Concluding my list of Ten Perfect Albums, this is where my hip-hop related cognitive dissonance comes home to roost. I love this album, but it’s easily the most problematic on my list, and I have a not insignificant love/hate relationship with Kanye West. This album is incredible, and very much deserves to be here. If you’re put off by swearing though, I suggest skipping this one, and maybe head back to the Pet Shop Boys where it’s safer.
Discovery
I first heard this album on a trip to visit my friend Charlie in the states towards the end of 2010. I went out there with a couple of other friends, and of these, Dave had this album (and an almost unreasonable amount of Drake) on his phone. We had rented a car which we took on an epic two day road trip from Charlottesville, Virginia up to New York via Washington DC and then calling at Philadelphia (for a race up the ‘Rocky’ steps) on the way back. Dave had control of the Aux lead so we listened to his phone. (I don’t drive so I did as I was told)
Standout Songs
Runaway
Pretty much became our theme song when I was living with my friend Tonia. It’s definitely time for us to have a toast.
If one day you just up and leave
Monster
My first exposure to Nicki Minaj, and an absolute stand out on the album (They aren’t kidding about that [Explicit] warning either). Can’t deny that Nicki’s verse completely steals the track, as much as I still enjoy the rest.
Then I’mma start rocking gold teeth and fangs
Dark Fantasy
With the opening track, Kanye sets the scene for the album. That hook is still haunting. Can we get much higher?
Mercy, mercy me, that Murcielago
Relationship with the album
The album conveniently soundtracks a significant life change for me. As well as being the sounds of my trip to America, it was also the score for the few months that followed my separating from my ex-wife. Particularly the first 6 weeks where I was living in Tonia’s box room. Although obviously an emotionally charged time, Tonia was an amazing support and I think we must have listened to this album, with plenty of toast, every single day. Thank you Tonia. <3
Listening to the album now takes me back to that time in a positive way, for what are ultimately good memories. Things work out.
Grab it on all formats here*.
Kanye West
Urgh. He’s clearly very talented, but deeply unpleasant. One of those times where I’ve managed to separate art from artist. Have recently discovered I do have a limit for that though, as I can no longer listen to Morrissey…
Other albums and songs
Watch the Throne
As my previous Black Album post covered, I do have considerable love for Jay-Z, so it’s no surprise that I enjoyed this collaboration album*. It’s easier to reconcile liking it as a Jay-Z fan too.
No Church in the Wild
But we prolly spend it all ’cause the pain ain’t cheap, preach
Diamonds From Sierra Leone
Back when I still naively thought Kanye West might be a force for good, and another great collaboration with Jay-Z for the remix.
Difficult takes a day, impossible takes a week
Conclusion
While I struggle to reconcile enjoying Kanye West’s work, it doesn’t take away my enjoyment of this album. Its content isn’t going to be for everyone, but even then you can’t fault the production. It is perfect.
*As usual, these links are affiliate ones, which may earn me a small commission if you buy something.