Kanye Mixes Things Up

By Brady Bredell
Contributing Writer

Kanye West has a reputation for making a fool out of himself and releasing critically acclaimed albums. While the stupid things he’s done have tarnished his already battered image, his latest album “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” is quite impressive to say the least. Kanye explores his more personal side with one of the most honest and revealing albums of his six-year recording career.

The latest record features numerous guest appearances, including heavyweight artists such as Jay-Z, Rihanna, Rick Ross, Kid Cudi, Fergie, Elton John and Alicia Keys.

“My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” was created through a communal development that involved contributions from producers and artists alike. The album was
praised by Rolling Stone and Billboard. Rolling Stone declared “Runaway” the best single of the year and “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” the album of the year.
The highlight of the new album is “All of the Lights,” an epic hip-hop masterpiece which includes contributions from John Legend, The Dream, Ryan Leslie, Tony Williams, Charlie Wilson, Elly Jackson, Alicia Keys, Fergie, Kid Cudi, Elton John and Rihanna on chorus.  Of all the tracks on the new album, this song stands out as one of Kanye West’s most brilliant creations since 2005’s “Gold Digger.” The distorted horn section makes for a great backdrop to an already unique collaboration. Check out this track.

Another notable track is “So Appalled,” a dark and mysterious cut which exhibits Kanye’s honesty in a non-invasive manner. This tune features Jay-Z, Pusha T, Prynce Cy Hi, Swiss Beatz and RZA. “Middle finger in the air, if he don’t really care” proclaims Swiss Beatz. “It’s like that sometimes, man, ridiculous.” The chorus is truly the highlight of this mix.

After 14 Grammys, expectations are high for Kanye West. He never attempts to recreate the past and always pushes forward with something groundbreaking. With the new album, his honesty and bluntness set the stage for yet another successful release that will inspire young artists for years to come. Also worth noting is the impressive use of piano and other classical instruments which truly connect the dots of this hip-hop masterpiece.

Recommended for fans of: Jay-Z, Raekwon, Kid Cudi, B.o.B, and Atmosphere.

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