Kids See Ghosts cover

Kids See Ghosts

Kids See Ghosts · 2018

23 min · 7 tracks · hip-hop

A kaleidoscopic blend of introspective lyrics and experimental production that merges hip-hop with rock sensibilities.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Feel the Love — This opening track sets the tone with its euphoric energy and themes of love and struggle, encapsulating the overarching emotional landscape of the album.
  • →
    Reborn — As one of the longest tracks, 'Reborn' presents a powerful narrative about resilience and redemption, showcasing Kid Cudi's introspective lyricism against a backdrop of lush instrumentation.
  • →
    Cudi Montage — 'Cudi Montage' closes the album with a poignant reflection on Cudi's personal journey, intertwining samples and heartfelt verses that resonate deeply within the context of mental health discussions.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

77 /100
Summit
Higher than 99% of albums we've rated

The album blends innovative production with introspective lyrics, creating a unique listening experience.

What we noticed

  • Each track features varied production techniques, including unconventional beats and samples that shift the listener's expectations.
  • The final two tracks slow down the tempo significantly, creating a reflective atmosphere that contrasts with the earlier intensity.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
9/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

  • short energetic listening bursts
  • cathartic moments of self-discovery
  • front-loaded intensity and urgency
  • engaging narrative through sound

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer longer, slower albums
  • seek standalone, radio-friendly tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on June 8, 2018, 'Kids See Ghosts' marked the first collaborative project between Kid Cudi and Kanye West following a period of personal struggles for both artists. This album arrived after Cudi's mental health battles and West's controversial public persona, serving as a creative resurgence for both in their respective careers.
Stylistic neighbors
XXXTentacion· 2 Chainz· Young Dro

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Feel the Love 2:45
  • 2 Fire 2:20
  • 3 4th Dimension 2:33
  • 4 Freeee (Ghost Town Pt. 2) 3:26
  • 5 Reborn 5:24
  • 6 Kids See Ghosts 4:05
  • 7 Cudi Montage 3:17

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata