The Odd Future Tape Vol. 2 Review

Album: The Odd Future Tape Vol. 2

Artist: Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All

Label: Odd Future Records

Release Date: March 22

Grade: A-

What a difference four years, a record deal, and getting sent away to Samoa make.

To the untrained ear it might seem as though rap syndicate Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All (OFWGKTA/OF) is constantly churning out content. However, their follow-up to 2007's The Odd Future Tape, The Odd Future Tape Vol. 2 is the first major studio album the group has released.

The progress between this collaborative album and its original is definite and shows what this group of raucous Californians is capable of. Front man Tyler, The Creator and group member Left Brain produced 16 out of the 18 listed tracks, and in comparison to their previous work, the talent shines brighter with the right resources.

"Ya Know," featuring solo female member Syd Tha Kid and partner Matt Martians - who are also known as OF sub-group, The Internet - is a perfect example of what happens when talent isn't stifled by budget. Psychedelic synths and jazzy drums build a sound similar to rap mogul Pharrell Williams. Syd's melodies and Matt's relaxed rhymes blend perfectly together for a song unlike anything usually heard from OF.

The comedic attempts made by the group could possibly be the only flaw on the album, as most new fans might not comprehend why it even exists. Resident flunkies, Taco and Jasper Dolphin make sporadic cameos on tracks such as "50" and the hilarious "We Got B****es" as they do on every group project. Their purposeful offensive lyrics and mocking attitudes will definitely raise eyebrows, but that's exactly the reaction they seek.

What makes this album so special is the comeback of Earl Sweatshirt, OF's most notorious member, both for his personal exploits and his talent.

"Oldie," the album's grand finale, serves as exactly that. In rap terms, the 10-minute 36-second track is a cypher. Eight rappers each took their turn strutting their stuff and contributed verses to "Oldie." Even crooner Frank Ocean flawlessly flexes his rapping muscles on this track, to much surprise.

Earl raps for nearly two minutes without stopping and irrefutably proves getting sent away to Samoa hasn't hindered his rapping abilities.

"F***ing all-American terrorist/Crushin' rapper larynx to feed 'em a f***ing carrot stick/And me? I just spent a year Ferris-in'/And lost a little sanity to show you what hysterics is," raps Earl.

The Odd Future Tape Vol. 2 is an amazing compilation of this eclectic group's talents. Members of OF range in age from 18-25 and if this quality music is what is offered after their first professional attempt, similar collectives should take notes and learn.

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