After a three-year hiatus, Tyler, The Creator is back with “CHROMAKOPIA,” an album that challenges conventional release strategies and invites fans to savor its depth. Instead of the typical Friday at midnight drop, Tyler chose Oct. 28th, a 6 a.m. Monday premiere, encouraging listeners to take a full week to digest this intricate work.
At the heart of “CHROMAKOPIA” is a gritty look at the realities of impending fatherhood. This 14-track journey is a nostalgic and introspective dive into Tyler’s psyche, touching on themes of paranoia and growth. Tyler confronts his fears and anxieties with raw honesty in “Hey, Jane,” rapping “Who am I to b— and complain? You’ve got to deal with all the mental and the physical change.” This reflective lens reveals not just his vulnerability but also a touching commentary on the emotional and physical challenges of parenthood, making it a standout moment in his discography.
Musically, the vibrant album pays homage to every era of Tyler’s career. From the breezy synths of “Take Your Mask Off,” reminiscent of “Flower Boy,” to the grunge-infused power of “Rah Tah Tah” and “Thought I Was Dead,” there’s something here for everyone. The album features guest appearances, including Daniel Ceaser, Teezo Touchdown, Childish Gambino, Doechii, Schoolboy Q, Lil Wayne, and GloRilla, amplifying the experience.
In “Darling, I,” Tyler creates a moment of playful optimism amidst the album’s dark themes, where he ponders his sexuality against the backdrop of celebrity culture. The bridge simplifies the track’s overall message, saying, “Everybody’s different, you know, it’s not just sex, I get different things from different people, and I want you to explore it too, have those moments and experiences.”
In contrast, “Sticky” erupts with chaotic energy, featuring a dizzying blend of whistles and chants, causing GloRilla and Sexyy Red to stumble over the beat. Even Lil Wayne is nearly drowned out by the rhythmic beat.
“Balloon” offers a brief yet captivating escape, blending iconic samples like Luke’s “I Wanna Rock” with glitchy synths reminiscent of a Super Mario game. Doechii shines here, delivering a manic verse that showcases her undeniable talent.
Seven albums in, Tyler proves he can still reinvent himself, crafting a fresh and daring project. As he gears up for “CHROMAKOPIA: THE WORLD TOUR,” kicking off on Feb. 4 in Los Angeles with Lil Yachty and Paris Texas, there’s no doubt this album sets the stage for an exhilarating new era. With this album, Tyler, the Creator, has not just returned to the music scene. He’s taken a bold leap forward, inviting listeners into his world with humor and heart.
For those eager to explore “CHROMAKOPIA” further, the full album is ready to captivate your ears.
