What makes Warlord by Yung Lean notable?

Warlord received critical acclaim and has been noted for its influence on the SoundCloud rap movement, showcasing a distinctive blend of emo influences within hip-hop. The album further established Yung Lean's cult following and marked an evolution in his lyrical content and musical experimentation. In 2016, Yung Lean released Warlord as his second studio album, following his debut Unknown Memory from 2014. At this point in his career, he was solidifying his role as a leading figure in the cloud rap scene, gaining recognition for his unique sound and style.

Warlord works well if you're into steady mid-tempo urban vibe, dreamlike atmosphere for introspection and consistent flow for focused listening.

How many songs are on Warlord?

Warlord has 19 tracks, running approximately 65 minutes.

Released 10 years ago

Warlord

Yung Lean · 2016

65 min · 19 tracks · hip-hop

A surreal blend of introspective lyrics, atmospheric beats, and haunting melodies that redefine the boundaries of hip-hop.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Immortal — This opening track sets the tone with its ethereal production and introspective lyrics, encapsulating the album's themes of identity and existentialism.
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Highway Patrol — Featuring a captivating flow and vivid imagery, this track explores themes of freedom and escapism amidst a haunting backdrop, making it a standout piece.
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Fantasy — With its dreamy soundscape and reflective lyrics, this track highlights Yung Lean's ability to intertwine emotion with surreal storytelling.
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Stay Down — This track showcases a more aggressive delivery paired with layered production, illustrating Lean's versatility and growth as an artist.
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God Only Knows — Closing out the album with a poignant exploration of vulnerability, this track encapsulates the emotional depth that permeates throughout Warlord.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

52 /100

Foothills

Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

The album blends atmospheric production with introspective lyrics, establishing a unique sound within hip-hop.

What we noticed

Tracks often employ a slow to mid-tempo pace, with some songs featuring minimalistic production that emphasizes vocal delivery.
Several songs utilize layered vocal effects, creating an ethereal quality that enhances the surreal atmosphere throughout the record.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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

steady mid-tempo urban vibe
dreamlike atmosphere for introspection
consistent flow for focused listening
evocative lyrics for emotional connection
for late-night drives

Maybe skip if you

seek instant gratification tracks
prefer high-energy party music

Where this album fits

Career context: In 2016, Yung Lean released Warlord as his second studio album, following his debut Unknown Memory from 2014. At this point in his career, he was solidifying his role as a leading figure in the cloud rap scene, gaining recognition for his unique sound and style.
Stylistic neighbors: Bones· Night Lovell· Lil Peep