The Life Of Pablo
by Kanye West
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 2238 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,797 out of 2238
  2. Mixed: 179 out of 2238
  3. Negative: 262 out of 2238
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  1. AirMartino347
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    In the same class as MBDTF. Giving it a 10/10 only because MBDTF was perfect and this album is still very good. Kanye is a dick and always ill be blinded by his ego but he can produce some amazing pieces of art.
  2. kogsbogs
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Forget for one second the author of this creation and let yourself free fall into the sonics of this masterpiece.
    Reveal the layers to your soul......
  3. GamerAnt
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Its unreal how good this album is. I have listened to this album over and over again back to back without the need to skip a single track. Some of these songs like Ultra Light Beam and Low lights have gave me chills. Kanye has really out did himself on this work of art. This album may come across a bit random by its great in its our merit. I only wish there was a bonus track of wolves withIts unreal how good this album is. I have listened to this album over and over again back to back without the need to skip a single track. Some of these songs like Ultra Light Beam and Low lights have gave me chills. Kanye has really out did himself on this work of art. This album may come across a bit random by its great in its our merit. I only wish there was a bonus track of wolves with Vic Mensa and Sia (Which appears to be coming later) would top put it over the top. Definitely in my top 2 albums of Kanye rivaling MBDTF.… Expand
  4. DudeDude2020
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    This is not a cohesive, well put together album, as evidenced by the constantly changing name/ tracklist prior to the 2 day late release. However even they they don't flow together so well, these songs are emotional, angry and soulful, with some great modern production.
    Some of Kanye's lyrics are a bit questionable, but for the most part, he holds his own. Super neat album.
  5. DownHere
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    What can i say, kanye does it agian. The album of life he says, and that is trough. The album is meant to be uncohesive, its about everything kanye has done in his life up to this point. Kanye never does thing twice, and this is what we get, a 2016 BBQ for life
  6. Orudomonki
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Kanye West has really delivered something beautiful. It's so diverse and fresh. I almost cried when I heard Ultralight Beam for the first time. Damn Kanye, why you keep me waiting like that man? A Roller-coaster ride, which will be on loop for a very long time.
  7. ILIKEBJS
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Another masterpiece from Kanye. Truly one of the greatest artists of our generation. Classic Kanye lines and some great soul songs. Production is unparalleled in hip-hop today. The best hip-hop album since "To Pimp a Butterfly" (Thank you Chance for Waves and your verse on Ultralight Beam)
  8. Yeenius
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Just about every song including the bonus tracks are wonderful. Production is absolutely top notch. Gives an interesting glimpse into this very conflicted stage of the life of Kanye West. It has beautiful gospel singing as well as absolutely vulgar rhymes (bleached t shirts) that portray Kanye's struggle trying to transition from rock star to family man.
  9. Mlungisi
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Kanye West is once again leading the music industry in a new direction.
    This album is a piece of art which speaks a lot to the modern times of Donald trump politics and plus size models.
    The world no longer accepts the idea of perfection/beauty as what we have become accustomed to and Kanye is echoing that in a way only he can. He makes it clear that he is the conductor an entirely    Kanye West is once again leading the music industry in a new direction.
    This album is a piece of art which speaks a lot to the modern times of Donald trump politics and plus size models.
    The world no longer accepts the idea of perfection/beauty as what we have become accustomed to and Kanye is echoing that in a way only he can.
    He makes it clear that he is the conductor an entirely different orchestra, and the result is magnificent.    … Expand
  10. usarice123
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    A natural feeling evolution of his past albums with heavy emphasis on soundscapes that take you to a whole different place. Most enjoyable album since Channel Orange in 2012 for me
  11. kennythekoala
    Feb 13, 2016
    10
    This album is unapologetically Kanye. I would say it is strongly influenced by 808s and Heartbreaks, Yeezus, and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. If you were a fan of those albums, you will find something to love about The Life of Pablo. The production on this album is absolutely insane. The beats are fantastic, the songs have progression, the songs are rapid fire and give you a twistedThis album is unapologetically Kanye. I would say it is strongly influenced by 808s and Heartbreaks, Yeezus, and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. If you were a fan of those albums, you will find something to love about The Life of Pablo. The production on this album is absolutely insane. The beats are fantastic, the songs have progression, the songs are rapid fire and give you a twisted view of Kanye's reality.… Expand
  12. clouie99
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Kanye's best album. It's a blend of all of his past work put into one project. Everything else is perfection. collabs on point as with the production. my only complaint is that Vic Mensa and Sia aren't on Wolves.
    Favorites: FML, Waves, Fade, Famous
  13. Sukhvirlam12
    Feb 18, 2016
    10
    Phenomenal. Kanye is 7/7. How does he DO THIS? How does one continue to create so much amazingness. Thank you Kanye. Looking forward to the new released version.
  14. digitallinh
    Feb 28, 2016
    10
    Kanye West does it again. This is not his best album, but it contains some of the best songs he has ever produced. Waves, FML, Real Friends, Wolves, Ultralight Beam, Father stretch my hands pt 1,2
  15. BenCollier100
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Kanye West is back with one of his best projects ever. There are too many incredible tracks on this record to mention. All I'll say is that ULB is one of the best songs I've ever heard. This album oozes style and soulful swagger - perfection.
  16. augdawgg
    Feb 24, 2016
    10
    This album is amazing. It is hard to not get goose bumps in the beginning the Ultra Light Beams. The album flows from gospel to hype with Father stretch my hands pt 2 to chill vibes with wolves and real friends to just good songs like 30 hours and Facts. Album is a perfect 10 no doubt.
  17. ILLmatic94
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    TLOP features some of the best production on a Kanye album since MBDTF. Musically this album is a mixture of 808s, College Dropout and MBDTF to form a beautiful abstract sonic experience that can't be quantified with a rating. Lyrically Kanye is once again scrutinising his own actions, mental state and his past. Kanye doesn't conform to what people expect from him, in fact he addresses hisTLOP features some of the best production on a Kanye album since MBDTF. Musically this album is a mixture of 808s, College Dropout and MBDTF to form a beautiful abstract sonic experience that can't be quantified with a rating. Lyrically Kanye is once again scrutinising his own actions, mental state and his past. Kanye doesn't conform to what people expect from him, in fact he addresses his fan's constant yearning for "old Kanye". TLOP needs to be heard, reviews are cool but go listen for yourself fam.… Expand
  18. bdek16
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    As a huge fan of "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy" Kanye, this is the kind of album I've been waiting for since 2010. All sorts of genres as well as phases of hip-hop are covered, from Ultra Light Beams-Gospel, to Highlights-modern rap... Truly a work of art. Wouldn't expect any less from Kanye.
  19. dannybb1433
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    This album is beautiful. A lot of people will not like the autotune, but this could be his most personal work to date, and his best produced album too
  20. Asofnowyoudie
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Kanye West introduces gospel beats, and new collaborations to the rap genre which creates an amazing album. While the songs aren't too cohesive and come from a lot of different directions, all of them are top notch.
  21. Radiohead2000
    Apr 9, 2016
    10
    Not his best, but still a very solid album by one of the greatest to ever do it. I liked it a lot, very different, very original, very Kanye. It's Kanye pushing the boundaries once, Kanye has made The Life Of Pablo a living breathing thing. It's fascinating.
  22. abscherz
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Nearly every song is refreshing. Favorite tracks: Waves, FLM, Real Friends, Wolves, No More Parties in LA, Famous. Least favorite: Facts

    Needless to say if you're a Kanye fan, you won't be disappointed.
  23. calljohno
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Ignore the noise that comes from the haters, this album is beautiful. I feel that any person that objectively listens to this album will see it for the masterpiece that it is. It isn't Kanye's best. MBDTF is still his best album, and is a pretty high standard. I strongly believe that this will likely be the best hip-hop album of the year. Kanye is at his most honest, revealing new truthsIgnore the noise that comes from the haters, this album is beautiful. I feel that any person that objectively listens to this album will see it for the masterpiece that it is. It isn't Kanye's best. MBDTF is still his best album, and is a pretty high standard. I strongly believe that this will likely be the best hip-hop album of the year. Kanye is at his most honest, revealing new truths about himself--receiving professional treatment for depression and anxiety, his early girlfriend Sumeke Rainey cheating on him, and his father leaving him and his mom. Kanye raps about himself, which some people frown upon, but I find that I am able to learn a lot about myself by listening to artists that sing/rap about themselves; it helps me to analyze my own feelings. The sound of the album is fresh and new to the mainstream. I'm sure that the version of the album that will actually be held for sale will be different from what is currently streaming on Tidal, so I will reserve a more in-depth review once the official version is released.… Expand
  24. Maj23
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Best album he's made since Dark Twisted Fantasy. Wish the songs were a little longer but I like how it isn't just 10 songs like before. I love this album like Kanye loves Kanye.
  25. DoTheFrowns69
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    If Yeezus was an album with no pop filter, then The Life of Pablo is a pop album with no filter. Yeezus was about the aesthetic; it sought to create, through its instrumentals and lyrics, an album that had a singular, harsh, and uncompromising sound. On TLOP, Kanye maintains that experimental, free-wheeling vibe, but don’t be mistaken: this album definitely stands on its own. This album isIf Yeezus was an album with no pop filter, then The Life of Pablo is a pop album with no filter. Yeezus was about the aesthetic; it sought to create, through its instrumentals and lyrics, an album that had a singular, harsh, and uncompromising sound. On TLOP, Kanye maintains that experimental, free-wheeling vibe, but don’t be mistaken: this album definitely stands on its own. This album is full-on, no-holds-barred, Kanye West; he pulls out every trick, aesthetic, and guest in his bag of tricks, and ends up with a truly amazing album.
    Fans of Kanye’s work may be taken aback by TLOP at first, because it’s the first album in a long time where he doesn’t try to create a genre-defying work of art. Instead, he decides to slow down, look back on what he’s done, and play with it in his music. There’s bits of every album he’s ever created in here; some tracks would fit comfortably on Late Registration, while others are so dark and animalistic that they could’ve served as the intro to Yeezus. This diversity might make the tracks on this album seem disconnected, but it actually speaks to the variety that exists between all of his albums. I’ll put it this way: if you’re a Kanye fan, this is your dream album. If you’re new to his work, however, I would hesitate to recommend it to you. If you haven’t grown used to the auto-tuned, simplistic lyricism of 808’s and Heartbreak, or the brute arrogance of Yeezus (both of which are excellently utilized here), then this will seem like a strange, confusing piece of work. It takes a certain knowledge of Kanye the artist, and a certain appreciation of his work, to truly enjoy this album. To put it simply, if you're not about Kanye West, then you might not be about this album.
    Once you’re willing to take the plunge, however, you’ll find that this is a very well-crafted, enjoyable assortment of aesthetics. Kanye draws from the very best, most interesting aspects of his music, and somehow fits it all together like only he could. Some tracks have him spitting bars energetically (“Feedback”), while others have him reduced to such primitive lyrics that you wonder if he’s actually blacked out in the studio (“Freestyle 4”). “Highlights” feels like “Good Life” part 2, while the crescendo of “FML” feels like a spiritual successor to “Hold My Liquor”. By looking back, Kanye draws not only from himself, but also from those he’s inspired. The incredible intro “Ultralight Beam” brings in Chance the Rapper, who belts out one of his best guest verses of all time while praising his mentor and favorite rapper. “Facts” is such a Drake song that you’d almost accuse Kanye of being unoriginal, until you remember that 808’s was the album that spawned Drizzy’s aesthetic in the first place. Despite the familiarity, none of this feels like a retread. Rather, it feels like a summary; like the biography of an artist. Fitting, I guess, that it be called the Life of Pablo.    … Expand
  26. imdajudgem8
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    This album is beautiful. A lot of people will not like the autotune, but this could be his most personal work to date, and his best produced album too! The features all did brilliant, and the lyricism is reminiscent of Graduation and 808s. Stellar work from a genius!
  27. kali_michael
    Feb 13, 2016
    10
    this album is so excellent. i think it'll be almost as good as MBDTF. The sounds are just so beautiful, and the features are on point, the lyrics are crazy. Definitely buying this.
  28. nicopatella
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    This is MDBTF meets Happy Yeezus. It fits the MDBTF structure and it's so well done, so well executed, so interesting, so complex.... This is the Kanye West of albums.
  29. jesseurbancsik
    Feb 12, 2016
    10
    When is Kanye actually going to release this album? My GOD, it's been a while. I watched the live stream of the debut. Great as always. Great features, except the cut of Vic Mensa and Sia on "Wolves". That was a great song. Frank Ocean is a great feature but not as good as Sia and Mensa. Oh, well. The album is a combination of all his past albums. Great lyrics about Taylor Swift, Kim and Rob.
  30. tannerparsons
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Love him or hate him, we are living among one of the greatest musical producers ever. His talent and ability to change the game (and do it well) at the drop of a hat sets him apart from any other artist. Kanye gets away with things that no other artist ever could because he has such a unique way of crafting a song. Kanye is an egotistical maniac, but he's musically gifted, and I won't letLove him or hate him, we are living among one of the greatest musical producers ever. His talent and ability to change the game (and do it well) at the drop of a hat sets him apart from any other artist. Kanye gets away with things that no other artist ever could because he has such a unique way of crafting a song. Kanye is an egotistical maniac, but he's musically gifted, and I won't let my bias against his ego stand in the way of me recognizing that history will view Kaye as a revolutionary artist.… Expand
  31. finnbarrh
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    this is a god dream. sonically one of the best albums i have ever heard. kanye going down in the history books. every sound is so precise and glorious to listen to.
  32. zrvnavi
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    Kanye has made a greatest hits album for himself with new songs. Taking notes from the most important albums in hip hop (his own) Kanye is able to create a celebration of his music.
  33. danielsons
    Feb 19, 2016
    10
    HOLY **** what an amazing album since the first music you can feel that is an other level song. Totally recommended! Best Kanye album in my opinion. Worthy listening
  34. freak4
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Too early to give a full verdict on this album, however, I will say that I enjoyed the hell out of this album. Listening to this album was like a spiritual journey; a religious experience. One of my favorite Kanye albums as of now (TOP 5), and I love the way that he effortlessly genre bends and fuses different music styles such as soul, gospel, jazz, hip hop, and pop together to create aToo early to give a full verdict on this album, however, I will say that I enjoyed the hell out of this album. Listening to this album was like a spiritual journey; a religious experience. One of my favorite Kanye albums as of now (TOP 5), and I love the way that he effortlessly genre bends and fuses different music styles such as soul, gospel, jazz, hip hop, and pop together to create a relatively cohesive and compelling body of work. A great album, that has a ton of replay value. A worthy addition to one of Hip Hop’s finest discographies.… Expand
  35. mc_ryn
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    PROUD OF MY BOY KANYE.

    Best discography all time my friends.

    The instrumentation is pleasing to the now, and the past.

    Kanye = Genius..............
  36. Srefly
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    When I heard the first song sounded like it was being transported to heaven.
    This album sounds like it was made for me. I mean this album is worth every penny spent on it.
    The production is so perfect
    Who likes Kanye West will surely like this
    10/10
  37. G2TRU
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Another fantastic album from Kanye West. The life of Pablo takes bits and pieces from every album Kanye has ever released all into one. Sonically it is a masterpiece. Lyrically he holds his own. Mixing is near perfect. All the collaborators on this album stand out and complement each other. Album is a spiritual journey though all that makes Kanye so unique. You will get brash and confidentAnother fantastic album from Kanye West. The life of Pablo takes bits and pieces from every album Kanye has ever released all into one. Sonically it is a masterpiece. Lyrically he holds his own. Mixing is near perfect. All the collaborators on this album stand out and complement each other. Album is a spiritual journey though all that makes Kanye so unique. You will get brash and confident Kanye West. And you also will get Sad and Vulnerable Kanye West. Conveying the message that this is all a gods dream. Kanye is a dreamer and has vividly portrayed his dream to the masses though out his entire career. And he has done so again. Whether you love him or hate him it you should still give this a listen.… Expand
  38. reece2208
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Kanye sampled microphone feedback and then produced a freaking BANGER with it! Yeezy brought the fire! The world doesn't deserve beats this good. Hip-hop has changed once again and as always Kanye is the catalyst.
  39. hotlinebling
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Goat lyrics for goat beats. That Taylor thing don't change how this alberm is full of good intentions. After God shown him the way and became a god Kanye surrenders to the light beam. The life of Pablo is a huge even when Sia howls louder than Frank. Life is a blessing whoever Pablo is.
  40. tinyhatpat
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    This album is like a hybrid of all the great parts from his previous albums. Reminds me of the old Dark Twisted Fantasy Album. I used to say I missed the old Kanye... This makes me love the new Kanye.
  41. NickSiscoe
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    A perfect combination of everything good about Kanye and it's a great album to add to his discography. Years from now Kanye will be talked about and respected for the amazing artist he is.
  42. Mack_Fraser
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    In many ways, this album feels like a summation of all of Kanye's work to date. It includes sample heavy production work like his earlier albums, it has some conspicuous auto-tune like Heart Breaks and 808's and it has some skeletal production like his work with Daft Punk on Yeezus. They all get thrown into a mix that probably most resembles My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasies but alsoIn many ways, this album feels like a summation of all of Kanye's work to date. It includes sample heavy production work like his earlier albums, it has some conspicuous auto-tune like Heart Breaks and 808's and it has some skeletal production like his work with Daft Punk on Yeezus. They all get thrown into a mix that probably most resembles My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasies but also feels incredibly vital and fresh. This freshness is reinforced in the way that it covers interesting new lyrical territory for Kanye with his rhymes often discussing the transition from being single to being a family man and father. An artist summing himself up musically during a period of personal transition. Great stuff. And personally, I've wanted to hear Kanye and Chance the Rapper together forever. Dreams do come true.… Expand
  43. luizfelipeluiz
    Feb 12, 2016
    10
    Best album of his since 2010s Twisted Fantasy. The chase for new sounds, experiments new borders to cross as producer and rapper. It's a gem. The collabs are crazy.
  44. eli_obeid
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    You know what really ticks me off... when people like "The Guardain" and "The Daily Telegraph" who aren't even real/proper critiques and basically know NOTHING about 'Hip-Hop/Rap' give out ratings. It grinds my gears, because; 1) They don't know what they're talking about as critiquing albums isn't their profession.... and 2) They're bring down the overall rating of the album. VeryYou know what really ticks me off... when people like "The Guardain" and "The Daily Telegraph" who aren't even real/proper critiques and basically know NOTHING about 'Hip-Hop/Rap' give out ratings. It grinds my gears, because; 1) They don't know what they're talking about as critiquing albums isn't their profession.... and 2) They're bring down the overall rating of the album. Very disapointed how Metacritic even allows them to voice their opinion, their a newspaper company for Christ sake ahahaha... Anyway enough from that rant.... the album is perfect and is another "College Dropout" classic, Congrats Ye... #Yeezyseason… Expand
  45. astroboy97
    Feb 12, 2016
    10
    As an avid Kanye fan for all my life, I had little hope for this album. I heard it through the Yeezy s3 and got a near CDQ version of the original tracklist from a good friend of mine. After listening to it through 3-4 times, this last work feels almost transcendental. It makes all the other music today almost seem "boring", maybe because it is a new album from a musical icon, butAs an avid Kanye fan for all my life, I had little hope for this album. I heard it through the Yeezy s3 and got a near CDQ version of the original tracklist from a good friend of mine. After listening to it through 3-4 times, this last work feels almost transcendental. It makes all the other music today almost seem "boring", maybe because it is a new album from a musical icon, but nonetheless I felt immersed in history in motion. The grand opening of ultra light beam represented everything about Kanye. When he makes an entrance, he makes a grand one, such was the case with the intro track. Coupled with the brighter tracks of the album, Kanye once again masterfully combines the diversity of today's hip hop while staying true to his roots of always evolving as a musician and ALWAYS, NO MATTER WHAT, being the underdog.… Expand
  46. DustyCamp405
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    The Best Rapper of our generation... a living legend.................................................................................................!
  47. LDyhrKopp
    Feb 13, 2016
    10
    Wow, Kanye has done it again. This album really demonstrates his incredible ability to innovate in music. The whole album hasn't been released yet, however I have listened to the tidal live stream about 5/6 times now and it delivers on his promise of being an exceptional album. TLOP really makes the rest of music out right now seem watered down, and lacking a certain bang that came withWow, Kanye has done it again. This album really demonstrates his incredible ability to innovate in music. The whole album hasn't been released yet, however I have listened to the tidal live stream about 5/6 times now and it delivers on his promise of being an exceptional album. TLOP really makes the rest of music out right now seem watered down, and lacking a certain bang that came with this piece of music. My only concern is that Kanye is considering putting "FACTS" on the final product. If he does that sadly there will be one track on this album to make it imperfect, but otherwise it's a certified masterpiece.… Expand
  48. michaelsimpson
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    This album is as close to perfect as Yeezy could've gotten. There are only two songs on the entire album that I have issues with, and that's only because I don't see how they feel in the overall narrative of the album. I don't mind them being there but I know I will likely make a playlist out of the album in iTunes and just remove those two particular tracks. I won't say which two I amThis album is as close to perfect as Yeezy could've gotten. There are only two songs on the entire album that I have issues with, and that's only because I don't see how they feel in the overall narrative of the album. I don't mind them being there but I know I will likely make a playlist out of the album in iTunes and just remove those two particular tracks. I won't say which two I am referring to as it is up to you to decide what this album does for you.

    Lyrically he is exactly where he should be at this point. And while I didn't think he would take any chances sonically, I am happy to report this album is just as DIFFERENT as his last three have been from each other...which is always a good thing in his case. Because he innovates and looks for the paths he hasn't travelled and always seems to choose something like a star. Robert Frost would be proud.    … Expand
  49. KostaK
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    The album is Kanye, fantastic and an emotional journey of music. The album was well worth the delay and the amount spent. The only thing i would say could be improved is certain song, ones you will know if you listen, feel out of place on a Kanye Album. Certain Lyrics lack creativity but can be overlooked. Overall 'The Life of Pablo' is a phenomenal album and shows perfectly how fantasticThe album is Kanye, fantastic and an emotional journey of music. The album was well worth the delay and the amount spent. The only thing i would say could be improved is certain song, ones you will know if you listen, feel out of place on a Kanye Album. Certain Lyrics lack creativity but can be overlooked. Overall 'The Life of Pablo' is a phenomenal album and shows perfectly how fantastic Kanye is as a producer/artist/.… Expand
  50. rahmaniac2222
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Seriously, people hate on Kanye so much, but name one rapper who has as much influence and who changes the game as much as he does. Every single album is so different, it could be released by a different artist. TLOP is no different. He hasn't spit this well since College Dropout and the beats and production are on another level as usual. There is no comparison. Yeezus Christ is the singleSeriously, people hate on Kanye so much, but name one rapper who has as much influence and who changes the game as much as he does. Every single album is so different, it could be released by a different artist. TLOP is no different. He hasn't spit this well since College Dropout and the beats and production are on another level as usual. There is no comparison. Yeezus Christ is the single best artist of our generation. TLOP is testimony to that.… Expand
  51. Neymar
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Cette album est juste une tuerie!!! Peut-être son album le plus aboutie avec MBDTF. On aura attendu 3 ans, mais ça valait vraiment le coût. Sur cette album on le droit à tout, on passe du gospel, au rap futuriste, et aussi au bon vieux rap oldschool. Et puis ce final sur Fade pour conclure l'album. Je crois bien avoir eu une érection en l'écoutant. Un album grandiose et sans aucun doute leCette album est juste une tuerie!!! Peut-être son album le plus aboutie avec MBDTF. On aura attendu 3 ans, mais ça valait vraiment le coût. Sur cette album on le droit à tout, on passe du gospel, au rap futuriste, et aussi au bon vieux rap oldschool. Et puis ce final sur Fade pour conclure l'album. Je crois bien avoir eu une érection en l'écoutant. Un album grandiose et sans aucun doute le meilleur de cette année.… Expand
  52. negativeboy
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Apesar do verso para aquela pessoa, o álbum é mais uma obra de arte do Kanye, como sempre ele fazendo um ótimo trabalho, se superando cada vez mais.
    Maravilhoso álbum!    … Expand
  53. TrippyTippy
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Kanye has opened new doors to Hip Hop with this album. I've never heard anything like this before. The production is fantastic, the features all hit, Kanye shows us more of his unique personality. Truly the album of life.
  54. HQ12Z
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Great album overall. weak beat here and there, weak line here and there but almost every track in the album is sweet listen. although i would give up on few stupid lines like Taylor's swift line, kanye bring great bars and lyrics on most of it, and in some tracks like Real Friends and No More Parties in L.A its his best lyrics i've heard in few years.
  55. MadBuc
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Best album since MBDTF. The Life Of Pablo really touches your soul and force to reflect about this world. The first track (Ultralight Beam) perfectly introduces you, what this album about. Kanye West AGAIN succeeded to show, why he is one of the best of ALL TIME
  56. willhelmpedro
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Amazing album with absolutely crazy production. Ultra Light Beam one of the most unique and best hip-hop song OAT. Album's theme is shown by the juxtaposition of artistic, beautiful moments (Pablo Picasso) and darker beats and lyrics (Pablo Escobar). Outro to Famous, Father Stretch My Hands pt. 1 + 2, FML and Real Friends are highlights… Expand
  57. owenooo
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Master piece. Depsite all the controversy and rants, this is how you incorporate other genres while maintaining the integrity of the product - sonically and harmonically
  58. Cancerbro
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Man oh man oh man, I could write an essay on this album. The self-realization of the protagonist's identity throughout the album, the progression of his sexual relationships from young innocent to wild then settling into maturity, the way kanye made the album play like a Greek epic while still having insane features (Kendrick Lamar's best verse of her career, Chance on Ultralight Beam,Man oh man oh man, I could write an essay on this album. The self-realization of the protagonist's identity throughout the album, the progression of his sexual relationships from young innocent to wild then settling into maturity, the way kanye made the album play like a Greek epic while still having insane features (Kendrick Lamar's best verse of her career, Chance on Ultralight Beam, Chris Brown on Waves). The timing of this album drop too, after receiving hate for his barrier pushing sound in his previous album, showing everyone who doubted him that he still got some of the best production skills in the game. TLOP gets a 11/10 in my book, wonderful piece.… Expand
  59. eldestz
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Kanye has been known for releasing incredible game-changing albums. This album is no different. I literally cannot think of a song I do not like. The features are expertly utilized, the tracks have such incredible emotion behind them, what's there not to like about this album? A common critique has been lack of cohesiveness, but I disagree. I really feel like there is a clear themeKanye has been known for releasing incredible game-changing albums. This album is no different. I literally cannot think of a song I do not like. The features are expertly utilized, the tracks have such incredible emotion behind them, what's there not to like about this album? A common critique has been lack of cohesiveness, but I disagree. I really feel like there is a clear theme throughout most of the album.… Expand
  60. YungMarc
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    great!! these beats are on point and the lyrics are references to the reality
    pretty sure that album deserves an position on Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame
    please, take off some Led Zeppelin albuns and put Kanye's TLOP there
  61. metacement
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    This album is a masterpiece. The production as melodic as some of his previous work on Graduation at times and also drawing some neo-soul/gospel inferences from Kendrick Lamar, who he was at times in the studio with, is juxtaposed with the techno-punk and trap infused beats of Yeezus and other similar works. Most will enjoy this album as one of his best and some will see it as close to hisThis album is a masterpiece. The production as melodic as some of his previous work on Graduation at times and also drawing some neo-soul/gospel inferences from Kendrick Lamar, who he was at times in the studio with, is juxtaposed with the techno-punk and trap infused beats of Yeezus and other similar works. Most will enjoy this album as one of his best and some will see it as close to his worst, however much like Picasso (Pablo Picasso) even his worst is better than most.… Expand
  62. BeatPro
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Kanye West is back with one of the most inspiring albums ever. Production and guests are both stellar, hands down, this is church brothers and sister, church!
  63. rcmarcelo
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    I've been waiting for this album since 2014. I think it's Kanye's best album since MBDTF. Production, Lyrics, Samples, everything. Kanye's really a genious.
  64. goochie
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Kanye West comes through again with another great album. This is a mixture of all his best albums that include soul samples, great melodies, and heavy hitting drums. Great features on the album as well, as opposed to the not so critically acclaimed Yeezus in 2013. This is easily going to go down as one of his best album and will contend for album of the year.
  65. sand-to-glass
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Anyone that says this album doesn't live up to the hype is basing their opinion completely on their hate for Kanye as a person. The man may be arrogant and a complete **** but the music he creates is still some of the best you'll find today.

    The Life of Pablo is a hit, it's like listening to a greatest hits album of songs that you've never heard before. The only downside is he took out    Anyone that says this album doesn't live up to the hype is basing their opinion completely on their hate for Kanye as a person. The man may be arrogant and a complete **** but the music he creates is still some of the best you'll find today.

    The Life of Pablo is a hit, it's like listening to a greatest hits album of songs that you've never heard before.
    The only downside is he took out Vic and Sia out of wolves (although Frank Ocean as a feature was almost just as good) but the album is still some of the best rap/hip hop I've heard in a long time.    … Expand
  66. knowaht
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    This album is Kanye's Book of Revelation in the Bible of Yeezus. While he passes judgement on his enemies (one of which includes himself) in this chaotic, warped set of 17 beautifully produced tracks, he also maintains an atmosphere of optimism, redemption, and happiness that he's finally found in the closing chapter of his discography. Highlights include Ultra Lightbeam, the second partThis album is Kanye's Book of Revelation in the Bible of Yeezus. While he passes judgement on his enemies (one of which includes himself) in this chaotic, warped set of 17 beautifully produced tracks, he also maintains an atmosphere of optimism, redemption, and happiness that he's finally found in the closing chapter of his discography. Highlights include Ultra Lightbeam, the second part of Father Stretch My Hands (Desiigner is going to have a hell of a career), and FML.… Expand
  67. adamlikesmusic
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    This album sounds like a greatest hits album of new songs. It's a little wild and all of the place, but in the best way possible. It all comes together somehow in a way that I can't even explain with words. Amazing album. "Kanyeezy you did it again. You a genius".
  68. joe9685
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Best album he's made since Dark Twisted Fantasy. Wish the songs were a little longer but I like how it isn't just 10 songs like before. I love this album like Kanye loves Kanye.
  69. Jones95
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Kanye is yet to disappoint and TLOP adds yet another masterpiece to his discography, which was epic enough as it was. There are moments that sound like each one of his past releases so if you're a fan of all that came before, this should satisfy. The production here is mind-blowing and unique, particularly on tracks such as Ultra Light Beam and Wolves. Music at it's controversial finest,Kanye is yet to disappoint and TLOP adds yet another masterpiece to his discography, which was epic enough as it was. There are moments that sound like each one of his past releases so if you're a fan of all that came before, this should satisfy. The production here is mind-blowing and unique, particularly on tracks such as Ultra Light Beam and Wolves. Music at it's controversial finest, from a living artistic legend.… Expand
  70. fatihaslan
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    THis Album is so inspiring !!
    Kanye change the melancholy mindset in the genre Hip HOP !! This album is a great revolution for the music
    The Life Of Pablo is certainly rich in musical range, chock a block with inspired ideas for the music. He has restored sight to his elementary basics of good output arts.
  71. suyash
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    i already wrote a review but I am rewriting it.
    This album is insane. I have not enjoyed any album this much for a while. Production wise this album is great. Lyrics are bit on and off there for sure. But the whole album sounds so **** good that you forget about the lyrics.
    I think Kanye's main focus was on production and combining his earlier innovations into this one masterpiece.    i already wrote a review but I am rewriting it.
    This album is insane. I have not enjoyed any album this much for a while. Production wise this album is great. Lyrics are bit on and off there for sure. But the whole album sounds so **** good that you forget about the lyrics.
    I think Kanye's main focus was on production and combining his earlier innovations into this one masterpiece. Musically it is intended to be incohesive since it combines different genres.Thematically upto 'waves' it is pretty tight and kanye has mentioned 30 hours as a bonus track on the track itself. So after that its just a bunch of excellent songs.
    While MBTDF(again 10) was great both lyrically and sonically it had some lengthy songs on second half of the .album.
    This album while falling short lyrically covers that shortcoming neatly. Some songs are sweet version of 'Yeezus' songs .
    I headbanged so hard on Highlights ! Mannn!    … Expand
  72. Chriiispy
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    The Life of Pablo is a fantastic representation of the evolution of an artist and a producer that is Kanye West. It is a wonderful culmination of some of his best works. Songs like No More Parties in LA and Facts reflect Kanye at his rap prime, allowing reminiscence of albums such as Late Registration and Graduation. Many of the songs steal from the 808s & Heartbreak style, which may haveThe Life of Pablo is a fantastic representation of the evolution of an artist and a producer that is Kanye West. It is a wonderful culmination of some of his best works. Songs like No More Parties in LA and Facts reflect Kanye at his rap prime, allowing reminiscence of albums such as Late Registration and Graduation. Many of the songs steal from the 808s & Heartbreak style, which may have been a very controversial one, but instead change the theme from that of a melancholic, depressed man to that of one basking in his own success and greatness. And finally, any Kanye fan will instantly see a resemblance in structure to the masterpiece that was his fifth solo studio album. My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. Anybody who offers hate refuses to witness the transformation and evolution of Kanye as an artist which has been a magnificent and beautiful ride.… Expand
  73. MalcolmNull
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Incredible album. Best way to describe it is trap gospel. No one else is making music like this. Definitely his best album since my beautiful dark twisted fantasy. First half of the is on par in terms of sound and production
  74. mattsucks
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    A lot of people base their hatred for kanye's music from his personality without actually hearing his music and what he has to say. fantastic album with all great tracks.
  75. israelvg49
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    I already knew Kanye was going to come up with a project ahead of time, he did it The College Dropout, 808's, and MBDTF, and of COURSE Yeezus. Amazing production, lyrics were very solid, PERFECT HOOKS, and outstanding features. Has to be in the top 5 for the year of 2016.
  76. hockey8925
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Beautifully done. Not many albums pull this type of emotion out of you. Kanye has once again created a masterpiece. Famous, FML, Waves and many other tracks create a listening experience that not many other album can rival. Congrats, Mr. West.
  77. pbaylis
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Kanye continues to create astounding album after album and this one does not change that. Still listening and deciding if its better than MBDTF and Yeezus. His promise to fix Wolves should help that
  78. jayjayguy2
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    I don't think you can dislike this and like music at the same time. This is a pure body of work from one of the most creative musicians. So many people will **** on this album without giving it a chance just because they dislike Kanye. Just listen to it front to back and you'll know exactly what I mean.
  79. DavidAndrews
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Another mesh of amazing sounds. Starts off on a very high note and keeps the energy going throughout the album. The only thing holding it back from a perfect 10 were some questionable lyrics on a couple songs.
  80. wewenttowharton
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Kanye remasters the sprawl on this album. Ever since 808s, Kanye has focused his sound, channeling single aesthetics and honing his production skills, growing further from pop. However, on TLOP, we see a more mature, married, and all around happier Kanye back to his old self, amalgamating a more mainstream melodic tone with his trademark cacophonic ramble. Kanye, the modern day renaissanceKanye remasters the sprawl on this album. Ever since 808s, Kanye has focused his sound, channeling single aesthetics and honing his production skills, growing further from pop. However, on TLOP, we see a more mature, married, and all around happier Kanye back to his old self, amalgamating a more mainstream melodic tone with his trademark cacophonic ramble. Kanye, the modern day renaissance man, exhibits his resilience with the help of an all star lineup of features. The man has reinvented himself yet again, this time better than ever. He's not a rap god, he's an ART GOD… Expand
  81. TheLifeOfJais
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Before anyone reads this, I just wanted to say that I usually never write reviews for an album, and mind you I was not an avid Kanye fan either. I was not a yeezus fan for the most part, and truly did not enjoy it. However, TLOP has changed my perspective on music. The Life of Pablo is genuinely a masterpiece. It really is a gospel album. The samples are truly amazing, and for the daftBefore anyone reads this, I just wanted to say that I usually never write reviews for an album, and mind you I was not an avid Kanye fan either. I was not a yeezus fan for the most part, and truly did not enjoy it. However, TLOP has changed my perspective on music. The Life of Pablo is genuinely a masterpiece. It really is a gospel album. The samples are truly amazing, and for the daft punk fans check out "feedback". I really have not enjoyed any albums like I did TLOP. It's also has experimental beats, which I thoroughly enjoyed. it lived up to the hype and much more. Only downside was the covert art and Kanye exclusively releasing it on Tidal(comes out everywhere else 7 days from first release). If you're still reading this, please download tidal and do the 30 day trial and enjoy the GOOD music!!… Expand
  82. ELBOYZ
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    I 100% agree with eli_obeid's review so I pasted it below. btw this album is straight fire 10/10

    You know what really ticks me off... when people like "The Guardian" and "The Daily Telegraph" who aren't even real/proper critiques and basically know NOTHING about 'Hip-Hop/Rap' give out ratings. It grinds my gears, because; 1) They don't know what they're talking about as critiquing    I 100% agree with eli_obeid's review so I pasted it below. btw this album is straight fire 10/10

    You know what really ticks me off... when people like "The Guardian" and "The Daily Telegraph" who aren't even real/proper critiques and basically know NOTHING about 'Hip-Hop/Rap' give out ratings. It grinds my gears, because; 1) They don't know what they're talking about as critiquing albums isn't their profession.... and 2) They're bring down the overall rating of the album. Very disappointed how Metacritic even allows them to voice their opinion, their a newspaper company for Christ sake ahahaha... Anyway enough from that rant.... the album is perfect and is another "College Dropout" classic, Congrats Ye... #Yeezyseason    … Expand
  83. tybasedgod
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    It's rare that you hear an album wherein the controlling emotion is self-awareness. Self-consciousness you may hear often, and even more frequently self-hate, but never have I heard an album so intoxicatingly in tune not just with the sensibilities of one Kanye West, but with those sensibilities so eloquently refracted through to the insecurities, fears and ambitions of the listener.It's rare that you hear an album wherein the controlling emotion is self-awareness. Self-consciousness you may hear often, and even more frequently self-hate, but never have I heard an album so intoxicatingly in tune not just with the sensibilities of one Kanye West, but with those sensibilities so eloquently refracted through to the insecurities, fears and ambitions of the listener.

    Put another way: I've been following, listening to and admiring West for the better part of the millennium, and the extent to which The Life Of Pablo blows his previous work out of the water is nearly comical.

    It's as grandiose as My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy yet as hauntingly pragmatic as 808s and Heartbreak; as soulful as The College Dropout while retaining the brutal, occasionally unwarranted honesty of Yeezus. To say The Life Of Pablo represents a culmination of West's career is to tragically undersell the stark importance of this album to West himself. It's as unfocused, erratic and ultimately transcendent as the artist unafraid to describe the album as "album of the life" in the same breath as a poorly thought-out twitter proclamation of Bill Cosby's innocence.

    It's no secret that on The Life of Pablo, Kanye West and his myriad guests spanning the entire artistic vanguard of 2010s hip-hop represent a disorganized mess that, nearly miraculously, manages to coalesce into an unprecedented and magnificent feat of rap music artistry. What makes it a work of genius, though, is that it's the only album in the nuance-starved, image-obsessed world of 2016 willing to say it.    … Expand
  84. tallbm03
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    GOAT Level production......Kanye really outdid himself on this one.......none of this tracks are tracks that you can just skip. This a skip up from Yeezus and I loved Yeezus. My only complaint is that the bars are average but I don't care cause I don't listen to Kanye's music for his bars.......it's all about the melodies and production and Kanye never disappoints. HE IS THIS ERA'S DAVID BOWIE.
  85. blkkkskkkn
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    Best Kanye album imo. It is beautiful and i rarely find myself skipping tracks. Reminiscent of Graduation! The production is solid and lyrically it is insightful! Nicely done Mr. West.
  86. puppymonkeyswag
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    This is not the greatest album of all time. It is not even Kanye West's greatest album to date, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy gets that designation. What this album is, however, is unique, audacious, and hilarious at some moments. Kanye West, when you look beyond his twitter meltdowns, is still one of the greatest artists in the world today and proves it again with The Life of Pablo.This is not the greatest album of all time. It is not even Kanye West's greatest album to date, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy gets that designation. What this album is, however, is unique, audacious, and hilarious at some moments. Kanye West, when you look beyond his twitter meltdowns, is still one of the greatest artists in the world today and proves it again with The Life of Pablo. The lyrics are nice, the beats are very nice, and the features are very, very nice. This album proves once again that Kanye is still on the Mount Rushmore of hip-hop artists today.… Expand
  87. z2two
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Sonically, his most vast and solid effort. kanye's use of features and collabs always make sense in ways you never thought they would. Lyrically, not his best, but a very feel good album that encapsulates the legacy of kanye.
  88. shankman
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Best Kanye album since MBDTF, even though i loved yeezus, this is just a taste of kanye throughout his career in one album, which also has some sick production and some great lyrics
  89. Purple_Joker
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Although this album did not bend the genre like 808s and heartbreak or yeezus, it was a great album and this is some of kanye's greatest work in years. Production was a masterpiece
  90. Levenhagen
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Kanye keeps reinventing himself with The Life of Pablo, another classic, with the prdocution level through the roof yeezy has also several excelent guests to go along with the ride, it backs a little from the aggressiveness of last album "yeezus", finding common ground with "my dark beautiful" and "the college dropout". The highlights of the album are in Ultralight Beam, Waves, FML, NoKanye keeps reinventing himself with The Life of Pablo, another classic, with the prdocution level through the roof yeezy has also several excelent guests to go along with the ride, it backs a little from the aggressiveness of last album "yeezus", finding common ground with "my dark beautiful" and "the college dropout". The highlights of the album are in Ultralight Beam, Waves, FML, No More Parties in LA and Fade.… Expand
  91. iobefwbiowef
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Great album that definitely needs to be heard a couple of times before it is reviewed. Some of the people giving this a negative review have either heard only the live version or have never heard it before, as the mastering of this album is awesome!
  92. Casanovafly
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Well, you could define T.L.O.P as Kanye West's grand comeback. Well if you do, i agree with you.

    T.L.O.P is more an experience than an album, the almost trap-ish beats combined with the gospel and wave-heavy beats creates a mood that goes trough the whole album like red line. All in all a masterpiece.
  93. agutie20
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    THIS ALBUM SOUNDS LIKE THE GREATEST HITS OF KANYE WEST THAT YOU HAVE NEVER HEARD BEFORE. This album is absolutely amazing. All of the delays and scandal around its release were worth the wait.
  94. richie7886
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Pure masterpiece, the revival and reinvention of the soul sound. Its what we have all been waiting for and certainly did not disappoint . Those that do not recognize the genius of this album, are once again judging the character of the man and not the substance of his work.
  95. Jgirello
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Sonics of this album are amazing. A beautiful combination of elements from all of his previous 6 solo albums. One of his best works up with Twisted Fantasy.
  96. appleboy505
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Although The Life of Pablo may not contain Kanye's best lyrical performances, it is by far his most complex and satisfying album sonically. The range of different styles and sounds within are far and vast, and this album is a great showcase of Kanye's musical talent because of that. This in many ways is Kanye's White Album, a brilliant display of his many abilities as a musician.
  97. TakeitYeezy
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    This album will probably not be commercially successful album as other Kanye's album, but sure will be one of his most album. A great album that is already a classic.
  98. lpcameron
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    More like a 9.5 but hey that rounds up. A brilliant combination of all his work to date TLOP should have been Kanye's first flop...the messy build up and a clear shift in priorities away from music towards fashion had me worried.

    Instead what we got was another example of Ye's ability to bring a ridiculously diverse array of genres, artists and themes together to create a masterpiece.    More like a 9.5 but hey that rounds up. A brilliant combination of all his work to date TLOP should have been Kanye's first flop...the messy build up and a clear shift in priorities away from music towards fashion had me worried.

    Instead what we got was another example of Ye's ability to bring a ridiculously diverse array of genres, artists and themes together to create a masterpiece. Falls just short of being his best album...MBDTF will never loose that status. That said we could do with a little less "She just bleached her **** and a little more "I just wanna feel liberated IIIIIIIII" but I guess that's just Kanye being Kanye.

    Best songs: Ultralight Beam, Feedback, Father Stretch My Hands Pt1 & 2, Real Friends, Freestyle 4
    Worst song: Facts (He should drop that for the physical release)    … Expand
  99. petepabz
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Kanye, you did it again fam! Shine them ultra light beams on the haters! Can't wait to hear some of these tunes bang out at the club. And the guardian should give its head a shake for that review. embarrassing
  100. georgecos
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Upon first listen, TLOP is the best album of the 21st century. He continues to change his musical direction while continuously creating masterful music. While there are certainly highlights from the album, each song contributes a different aspect which adds to its greatness.
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Awards & Rankings

6
#6 Most Discussed Album of 2016
4
#4 Most Shared Album of 2016

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
75

Generally favorable reviews - based on 35 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 24 out of 35
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 35
  3. Negative: 0 out of 35
  1. Under The Radar
    Apr 6, 2016
    55
    There is plenty here to suggest that West's magic has not entirely left him, but as a statement of art or true intent, this is a significant misstep from an artist with so much to praise.
    Read full review
  2. The Telegraph (UK)
    Apr 1, 2016
    60
    There is much to be admired here, rather less to be enjoyed.
    Read full review
  3. Uncut
    Mar 22, 2016
    70
    For better or worse, no-one else is making records quite like this. [May 2016, p.82]
See all critic reviews »