Kanye West – ye

Review

Kanye West's eighth studio achievement, "ye," unveiled in 2018, is a raw and introspective masterpiece that plunges deep into his battles with mental health, familial bonds, and inner turmoil. This album resonated with many, as it tackled subjects like bipolar disorder and existential fears, all spun with provocative candor. Remarkably, "ye" was conceived and recorded within an intense two-week window at West Lake Ranch in Wyoming, spurred into recreation after some eye-opening revelations during a TMZ interview.

With only seven tracks, each piece of "ye" is a tight and concentrated artistic expression, generally wrapping up under four minutes. Kanye's expertise in beat-making is undeniable: he masterfully manipulates samples and intricately weaves in soaring, gospel-tinged vocal arrangements. The artist lay bare his most shadowed thoughts, blending sonic innovation with the stark truth of his life’s fractures and connections, bolstered by intense features from talents like PartyNextDoor, Ty Dolla Sign, Kid Cudi, and 070 Shake.

Receiving generally positive scrutiny from critics, "ye" was embraced for its experimental flair and enriching soundscape despite the divided stance regarding its daring lyrical theme. Critics from "Pitchfork," "GQ" Russia, and "The New York Times" heralded it among the top works released in 2018. Climbing all the way to the number one spot on Billboard and later going platinum by the RIAA in 2021, "ye" exemplifies Kanye’s relentless creative drive—showing that even in the throes of his personal chaos, his artistry continues to provoke discourse and reflection. - Noah