For Kanye West, less is more. That is definitely been the case for the first two singles off his upcoming album "808s and Heartbreak". The first one, "Love Lockdown" was released early October, so I'm a little late on the bandwagon, but the song is.... well, I would say near perfect. The song's simple structure allows for greater impact for Kanye's voice, which is enhanced using the now (in)famous auto-tune (think lil Wayne and T-pain). While I'm not sure if the auto-tune was a good idea, I do think that using the Roland Tr-808 drum machine (pictured below, left) was. The 808 is one of the earlier drum machines made in the early '80s. It was famous, then hated, then regained popularity and now has an album named after it. Kanye has said that every song uses the 808 for beats.Another element from "Love Lockdown" I love is the eastern sounding taiko drums (pictured below, right) which bring an earnestness to the song during the chorus. All in all, this is by far Kanye's most experimental and riskiest song. Have i mentioned that not one verse is rapped in the song? But it is the fact that he sings that carries the song.... love the effect on his voice or not, the vocals are epic, as are the lyrics. The song runs through the thought processes of a person before they leave their lover. West seems conflicted, saying that he's in love, but that the vibe is wrong.
Personally, I like the new almost impromptu, experimental Kanye. The album was recorded only about a month ago, and after the first version of "Love Lockdown" was received critically, it was changed to the current version. And if you're into mixing and remixing, you can get the original stems from Kanye's Blog (only all six of them).
Love the single or not, the album is going to be a big deal going into the holiday season. The second single, "Heartless", has been released as well. The album is expected November 25th.
Final Grade (for the single)=96
Vocals/Lyrics: 19
Music: 18
Production: 20
Creativity: 20
Value (Was it worth the listen?): 19
2 comments:
I think Kanye West's new hit single is a fabulous hyperbole for the romance in our lives as individuals.
kanye...you know me. not inthis kind of music scene. but the whole drum thing sounds cool, though. might give it a listen.
newest music obsession for me is the "genius" on the new itunes. in love.
em
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