Like everything else in the Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All realm ‘The OF Tape Vol. 2‘ is misleading from the get go. Despite its sequel suggesting title and budget album cover this the Los Angeles shock-rap crew’s first proper full release since they got signed.It’s true that ‘Channel: ORANGE‘ deservedly got a lot of attention but it would be a mistake to overlook this album.
A lot of has gone on in the OF world since they released free internet albums in 2008 and the individual Odd Future members have all been able to branch out into new territories with Frank Ocean and Tyler, The Creator‘s excellent ‘Goblin‘ album leading the way. Still, it feels like when they collide collectively this rowdy bunch seem to bring the best out of each other.
The ‘The OF Tape Vol. 2‘ has a ‘greatest hits‘ feel to it with each person brings their A-game to the front. With the aforementioned Tyler and Frank Ocean taking a slight step back It is also a chance for lesser members to prove they belong. Hodgy Beats and Domo Genesis seize the opportunity sounding possessed and never missing a trick while LeftBrain sprinkles magic from his producer chair.The Internet deliver their trademark dreamy sounds and even class clowns Jasper Dolphin and Taco get their moment.
Perhaps The best part ‘The OF Tape Vol. 2‘ is album closer ‘Oldie‘ which features all the Odd Future family going at it including a much-anticipated return from exile of the prodigal son Earl Sweatshirt. As well as showing some sharp wit and some killer rhymes from practically everyone involved the track proves that, at the heart of it, Odd Future are just a bunch of friends living out the ultimate rockstar fantasy and laughing at their own in-jokes. Whether you get it or not they don’t give a fuck.
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