Early reactions to Kanye West's latest album, Bully, are starting to take shape, and on the streets of New York, the verdict is largely positive.
In a new segment, Complex's Jordan Rose hit the pavement to get reactions from fans, capturing a mix of excitement, admiration, and a few measured critiques just days after the album's release. For some listeners, the response was immediate and emphatic.
"It was a masterpiece. Love it all," one fan said.
Others echoed that sentiment.
"It was fucking beautiful. I think it was super good," another listener said, though they expressed disappointment that Nine Vicious' guest feature was largely limited to ad-libs. "But it was good, it was good," the fan insisted.
Several fans pointed to specific records that stuck with them early. One named "Father" as a clear favorite ("It's the best. It's so good."), while another highlighted "Beauty and the Beast" as a standout, describing the album overall as "interesting" and "different."
When it came to ratings, by and large there was consensus. Multiple fans gave Bully an 8 out of 10, citing high replay value even if it doesn't dominate every listening session. One rated it even higher, giving the album a 9.5.
The street reactions were largely more positive than critical reception — Complex's own review of Bully was mixed.
“[T]he album is plagued by lethargic vocals, drab choruses, and trite lyricism,” wrote Peter A. Berry. “At times it's so broad and devoid of the heart and passion seen in Kanye's most successful albums, a careful listener can accuse Bully of being produced by GROK.”
