"Wolf" Wearing Sheeps' Clothing

By Ethan Hazel

Odd Future, the young and reckless hip hop collective out of Los Angeles, is one of the most misunderstood acts in recent music. Their lyrics have incited controversy due to content that is perceived as violent, misogynistic or homophobic. Much of the public indignation tends to fall on Tyler, the Creator, the group's leader and most vocal member.

"Wolf," his second commercial release, goes out of its way to demonstrate that Odd Future is more than just misdirected rage and inflammatory lyrics. With beautiful chord progressions, introspective verses and subject matter ranging from father problems to adolescent crushes to armed robbery to going camping with friends, Tyler overwhelmingly succeeds.

All of this is not to say that he has completely forgone the ridiculous antics and stupid jokes - all of that is here in spades. Rather, "Wolf" tempers the rawness and absurdity of previous Odd Future releases with beauty and many impressive displays of musical talent.

Tyler, the Creator, is playing a show on May 20 at the Regency Ballroom in San Francisco.

Contact Ethan Hazel at ehazel@scu.edu.