Vultures 1 is a challenging album to review, not just because it marks the highly anticipated return of Kanye West alongside Ty Dolla $ign as ¥$, but because it arrives shrouded in the dense fog of West’s recent controversies. After years of erratic behavior, delayed releases, and inflammatory statements, the album finally landed in February 2024, a testament to West’s enduring, if increasingly complicated, pull on the cultural zeitgeist. It’s an album that demands engagement, but perhaps not always on its own terms.
From the outset, the production is unmistakably Kanye. It’s a return to form for many, characterized by rich, layered samples, powerful drums, and a grandiose, often cinematic feel. Tracks like “Stars” immediately showcase this, with its lush vocal samples and driving beat, creating an ethereal yet grounded soundscape. “Carnival” is another production highlight, an undeniable banger that leverages a menacing choir sample and aggressive drums, providing a raw energy that has been somewhat missing from West’s recent solo efforts. The beats often feel maximalist, reminiscent of ‘My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy’ in their ambition, yet stripped down in their presentation, channeling a grittier ‘Yeezus’ aesthetic at times.
Ty Dolla $ign’s presence is crucial throughout. He acts as the album’s melodic anchor, his smooth, soulful vocals providing a necessary counterpoint to West’s often abrasive or monotone delivery. He handles a significant portion of the hooks and bridges, imbuing tracks like “Paid” and “Keys to My Life” with a warmth and accessibility that West alone might struggle to achieve in his current artistic phase. Ty doesn’t just feature; he’s a true co-pilot, elevating the sonic palette and ensuring a more fluid listening experience.
Lyrically, ‘Vultures 1’ is a mixed bag, to say the least. West continues his defiant, often provocative rhetoric. There are moments of classic Kanye wit and confident bravado, particularly on tracks like “Fuk Sumn” and “King.” However, these are frequently juxtaposed with lines that are either shockingly tone-deaf, self-aggrandizing, or outright baffling. The lyrical content often feels unpolished, almost stream-of-consciousness, which can be both a strength (raw honesty) and a weakness (unfiltered, problematic thoughts). The controversial lines are present, though perhaps less overtly antisemitic than some of his previous public statements, they still lean into themes of conspiracy, victimhood, and aggressive self-defense, which will undoubtedly be polarizing. It leaves listeners grappling with the artist versus the art, a dilemma that has become central to experiencing Kanye West’s output.
The album is also notable for its extensive list of features, some expected, some surprising. North West’s charming appearance on “Talking” provides a moment of genuine warmth and innocence amidst the chaos. Travis Scott and Playboi Carti contribute their signature flows on “Fuk Sumn,” adding to its chaotic energy. Freddie Gibbs delivers a standout verse on “Back to Me,” showcasing his lyrical prowess and providing a moment of traditional rap excellence. Chris Brown’s appearance on “Beg Forgiveness” adds R&B flair. These features generally complement the tracks well, although a few feel underutilized or overshadowed by the primary duo.
Despite its undeniable production highs and Ty Dolla $ign’s consistent contributions, ‘Vultures 1’ suffers from a lack of consistent thematic cohesion. It feels more like a collection of strong individual tracks rather than a singular, cohesive artistic statement. The sequencing can feel abrupt, and the album’s length, while not excessive, sometimes allows the lyrical inconsistencies to weigh heavily. The mixing and mastering, while improved from earlier listening parties, still have a raw, almost demo-like quality in places, particularly on West’s vocals, which can feel unpolished.
Ultimately, ‘Vultures 1’ is a sonic journey that delivers classic Kanye production values and showcases Ty Dolla $ign’s underrated talent. Yet, it’s inextricably linked to the persona of Kanye West, a figure who continues to push boundaries, for better or worse. For fans who can separate the art from the artist, or at least navigate the complexities, there are genuine musical highs to be found. For others, the lyrical baggage may prove too heavy. It’s an album that is compelling in its imperfection, messy, brilliant, and frustrating all at once. It won’t rehabilitate West’s public image, but it does remind listeners of his undeniable ear for sound.
Overall Rating: 3.5 out of 5