Vince Staples cover

Vince Staples

Vince Staples · 2021

22 min · 10 tracks · hip-hop

A concise blend of introspective lyricism and minimalist production that captures the essence of modern West Coast hip-hop.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    LAW OF AVERAGES — This track effectively encapsulates the album's exploration of fate and personal responsibility, showcasing Staples' ability to weave complex narratives into his verses.
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    SUNDOWN TOWN — With its haunting production, this track delves into themes of identity and survival, illustrating Staples' introspective approach to storytelling.
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    TAKE ME HOME — This song stands out for its emotional resonance, where Staples reflects on nostalgia and belonging, blending vulnerability with incisive social commentary.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album's minimalist production and introspective lyrics create a focused listening experience that stands out in modern hip-hop.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of sparse instrumentation, often relying on minimal beats and ambient sounds that allow the lyrics to take center stage.
  • Each track maintains a relatively short length, averaging around two to three minutes, which contributes to a brisk overall pace.
  • Lyrically, the album employs a stream-of-consciousness style, with Staples often reflecting on personal experiences and societal issues without traditional verse-chorus structures.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • short bursts of introspective energy
  • vivid storytelling with sharp focus
  • engaging in-order listening experience
  • quick reflections on identity

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer longer, expansive albums
  • seek slower, more mellow vibes

Where this album fits

Career context
Vince Staples' self-titled album marks a significant point in his career as his fourth studio release, following the critically acclaimed 'FM!' in 2018. By 2021, Staples had firmly established himself as a unique voice in hip-hop, known for his sharp commentary and innovative soundscapes. This album showcases his artistic evolution while reflecting on personal themes and societal issues.
Stylistic neighbors
Isaiah Rashad· Saba· Mick Jenkins

Tracklist

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

  • 1 ARE YOU WITH THAT? 2:18
  • 2 LAW OF AVERAGES 2:19
  • 3 SUNDOWN TOWN 2:30
  • 4 THE SHINING 2:40
  • 5 TAKING TRIPS 2:37
  • 6 THE APPLE & THE TREE 1:08
  • 7 TAKE ME HOME 2:46
  • 8 LIL FADE 2:12
  • 9 LAKEWOOD MALL 1:17
  • 10 MHM 2:11

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata