Twenty years ago, Kanye West’s The College Dropout revolutionized rap, introducing a relatable, flawed, yet brilliant artist. Fast forward to 2024, and Kanye, now known as Ye, stands as a polarizing figure. His latest project, Vultures 1, a collaboration with Ty Dolla Sign, arrives amidst a backdrop of controversy and fluctuating public opinion. This review delves into the tracks of Vultures 1, analyzing its production, lyrical content, and overall impact, offering a comprehensive look at Kanye West’s newest musical offering.
Kanye West and Ty Dolla Sign Vultures 1 album cover
Image: The official album cover for Kanye West and Ty Dolla Sign’s “Vultures 1”, featuring a stark and minimalist design.
Vultures 1 is the first installment in a planned trilogy, immediately drawing attention due to the names attached and the anticipation surrounding any Kanye West release. The album attempts to balance the contrasting personas of Kanye: the family man and the provocateur. For long-time Kanye fans and new listeners alike, the question remains: does Vultures 1 recapture the musical innovation of his earlier work, or does it succumb to the inconsistencies that have plagued his recent discography?
One of the most immediately striking aspects of Vultures 1 is its production quality. In an era where production often takes a backseat to lyrical trends, Kanye and Ty Dolla Sign have crafted a sonic landscape that is rich and layered. Fans who appreciate Kanye’s history as a groundbreaking producer will find much to admire here. Tracks like “Keys to My Life” cleverly incorporate a sample from Wu-Tang Clan’s classic “Can It Be All So Simple,” demonstrating Kanye’s sample-based roots. “Do It” is another production highlight, surprisingly blending East Asian musical elements with a recognizable nod to Juvenile’s “Back That Thang Up,” creating an unexpected yet compelling sound.
“Good (Don’t Die)” further showcases the album’s eclectic production, featuring a sample of Donna Summer. The inclusion of Koopsta Knicca on “F*k Sumn” adds another layer of intrigue, bridging different eras and styles within hip-hop. However, the standout production track is undoubtedly “Problematic.” This song creates a mesmerizing blend of sinister and soulful soundscapes, reminiscent of the golden era of Roc-a-Fella Records, highlighting Kanye’s enduring talent for crafting unique sonic experiences. This production quality is a significant step up from Kanye’s more recent, less focused projects, suggesting a renewed attention to detail in sound design.
Ty Dolla Sign’s presence on Vultures 1 is another key element contributing to the album’s sonic texture. Often likened to Nate Dogg for his ability to bridge gaps and provide melodic cohesion, Ty Dolla Sign serves as a grounding force throughout the album. When Kanye’s verses veer into more abstract or controversial territories, Ty Dolla Sign consistently brings the songs back to a more accessible and melodic center. His contributions are crucial in maintaining focus and preventing the album from spiraling into complete sonic chaos. While some may find Ty Dolla Sign’s signature style familiar, his role in Vultures 1 is undeniable, acting as a vital collaborator in shaping the album’s overall sound.
However, when it comes to lyrical depth and conceptual coherence, Vultures 1 falls short. Lyrically, Kanye has never been considered a traditional wordsmith, often relying on wit and charisma over intricate storytelling. This remains true on Vultures 1. Lines like “Dark-skinned n**** only shooting Billy Blanks” from “Paid” exemplify the uninspired and sometimes jarring lyrical content. Many tracks feel like collections of disconnected rants rather than cohesive songs, relying heavily on the strength of the production to carry them. Repetitive hooks, as seen in “Hoodrat,” further highlight the lyrical shortcomings, wearing thin quickly despite the sonic backdrop. The song “Hoodrat,” with its repetitive chanting of the title, serves as a prime example of this minimalist and arguably underdeveloped lyrical approach.
While tracks like “Carnival” showcase Kanye’s penchant for provocative and outlandish lyrics, the humor and cleverness that once characterized his work often feel replaced by a sense of boredom or fatigue. The shock value seems to be prioritized over genuine substance. There are exceptions, Freddie Gibbs’ verse on “Back to Me” is a notable highlight, injecting energy and lyrical dexterity into the album. Similarly, North West’s intro on “Talking” provides a charming and personal moment. And Ty Dolla Sign’s consistent vocal contributions add lyrical and melodic variety. But beyond these moments, much of the lyrical content on Vultures 1 is forgettable.
“Beg Forgiveness” stands out as a more emotionally resonant track, exploring familiar themes of loss and longing. The production and haunting hook elevate the song beyond typical tropes, creating a compelling listening experience. “Burn” also offers a glimpse of introspection, with Kanye reflecting on his public image and controversies:
Who’s not entertained by my pain?
Who ain’t cash a check off my name?
When my campaign turned to canned pain
I burned еight billion to take off my chains
These lines, while still unapologetically Kanye, offer a moment of reflection amidst the album’s more bombastic and less substantive tracks.
In conclusion, Vultures 1 is a mixed bag. The album’s production is undeniably strong, representing some of Kanye’s best work in recent years. Ty Dolla Sign’s collaborative role is also a significant positive, providing balance and cohesion. However, the lyrical content and overall conceptual depth are lacking. While there are standout tracks and moments of brilliance, Vultures 1 ultimately feels underdeveloped, hinting at greater potential that remains unrealized. Tracks like “Problematic,” “Burn,” and “Back to Me” showcase the album’s high points, demonstrating the sonic innovation and occasional lyrical glimpses that make Vultures 1 worth exploring for dedicated fans. However, for casual listeners or those seeking lyrical substance, the album may leave something to be desired. Ultimately, Vultures 1 embodies the duality of Kanye West himself – a mix of brilliance and banality, inspiration and frustration – all wrapped in a chaotic yet compelling package.
Best songs: “Problematic,” “Burn,” “Back to Me”
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars.
