Endless (2016) - Frank Ocean

 

Endless is a visual album by American singer Frank Ocean, released on August 19, 2016, as an exclusive streaming-only video on Apple Music. This 45-minute film showcases Ocean constructing a spiral staircase in a warehouse, accompanied by 18 new songs.

Following a four-year hiatus after his debut album Channel Orange, Ocean released Endless to fulfill his recording contract with Def Jam Recordings. The next day, he independently released his second studio album, The visual album features contributions from artists such as Jonny Greenwood, James Blake, Jazmine Sullivan, and Sampha.

Endless encompasses genres like alternative R&B, ambient, and avant-soul. The album delves into themes of love, heartbreak, celebrity status, and personal growth.

Upon release, Endless received generally positive reviews. Critics praised its abstract compositions and Ocean's innovative approach, though opinions on the visual component varied. The Guardian highlighted its rich and varied musical content, noting it as a "challenging musical feast."

Tracklist:

1. Device Control

2. At Your Best (You Are Love)

3. Alabama

4. Mine

5. U-N-I-T-Y

6. Ambience 001: "In a Certain Way"

7. Commes Des Garcons

8. Ambience 002: "Honeybaby"

9. Wither

10. Hublots

11. In Here Somewhere

12. Slide on Me

13. Sideways

14. Florida

15. Deathwish (ASR)

16. Rushes

17. Rushes To

18. Higgs

Initially available exclusively as a video stream on Apple Music, Endless was later remastered and released in physical formats, including CD, DVD, vinyl, and VHS, on November 27, 2017.