What makes Big Fish Theory by Vince Staples notable?

Big Fish Theory received widespread critical acclaim, with Pitchfork awarding it an 8.4 out of 10 and praising its bold sound. The album also made an impact on the charts, peaking at number 16 on the Billboard 200, marking a notable moment in Staples' career as he continued to influence alternative hip-hop. By the time Vince Staples released Big Fish Theory in 2017, he was transitioning from his acclaimed debut, Summertime '06, into a more experimental phase. This album followed his evolving artistic vision, showcasing a significant shift toward avant-garde production and introspective themes, reflecting his growth as a prominent voice in contemporary hip-hop.

Who is Big Fish Theory for?

Big Fish Theory works well if you're into steady pacing for focused listening, sharp commentary on identity exploration and brief tracks for quick sessions.

How many songs are on Big Fish Theory?

Big Fish Theory has 12 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

Big Fish Theory

Vince Staples · 2017

36 min · 12 tracks · hip-hop

A genre-defying blend of experimental beats and introspective lyrics that challenge societal norms and personal identity.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Yeah Right — This track features a striking juxtaposition of upbeat production with dark lyrical themes, encapsulating the album's exploration of duality in life experiences.
→
Big Fish — The title track serves as an anthem for self-empowerment and ambition, showcasing Staples' confident delivery over innovative soundscapes.
→
BagBak — This song tackles social issues head-on with sharp commentary and a catchy hook, representing the album's commitment to addressing relevant themes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

62 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album's experimental structure and bold production choices create a unique sound that stands out in hip-hop.

What we noticed

The album opens with a track that features rapid-fire verses over a minimalist beat, setting a tone of urgency.
Interludes are used strategically to break up the flow, allowing for moments of reflection between more intense tracks.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady pacing for focused listening
sharp commentary on identity exploration
brief tracks for quick sessions
interludes that enhance flow

Maybe skip if you

prefer longer, sprawling albums
seek traditional song structures

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time Vince Staples released Big Fish Theory in 2017, he was transitioning from his acclaimed debut, Summertime '06, into a more experimental phase. This album followed his evolving artistic vision, showcasing a significant shift toward avant-garde production and introspective themes, reflecting his growth as a prominent voice in contemporary hip-hop.
Stylistic neighbors: Isaiah Rashad· Saba· Mick Jenkins