Clever, an artist long known for his fearless approach to genre, has officially released his highly anticipated full-length country album, ‘Coyote,’ on October 3, 2025. This sprawling 21-track project is not merely a foray into country music, but a deliberate artistic statement that boldly fuses hip-hop sensibilities, R&B textures, and alternative influences with raw, Southern storytelling. ‘Coyote’ represents a significant evolution for the Alabama-native, solidifying his reputation as a musician who refuses to be confined by traditional boundaries.
Beyond the Lines: Clever’s Genre-Defying Debut
Born Joshua Tyler Huie, Clever’s musical journey began steeped in the poetic lyricism of hip-hop, influenced by icons like Jay-Z and the soulful stylings of R&B, alongside the diverse tastes of his parents, which included classic rock and soul. This eclectic foundation has always informed his sound, but with ‘Coyote,’ he fully embraces a more expansive sonic palette. The album builds upon the promise of his previous self-titled EP, weaving together elements that are distinctly his own into a cohesive, captivating whole. The 21 songs on ‘Coyote’ include both new material and previously released tracks, meticulously curated to form a sonic memoir of heartbreak, resilience, and self-discovery.
The ‘Outlaw Music’ Manifesto
Central to ‘Coyote’ is Clever’s concept of “Outlaw Music”. For the artist, being an outlaw in 2025 means eschewing industry expectations and conventions, charting a path that is distinctly left of center. It’s a spirit of rebellion and authenticity, a willingness to break the rules rather than simply imitate the legendary outlaws of country music’s past. This contrasts with the modern perception of ‘outlaw’ as a potentially manufactured image in the music industry. Clever’s ‘outlaw’ persona on ‘Coyote’ is less about a rugged aesthetic and more about his unflinching honesty and his refusal to fit into a predictable mold. The album cover itself, featuring the word ‘Coyote’ stamped on a beer can with “Outlaw Music” emblazoned, signifies this bold declaration.
Sonic Landscape of ‘Coyote’: Blurring Lines
The sound of ‘Coyote’ is a testament to Clever’s mastery of genre blending. The production often features a cinematic sweep, described as having a “Post Malone haze” with heavy basslines, R&B gloss, and a “club-country sheen”. Tracks like “Amaretto Sour” blend western pop and R&B, creating a “haunted hybrid” with melancholic, neon-lit production. “Stuck in It” offers a similar vibe, perfect for late-night introspection or a desert highway drive, showcasing a pulse that beats as much in neon light as in honky-tonks. Other songs, such as “Cowboy Killers,” lean into darker tones, while “Gently in the Night” and “Sandcastles” explore haunting, atmospheric soundscapes that push country music’s boundaries. The album successfully merges the timeless imagery of country storytelling with modern beats and textures, creating a soundscape that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.
Themes of Heartbreak and Redemption
Lyrically, ‘Coyote’ delves deep into themes of duality, vulnerability, and the human experience of heartbreak and redemption. Clever describes the album as “a voice in the darkness — a hymnal for the heartbroken,” proving that one can “bleed, burn, and bounce back”. Songs like “You Didn’t Hear It From Me” strip away the production to focus on raw honesty and vulnerability, often featuring a tender vocal delivery over a piano melody. This track, featuring Sydney Cubit, explores the powerful message of masking pain for the sake of appearances. Other tracks, such as “Halfway to Houston,” combine the classic country trope of a rambling man with contemporary beats, while “Dale Murphy” uses baseball metaphors to explore identity struggles. The album is a deeply personal soundtrack, spotlighting Clever’s versatility and his profound ability to connect with listeners through honest confessions.
A Manifesto of Authenticity
Clever’s approach to creating ‘Coyote’ is rooted in a commitment to authenticity and artistic integrity. He emphasizes that writing music is an escape to process emotions, not merely a calculated venture for financial gain. “People can smell, from a mile away, whether I really feel a song or not,” he states, underscoring his dedication to genuine expression. This philosophy drives his willingness to blend genres fearlessly and to explore themes that resonate deeply, even if they are unconventional. The album is more than just a collection of songs; it’s described as a manifesto, showcasing Clever at his rawest – bruised, bold, and unafraid to share his scars. For fans, ‘Coyote’ offers a journey, an experience that leaves them changed, much like an imagined road trip in an old Chevelle on a desert road, headlights on the horizon.
In conclusion, Clever’s ‘Coyote’ is a landmark album that boldly redefines what it means to be an “outlaw” in contemporary music. By fearlessly blending genres and committing to raw, honest storytelling, Clever has crafted a work that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. This release marks not just a new chapter for the artist, but a significant moment for a music landscape increasingly open to artists who dare to break the mold.
