Nasir
by Nas
  • Record Label: G.O.O.D.
  • Release Date: Jun 15, 2018
User Score
7.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 305 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 225 out of 305
  2. Mixed: 47 out of 305
  3. Negative: 33 out of 305

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  1. adinpatterson
    Jun 15, 2018
    10
    WTH. It amazing. good sh!t I liked everything. Kanye make beat good he make lot of this nas album beats. Nas is good rapman. he make good raps. Good sh!t. F#cking Amazing

    Best Album of the Year
  2. WuIsForTheKids
    Jun 21, 2018
    9
    It's not completely flawless, but it comes close to that. I get the critics somehow, Nas is on such a high level, everybody expected greatness, which he delivered imo. His voice over any type of beat is pure quality, match that with Kanye - u got a classic.
  3. marktheshark4
    Jun 18, 2018
    9
    Amazing work. World class level production on every song. Nas is one of the greatest rappers and a legend in the game. He's definitely not in top form but songs like Simple Things and Adam and Eye are undeniable. "Everything" is a contender for song of the year. My only complaints are the Diddy vocals on Not For Radio, which is the weakest track to me, sounded kinda goofy and outta place.Amazing work. World class level production on every song. Nas is one of the greatest rappers and a legend in the game. He's definitely not in top form but songs like Simple Things and Adam and Eye are undeniable. "Everything" is a contender for song of the year. My only complaints are the Diddy vocals on Not For Radio, which is the weakest track to me, sounded kinda goofy and outta place. Also a few more songs would've been nice.… Expand
  4. childofthe90s
    Jun 16, 2018
    10
    Nas has delivered an amazing album from start to finish. there's not a single track on this project that i did not like because it's superfire.
  5. funkyhomosapien
    Jun 16, 2018
    9
    Very good comeback album from a hip-hop legend. Kanye's production and contributions are on point. Nas' verses are good. Favorite tracks: Everything, Cops Shot the Kid, Adam and Eve, Bonjour.
  6. mikefaulds
    Jun 17, 2018
    10
    Great album. Although it obviously wasn't Nas' best performance lyrically the production more than makes up for it. Really happy with this record.
  7. Dee_Jay
    Jun 16, 2018
    10
    Rich musically, deep lyrically, 1 of todays finest hip hop art work by one of all time greatest MC and all time greatest producer. Considering where Hip Hop was these past few years, this is realy a massive turn in music. Nas best work since Illmatic, no doubt.
  8. JackieLiu
    Jun 17, 2018
    10
    Amazing Album. Kanye compliments Nas well. Lived up to expectations. Perfect length.
  9. Gkirkman
    Jun 20, 2018
    8
    I dont undersand the low scores for this album it’s great. I think people are looking back into nas past and don’t think it sounds the same ? Great album
  10. thedaywalker
    Jun 17, 2018
    5
    Nas comes to this album with a lot to say, the concept of everything in this album is something that promises, but when it came time to for execution, i think Nas just didn't want to say anything "wrong".

    The flow feels strange at times, like he's doubting what himself to say what he wants to. Kanye West again does wonders in production, but the thing is, like i felt in Daytona, even    Nas comes to this album with a lot to say, the concept of everything in this album is something that promises, but when it came time to for execution, i think Nas just didn't want to say anything "wrong".

    The flow feels strange at times, like he's doubting what himself to say what he wants to.

    Kanye West again does wonders in production, but the thing is, like i felt in Daytona, even though the beat selection was amazing, i don't think they were well suited for Nas. This album, feeling more like a Kanye West tracks with Nas vocals.

    Some of the songs are good, but most of this album fails to intrigue even though it should be hard hitting tracks. The album of course continues the 7 tracks course, but the track I'm gonna have to leave feels unnecessary there, having a short album have fillers bring down the purpose of the short album

    Favorite Songs: Cops, Adam and Eve
    Least Favorite:Not for Radio, I'm gonna have to leave, Bonjour, Everything, Simple Things    … Expand
  11. kalebgirmay
    Jun 16, 2018
    10
    This is THE AOTY, bringing out the best of the lyricism in Nasir Jones and production in Kanye West.
  12. TimW001
    Jun 16, 2018
    10
    'Fear will make you reveal who you really are
    Feel me God? Be solid, your foes hold you in ill regard'
    'Want me to sound like every song on the Top 40 I'm not for you, you not for me, you bore me' 'See 'cause you've never been the same as anyone else Don't think the same as everyone else' 'She's waitin' for the right cue I'm waitin' for the right clue She be leavin', still I    'Fear will make you reveal who you really are
    Feel me God? Be solid, your foes hold you in ill regard'

    'Want me to sound like every song on the Top 40
    I'm not for you, you not for me, you bore me'

    'See 'cause you've never been the same as anyone else
    Don't think the same as everyone else'

    'She's waitin' for the right cue
    I'm waitin' for the right clue
    She be leavin', still I smell her eau de parfum
    She can't run 'cause I got Cinderella's right shoe'

    This is a career highlight album for Nas. Every song is strong. Great production and beats on every track. None of these tracks are skippable. I have so little to say on it because I have no criticisms. The more I listen to it the more I love it.

    Each of the seven songs are worth listening to. This is a great album.    … Expand
  13. benzaboss
    Jun 17, 2018
    10
    Illmatic and It was written... are both absolutely outstanding albums (illmatic being my favourite album of all time) but what I found was that Nas tried to change his rapping style with the times and it just didn't work, hence his next albums not being nearly as great. However, with Kanye's amazing production, Kanye has successfully molded current production technique to Nas' style ratherIllmatic and It was written... are both absolutely outstanding albums (illmatic being my favourite album of all time) but what I found was that Nas tried to change his rapping style with the times and it just didn't work, hence his next albums not being nearly as great. However, with Kanye's amazing production, Kanye has successfully molded current production technique to Nas' style rather than the other way round and this has resulted in an amazing album with profound soulful influences, on par with TPAB in that respect. Much love Nas.… Expand
  14. Rgreene
    Jun 17, 2018
    10
    A true masterpiece. Very good production and again Nas lyricism is top notch. Very good subject matter all in 7 songs. His bars were very potent and delivery was masterful as always. I feel critics will give it some moves reviews because he’s expected to come flat out and address the Kelis accusations. He doesn’t have to. He doesn’t have to give anyone an explanation. The time in which sheA true masterpiece. Very good production and again Nas lyricism is top notch. Very good subject matter all in 7 songs. His bars were very potent and delivery was masterful as always. I feel critics will give it some moves reviews because he’s expected to come flat out and address the Kelis accusations. He doesn’t have to. He doesn’t have to give anyone an explanation. The time in which she decided to come forward about it was very suspect. Why wait several years in the midst of everything going on? People need to focus on improving their imperfections instead of passing judgement on someone else, especially when he was never charged. All in all, great album! Lyrics, rhymes, and production were all top notch.… Expand
  15. johnmiele
    Jun 18, 2018
    9
    The Production is pristine and the rapping is chilling. Nas and Kanye seem to bring the best out of each other on this record. Every track on this watertight 23 minute long project was a joy to listen to. The best of the tracks in my opinion are "Cops Shot the Kid", A look at both points of views of a shooting of an unarmed black man, "Adam and Eve" which portrays greed using the famousThe Production is pristine and the rapping is chilling. Nas and Kanye seem to bring the best out of each other on this record. Every track on this watertight 23 minute long project was a joy to listen to. The best of the tracks in my opinion are "Cops Shot the Kid", A look at both points of views of a shooting of an unarmed black man, "Adam and Eve" which portrays greed using the famous bible story and "everything" which is a duet between The Dream and Kaanye which then breaks of into a couple hard verses by nas… Expand
  16. Siklu
    Jun 16, 2018
    10
    Absolutely a masterpiece. I higly recommend giving it a lsiten. You will not regret.
  17. draediamond
    Jun 15, 2018
    8
    Great album. The production is incredible and meshes well with Nas' rapping. This is already one of the better albums of the year and I honestly didn't expect less from the legendary Nas. It's obvious they worked hard on making sure that every single second counted. Tony Williams' feature was perfect on Bonjour. The other features were great but Tony Williams is probably one of the best ifGreat album. The production is incredible and meshes well with Nas' rapping. This is already one of the better albums of the year and I honestly didn't expect less from the legendary Nas. It's obvious they worked hard on making sure that every single second counted. Tony Williams' feature was perfect on Bonjour. The other features were great but Tony Williams is probably one of the best if not the best feature on the album which was unexpected. The thing about this album is that the bars REALLY stand out especially with the samples Kanye picked. On Daytona, Kanye's role was bigger i making minimalistic hard hitting beats because while Pusha T is a great rapper and his lyrics are creative, his subject matter is more restricted. Nas gives Kanye the freedom to really work and add a speacial touch (the features and spectrum of production choices). Well done to both of them because they brought the best out of each other on many moments here.

    P.S. To all the idiots talking about Kanye is "cancelled", grow up and appreciate this art because: 1.) Kanye always has good intentions thoughhis messaging outside of music is flawed. 2.) This is a legendary moment and these albums are great. 3.) His albums are topping charts and he's still selling insane amounts of merchandise without you clowns.    … Expand
  18. finnmccool1985
    Jun 16, 2018
    10
    Another stellar rap album critics will middle on because it encourages you to think for yourself. Unless it's playing their narrative, or rides a cozy wave of abstraction, they don't want to hear it. Pompous intellectuals weighing in on music, or any art, from the street has and always will be a garbage notion. That being said, Nas is still the top rap lyricist around, in top form here,Another stellar rap album critics will middle on because it encourages you to think for yourself. Unless it's playing their narrative, or rides a cozy wave of abstraction, they don't want to hear it. Pompous intellectuals weighing in on music, or any art, from the street has and always will be a garbage notion. That being said, Nas is still the top rap lyricist around, in top form here, with great production by Kanye.… Expand
  19. goldman480
    Jun 16, 2018
    10
    Love the album. Too early to compare vs his previous albums. Ye production is great!
  20. takudzwa
    Jun 16, 2018
    10
    One of Nas' best albums. Though not as good as Illmatic or It Was Written, it might be better than The Lost Tapes, God Son, Stillmatic and Life Is Good. Nas' biggest weakness has always been his beat selection. With production from Kanye, there's no such worries this time.
  21. musikman91307
    Jun 17, 2018
    9
    This is what happens when you match a sampling production genius with a lyrical genius and poet over enthralling and moving instrumentals with haunting background vocals and trumpets. Damn near a classic LP and one of Nas's most concise and masterful works like the days of Illmatic.
  22. stk35054
    Jun 19, 2018
    10
    I am perplexed by critic reviews on this one. Do you not remember listening to the Nas albums leading up to this one? Did you fail to appreciate the lyrical content and observations made by such a remarkable wordsmith? Did you not anticipate another chapter in his already lauded anthology? If so, save your review as this this album wasn't for you. When Cardi B, Invasion of Privacy landsI am perplexed by critic reviews on this one. Do you not remember listening to the Nas albums leading up to this one? Did you fail to appreciate the lyrical content and observations made by such a remarkable wordsmith? Did you not anticipate another chapter in his already lauded anthology? If so, save your review as this this album wasn't for you. When Cardi B, Invasion of Privacy lands a higher review score than the Nas/ Kanye collab., I am checked out. Ten all day.… Expand
  23. Hitmenphoenix
    Jun 18, 2018
    10
    Great album. Kanye embodied that RZA/WU-Tang type of sampling. Very soulful, full of fan-favorite NAS-ism such as; distrusting government, conspiracy theories, and hip hop purism. Great album, not for the casual listener and not for radio, strictly for hip hop addicts. Not a single pop watered down track. I doubt it will be liked by the softer side of hip hop, i.e. drake fans, or theGreat album. Kanye embodied that RZA/WU-Tang type of sampling. Very soulful, full of fan-favorite NAS-ism such as; distrusting government, conspiracy theories, and hip hop purism. Great album, not for the casual listener and not for radio, strictly for hip hop addicts. Not a single pop watered down track. I doubt it will be liked by the softer side of hip hop, i.e. drake fans, or the newer hip hop generation. Not for you.… Expand
  24. chrislist23
    Jun 17, 2018
    10
    Dude! Seriously this album is Legendary. Can we all admit that Kanye is on one, in the best way possible. I love everything Kanye is touching lately. Also Nas is a LEGEND. so sick.
  25. Rhymenocerous
    Jun 19, 2018
    10
    This is my first review. I felt compelled to write it as this is a fantastic album. Kanye's production is on point and there's a special synergy between Nas and he. 7 focused, beautiful tracks. Don't miss this!
  26. minimumhatred
    Jun 16, 2018
    5
    This album really frustrates me, on one hand, Kanye has impeccable production the samples are amazing but the glaring issue with this album itself is Nas. I love Nas but listening to any other album in his discography in comparison to this makes it evident that even if his writing is still good as ever he has lost a step in the flow department, the only songs where the flow does not feelThis album really frustrates me, on one hand, Kanye has impeccable production the samples are amazing but the glaring issue with this album itself is Nas. I love Nas but listening to any other album in his discography in comparison to this makes it evident that even if his writing is still good as ever he has lost a step in the flow department, the only songs where the flow does not feel painfully awkward are Everything which is not a good song because of that due to the length really making the song bloated and the verse with him speaking about vaccinations is very cringeworthy. The other song is my favorite song on the album, Adam & Eve which is a phenomenal song with Nas reflecting on laziness from those around himself and himself based off the sin sloth which all the songs are based off the seven deadly sins. Really cool concept but the execution just falls flat and as a whole this album is not terrible the production and hooks on this thing make it a pleasant listen but it is frustrating to say that if Nas was not on this album and you placed someone else in his place you would probably not get a worse album or potentially a better album which is truly disappointing to me. It is not his weakest release because of the existence of Streets Disciple but overall just not really feeling this project.… Expand
  27. KwstasMpasonas
    Jun 15, 2018
    10
    The best album of the year by far . It was even better than ye and Kids see Ghosts
  28. nikoziko
    Jun 16, 2018
    7
    Decent project from nas a that's filled with great production from kanye west and some fantastic verses and song topics but nothing really sticks out to me even tho this is probebally nas's best album in 10 years or so but from all the G.O.O.D music releases so far this year this has been the weakest
  29. aftermath96
    Jun 19, 2018
    10
    just disappointed that was just 7 songs, but great album, my second favorite of the year behind KOD, hope nas releases the real album he was working on soon
  30. vaggelis
    Jun 20, 2018
    10
    Nas made a big mistake. He collaborated with Kanye. Kanye made the perfect Nas album and the media reviews are terrible. Because they don't listen to the music, they just hate Kanye. All respect to Nas and Kanye for Nasir, a pure masterpiece.
  31. HREES18
    Jun 19, 2018
    5
    I'm giving this a 5 for the two songs on the album which are any good. I haven't had much faith in NAS's ability to make a good album for some time, and with Kanye... well let's just say that in the last month he's gone for quantity over quality, not in the number of tracks in any album he's produced, but in the sheer number of projects he's been involved in. That being said, "White label"I'm giving this a 5 for the two songs on the album which are any good. I haven't had much faith in NAS's ability to make a good album for some time, and with Kanye... well let's just say that in the last month he's gone for quantity over quality, not in the number of tracks in any album he's produced, but in the sheer number of projects he's been involved in. That being said, "White label" and "Adam and eve" are outstanding tracks. Adam and Eve might be one of my favourite NAS tracks produced since illmatic, and Kayne still shows in this track that he's capable of creating more than just club hits and candy shop rap tracks. All in all, I'm happy this album was made just to hear these two outstanding tracks, it's just a shame the other 5 don't hold much weight.… Expand
  32. Phaeer
    Jun 22, 2018
    0
    Complete garbage album. The production sounded rushed, unfinished and the beats were just overall horrible.

    Nas' performance wasn't great either. He sound so bored on this album, nothing he says holds any value because he can barely get the words out his own mouth. He is rapping so slow on every track and slow flow Nas has never been great. It sounds like Nas laid the verses to    Complete garbage album. The production sounded rushed, unfinished and the beats were just overall horrible.

    Nas' performance wasn't great either. He sound so bored on this album, nothing he says holds any value because he can barely get the words out his own mouth. He is rapping so slow on every track and slow flow Nas has never been great.

    It sounds like Nas laid the verses to completely different beats and Kanye spend a week or two producing the album without Nas being involved.    … Expand
  33. A7sus4
    Jun 21, 2018
    6
    It's just a good little album. Nas's bars are among his most basic on this album. Most of the lyrical concepts are poorly developed. The beats are up to par with the rest of this summer's GOOD releases (i.e. great to terrific).
  34. TrentRey
    Jun 23, 2018
    5
    This is the worst album out of the 5. The production on this album sounds great. But the production isn't the issue with the album, it's Nas. There isn't anything special about the songs on this album. There aren't any real highlights on this album. It's not a good nor bad album. There aren't any horrible or bad songs on this album. All of the songs are basically mediocre. Nas is a goodThis is the worst album out of the 5. The production on this album sounds great. But the production isn't the issue with the album, it's Nas. There isn't anything special about the songs on this album. There aren't any real highlights on this album. It's not a good nor bad album. There aren't any horrible or bad songs on this album. All of the songs are basically mediocre. Nas is a good rapper but, this album makes him seem like an average rapper. There isn't any real direction on this album. If you heard the beats on this album without Nas rapping on it, you would think that he's about to rap some fire. It's far from the fire. It's more like melted ice. I don't see anybody loving this album. I can see people enjoying this album but loving it and bumping it daily, I don't see that.

    Overall:
    great production.
    weak songs.
    lack of direction.    … Expand
  35. belzebu
    Nov 20, 2022
    0
    even with this **** album you still try to defend your beloved baby rapper. this **** is hard on muuuuuteeeee
  36. bobbysolo
    Nov 29, 2022
    0
    one of the worst nas albums of all time. even Revival is better than this ****
  37. todaywasagooday
    Dec 1, 2022
    0
    The worst Nas album in his career, hands down. Pure **** nothing more, nothing less.
  38. itsaboutdrive
    Dec 6, 2022
    0
    Simply the worst Nas album ever made. I don't even understand how his managers and producers approved something like this. 0/10 and it's still too much in my opinion.
  39. pulisic10
    Dec 11, 2022
    0
    bad, just bad, don't know what to say. it's just awful, really disappointed with this one
  40. OldUnkieAl
    Jul 4, 2018
    8
    Gets better with every listen. The production really grew on me (though I still have a hard time getting into the hook for "everything") and overall it's Nas' most consistent production-wise since It Was Written, or dare I say, Illmatic. Nas sounds more relaxed here than on other albums, but it suits the beats. He is maybe not rapping on the level of his other classics, but it suits theGets better with every listen. The production really grew on me (though I still have a hard time getting into the hook for "everything") and overall it's Nas' most consistent production-wise since It Was Written, or dare I say, Illmatic. Nas sounds more relaxed here than on other albums, but it suits the beats. He is maybe not rapping on the level of his other classics, but it suits the production, and he keeps his flow interesting. Lyrically he is always compelling, and whether you agree with his opinions or not, he always kept me listening and entertained. "Simple Things" is probably my favorite track. Great album, this month has been amazing!… Expand
  41. jellzman
    Jun 24, 2018
    10
    Absolutely immaculate body of work from Nas over pristine production from Kanye West, we don't get rappers doing this sort of rap enough. Mature, knowledge based and elite, an album to uplift the people. The critics need to appreciate this more.
  42. thetrueandchose
    Jun 23, 2018
    1
    People must be delusional, but, don't worry i'll try to dispel all that. This is NOT a good "album" (these releases are glorified EP's c'mon). The notoriety of the people don't MAKE it a good album. To make it good you would have to expend effort which Nas and Kanye obviously couldn't by the sound of things. Most of the production seems rushed, repetitive and minimal (especially that godPeople must be delusional, but, don't worry i'll try to dispel all that. This is NOT a good "album" (these releases are glorified EP's c'mon). The notoriety of the people don't MAKE it a good album. To make it good you would have to expend effort which Nas and Kanye obviously couldn't by the sound of things. Most of the production seems rushed, repetitive and minimal (especially that god awful Cops Shot the Kid) while Nas is just plain lazy and uninspired. You'll never make another Illmatic so quit coasting off that album's success, please. To summarize my feelings; this is another disappointment.… Expand
  43. PuffFishTorch28
    Jul 3, 2018
    6
    This album had me conflicted. I appreciated the production, and the lyrical work was dope if not a little superficial compared to what we normally hear from Nas. Despite all of that, it doesn't have the same cohesion as his previous works, nor does it address the domestic violence allegations leveled against him by Kelis. The album doesn't really feel like a comeback as much as it does aThis album had me conflicted. I appreciated the production, and the lyrical work was dope if not a little superficial compared to what we normally hear from Nas. Despite all of that, it doesn't have the same cohesion as his previous works, nor does it address the domestic violence allegations leveled against him by Kelis. The album doesn't really feel like a comeback as much as it does a sort of filler project between Life is Good, and something much better than what we ended up getting. For the die hard Nas fan, this album was probably enough to sate their appetite. For me it was a sort of midway between what I had hoped to hear, and what I was worried might be on the way. This project felt like a mishmash of concepts and themes that didn't quite end up tying together in a satisfactory way. To some it will be a classic, to others a let down. 6/10… Expand
  44. Roll4Initiative
    Dec 7, 2018
    7
    The production from Kanye West is amazing, definitely the best part of the album. Unfortunately this album is held back back the performance of Nas. His performance isn't awful, but it's mediocre at best. The lyrics that Nas is rapping have a great message but only for most of the album are the lyrics nice because the song Bonjour has very uncomfortable lyrics. A nice return to rapping forThe production from Kanye West is amazing, definitely the best part of the album. Unfortunately this album is held back back the performance of Nas. His performance isn't awful, but it's mediocre at best. The lyrics that Nas is rapping have a great message but only for most of the album are the lyrics nice because the song Bonjour has very uncomfortable lyrics. A nice return to rapping for Nas, but not amazing.… Expand
  45. isaacb263
    Aug 16, 2018
    6
    Lyrically significant, as usual for Nas, but it's one of those albums that gets stale within 5 or 6 listens. Haven't felt need to re-visit
  46. Jfaobny
    Jun 18, 2018
    8
    Nas used the seven tracks well by correlating every track to one of the seven deadly sins. There is no particularly weak moment and the topics in every track are executed very well.
  47. Alessio99
    Jun 27, 2018
    7
    Nasir seems a lot slower than Nas' previous work, the production is good, just too empowering and tbh it is the worst out of Kanye's 5 in 1 month. Will forever love Nas though and like the messages he conveys in his music.
  48. C_dot
    Dec 3, 2018
    7
    Nas returns after many years to give us another project, and he did it with a splash: working with Kanye West. Nas has fantastic lyrics and a great flow, and Kanye has always been a top notch producer and that does not change on this project. In theory it sounds like there is no way this album can go wrong, but unfortunately the two do not mesh as well as one would imagine. It is still aNas returns after many years to give us another project, and he did it with a splash: working with Kanye West. Nas has fantastic lyrics and a great flow, and Kanye has always been a top notch producer and that does not change on this project. In theory it sounds like there is no way this album can go wrong, but unfortunately the two do not mesh as well as one would imagine. It is still a good project, but Kanye West x Nas is not the dream fit many of us would have imagined.… Expand
  49. rye1
    Jun 20, 2018
    7
    not my favorite Nas album, but worth it for Bonjour, Adam and Eve and Cops...
  50. JAGUARRmusic
    Jun 19, 2018
    10
    The Perfect summation of Nas's entire career. You have Puff on the first song representing the "Hate Me Now" era. "Cops Shot The Kid" brings Jiggy Nas out for a track. Nas even hits Mafioso raps reminiscent of the Escobar-era on "Adam & Eve." Kanye also does his best RZA-chops (post-Illmatic period, when Nas was featured heavily across Mobb Deep & Wu albums) on that song as well.The Perfect summation of Nas's entire career. You have Puff on the first song representing the "Hate Me Now" era. "Cops Shot The Kid" brings Jiggy Nas out for a track. Nas even hits Mafioso raps reminiscent of the Escobar-era on "Adam & Eve." Kanye also does his best RZA-chops (post-Illmatic period, when Nas was featured heavily across Mobb Deep & Wu albums) on that song as well.

    Yet it's not what Nas has done that makes this album great. It's what he does better - "Bonjour" represents the best of Kanye West. This track seems like something that would've been reserved for Jay-Z or Ye's own album, but works with Nas effortlessly.

    "White Label" is the most definitive Nas track yet. Anyone looking for the Illmatic or God's Son Nas, you found him here. The beat could have easily been on either.

    NASIR has been described as the album we didn't know we needed. I'll be damned if it isn't!    … Expand
  51. ga364564
    Jun 19, 2018
    8
    For an artist who has made a career of focusing on his lyrical content and choosing to let others guide the creative control on his records. Nasir feels like the ultimate definition of this statement yet at times it feels as if Nas is keeping himself from expressing his full thoughts to his greatest potential. The production is great, Kanye did his best to match beats that would suit NasFor an artist who has made a career of focusing on his lyrical content and choosing to let others guide the creative control on his records. Nasir feels like the ultimate definition of this statement yet at times it feels as if Nas is keeping himself from expressing his full thoughts to his greatest potential. The production is great, Kanye did his best to match beats that would suit Nas but as it seems as any other project touched by Kanye this summer. Sometimes Ye has unintentionally outshined the main event leaving Nas with an empty slate of what could have been. This album is no illmatic, it is no God's son. It's unique and great in it's own world. However, for any fan who loves Nas for what has made him great in the past can see why Nasir has left me feeling empty and expecting a little more than what we were given.… Expand
  52. Cswright410
    Jun 21, 2018
    10
    Is definitely a good follow up for NaS after releasing Life is Good back in 2012. Ye’s beats really brings the best outta NaS and both artists mesh well musically. My top 3 tracks on the album are “Not for Radio” “Everything” and “Adam & Eve”. This is not Illmatic 2 nor is it supposed to be. It’s a album from a legendary rap veteran meant to show he still has BARS and can still produceIs definitely a good follow up for NaS after releasing Life is Good back in 2012. Ye’s beats really brings the best outta NaS and both artists mesh well musically. My top 3 tracks on the album are “Not for Radio” “Everything” and “Adam & Eve”. This is not Illmatic 2 nor is it supposed to be. It’s a album from a legendary rap veteran meant to show he still has BARS and can still produce timeless music! #EscobarSeasonHasReturned… Expand
  53. blaqrhythm
    Jun 20, 2018
    9
    Lyrically and content wise Nas is destroying **** On songs like Everything, Not For Radio, Bonjour, and Adam and Eve you must truly spend time to decipher his lyrics. Kanye West gave Nas a soulful and creative pallette of music to create with. Nas did Nas, except in a couple areas. On Simple Things, I feel Nas was a little sloppy and on White Label, I feel Kanye over-produced. Other thanLyrically and content wise Nas is destroying **** On songs like Everything, Not For Radio, Bonjour, and Adam and Eve you must truly spend time to decipher his lyrics. Kanye West gave Nas a soulful and creative pallette of music to create with. Nas did Nas, except in a couple areas. On Simple Things, I feel Nas was a little sloppy and on White Label, I feel Kanye over-produced. Other than that, I love the album and this sound behind Nas. Just below a classic!

    I find it funny Metacritic doesnt take into account the user score when giving the official album score. We are the listeners, we decide whats classic or not. IWW received mix reviews back in 96, and now its considered a classic. I also find it unfair because many of these publications are scoring Nas low on this record to punish him for the Kelis ALLEGATIONS. Many publications have admitted it.    … Expand
  54. BlackThoughtFan
    Jun 23, 2018
    6
    The respective strengths and weaknesses of 'Nasir' are the opposite of those of every other Nas album to date.

    The strengths of Nas' other albums are his fluid, honest, and intelligent rhymes; their weaknesses are a) songs with weak beats that would be cut if not for the desire to preserve Nas' bars (e.g. God's Son's 'Book of Rhymes'); and b) crossover pop ventures that take Nas outside    The respective strengths and weaknesses of 'Nasir' are the opposite of those of every other Nas album to date.

    The strengths of Nas' other albums are his fluid, honest, and intelligent rhymes; their weaknesses are a) songs with weak beats that would be cut if not for the desire to preserve Nas' bars (e.g. God's Son's 'Book of Rhymes'); and b) crossover pop ventures that take Nas outside of his lyrical comfort zone (e.g. 'KISSING', 'Suicide Bounce'). Nas' most consistent albums (e.g. Illmatic, The Lost Tapes, Distant Relatives) avoid these ventures almost entirely.

    On Nasir, conversely, the beats take center stage, while Nas himself underperforms. 'Everything' is breathtaking in spite of Nas' lines on the track, and Nas' lyrics on the standout 'Not for Radio' and 'Cops Shot the Kid' sound more influenced by media soundbites than real life. Those tracks where Nas does show up – e.g. Adam and Eve, Simple Things – would have made great b-sides on a longer album, but come across as wanting among Nasir's seven tracks.    … Expand
  55. queensbridge92
    Jun 21, 2018
    9
    This is great album. Production, rapping, and storytelling. One thing I dislike this album is that it has only 7 tracks. We were waiting almost 6 years, tracks weren't enough for me and people who like Nas. Anyway, welcome back God's son. Again, it is great album
  56. Diesker
    Jul 6, 2018
    7
    Todavia no se como me siento con este album. Sobre la produccion, excelente, nada que quejarme pero lo que es "Nas" es muchas partes carece de esa lirica que lo caracteriza, siento que no se ezforzo mucho con este album, algunos de sus versos son aburridos mientras que otros si que valen la pena
  57. SKSK
    Jul 21, 2018
    8
    Everything is great on this album, from its production to its featurings. It is notorious Kanye's touch in the album.
  58. brownwizard
    Jul 27, 2018
    8
    Good effort from the Queensbridge king. I don't understand why the press didn't like it...
  59. havocprodigy
    Aug 6, 2018
    10
    OMG! This album is simply amazing. Kanye proved my doubts wrong. The production is incredible. Laced with Nasir Jones lyrics makes for a great album. It speaks the truth where in today's society is lacking. It brings up subjects and themes that are relevant. And pushes the envelope on so many issues plaguing us as a culture. And Nas proves that. I loved every track. I was disappointed byOMG! This album is simply amazing. Kanye proved my doubts wrong. The production is incredible. Laced with Nasir Jones lyrics makes for a great album. It speaks the truth where in today's society is lacking. It brings up subjects and themes that are relevant. And pushes the envelope on so many issues plaguing us as a culture. And Nas proves that. I loved every track. I was disappointed by Life Is Good. But something resonates with me on this album. I've played it at least 20 times in a row and it still sounds just as good as the first time. A must listen to in these times. Thank you Nasir Jones for bringing it back to the forefront.… Expand
  60. DamonAubergine
    Sep 21, 2018
    6
    Although being an extremely short album due to Kanye's production view of 'less is more', Nasir still delivers as a solid listener, but is nowhere near what Nas was or could be. Illmatic is widely regarded as one of the all time best albums in Hip Hop, but Nasir shows almost no shades of Illmatic. While 'White Label' and 'Everything' are certainly great songs to listen to, its a new kindAlthough being an extremely short album due to Kanye's production view of 'less is more', Nasir still delivers as a solid listener, but is nowhere near what Nas was or could be. Illmatic is widely regarded as one of the all time best albums in Hip Hop, but Nasir shows almost no shades of Illmatic. While 'White Label' and 'Everything' are certainly great songs to listen to, its a new kind of Nas, and one that doesn't quite hit the spot.

    Controversy aside with Kanye, he is undoubtedly one of the best Hip Hop producers of this generation and he really does a good job with handling the layout and beat types and changes in Nasir, which is what makes this album a 6/10 rather than a 4 or 5.    … Expand
  61. SovirakchhaiS
    Sep 9, 2019
    6
    Tbh, this my least favourite Nas album, the songs in the album aren't really that exciting, unimpressive flows and okay lyrics, but Nas did choose the right person "Kanye West" to help produce the whole album which is good because the productions are great, except Simple Things.

    Not For Radio - 7/10 Cops Shot The Kid - 6/10 White Label - 5/10 Bonjour - 7/10 everything - 6/10 Adam &    Tbh, this my least favourite Nas album, the songs in the album aren't really that exciting, unimpressive flows and okay lyrics, but Nas did choose the right person "Kanye West" to help produce the whole album which is good because the productions are great, except Simple Things.

    Not For Radio - 7/10
    Cops Shot The Kid - 6/10
    White Label - 5/10
    Bonjour - 7/10
    everything - 6/10
    Adam & Eve - 7/10
    Simple Things - 4/10

    This my least favourite Nas album and the least Kanye West's 7 Track Album Session. sorry.    … Expand
  62. Ryanmo55
    Sep 14, 2019
    8
    Wasn’t Esco at his best , but it’s acceptable with concept and lyrics . Nas always has a message over his albums , I’m 22 i believe this is probably top 5 of his weakest albums but it’s okay still . Adam and Eve is wonderful, simple things is amazing , bonjour sounds amazing to me and i feel like drake could’ve even hop on that beat for himself . Nas kind of gets boring with delivery butWasn’t Esco at his best , but it’s acceptable with concept and lyrics . Nas always has a message over his albums , I’m 22 i believe this is probably top 5 of his weakest albums but it’s okay still . Adam and Eve is wonderful, simple things is amazing , bonjour sounds amazing to me and i feel like drake could’ve even hop on that beat for himself . Nas kind of gets boring with delivery but you can’t expect the same hunger from illmatic and iww because he’s already a name for himself .… Expand
  63. FizzyFrenzy
    Jun 30, 2023
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. On the weaker end of Nas' discography, in my opinion, definitely one of the most disappointing at least. Although, unlike the few other duds from Nas, this one had unquantifiable amounts of potential. On paper, the Nas and Kanye team-up felt like the greatest idea since sliced bread, Nas has always been a great fit on the soulful brand of beat that Kanye is well known for, Nas is Kanye's favorite rapper, and they had proven to be great collaborators on the album Late Registration's We Major, and Still Dreaming, a track off the underrated gem of an album, Hip-Hop Is Dead. However, due to time constraints, a change in style, Kanye having too much on his hands at the time, or just plain ol' lack of care, this album managed to disappoint me on multiple levels. On the first track, Not For Radio we get a full orchestral score for the instrumental, accompanied by Trap drums and an autotuned hook that just reek of sellout, the mixing is awful too. On the bright side, Nas gives us what you would expect from a rapper as good as he is and blesses us with some great lyrics. The second track, however, Cops Shot The Kid is quite frankly a trainwreck. The beat consists of a looped vocal sample of Slick Rick and an 808 bass that will blow your speaker, it just makes me say "Are you really doing this?". Even the lyrics couldn't save me this time around, seems like very basic, arbitrary, cliche woke talk to me with little to make it stand out or be technically impressive, I feel like the subject of police brutality should really be treated with more care. Next up is White Label, one of the better tracks here. Kanye shows off his minimalist edge on the beat and Nas treats us with some good ol' brag raps with great rhymes and fantastic charisma. The next track Bonjour probably has the best beat on the whole thing, at least until vocals saying the name of the song at max volume come in, which is often. I jumped when I first heard them because of how loud they were. Nas' verses I liked quite a bit side from a few moments but there really isn't much else to say about this song aside from the fact that Nas and Kanye thought knowing a small bit of french was enough material to base a whole song around. Then we have the track Everything, I usually don't really like the hyper-conceptual, mind-dizzying songs that this track models it's approach after, but honestly it's the best track here by a landslide. The imagery that Nas brings to the table with his storytelling takes me back to the days of It Was Written, it's really a track that needs to be witnessed in order to understand, an easy recommendation. The next track Adam and Eve however felt like whiplash, I didn't really like it, and coming off the heels of the best track, that's a real let down. The beat feels like it really needed more transformation of the sample, the minimalist approach worked on While Label, not here I'm afraid. Nas here gave us some alright lyrics but occasionally he drops some of the funniest brags I've ever heard on wax. The closing track, Simple Things has a great soulful beat that was more of what I expected from Kanye going into the project. Nas' lyrics have some solid brags and defenses of criticism but ultimately they feel like they don't have enough weight to feel like a proper close to the album, speaking of which, this album is very short, and given the fact Nas hadn't dropped since 2012 in this time, that's pretty disappointing. In conclusion, to me this album isn't the worst thing in the world but it feels very half-baked in it's execution aside from one or two songs, and coming from my favorite rapper of all time that just makes it all the more of a let down.

    5/10    … Expand
  64. user0857
    Aug 4, 2023
    0
    even worse than all the other albums he released through his life. retireeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

Awards & Rankings

26
#26 Most Discussed Album of 2018
33
#33 Most Shared Album of 2018

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
58

Mixed or average reviews - based on 16 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 16
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 16
  3. Negative: 0 out of 16
  1. AllMusic
    Aug 3, 2018
    50
    A prevailing quantity of the tracks is either forgettable or regrettable. Nas often sounds unenthused.
    Read full review
  2. The Wire
    Jul 26, 2018
    80
    Nasir comes closest to being an unqualified success. Those still hoping for the return of ruthless adolescent Nasty Nas will be disappointed--although recent allegations of spousal abuse from ex-wife Kelis cast a troubling shadow--but his voice is thick with middle-aged grit and gravitas. [Aug 2018, p.63]
  3. Mojo
    Jul 23, 2018
    40
    A major step up, until Nas fluffs the rhyme ball spouting credulity-testing conspiracies. [Sep 2018, p.96]
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