808s and Heartbreak - Kanye West CD

'808s and Heartbreak' is the fourth studio album from rapper/singer, Kanye West. Marking his successful crossover and incorporation of electronic influences into R&B and hip-hop, this contemporary release saw West move away from previous releases lyrically, vocally, and production-wise. The result is an innovative, passionate and nostalgic piece of 'pop-art'.

Hugely influenced by the death of his mother and his break-up with his fiancée, West utilises and distorts the retro Roland TR-808 drum machine throughout to express his feelings and create a profoundly personal record. Tracks such as 'Heartless', 'Amazing', and 'Love Lockdown' also showcase the use of autotune that features heavily too. Despite moving away from his roots as a hip-hop artist, West collaborates with the likes of Young Jeezy on 'Amazing', Kid Cudi on 'Welcome to Heartbreak', and Lil Wayne on the dark track 'See You in My Nightmares' which will maintain interest from fans of his previous releases.

'808s and Heartbreak' flaunts West's gift for melody and understandably achieved huge success. This visionary modern-day classic is a must have for fans of hip-hop, R&B, and cutting-edge pop music. (John Minard)