The collaborative duo ¥$, consisting of Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign, recently dropped their newest album “Vultures 1.” The album is supposedly the first of a trilogy, where the next two albums are set to be released later this year.
The release of this album amidst the controversial events is no unusual occurrence as West is known for his eccentricity. With this in mind, “Vultures 1” reflects his recent character, the album is more a form of artistic expression than traditional musicality.
“ definitely sounded different than all of his other projects but I think that’s what made it good, it provided some variety,” said OH senior Micheal Sewart.
As a result, listening to the album requires a different mindset that aligns with that information. “Vultures 1” is a very abstract, odd, complex album not for average listening. Starting the album with the song “STARS” sets the tone and vibe for the whole album, with a beat in which the melody contradicts the flow and depicts the abstract elements of the album. This track foreshadows the ”organized chaos’ the album entails, as that is what the artists seem to go for throughout each song.
Along with the theme, bizarre phrases, and lyricism make it difficult to listen to in some moments, especially for new listeners and those unfamiliar with the genre that West has created. Songs like “BACK TO ME” and “DO IT” are examples where West is honestly not making much sense with what he says, and it ruins the overall vibe in moments.
Besides that, the best moments of the album were on tracks like “CARNIVAL,” which utilizes a chant at the beginning of the song, is an instance where being experimental is well executed. In this song, the intro chant hypes the song up, allowing the track to thrive. Overall, the beats and use of samples in the album were well executed for how the album is made.
Although the album needed some improvements, the biggest issue was cohesion. There were various confusing moments where some were weird and did not seem to fit into the album. The album overall has highs and lows, therefore I give it a 7/10, as it is well-produced and experimental but lacks cohesion and has an odd theme.
I am Enrique Salas-Aguirre a senior at Oswego High School, this year would be my first with 42Fifty. I excited to start writing and publishing my ideas and contribute my part in the 42Fifty team. I enjoy writing opinion pieces the most although I am open to all types. I like listening and making music, my favorite genre at the moment is R&B. I train weight lifting outside of school and plan to compete some day. Overall, I am excited to contribute my piece to the site, and hopefully leave a significant mark in my short time here. 🙂
