The Thief Next to Jesus | |
Type: | studio |
Artist: | Ka |
Cover: | Ka - The Thief Next to Jesus album cover.png |
Label: | Iron Works |
Producer: | Ka |
Prev Title: | Languish Arts / Woeful Studies |
Prev Year: | 2022 |
The Thief Next to Jesus is the ninth and final studio album by American rapper Ka, released on August 19, 2024, through Ka's own label Iron Works.
Ka surprise released The Thief Next to Jesus exclusively for purchase for $20 through his website on August 19, 2024, with only a music video for the single "Such Devotion" being made available for streaming. The album's release was announced on Instagram, with Ka writing: "Thank you for still being interested after my 2 years away. I really wanted to come back with something meaningful. This one holds a special place for me. Hope it moves you in the same way." The Thief Next to Jesus was later made available for streaming on September 19, 2024.
The Thief Next to Jesus is Ka's last known recording; he died on October 12, 2024, at the age of 52.
The Thief Next to Jesus received little attention upon release, but was well-regarded by critics. Pitchfork writer Matthew Ritchie gave the album a 8.1/10, praising the use of gospel samples along with its themes of Christianity and its links to African Americans. Ritchie wrote, "Breaking down the tools used to oppress Black folks has always been at the forefront of Ka's writing, and the frank manner in which he parses and critiques the Black American connection to Christianity here produces stunning moments." Anthony Fantano called the album "incredible and highly impressive" and gave it a rating of 9/10, praising the album's production and lyricism. Fantano also highlighted the themes of the album, discussing how Ka's faith was affected deeply through "years of witnessing and experiencing trauma as well as injustice".
Vulture included the album on its list of the "Best Albums of 2024 (So Far)".