot.com/ .........................................................I personally relate the excellence of My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy to the fact that this album could, and probably should, have been awful. There was so much pressure stacked against this album and it is jaw dropping that this is what was produced out of all that hate. Kanye is the epitomist of pop culture and the most self-righteous voice that it has created in a while. He reinsures this fact by producing his best piece of work that is not confined by traditional pop culture models placed on mainstream music. He wonderfully attacks and withholds the glorified level that he is, in all rights, living on. Kanye contextualizes his life into a lived fantasy and he accepts that this life is obviously not defined as normal. More importantly, he is self-aware enough to view it from an outside source, thus purposely naming it his Fantasy. It is his masterpiece as far as we're concerned. It is beautiful. It is utterly personal.. sometimes tragic.. but refreshingly honest.… Expand
  2. thereal_lenny
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    Haters gon' hate. I think the ratio of negative to positive user reviews tells the whole story. This album is amazing and it isn't cool that people are attempting to maliciously bring down the average score. Metacritic should review scores of 0 for validity.
  3. wlpowell
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Since his debut album, Kanye West has strived to bring the soul and music side back to the forefront of mainstream hip-hop, and with every release Mr. West has claimed that he's going to evolve the music by himself whether the genre likes it or not.The real brilliance of this album comes from how well it truly improves upon his previous work. With every album that has come out his celebrity has encompased his artistry a little more and a little more. The boiling point being 808's where the artist finally had enough and created what could've been career suicide had any other hip-hop artist tried it. With this album the artist and the celebrity have come to a beautiful compromise. The celebrity is more self-consious and critical of himself and the world around him (the "Kanye-isms" are humbled), and the artist is more determined and inspired (The production challenges all pop music to be better than it is in epic fashion). Colledge Dropout USED to be his most honest album. Late Registration USED to be his most well rounded. Graduation USED to be his most celebratorial. 808's USED to be his most vulnerable. They all play like peices to a puzzle now. Fantasy compliments the strength of the previous albums so well, and mixes what he's learned from each album so well, that it could act as a direct follow up to any one of them. The guests and samples he brings in show Kanye's reach knows no boundaries. This album plays like an art showing of a tormented artist and as you walk through the gallery you run into the likes of Bon Iver, Kid Cudi, King Crimson, Nicki Minaj, Elton John, Rick Ross, Chris Rock, Smokey Robinson, Rhianna, and the Backyard Heavies. With this album Kanye has grown beyond just a hip-hop artist he's officially achieved the legend status he's been bragging about for the past 4 albums. Simply put, the music invades your mind. When I finally took the CD out of my laptop, the album had already played through 5 times.… Expand
  4. Ricamus
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    An instant classic. Kanye has always delivered very solid albums, (excluding 808's and heartbreaks, IMO), but My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy takes genius to the next level. Every track is unique and stays fresh for what seems like thousands of listens. The featured artists are numerous and among the most talented in hip-hop. For a while, it seemed like Kanye's career was in a slowAn instant classic. Kanye has always delivered very solid albums, (excluding 808's and heartbreaks, IMO), but My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy takes genius to the next level. Every track is unique and stays fresh for what seems like thousands of listens. The featured artists are numerous and among the most talented in hip-hop. For a while, it seemed like Kanye's career was in a slow descent, but MBDTF along with his spectacular "G.O.O.D Friday" releases will no doubt rejuvenate and reinstate Yeezy as a king of the music industry. Favorite tracks: "Monster", "Dark Fantasy", "Hell of a life", "Gorgeous", "Blame Game".… Expand
  5. Nygfan22
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    This album has to be the greatest thing I've ever listened to. Every song contains a different story just waiting to be read. Kanye put a lot of work into this album and it shows. It's pretty sad how some people have been reviewing this album based on their personal feelings about Kanye, or about the Taylor Swift incident. If you actually listen to the album you can see the true geniusThis album has to be the greatest thing I've ever listened to. Every song contains a different story just waiting to be read. Kanye put a lot of work into this album and it shows. It's pretty sad how some people have been reviewing this album based on their personal feelings about Kanye, or about the Taylor Swift incident. If you actually listen to the album you can see the true genius that Mr. West is. My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy will be album of the year.… Expand
  6. truecritiq
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    Few artists could get away with this level of genre-bending, norm-shattering composition and hip-hop artistry. West does it completely, convincing audiences to listen closely to his stories and their deep atmospheres. If you are looking for any other Kanye album to compare, you're mistaken. This is a reborn rapper, and with him comes a new era of Kanye-ness. He's smooth-talking, nasty,Few artists could get away with this level of genre-bending, norm-shattering composition and hip-hop artistry. West does it completely, convincing audiences to listen closely to his stories and their deep atmospheres. If you are looking for any other Kanye album to compare, you're mistaken. This is a reborn rapper, and with him comes a new era of Kanye-ness. He's smooth-talking, nasty, and the flows comes much more naturally on this album. He's stopped thinking so much about his listeners, and the result is raw, good raw. Forget cutesy, this album is mean; the kind of beats that make you grimace they're so hard. True hip hop fans finally get something to chew on here, and while I don't know where it stands in the holy 10 of hip hop classics, I can truly say that it is the best hip hop album of this year and perhaps the past 5. It's ambitious, deliberate, and complete. November 22nd is Kanye Day forever.… Expand
  7. astrongerkanye
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is an instant classic, for the second i put my headphones on and started to listen to the 1st track on the album, i was assured that this album will be Kanyes best album to date.
    The guy is a genius, a living legend. And he was able to accept the events that happened at the VMAs and the backlash he had after it, and put out one of the best albums OF ALL    My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is an instant classic, for the second i put my headphones on and started to listen to the 1st track on the album, i was assured that this album will be Kanyes best album to date.
    The guy is a genius, a living legend. And he was able to accept the events that happened at the VMAs and the backlash he had after it, and put out one of the best albums OF ALL TIME.....OF ALL TIME!    … Expand
  8. BlakeWolfsSN
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    His 5th album blends pop and rap even better than his past attempts. These are some of the best verses we've seen from Kanye. The instrumentation is so futuristic it's hard to call this the best album of the year. It feels as universal as any all-time classic.
  9. razorick
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    His best album!! loving it. Album of the year in my opinion. Truly amazing. I just might listen to hip hop some more. I though i would quit listening to rap music.
  10. tghm1801
    Nov 23, 2010
    0
    Doesn't deserve the 98 score, or it's high user score.
    More of the same, and it is terrible.
    Repetitive, derogatory crap.
    I would say I'm disappointed but it's nothing less than what I expected, which was NOTHING.
    Crap.
  11. Kezza
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    This is a GREAT album. A sure contender for the album of 2010. People that are hating on the album are basically complaining because of some of the words he says. Lets be serious now, if you are a fan of rap music then this is nothing and if you don't like it then you can go and pick up the clean version and then listen to it and you can appreciate the ammount of effort that he puts intoThis is a GREAT album. A sure contender for the album of 2010. People that are hating on the album are basically complaining because of some of the words he says. Lets be serious now, if you are a fan of rap music then this is nothing and if you don't like it then you can go and pick up the clean version and then listen to it and you can appreciate the ammount of effort that he puts into every song. Add GOOD Fridays and that just adds up to the appreciation of effort.
    I don't care what anybody says because All Of The Lights owns all. It has to be played with the interlude. Its just not the same otherwise!    … Expand
  12. eyeneed
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    I haven't been a Kanye Fan since his first album; but album has revitalized my interest in him. This album is almost a masterpiece; the only track I somewhat dislike is All the Lights ( I find Rihanna's Voice Annoying....but the track as a whole isn't that bad). 9.5/10 ... so I round up
  13. cobaltglass
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    The mixing and production are great. It's what he cut his teeth doing. The guest list is star-studded and generally does not disappoint, but all rap guests far outshine Kanye when they're at the mic (save for Jay-Z's lazy verse in "Monster"). Kanye's delivery is generally flat and saps the power of lyrics when he does have his moments (see "Blame Game"). When he doesn't have his lyricalThe mixing and production are great. It's what he cut his teeth doing. The guest list is star-studded and generally does not disappoint, but all rap guests far outshine Kanye when they're at the mic (save for Jay-Z's lazy verse in "Monster"). Kanye's delivery is generally flat and saps the power of lyrics when he does have his moments (see "Blame Game"). When he doesn't have his lyrical moments, he's doing the standard disses, recitation of haute-couture brands and freeze-frames of lady trouble. The samples are great and so are the aforementioned extra hands, but they really can't prop this album up much. I almost feel like people are desperate to make a pop star a new godhead in the wake of Michael Jackson's death. So Kanye has willingly donned that mantle with this album. Even Christgau has said as much before. I think this is part of a disturbing trend; as long as stars demonstrate that they have a modicum of self-awareness we give them free passes in criticism. The fact that the reviews focus so much more on the man than the music demonstrates a willing commitment to this attitude. If anyone else made the exact same album, it would have been as passed-by as N.A.S.A.'s album.… Expand
  14. TeewhyThreeD
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    I think there's enough reviews out there to cover my thoughts.

    All I'm going to say is this album is just a masterpiece in all sense of the word...

    The album itself is a extension of who he is....its too long....too many guest stars...w/e it is....there is a reason for it...

    Hes always been a over the top guy...it only makes sense songs run long and the guest list is filled.

    Brilliant album.
  15. OvaltineJenkinz
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    One word: Amazing.
  16. djbg
    Nov 23, 2010
    10
    Whether you love him or hate him, there is no denying that Kanye is a musical genius. If you don't agree, then you have not listened to this album yet, or been keeping up with his G.O.O.D. Fridays' free track releases over the last 3 months. 2010 has been the year of Kanye, and this final album release not only meets all high expectations, but surpasses them. This is quite simply, the bestWhether you love him or hate him, there is no denying that Kanye is a musical genius. If you don't agree, then you have not listened to this album yet, or been keeping up with his G.O.O.D. Fridays' free track releases over the last 3 months. 2010 has been the year of Kanye, and this final album release not only meets all high expectations, but surpasses them. This is quite simply, the best album Kanye has released to this date in his career. And there is no denying the simple fact, that this is clearly the album of the year.… Expand
  17. Perspicacious
    Nov 22, 2010
    9
    I signed up to Metacritic purely to point out the following pattern in the negative reviews of Kanye West's brilliant masterpiece, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy.

    At this writing, five of the six "1" and "0" scores that were accompanied by written reviews were written by first time reviewers; they have not entered another review on Metacritic, calling their credibility into question.    I signed up to Metacritic purely to point out the following pattern in the negative reviews of Kanye West's brilliant masterpiece, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy.

    At this writing, five of the six "1" and "0" scores that were accompanied by written reviews were written by first time reviewers; they have not entered another review on Metacritic, calling their credibility into question. And the one reviewer who wrote more than one review, "Drag," is a fan of -- surprise, surprise -- Taylor Swift's album, as evidenced by the "9" score given to her album, Speak Now.

    Draw your own conclusions and, for the sincere users among you, enjoy listening to the most inventive, creative and downright entertaining album of the year. I know I did.    … Expand
  18. Camc
    Nov 22, 2010
    9
    I'm gonna let you finish but kanye west just came out with one of the best rap albums of all time. Look I love the fact that their are people on here still dissing Kanye as a Person. (what a joke) Look at Kanye as a musician. The man is a genius, and he just proved his talent AGAIN with this album.
  19. dijavantewow
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    I'm wondering why those Kanye "fans" rated this album poorly claiming it doesn't live up to their expectations or it's not what they expected. If they were fans, they would have known what to expect with G.O.O.D. Fridays posting almost half the album. Anyway, this is a great album. Fantastically produced, and the lyrics are on par with what he did in his first two albums. Just plain good music.
  20. dallasshaldune
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    This is an album that deserves the acclaim it is getting through the press. It has some pretty awesome transitions between tracks and some pretty cutting edge stuff for a "mainstream" rap album. I actually think a lot of "mainstream" fans are going to resist this album, and for that, and the risk-taking that Kanye is taking, I give this CD a 10.
  21. nigangelo
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    I approached the album with a great deal of skepticism, but give it a chance. I did, and what can I say the album itself is full of win both lyrically and melodically.
  22. ScorpionWins
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    Kanye West's best album. His flow, lyrics, the beats, samples - all top notch. Every song is memorable. This album proves that Kanye's not just a rapper or a producer, but an artist. MBDTF is art. Anyone who calls him untalented, even before this album, but certainly now, is straight up WRONG.
  23. Killuminati
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    This is probably the best album Kanye West has ever put out. Rather than trying to put out another crappy, Autotune infested album like 808s and Heartbreak, he uses classical instrumental and & covers and creates tracks that turns this album into a superb work of art.
    This album is also one of the most hilarious he's ever done. In some tracks, particularly Runaway, Kanye West starts    This is probably the best album Kanye West has ever put out. Rather than trying to put out another crappy, Autotune infested album like 808s and Heartbreak, he uses classical instrumental and & covers and creates tracks that turns this album into a superb work of art.
    This album is also one of the most hilarious he's ever done. In some tracks, particularly Runaway, Kanye West starts dissing himself, toasting to "douche bags, **** scumbags, and jerk-offs". Even in the Bonus track, See Me Now, he mocks his VMA's interrupting of Taylor Swift, even featuring Beyonce.
    All in all, this is probably the best album of the year.    … Expand
  24. alpha
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    This has the perfect critic rating , still some people here find a way to give it a 0 ! Try and be a smart hater next time !
    I guess the best way to review this album is by telling you the only way you gonna understand its greatness is by listenning to it no matter what type of music youre accustomed to.It goes beyond any genre or stereotype.Its pure artistry.
    This album is a perfect    This has the perfect critic rating , still some people here find a way to give it a 0 ! Try and be a smart hater next time !
    I guess the best way to review this album is by telling you the only way you gonna understand its greatness is by listenning to it no matter what type of music youre accustomed to.It goes beyond any genre or stereotype.Its pure artistry.
    This album is a perfect combination of his 4 previous LPs :
    -Soul of College dropout
    -Hip-hop and Instrumentalism of Late Registration
    -Futurism of Graduation
    -Melodies of 808's
    Its not rewieable but i still give it a big 10 ! Thank you very much Mr West    … Expand
  25. Migeycab
    Nov 22, 2010
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Kanye has been changing his sound with every album but this time its the biggest and best change to date, Every song is a lot different from the last and with guest spots from Jigga, Kid Cudi and Bon Iver it is truly his best piece of work yet… Expand
  26. stfx
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    this album has everything, it is honestly just a masterpiece. To say this album sucks because of Kanye's personality is utterly stupid. You're not judging the music, but the person. I call this album a masterpiece because of the collaborations, the deliveries, and also how it was put together. When you listen to this album you just hear how amazing it is, and how much effort it took tothis album has everything, it is honestly just a masterpiece. To say this album sucks because of Kanye's personality is utterly stupid. You're not judging the music, but the person. I call this album a masterpiece because of the collaborations, the deliveries, and also how it was put together. When you listen to this album you just hear how amazing it is, and how much effort it took to put together. Every beat is amazing. Thank god this album came out because I'm tired of hearing the stuff on the radio where it's just the same beat and crap. Kanye is back, and better than ever… Expand
  27. Trunks378
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    One of the best albums of the year and a modern classic in this decade. Kanye has officially become the king of rap as his hero MJ became the king of pop. Amazing.
  28. QTIP1283
    Nov 22, 2010
    9
    This is an excellent album. I would hesitate to call this Kanye's best album, but I do believe it is the realization of all his talents and many persona's. The album begins and ends brilliantly. Many of the songs on this album were released on his website far before the release and this has in a weird way made me skip the middle portion. "Gorgeous" is one of my favorites and featuresThis is an excellent album. I would hesitate to call this Kanye's best album, but I do believe it is the realization of all his talents and many persona's. The album begins and ends brilliantly. Many of the songs on this album were released on his website far before the release and this has in a weird way made me skip the middle portion. "Gorgeous" is one of my favorites and features Kanye at his rapping best alongside Kid Cudi who has a knack for hooks and working well with West. Who is doing this better right now? Nobody comes close and Kanye knows it.… Expand
  29. BtwnTheHedges91
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    As a serious Kanye fan, who has all albums and tapes, I can truly say that this album brings out what Kanye does best. Not only do Kanye's lyrics transcend his greatness as an artist, but the beats are unreal. Well worthy of a 10/10.
  30. AndrewUltimate
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    This may well be one of hip-hop's greatest triumphs. With the gifted Kanye West, who remains one of the most of the 21st century, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy begins with "Dark Fantasy", with a narration & introduction by Nicki Minaj. The album is very creative & diverse, with strings as interludes & powerful speeches. Not to mention the Auto-Tune breakdown in the full-lengthThis may well be one of hip-hop's greatest triumphs. With the gifted Kanye West, who remains one of the most of the 21st century, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy begins with "Dark Fantasy", with a narration & introduction by Nicki Minaj. The album is very creative & diverse, with strings as interludes & powerful speeches. Not to mention the Auto-Tune breakdown in the full-length nine-minute-epic "Runaway". Now that's how you use Auto-Tune. The album goes from old-school rap to soaring ballads with tribal drums & sing-along choruses. This sounds nothing like any other music out today. This is the Graceland of 2010.… Expand
  31. RelaxingKyle
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    What the hell is this? This music is just swearing mixed with **** at his fans with a few good songs inside. Also, based on the 16 reviews it has, it should be at a 94, not 100, although that is still much too high for this stupid album. I really cannot stand this, and I hold nothing against Kanye West. Dark Fantast, Power and All Of The Lights are very good, and most of the other songsWhat the hell is this? This music is just swearing mixed with **** at his fans with a few good songs inside. Also, based on the 16 reviews it has, it should be at a 94, not 100, although that is still much too high for this stupid album. I really cannot stand this, and I hold nothing against Kanye West. Dark Fantast, Power and All Of The Lights are very good, and most of the other songs are annoyingly repetitive, especially So Appalled and Monster.… Expand
  32. ZimmeM03
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    Unbelievably catchy and awesome at the same time. Lyrics are awesome, I love that he recognizes his douchebaggery, yet still tells us how awesome he is. Monster and POWER are the two best songs by far.
  33. buzzlight
    Nov 22, 2010
    5
    This has good backbeat rhythms so I can't play it down completely, but perfect 10? Really? Critics giving this 100? Really? LIke the cover, the lyrics are not really anything new - mostly pornographic, ghetto rap - parents beware. Fbombs, Nbombs, etc. etc. -which are repeated hundreds of times throughout (for shock value!?!?, to show their real grittiness?. Not really shocking, not reallyThis has good backbeat rhythms so I can't play it down completely, but perfect 10? Really? Critics giving this 100? Really? LIke the cover, the lyrics are not really anything new - mostly pornographic, ghetto rap - parents beware. Fbombs, Nbombs, etc. etc. -which are repeated hundreds of times throughout (for shock value!?!?, to show their real grittiness?. Not really shocking, not really cool either.… Expand
  34. DoctorKilla
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    Let me start by saying, there is not a single weak track on the album, and despite all guest appearances, Kanye is the maestro. The "best" tracks would be the soulful and grand orchestral opening of "Dark Fantasy" leading to the RZA's classic beast that creeps into your head... "Power" just has an epic feel, epic soul/rock-infused beat, and never had a redundant chorus sounded soLet me start by saying, there is not a single weak track on the album, and despite all guest appearances, Kanye is the maestro. The "best" tracks would be the soulful and grand orchestral opening of "Dark Fantasy" leading to the RZA's classic beast that creeps into your head... "Power" just has an epic feel, epic soul/rock-infused beat, and never had a redundant chorus sounded so brilliant... The interlude is instrumentally genius and the song itself: "All of the Lights" is a fusion of arena rock and hip-hop, with ridiculously layered vocals may just be the high point for the album... "Hell of a life" has the hardest beat on the album along with RZA's stint on "Dark Fantasy", a tribute to Black Sabbath's "Ironman" I think, and the auto-tune is used perfectly on the chorus with this crescendo at the end of the chorus that completely stone-worthy... "Lost In The World" is a very appropriate ending, and GSH's "Comment #1" is so Kanye-like, yet thought-provoking. And the best track on the album is not actually on the album. "See Me Now" is the best Kanye track on this album, because it ends on a high note, the soulful beat and vocals by Beyonce and Charlie are excellent, and the lyrically this is his best song ever. His productions throughout is quality, he put sonic from Grad, techno-electro from 808, and the soul from the debut and sophomore albums. He adds exceptional style and deep thought his materialism, something he did before, but not often enough. One of the best introspective albums ever created.
    AND FINALLY KANYE MAKES AND ALBUM WITH SOME RELEVANT AND GRAND INTERLUDES AND SKITS.

    One of the best (2nd best) produced hip-hop album EVER.    … Expand
  35. Maro
    Nov 22, 2010
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. First, Kanye's Dark Twisted Fantasy is a great hip hop album that will help mainstream rappers restore and revitalize Hip hop's vigor. The track listing is perfectly executed and will most definitely take the listener on a trip into Kanye's mind. The instrumentals prove to be amazing as well as the samples. The lyrics are a little bit above average but great for today's standards. "Gorgeous" feat. KId Cudi and Raekwon and "POWER" are the most lyrical songs while "Dark Fantasy" and "Hell of a Life" are perfectly executed songs. POWER features an amazing sample that supports the great lyrics while Hell of a life features a beat that would make soulja boy sound good (maybe thats a step too far.) The first problem of the album is the length. "Blame Game" feat. John Legend and "Runaway" feat. Pusha T are way too long. For example "Runaway" lasts for 9 min. The song is great but the last three minutes of the song is just Kanye mumbling into the vocoder to the melody of the song. This is an awful waste of time and makes the album much more boring. Then the critics come in claim that this nonsensical mumbling actually means something. No it does not. This problem appears consistently throughout the reviews. Critics are over analyzing simple bars by saying that you need to get underneath the skin of the lyrics in order to feel and understand them. The lyrics might be great for today's mainstream artists but are not very deep when comparing them to the greats. "Gorgeous" is the only song that deserves the feeling of self achievement that Kanye west surely has. Listen to "All of the lights" and you'll realize how mainstream oriented it is and how shallow the lyrics are. Kanye, autotune and chris rock are bad choices to include on this so called magnum opus. You'd be astonished when you compare the ratio of the time kanye is rapping to the time that instruments are just playing, poems are read (like in who will survive in America) or his nonsensical mumbling that makes us think about his Heartbreak disaster from two years ago. Lets face it, the album is over rated. But, Kanye knows what attracts the critics. He provides them with a album that features amazing album covers (there are over 5 i believe), a strange title for a rap album and heavy samples that manipulate critics into believing that he has created a masterpiece. Overall, I congratulate Kanye on his album. Even though it is overrated, you should not miss out on it. It is great for today's standards but it does have many flaws. It could start a chain reaction of albums that will revive hip hop.

    Best Songs:
    Gorgeous
    Power
    Dark Fantasy
    Hell Of A Life

    Worst Songs:
    Runaway (album version)
    Who Will Survive in America
    All of the lights    … Expand
  36. Alladaskill17
    Nov 22, 2010
    9
    Great songs, I enjoy nearly every single one and have four special ones already. This album is different in a way, feeling even more creative, out there and original. I'm not a huge Kanye supporter but I did want to check out this album, the lyrics are great and strike straight to their points while flowing incredibly well. the beats on quite a few of the songs are heavy and intense,Great songs, I enjoy nearly every single one and have four special ones already. This album is different in a way, feeling even more creative, out there and original. I'm not a huge Kanye supporter but I did want to check out this album, the lyrics are great and strike straight to their points while flowing incredibly well. the beats on quite a few of the songs are heavy and intense, great stuff.… Expand
  37. Yorkie
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    A modern classic, I really think in years to come people will look back on this album as one of the best ever made. Anyone who gives this a bad rating, clearly dont have the first clue about anything when it comes to music. I feel privileged to be alive at the time of this album being released. Kanye West is an absolute genius and a living legend!
  38. AarnKrry
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    Excellently edgy lyrics and a simultaneously raw, yet polished sound. It's one of the best hip hop albums of 2010, along with Big Boi's and Gorillaz' efforts, Sir Lucious Left Foot and Plastic Beach, respectively. And maybe even Janelle Monáe's record, too, if you overlook the heavy soul influences.
  39. rickdeckard
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    THIS IS AN INCREDIBLE ALBUM POSSIBLY THE GREATEST HIP HOP ALBUM OF ALL TIME. KANYE HAS DEFINITELY EVOLVED AS FAR AS PRODUCTION I RECOMMEND THIS TO ANY FAN OF MUSIC IN GENERAL AND IF YOU'RE ONE OF THE PEOPLE THAT CREATES MULTIPLE ACCOUNTS ON METACRITIC TO BASH THIS ALBUM THEN **** YOU
  40. SeanWauters
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    Too many rap albums fall into the same trap: too many tracks, too few good ones, lack of variation and originality. This album not only avoids these pitfalls, but hurdles, nay, flies over them. At a cool 13 tracks (one of them being an interlude) that hover around an ambitious five-minute song length, the album is kept concise. Oh, yeah, and every single one of these tracks is pure frigginâ
  41. MBDTF
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    Without doubt one of the greatest albums of all time. An absolute must buy for any music fan! Oh and all of the people on hear who are giving it 0, are clearly just trolling.
  42. themostbrian
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    This album appropriates, encompasses, surpasses and even undermines the very notion of popular music. Fantasy reflects the deepest shortcomings of its author while also focusing an analytical lens on society as a whole to challenge the listener to find the same weaknesses in him/herself and his/her community. This album has some of the finest production ever conceived, brilliant guestThis album appropriates, encompasses, surpasses and even undermines the very notion of popular music. Fantasy reflects the deepest shortcomings of its author while also focusing an analytical lens on society as a whole to challenge the listener to find the same weaknesses in him/herself and his/her community. This album has some of the finest production ever conceived, brilliant guest appearances and some of the most interesting/challenging sampling possible.

    In sum: Absolutely worthy of the coming canonization.    … Expand
  43. brtausi
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    Kanye is niet altijd leuk om naar te luisteren, omdat hij altijd zegt wat hij vindt en niet wat er van hem wordt verwacht. Maar de zojuist genoemde eigenschap zorgt er voor dat dit misschien wel zijn beste album tot nu toe is. Na het incident op de VMA's vorig jaar heeft hij zich afgesloten van de wereld en de keuze gemaakt zich te richten op het enige wat nog niet van hem is afgenomen.Kanye is niet altijd leuk om naar te luisteren, omdat hij altijd zegt wat hij vindt en niet wat er van hem wordt verwacht. Maar de zojuist genoemde eigenschap zorgt er voor dat dit misschien wel zijn beste album tot nu toe is. Na het incident op de VMA's vorig jaar heeft hij zich afgesloten van de wereld en de keuze gemaakt zich te richten op het enige wat nog niet van hem is afgenomen. Muziek.

    Op Hawaï heeft hij samen met een hechte groep vrienden, zangers en producers een album gemaakt dat weer echt rap en hiphop moest worden. Daarbij heeft die de ervaring van 808's and heartbreak niet naast zich neer gelegd maar gebruikt om een unieke sfeer met melodiën en beats te creëeren. Maar rap is het zeker geworden. Van "Power", met de bombastische beat waarmee hij zijn rentree maakte tot "Dark Fantasy", de pure hiphop beats van "Monster", "So Appalled" en "Hell of a Life", Kanye is weer terug met scherpe teksten en zelfreflectie. Dat laatste komt het beste naar boven in "Runaway" en "Blame Game" waarin de meest gevoelige onderwerpen zitten. De verschillende stijlen op dit album liggen zo ver uit elkaar en toch passen ze heel goed bij elkaar. Net zoals "All of the lights", waar maar liefst 11 artiesten op mee doen. Ondanks dit grote aantal zorgt Kanye er voor dat het allemaal vloeiend in elkaar over gaat en nooit het gevoel geeft dat het "te druk" is. Het is samen met "Los in the World" (1 van de beste album afsluiters ooit) de 2 twee nummers die een episch stadion gevoel met zich meebrengen. Het werd als Kanye fan de laatste tijd steeds moeilijker om uit te leggen waarom, waarom blijven geloven in een persoon die altijd alles eruit gooit wanneer hem iets niet zint. Fans vergeven hun artiest de fouten die ze maken buiten de muziek om en beoordelen hem/haar door middel van de muziek die ze uit brengen. Michael Jackson en Amy Winehouse hebben ook zo hun fouten en moeilijke tijden doorgemaakt maar de muziek die door hun is gemaakt blijft fantastisch.

    Met dit album laat Kanye West zien dat hij de lat voor zichzelf zo hoog legt dat elk nummer weer iets nieuws brengt van ongekende klasse. Koop dit album, volume op 10 en ga mee in Kanye's Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy.    … Expand
  44. banders234
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    This album is unadulterated perfection. I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. This is definitely his best album, and it may be the best album of the year, it's just that good. After the VMA incident, he really buckled down to create a masterpiece, it was damaging to his reputation, but it was the best thing that could have happened to improve his art. He produced a true testamentThis album is unadulterated perfection. I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. This is definitely his best album, and it may be the best album of the year, it's just that good. After the VMA incident, he really buckled down to create a masterpiece, it was damaging to his reputation, but it was the best thing that could have happened to improve his art. He produced a true testament to his skill and creativity. This is one of the first albums that I can listen to from the first track to the last track multiple times in a row. If this album doesn't debut #1 on Billboard 200, that would be a real tragedy, because this album trumps Taylor Swift's and Rihanna's latest offerings convincingly.… Expand
  45. Heavil
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    Wauw. That is the first word that comes to mind, when I listen to this album. Before this album (and the tracks released in the period before the release) I wasn't exactly a fan of Kanye West. I despised 808s & Heartbreak.
    However, this album... Wauw. Brilliant all the way through.
    I knew something good was going to happen, when Kanye West released "Lord Lord Lord", but this is    Wauw. That is the first word that comes to mind, when I listen to this album. Before this album (and the tracks released in the period before the release) I wasn't exactly a fan of Kanye West. I despised 808s & Heartbreak.
    However, this album... Wauw. Brilliant all the way through.
    I knew something good was going to happen, when Kanye West released "Lord Lord Lord", but this is absolutely mind-blowing...
    Excellent production, amazing texts, wonderful cast of featured artists... and just the definition of music as an art. Definitely the album of 2010, and maybe even one of the best ever. It's definitely up there with the all time greats. A must have for everyone who enjoys music.    … Expand
  46. Reedy2010
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    Wow. I've never been into rap, nor do I think I ever will be, but this album is an absolute masterpiece and is one for the ages. Deserves to be in the hall of fame of greatest albums of all time right next to kid a, funeral, abbey road, dark side of the moon etc.
  47. Contmuscle
    Nov 22, 2010
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This album is pretty good. I've listened to it a few times and the first few I have really enjoyed it. This is important. But its also important to enjoy every song after a few plays and some of the songs start to ware thin, devil in a new dress and blame game, while others continue to keep my attention, notably monster and hell of a life. Overall solid album and one i was very excited to coming home to for a few days now. By comparison better than Graduation, a large precursor to this album, but not as good as college dropout, an album that differs in style from this greatly.… Expand
  48. Super-Evil-DOOM
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    This is beyond Hip Hop, this is something more. Kanye West just raised the bar for an entire genre and proved he has a magnificent capacity and knowledge of crafting music that has been unseen by anyone who calls themselves a rapper. I feel sorry for anyone who had a rap album this year, because everything, absolutely everything pales in comparison to My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy.
  49. je1house
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    Only time will tell if this surpasses The College Dropout as Kanye's best album. Taken in total with the G.O.O.D. Fridays 'Ye has been releasing since August, Fall 2010 has proven that Mr. West is undoubtably one of the most ambitious and talented artists of our time. If only his personality would match the strength of his records... 10/10.
  50. b3rtob3rto
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    haha its funny how Ye Haters are writing the same thing about being a former fan and not liking it now. If you do not like this album you are either not a fan of music or you are not a fan of music. Period!! this is music for the soul, for the club, for the heartbroken, for the arrogant, this is music for LIFE I was skeptical before because I did not really like 808s but I have to admithaha its funny how Ye Haters are writing the same thing about being a former fan and not liking it now. If you do not like this album you are either not a fan of music or you are not a fan of music. Period!! this is music for the soul, for the club, for the heartbroken, for the arrogant, this is music for LIFE I was skeptical before because I did not really like 808s but I have to admit Yeezy did G.O.OD… Expand
  51. maneville
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    This is album is simply on fire...Kanye has reinvented the whole hip-hop/rap scene with this record. He takes on different styles of production, and raps on a whole different level and topic. Also people please stop hating artists do change so don't hate because of it.
  52. Drag
    Nov 22, 2010
    0
    This album feels hollow compared to his last releases. The music itself is uninteresting and has Kanye trying to reinvent himself yet again; however, unlike past releases, he failed at creating a solid album.
  53. spamspaz
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    This album is the best of the year. The music is more polished, yet raw. The guests are varied and at their best. The message is complicated and rewarding. And overall, Kanye's verses are on the top, looking down on everyone else. I would hate him if he wasn't right, he is the best.
  54. Reviewer999
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    This album is exceptional. It is undoubtedly a classic that will appeal to those who like all genres of music, not just hip hop. Those giving this album negative reviews are clearly just concerned with the media's perception of Kanye rather than his exceptional musical talent and creativity.
  55. Film_Fanatic_15
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    Mr. West has proved himself to be a great musician since the beginning. But my his latest installment will have fans anticipating if he has anything more genius-like up his sleeve. The lyrics on each song are intelligent, but it's also the beats that hold the songs together. 'Runaway" is my favorite off this album. This is just amazing perfection.
  56. 7UP
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    It's been a while since I've heard music this good. Took me quite a few hours to listen to the whole thing because I kept replaying the tracks. I love it! Each and every song. Lost In The World is a really cool way to end the album with the spoken word.
  57. ABLien
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    This album brought us fans exactly what we have come to expect from Kanye, a complete departure from his previous sound. Luckily for us this new zone Kanye is in consists of some of the richest production hip hop has seen, the great lyricism, and well placed features that don't outshine Kanye. And to anyone complaining about number of tracks on the album, G.O.O.D Fridays!
  58. GabroMuzik
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The best album of the year...so far!!!!! this the sound of the future, the sound of real hip-hop and rap music, the sound of the music...this is Kanye West!!! great artist and a real genius...! this album is so creative, original and perfect!!! the best album of his career...! i wan t this album in my country! great lyrics, crazy and awesome! perfect album!!!!!!… Expand
  59. Dexidus
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    Easily the best realization of all of Kanye's talents. He has improved greatly as an emcee. The music is extremely ambitious, and he still hasn't compromised what drew so many people towards his music in the first place -- his honesty. This is a tremendous piece of art (probably his best overall album), that truly secures Kanye West's place as an American icon and one of the greatestEasily the best realization of all of Kanye's talents. He has improved greatly as an emcee. The music is extremely ambitious, and he still hasn't compromised what drew so many people towards his music in the first place -- his honesty. This is a tremendous piece of art (probably his best overall album), that truly secures Kanye West's place as an American icon and one of the greatest musicians of the 21st century.… Expand
  60. Padraig_Clarke
    Nov 22, 2010
    0
    I used to love Kanye's music, but this album is awful. Some of the language he uses is just downright rude and I believe Kanye should be ashamed of himself. He has lost himself a fan after this album. It was despicable. What appals me even more is the positive reviews it has got from various esteemed critics
  61. muzztmt
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    Imma let you finish, but this is an awesome album. Every track is boldly produced and perfectly. And it has a certain flame within each song.
  62. ClemRusty
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    this album is arguably the best album of all-time. no doubt that it is his best yet. its written well as a lyricist and a songwriter and maniacally produced. its the most weird and beautiful music I've ever heard. I wish the album had more songs to amaze us. and one more thing...Christian Dior Denim Flow should have made the album!...
  63. DJ99X
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    One of the best albums of all time. Of all time!

    Seriously though. Can't believe how good he is. His 4th masterpiece. The beat on 'All of the Lights' is insane.
  64. Faisel
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    What a great Album. Comes from Kanye's heart. This album is to everyone who has questioned Kanye West's artistic abilities. Very deep, and a new approach to hip-hop.

    Is this album going to change Hip Hop for good?
  65. kettege_cheese
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    This album is so much different then Kanye's previous albums. His lyrics an punch lines sound more edgier and have more raw flow. Kanye is a genius and brings creativity to the for front with this album. The only downfall is that its only 13 songs long, it keeps me wanting more
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Awards & Rankings

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

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
94

Universal acclaim - based on 45 Critic Reviews

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