2025 has been great for hip-hop fans, and it only keeps getting better. One fanbase in particular, however, that seems to be thriving this summer is fans of the defunct Odd Future. Just weeks ago, we were treated to a release from Tyler, The Creator, and now, another member has dropped a surprise project.
On Aug. 1, Domo Genesis released a brand-new EP, entitled WORLD GONE MAD. The EP is a collaboration with hip-hop producer Graymatter, who fully produced the project. Domo is no stranger to collaboration projects like this, as he previously released a classic mixtape, No Idols (2012), which is fully produced by The Alchemist.
Domo has been rapping since 2010, getting his start as part of the rap group Odd Future. The group included Domo, Syd the Kyd & Matt Martians of the R&B group The Internet, Tyler, The Creator, Earl Sweatshirt, and Frank Ocean, among many more.
A review of Domo Genesis' WORLD GONE MAD EP
When most people debate the best rapper to come out of Odd Future, they often look to Earl or Tyler. However, I'd argue that Domo should be in that conversation as well.
Despite not having the massive mainstream fame that his counterparts do today, Domo has managed to build a solid resume. Since Odd Future's presumed breakup, Domo has consistently found himself collaborating with mainstream artists like Freddie Gibbs, Tyler, and the late Mac Miller.
These features have helped him maintain a steady presence in hip-hop, navigating the space between the mainstream and underground, making him one of hip-hop's hidden gems.
WORLD GONE MAD is a quick showcase of Domo's pure rapping ability. The EP is super short, with only five tracks and a total runtime of 10 minutes. The entire project features no hooks, no choruses, just straight bars. There are also no features included in the project.
While most artists rely on production to distract from their lyrics, Domo lets his lyrical ability take control. The project has a very stripped-down production, which allows the listener to focus on his lyrics. This allows Domo and Graymatter to fully lock in on their creative vision for the EP. It is clear that the goal was to show off Domo’s skill, rather than making radio hits.
"Weezy Face"
While the album features a short intro, titled "The Intro," it doesn't add much to the project other than provide a cool transition into the first real track, "Weezy Face." The track has some stellar production. The beat brings the vibe of a modern western movie, which perfectly matches the music video for the song, which seems to be recorded around his hometown of Inglewood, CA.
One of my favorite lines from this song is, "The underrated greatest, anesthesia's on the cadence," which perfectly describes his status in the rap game. Despite being one of the best lyricists in rap for more than a decade, Domo remains criminally slept on.
The song's title, which is in reference to the viral clip of Lil Wayne reacting to Chad Ochocinco's attempt to freestyle, is very fitting, as I had the same reaction to the track on my first listen.
"Church's Chicken"
While there is not much to say about this track, it is yet another solid track with great synergy between Domo's flow and Graymatter's production. The beat is very laid back, which complements Domo's effortless flow.
"World Gone Mad"
The title track "World Gone Mad" is possibly the most important track of the EP. In the song, Domo takes us on an introspective look into his career.
One line that really stands out to me is, “I know the game and I can tell you ain't nobody finna save you." To me, it reflects Domo’s independent mindset. Despite his past ties and longtime friendship with artists like Tyler, he’s never leaned on them to boost his career. Domo is determined to carve his own path.
That said, taking the long road usually means seeing slower results, which Domo seems to admit in the next line: "Got to pray over my ways, I know I'm not all the way a product / Made imperfect but I'm working."
He knows he’s not exactly where he wants to be in the rap game yet, but he’s learned to make peace with that. As he mentions earlier in the track, he knows God has a plan, and therefore, he has learned to trust his process.
"Rough Diamonds"
My favorite track from the EP is "Rough Diamonds." It features a high-pitched soul sample, known in hip-hop as a "Chipmunk Soul" sample, which is reminiscent of 2000s rap production. This type of production gives the song a lighthearted vibe, which brings a positive end to the EP.
Overall, there is not much else to say about this EP. Unfortunately, it seems to be getting lost in the shuffle of the big releases of the moment. However, that is to be expected for such a short project with a lack of a rollout. If anything, WORLD GONE MAD is a fun appetizer that undoubtedly leaves you hungry for more music from Domo.
Lucky for us, in an Instagram comment under a recent post, Domo says, "this just the warm up." Thus, it seems we can expect a new full-length album in the near future.