What makes Year of the Snitch by Death Grips notable?

Year of the Snitch was notable for its bold experimentation and unconventional marketing approach, which included sparse promotional efforts and surprise releases. Critics praised the album's daring sound, with many noting its influence on the evolving landscape of underground hip-hop and digital music culture, solidifying Death Grips' status as pioneers in their field. Released on January 1, 2018, Year of the Snitch marked Death Grips' fifth studio album following their 2015 release, Bottomless Pit. By this time, they had established a reputation for pushing boundaries within the experimental hip-hop genre, while continuing to defy conventional music industry norms. The album arrived during a period of relative silence from the band, as they took a break from traditional promotion and touring.

Who is Year of the Snitch for?

Year of the Snitch works well if you're into wave-like pacing with intensity, brief interludes for reflection and chaotic energy for late nights.

How many songs are on Year of the Snitch?

Year of the Snitch has 13 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Year of the Snitch

Death Grips · 2018

37 min · 13 tracks · hardcore hip-hop

An abrasive fusion of industrial noise and punk-inspired rap, disorienting yet exhilarating in its chaotic energy.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Death Grips is Online — This opener encapsulates the album's frenetic energy and sets a tone of digital chaos, reflecting the overwhelming nature of contemporary internet culture.
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Black Paint — A standout track that layers aggressive beats with introspective lyrics, it showcases Death Grips’ ability to blend raw intensity with thought-provoking themes.
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Hahaha — This track exemplifies the band's signature blend of humor and aggression, creating a disarming auditory experience that contrasts playful elements with harsh sonic textures.

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 chaotic energy and unconventional structures create a unique listening experience that stands out in its genre.

What we noticed

Several tracks feature unconventional song structures, such as 'The Horn Section,' which incorporates unexpected instrumental breaks and vocal delivery.
The last three tracks slow down the pace significantly, allowing for a moment of reflection amidst the otherwise frenetic energy.

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: 9/10
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

wave-like pacing with intensity
brief interludes for reflection
chaotic energy for late nights
immersive experience through headphones
disruptive sounds for adventurous listeners

Maybe skip if you

prefer structured, predictable music
seek soothing, calming sounds

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on January 1, 2018, Year of the Snitch marked Death Grips' fifth studio album following their 2015 release, Bottomless Pit. By this time, they had established a reputation for pushing boundaries within the experimental hip-hop genre, while continuing to defy conventional music industry norms. The album arrived during a period of relative silence from the band, as they took a break from traditional promotion and touring.
Stylistic neighbors: Black Midi· Shabazz Palaces· Ho99o9