While Kanye West and Jay Z apparently never tire of informing the world how they’re the greatest hip hop artists currently at work, the evidence suggests this is actually a long way from the case, with neither artist producing music recently on a par with either Kendrick Lamar or LA’s Odd Future collective.
In particular, two of the OF crew – Tyler, The Creator and Earl Sweatshirt – have released some of the finest rap records of the decade so far. The precocious Earl, still only 21, has crafted a terrific follow-up to his critically acclaimed debut, Doris. I Don’t Like Shit, I Don’t Go Outside neatly showcases both his impressive lyrical chops and growing expertise as a groove technician.
Unlike the galacticos-style array of production talent assembled for his first record, Earl has overseen I Don’t Like Shit... himself, and the album effectively serves as a compendium of modern hip hop’s best elements. Skilfully skipping from the irresistible rhythms one might expect of, say, Pharrell to the sort of atmospheric, glitchy soundscapes Flying Lotus and the Brainfeeder crew have mastered, the record is quite the sonic trip.
Of the more uptempo tracks, the best is the stylish opener ‘Huey’, while of the quieter material, the standout moment – and overall highlight – is lead single ‘Grief’, a rather awesome slice of industrial-tinged ambient.
The album title might declare Earl don’t like shit, but he better be prepared for a lot of people to like this.

Key Track - 'Grief'