by Joy Zhang ’14

On February 28, 2012, Kid Cudi released a collaboration album, “WZRD,” with record producer Dot da Genius. The album was poorly received due to Cudi’s misguided attempt at alternative rock. Cudi’s previous mixtapes and albums are known for their creative beats, captivating rhymes and relatable lyrics. The detour to alternative rock confused his dedicated fans.

Fortunately, after the release of this lackluster album, Kid Cudi has redeemed himself. In a span of six months, Cudi has dropped multiple singles from his upcoming third studio album, “Indicud,” eliciting excitement for the April 23 release date. There are 18 tracks on the album, some of which feature popular artists from a variety of different genres: rappers A$AP Rocky and Kendrick Lamar, soulful singer Michael Bolton and electronic rock duo Ratatat.

“Indicud” is categorized as alternative hip hop, but Cudi creates an interesting mix of genres. Some of his songs range from alternative to indie rock. Cudi has successfully concocted a perfect blend of the styles from his old mixtape and albums – “A Kid Named Cudi,” “Man on the Moon: The End of the Day” and “Man on the Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager” – with his newer creation, “WZRD.”

The five singles – “Just What I Am,” “King Wizard,” “Immortal,” “Girls” and “Solo Dolo Pt. II” – have catchy choruses with fast tempos, yet relaxing beats. They are unlike any of his past material, but they preserve the qualities that made the world love him in the first place.

“Just What I Am” is a hazy anthem featuring King Chip where Cudi ponders existence with droning and elongated rapping. “King Wizard” is more upbeat with a warped electronic piano in the background and a transfixing robotic voice mid-song. It is innovative and futuristic. “Immortal” is a guitar-filled track that Cudi sings over. The song progresses from a wistful to euphoric mood, ultimately resulting in a melodic masterpiece. “Girls” features Too $hort and brings forth an electro-type beat. Just like “Immortal,” Cudi’s vocals shine throughout the song. “Solo Dolo Pt. II” features Kendrick Lamar and is a follow up to “Solo Dolo” off Cudi’s 2009 debut album. Both artists trade hard hitting verses over a hypnotic, organ-dense track.

While the lyrical meanings behind Cudi’s songs may lack depth, especially compared to his previous work, he does incorporate a diverse range of genres, artists and unique beats into his music, appealing to an audience far bigger than ever before. “Indicud” is a solid mesh of the appealing elements of early Cudi and some of his latter rockist tendencies. He continually evolves without ever losing his identity. In the beginning of “Immortal,” Kid Cudi claims he is “the smartest man alive,” and many will have to agree.