By JAMES LUMPKIN – Variety Writer
The highly anticipated third album from the outlandish leader of the rap group Odd Future, Tyler the Creator has released his new album titled Wolf.
Released by Odd Future Records and RED distribution on April 2, Wolf starts with a bang. The first track on the album also titled Wolf, sets the tone for the psychological and emotional instability that Tyler is known for since his debut with the album Goblin in 2011.
Appearances from fellow Odd Future members include Frank Ocean, Hodgy Beats, Domo Genesis and Left Brain, make for a nice experience reminiscent of older Odd Future tracks, both in tone and underlying meaning.
While elements of Tyler’s deep instability and disturbing nature are still present throughout the album. Tyler has a new, more depressing attitude in tracks such as “Answer”, “Awkward” and “IFHY”. Tracks such as these differentiate themselves from the others. While most of Tyler’s older raps are centered around drugs, women and murder, these few are aimed around heartbreak and his father abandoning his family. Along with the change of tone, the sounds and rhymes have a much slower pace and are quieter.
These tracks help to give a more emotional and fulfilling understanding of why Tyler is so angry and really helps long time listeners of the artist find new meaning in his madness. The deep beats and unique undertone give fans what they have been craving, a one of a kind experience that takes you inside the mind of a disturbed young man.
