It’s been two and a half years since Kanye West released his previous album, Donda. During this time, West got himself in a mess of controversy, making antisemitic statements that got him suspended from Instagram and Twitter. While Vultures 1 was originally supposed to come out to finish 2023, its release was still slightly delayed after the next anticipated release date, February 9. However, the album came out the next day on Apple Music only originally, but then came over to other streaming services. Vultures 1 is Kanye West’s thirteenth album and his third collaborative album, this time with Ty Dolla Sign, after Kids See Ghosts and Watch The Throne. Vultures 1 is a part of a trilogy, with the other two set to release on March 8 and April 5.
One of the best aspects of the record is the loaded features list. Even though the features are hidden, there are still many exciting guest appearances from Travis Scott, YG, Freddie Gibbs, Playboi Carti, Quavo, Nipsey Hussle, YG, India Love, and even Kanye West’s daughter, North on “Talking”, with some artists having multiple appearances.
Even though the project does introduce some new unique sounds and ideas, it is still one of Kanye’s weakest works. The album gets off to a rough start with the first half. The first few songs sound rushed and incomplete, such as “Talking” and “Stars”. It features some nice bops such as “Back to Me” where Kanye West, Freddie Gibbs have solid verses. “Do It” is also a highlight of the first half. The second half of the album gets off to a good start with “Burn”, the best song on the album. “Fuk Sum” is also a solid track that takes advantage of its features, including Travis Scott and Playboi Carti.
For the most part, the production is good and consistent. However, I think Kanye’s weak lyrics and rapping is what makes the record worse. He doesn’t back away from controversial and obnoxious lyricism he’s had in the past. In fact, a few of the lyrics comment on some of his controversial statements in the past. Ty Dolla Sign even outshines Kanye on a number of the tracks in the album. On paper, they seem like a strange match with their different musical styles, however, I think Kanye has adjusted his rapping and singing slightly to accommodate Ty Dolla Sign’s singing.
Although this isn’t exactly a great start for the trilogy, there are a few tracks that showcase the potential of Y$. I think it is okay, but the next 2 albums need to have a more complete and consistent sound, while having a new and fresh feel at the same time.
