“Insane in the brain, deranged psycho/Played the game, not a typo”

Those words set things off on the first track “A Win Is a Win”, a laidback brooding track that showcases WOLFMAN’s no-holds-barred lyricism. Next is “The Drop”, which starts with a cryptic vocal warning before the rapper gets into gear with his style of unfiltered lyrics and style. This is followed by the anthemic “Red”, comprising triumphant horns at the start and moves into an ominous piece underpinned by gripping songwriting where he reminds us of his antecedents.

We then move into the tribute track “Hip Hop First” where he talks about his love with the culture being the top. Over an off-beat experimental soundscape comprising moody textures and slick guitar licks, WOLFMAN namedrops several legendary rappers that inspired and influenced his life. This is followed by the scenic horns on “Let It Bang”, an aptly titled track that raises the ante with its catchy hook and warring aesthetic. WOLFMAN leads us into a mission where life or death is one wrong move away. The war theme continues with“Ready Aim Fire” with its dark and ominous soundscape, use of war motifs and gripping storytelling that keeps audiences locked in from start to finish while “Prevail” is another verbal slug in the chamber. WOLFMAN doesn’t let go of his fiery style and continues to pile on the detractors and naysayers with his never-say-die mindset.

The last three tracks include the regal-themed “King MC”, horrorcore vibes of “Saw Dust” and the brooding “Program Book”. Each tracks bring a slightly different perspective but is still lyrically threaded to each other.

Overall WOLFMAN JECKYLL is a tribute to classic dark 90s hip-hop tracks reminiscent of Redman’s “Dare Iz A Darkside” with modern experimental aesthetics. The beats are crunchy, dark and sombre while the lyricism strays from the norm at every point.