REVIEW: WZRD

First off, it appears that vowels are going out of fashion for all the popular kids (Neako, Thoephilus London, and now WZRD). So get on my lvl.

The first official album from the duo, WZRD (Kid Cudi and producer, Dot da Genius), was created as a rock album after the two had been working so close together for so many projects before this one (A Kid Named Cudi, both Man on the Moon albums). The production is on point from the Genius, especially with the opening instrumental/track, "The Arrival." The overall album is grungy and gritty, while having spots of sunshine ("High Off Life", "Upper Room"*). Mescudi doesn't have the most melodic voice or poetic lines, but as usual, his honest emotions are felt with every word (I still hold that he's way better at masterminding hooks).

One thing that can't be avoided in discussion is the heavy influence from Nirvana throughout the album. The melodies and crooning by Mescudi are very reflective of Cobain. But then tracks like "Efflictim" are done uniquely in their own sound. And it's good to Mescudi sticking to his spaced out roots like on the track, "The Dream Time Machine."

Although the album content is largely about relationships, most likely from Mescudi's personal life, the way WZRD goes about it makes the topic seem new and full of new material. So instead, you should listen to WZRD as a chance to see past the stoner persona the media has built around Mescudi/he's built for himself, and into the everyday human with a heart that is Scott Ramon Seguro Mescudi.

*That's definitely "White Room" by Cream I hear sampled in "Upper Room." Niiiice.