What makes Wolf by Tyler, the Creator notable?

Wolf debuted at number three on the Billboard 200 and received widespread acclaim for its experimental production and lyrical depth. The album is notable for its intricate storytelling and character development, marking a significant evolution in Tyler's artistry that influenced subsequent alternative hip-hop artists. Released in 2013, Wolf was Tyler, the Creator's third studio album, following his critically acclaimed Goblin. At this point in his career, Tyler was solidifying his unique sound and artistic vision, exploring deeper themes linked to fame and personal struggle while maintaining his distinct personality.

Wolf works well if you're into dynamic emotional journeys, long, immersive listening sessions and wave-like pacing experience.

How many songs are on Wolf?

Wolf has 18 tracks, running approximately 71 minutes.

Wolf

Tyler, the Creator · 2013

71 min · 18 tracks · contemporary R&B

A kaleidoscopic blend of whimsical beats and introspective lyrics that traverse the complexities of identity and relationships.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Domo 23 — This track features a confident blend of braggadocio and playful experimentation, showcasing Tyler's growth as both a rapper and producer within the album's narrative arc.
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IFHY — Combining haunting instrumentals with deeply personal lyrics about love and insecurity, this track exemplifies Tyler's ability to intertwine vulnerability with his characteristic bravado.
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Awkward — The song captures the essence of youthful confusion and emotional complexity, using clever wordplay and an infectious beat that reflects Tyler's signature style.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

66 /100

Alpine

Higher than 89% of albums we've rated

Wolf showcases Tyler's unique storytelling and experimental production, solidifying his artistic vision.

What we noticed

The album features a narrative structure where several tracks introduce characters and storylines that recur throughout.
Many songs incorporate abrupt tempo changes, such as the transition from the upbeat 'Domo 23' to the slower 'IFHY'.
The production employs a wide range of instruments and samples, creating a diverse sonic palette that shifts between whimsical and introspective moods.
Several tracks blend multiple song ideas into one, as seen in 'PartyIsntOver/Campfire/Bimmer', which combines distinct musical sections.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic emotional journeys
long, immersive listening sessions
wave-like pacing experience
introspective storytelling focus

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2013, Wolf was Tyler, the Creator's third studio album, following his critically acclaimed Goblin. At this point in his career, Tyler was solidifying his unique sound and artistic vision, exploring deeper themes linked to fame and personal struggle while maintaining his distinct personality.
Stylistic neighbors: Earl Sweatshirt· Frank Ocean· Syd