To Pimp a Butterfly 2015
The definitive rap album of the 2010s. Such a monumental artistic undertaking and Kendrick absolutely delivers, not just in scope but also in quality and sheer entertainment. The first half of the album, "Wesley's Theory" through "Momma," is practically a concept album, telling Kendrick's story of coming up through the LA rap scene, gaining fame, growing disillusioned with his identity and community, and finding his sense of self again on a trip to Africa. It might be the most perfect stretch of any album I've ever heard. After that, I do think the album loses just a bit of steam, both in its narrative focus and quality. Songs like "Hood Politics" and "You Ain't Gotta Lie" are good but maybe not very memorable, whereas a fantastic piece of storytelling like "How Much A Dollar Cost" does seem a little abstract and out of place within the album's broader themes (especially when, as I said, the first nine tracks tell such a tight and complete story). I'm also not too crazy about the actual song portion of "Mortal Man," but the interview section is such a wacky, original idea, pulled off so well that I don't really mind. Excellent and timeless album. Kendrick's best. High 9/10