Is Frank Ocean’s Blonde a sophmore slumper or a triumph? We’ll tell you in 100 words.

What’s it called?

Blonde

Who’s it by?

Frank Ocean

What do I need to know?

• 4 years in the making – a follow-up to 2012’s beloved Channel Orange
• Guest spots aplenty: Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, André 3000, Johnny Greenwood & James Blake
• Production by Pharrell, Tyler the Creator and Jamie XX
• Subjects include materialism, police violence and Ocean’s own relationships

What does it sound like?

• Deep, lush sonic textures
• Juxtaposed organic and heavily digitized beats
• Ocean’s vocals are troubled; morose
• Guitars (from Greenwood and Amber Coffman) are jangly and delightfully indie

Is it any good?

Oh my god yes

Key Tracks:

“Nike”, “Pink + White”, “Self Control”, “Ivy”, “White Ferrari”