Coarse language. When most people are exposed to an unrefined, crude, or offensive flow of words the affects are most always negative. Whether addressing an individual or group, the use of coarse language is seen as an inadequate tool for provoking or catalysing thoughts of any sort. But, what about course language? What does the substitution of coarse’s homophone change about what you’re being exposed to? We’ll take a look at Wize (of Frontlynaz) and how his debut solo album, Course Language, provokes thought minus the unfruitful after effects.

We live in a world of mixed signals, faulty (doctrines) lessons, and any other message that can cause interference in our search for Truth. Part of staying the course is cutting through all the “Commotion”, and seeking to hear directly from the Lord. Wize utilizes a rock- styled track, one of many uniquely crafted instrumentals, to introduce the listener to just how focused this 14 track album will be. This is followed up by arguably the best track on the project, “Merlot”- featuring the soulful Sean C. Johnson and underrated lyricist Wit. This song, with a heart of eclectic jazz, is a well played metaphor- for those unsure of the title.

Creativity continues as Wize uses more extended metaphors, imagery, and storytelling on cuts like “Hollywood”, “Game of Thrones”, “Above Water”, and “Love Lost”. None of the first six tracks mentioned sound anything alike, something like a multi-course meal where each dish is distinct but complimentary of each other. Thus far, its clear that Wize’s goal is to cover a lot of area with subject matter and musical approach, all while exposing the filler and folly of what’s on the “menu” of the world in an effort to change the course of the listener’s taste.

Another landmark song on this album is “America the Beautiful”, a thorough track that uses the language of irony. “Course language, things ain’t what it seems. The journey is a dream life is a murder scene”. This sums up the meaning of the cover, lending to the fact that nurture can overcome nature and innocence can be preserved in the most dire of surroundings. Though the content is consistent, the album's refreshing musical unpredictability continue yes with the dubstep-laced "Flippin Crazy" and Pop Rock sound of "Course Language". Speaking of the title track, with Kelly Kelz on the hook, it definitely is a solid song; my only critique on this track would be that I felt Wize could've been even more aggressive on the delivery, paralleling the feels of the drums and synths.

As the album winds down, Wize is straightforward in approach with "Bar Brawl" and "L Word", making his message plain on each. The latter is possibly one of the more intriguing songs I've heard in a good decade or so because of how he (and Proph 1) handled the subject at hand. Each Lynaz crewmember took the viewpoint of a male who is told that they're loved by a woman far too early along in a relationship. The word love itself is one that has been twisted and diluted, no matter what language, so for this topic to be handles how it was on this track was a success. Wize sews up this strong solo effort with "Adat", "Spiderman" (this song may be hit or miss to some), and "Wanna Be's" (feat. Proph 1 & Dre Murray), powering through the finish line. 

From musical compositions (provided by Wit, Nar8ta, Tee Wyla, and Mathew Robertson) to songwriting, vocal arrangements, and cover art, this project screams intense creativity. Though it may not be an instant hit with those who are not versatile in their musical pallette, this album has plenty of room to grow on any discerning listener with a taste for quality. One detail I didn't cover in the bulk of the review is just how strong Wize's singing/ harmonizing is throughout the album. Best displayed on "Love Lost" and "Spiderman", Wize's Pop/ Rock/ Soul vocal flavor deserves its own full album shine- just a thought. Some may try to discount this release because it doesn't follow the "course" of most CHH, but that's a miscalculation of the "language" being presented on this album. In short, this project is a refreshing release that is a potential playthrough for anyone who likes to be better for the road/ lesson/ meal that they've been served.

Categorical Ratings Breakdown:

Originality/Creativity: 5/5
Lyrics: 4/5
Delivery: 4/5
Beat Selection/Production: 4.5/5
Concept/Arrangement: 4.5/5

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