Kanye West’s first decade in the music industry was almost flawless. From his debut masterpiece *The College Dropout* in 2004 to the genre-defying *Yeezus* in 2013, Kanye was at the pinnacle of his creative powers. However, even during the *Yeezus* promotion, his increasingly chaotic behavior hinted at trouble ahead. The decline truly began post-*Yeezus*, with 2016’s *The Life of Pablo*. Although it had its moments, the album’s chaotic creation marked the start of Kanye’s artistic unraveling.
Since 2016, Kanye has released four albums, each messier than the last. His public battles with the media and inflammatory statements about Jewish people have further damaged his reputation, leading to a low point in his career. Despite this, Kanye is no stranger to comebacks. In late 2023, he announced *Vultures 1*, the first part of a three-album series with Ty Dolla $ign. The project raised eyebrows, especially given Ty Dolla $ign’s typically careful choice of collaborators. After numerous delays, the 16-track album finally dropped, but its content was a mixed bag, leaving fans questioning whether the excitement was genuine or just relief that the album had finally been released.
*Vultures 1* opens with the peaceful yet confident “Stars” and “Keys To My Life,” followed by more energetic tracks like “Paid” and “Talking.” Initially, the album seems to mask Kanye’s recent controversies well. However, by the midpoint, the cracks begin to show. Tracks like “Back To Me” and “Hoodrat” reveal uninspired songwriting and repetitive beats. The title track “Vultures” offers some redemption with its heavy synths and head-bopping beats, but Kanye’s problematic lyrics, particularly on “Problematic,” remind listeners of the turmoil that has plagued his recent years. Despite flashes of the old Kanye, *Vultures 1* ultimately underscores his struggle to reclaim his former glory.