The OF Tape, Vol. 2

iTunes Review

Since emerging from the Los Angeles sub-underground several years ago, Odd Future has become arguably the most-blogged-about rap group ever, riding an avalanche of online hype and building a dedicated (and obsessive) global fanbase. Ten members deep, Odd Future has been compared to Wu-Tang Clan, but its style is far less thugged-out and way more bugged-out. Led by Tyler, the Creator, the group is all about shattering preconceived notions of traditional hip-hop; its tracks are all over the place stylistically. On Vol. 2, Odd Future effortlessly shifts between straight-up R&B ("White"), hyperactive Dirty South parody ("We Got B*tches," "50"), experimental electro sputtering ("Rella"), and a righteously grimy, throwback posse cut ("Oldie," featuring the return of fan favorite Earl Sweatshirt). Lyrically, the members have toned down the omnipresent illicit talk of their earlier work, but they remain focused on references to pop culture, current events, and Wolf Gang pride. Check out "Sam (Is Dead)," "Real B*tch," and "NY (Ned Flanders)."