808s and Heartbreak by Kanye West

Since the release of his third album Kanye West lost his mother and broke up with his fíance,  how could his 4th album be called anything but Heartbreak. The album art above has been retouched by Kaws, a deflated heart shaped balloon being ripped in two. Its simplistic and complex and beautiful and I could go on all day about it. Its genius. This albums has been described by Mr. West as a presentation of a new genre called “Pop Art”, not to be confused with the visual art movement of the same name.

Kanye’s voice has been altered by Auto-Tune (a plug-in for correcting pitch imperfections) it makes his voice sound choked up, like he has a lump in his throat and yet he still tries to sing his heart out. The palette used for the beats is simplistic yet expertly used combining unique instruments and sounds to create something brand new. Its easy on the ears and heavy on the heart.

Recommended Songs:

Say You Will – Excellent intro song, it sets the tone and gets you ready for an experience.

Welcome to Heartbreak – West describes the regrets and disappointments which come from his fame.

Heartless – Classic Kanye, this song is a throwback to his first three albums but still incorporates the feel of 808s & Heartbreak. I love this song.

Love Lockdown – Kanye first performed this song at the 2008 VMA’s. The bass drums play throughout the verses like a heartbeat. 

Paranoid – Classic Kanye, I really like this song, this gonna be a club hit for sure.

RoboCop – THE STRINGS! I really dig this song, its so fresh.

Bad News – This song is anything but Bad News, it really shows Mr. West maturing as an artist. I totally dig it.

Coldest Winter – This song is the definition of heartbreak. Losing your mother so swiftly. He lays it all on this lie in this one. Incredible.

This album is an incredible 4th effort from Mr. West. I hope next year brings another one. Pick it up on iTunes at 12am tonight. 

4.5/5 Stars