The Long-Awaited Return of ¥$
After months of anticipation and delays, Kanye West (now known as Ye) and Ty Dolla $ign have finally unleashed their second collaborative album, VULTURES 2, under their supergroup alias ¥$. The 16-track project, which dropped on August 3, features a star-studded lineup of guests including Young Thug, Future, Playboi Carti, Kodak Black, and more.
A History of Vultures
The first installment of the VULTURES trilogy, VULTURES 1, was released in February 2024, featuring hits like "CARNIVAL" with Playboi Carti and Rich The Kid, and Kanye's first collaboration with his daughter North, "Talking." The duo had initially planned to release VULTURES 2 in March and VULTURES 3 in April, but the second project was pushed back several times, leaving the third installment in limbo.
A Star-Studded Lineup
The sequel to VULTURES 1 sees Ye and Ty bringing in a diverse group of artists to collaborate on the project. Some notable features include:
- Don Toliver, Playboi Carti, and Kodak Black on "Field Trip"
- Future on "Promotion"
- Lil Wayne on "Lifestyle"
- Lil Baby on "Forever Rolling"
- Charlie Wilson on "River"
- The Inter Milan Ultras on "River"
- Kanye West's daughters North and Chicago on "Bomb"
Production and Style
The production on VULTURES 2 is a mix of trippy, dance, rage, and traditional hip-hop vibes, showcasing Kanye's signature style. The album's beats are largely driven by Kanye's vision, and while some tracks might feel like rehashed material, the overall production is solid and well-crafted.
Critical Reception
The album has been met with mixed reviews, with some critics praising the production and guest features, while others find Kanye's verses lacking in substance and direction. Ty Dolla $ign, on the other hand, is often lauded for his strong vocal performances and infectious melodies.
The Future of Vultures
While VULTURES 2 is finally out, the future of the VULTURES trilogy remains unclear. There has been no word on when or if VULTURES 3 will be released. However, Ye and Ty are currently planning listening events for VULTURES 2 in South Korea and Taiwan, suggesting that the duo is still actively promoting the album.
A Mixed Bag
VULTURES 2 is a mixed bag of hits and misses. While the production is strong and the guest features are well-chosen, Kanye's inconsistent rapping and lack of direction in some tracks can leave listeners wanting more. Ultimately, whether or not VULTURES 2 is worth the wait is a matter of personal taste. For fans of Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign, the album offers a glimpse into their current creative process and is sure to spark conversation among hip-hop enthusiasts.
The Legacy of Vultures
Despite its mixed reception, VULTURES 2 is a significant release in the ongoing saga of Kanye West's career. The album showcases his continued exploration of different sounds and styles, while also providing a platform for his collaborators to shine. Whether or not VULTURES 2 is a critical success, it is a testament to Kanye's enduring influence on the music industry and a reminder of his unpredictable nature as an artist. Only time will tell how VULTURES 2 will ultimately be remembered, but one thing is certain: it will continue to fuel conversations and debates among music fans for years to come.
