After more than a decade away, Clipse—the rap duo of Pusha T and Malice—has returned with their new album Let God Sort ‘Em Out.
The project features 13 songs, packed with reflective lyrics, bold bars, and appearances from top artists like Kendrick Lamar, Nas, Pharrell, Tyler, the Creator, The-Dream, John Legend, and more.
Here’s a ranking of all 13 tracks, from the least impactful to the most powerful:
13. “The Birds Don’t Sing” (feat. John Legend & Voices of Fire)
The album’s intro is emotional and grand, with John Legend and a gospel choir joining Clipse to honor their mother’s memory. It’s a powerful moment, but its pop leanings make it feel less like a traditional Clipse song. Fans looking for raw rap might find this one softer than expected.
12. “By the Grace of God” (feat. Pharrell)
This closing track wraps up the album with a choir and Pharrell delivering one of his best hooks. It deals with themes of faith and personal growth but leaves less of an emotional punch than it should for a finale.
11. “So Far Ahead” (feat. Pharrell)
This song continues the album’s gospel theme, as Malice raps about his turn toward faith. There’s a clever bar referencing Mase, but the track feels like a softer companion to “By the Grace of God,” making it less memorable in a varied album.
10. “EBITDA” (feat. Pharrell)
A short but catchy song with clever wordplay about finances. Pusha T’s hook is fun to sing along to, but the track ends too soon, leaving listeners wanting more.
9. “MTBTTF”
Short for “Mike Tyson Blow to the Face,” this track is full of swagger and sharp lines like “Took chains and touched chains like King Midas.” It’s a bold song but feels too short to fully develop its concept.
8. “Let God Sort Em Out/Chandeliers” (feat. Nas)
A return to Clipse’s signature braggadocio. Pusha T and Malice throw sharp shots at their rivals, while Nas adds a sophisticated mafioso vibe. It’s memorable, but Nas’s verse is brief, leaving fans wanting more.
7. “Ace Trumpets”
The album’s lead single brings back the classic Clipse energy. With witty lines like “Drugs killed my teen spirit/Welcome to Nirvana,” it signals the duo’s confident return, matched with tight production from Pharrell.
6. “Inglorious Bastards” (feat. Ab-Liva)
This song taps into nostalgia, reminding fans of Clipse’s early 2000s run. DJ Clue adds ad-libs, and Ab-Liva delivers closing bars that make this track feel like a homecoming.
5. “FICO” (feat. Stove God Cooks)
Although Stove God Cooks only handles the hook, it’s a standout moment. His passionate chorus about survival and struggle complements Clipse’s verses about grinding through hardship, making this an inspiring track.
4. “All Things Considered” (feat. Pharrell and The-Dream)
This is one of the most personal songs on the album. Pusha T talks about his wife’s miscarriage, Malice reflects on Clipse’s 15-year hiatus, and The-Dream adds haunting vocals. Pharrell’s intense production ties it all together, resulting in a song that feels both heavy and beautiful.
3. “So Be It”
This track caused a stir when it dropped due to its direct shots at Travis Scott. But beyond the controversy, it’s packed with unforgettable lines and vivid imagery. From references to TMZ leaks to clever jabs about the rap industry, this is one of Clipse’s most lyrically dense songs.
2. “P.O.V.” (feat. Tyler, the Creator)
Tyler, the Creator joins Clipse for a raw, stream-of-consciousness rap session. He reflects on outgrowing his heroes, while Clipse delivers venomous bars. Malice also reflects on his past religious struggles, making this a deep, layered track that highlights both growth and villainy.
1. “Chains & Whips” (feat. Kendrick Lamar)
The best song on the album is also the most explosive. Kendrick Lamar delivers a standout verse that feels like a passing of the torch moment. His animated flow pairs perfectly with Clipse’s dark, intense energy. “Chains & Whips” has been called one of the boldest tracks of the year and reportedly even cost Clipse their deal with Def Jam. Regardless of the controversy, the song is a masterpiece of lyricism and production.
Let God Sort ‘Em Out marks a bold return for Clipse, blending faith, street stories, and sharp social commentary. The album shows the duo evolving without losing the gritty edge that made them legends.
Ranking by: Mackenzie Cummings-Grady for billboard.com
