Tyler, The Creator - ‘CHROMAKOPIA’ (Discussion Thread)
- Thread starter Lootpack
- Start date
DoubleClutch
Superstar
This album had a nice debut then fell off a cliff.
No hit singles. No videos.
No replay value?
No hit singles. No videos.
No replay value?
Lil Bape the PostGod
Can’t talk to broke boys
Got tickets to his MSG show this summer
Looking forward to it
Yachty too
Looking forward to it
Yachty too
2 Up 2 Down
Veteran
Timing. It's a really good album but I really haven't been in a mood. Come summer I know I will be bumping it
DoubleClutch
Superstar
It should be bigger. He could’ve dropped a video for it by now
That song still trash to me
I think he realized that and might drop a different single/video next
But so far the album momentum has plateaued
The song started as a top 10 hit and has hovered in the top 20 for 3 months.It should be bigger. He could’ve dropped a video for it by now
That song still trash to me
I think he realized that and might drop a different single/video next
But so far the album momentum has plateaued
Kiyoshi-Dono
Veteran
- Joined
- Oct 11, 2015
- Messages
- 85,344
- Reputation
- 31,896
- Daps
- 458,848
- Reppin
- Petty Vandross.. fukk Yall
He didn’t know GNX was about to come through and crush the buildings
But this is played daily
DoubleClutch
Superstar
So why hasn’t he dropped a video? I think he doesn’t like the song or doesn’t want backlash
There has long been a fervent anticipation in my heart, a yearning to witness the emancipation of Tyler, The Creator, an artist whose journey through the realms of music has been nothing short of transformative. Since this native son of Los Angeles began his ascent in the latter half of the 2010s, his abilities as an auteur have been refined, polished, and expanded in ways that have continuously pushed the boundaries of what we understand hip-hop to be. With his eighth studio album, Chromakopia, Tyler crafts an auditory experience where the absence of color is juxtaposed with an abundance of raw, unfiltered honesty, culminating in one of the most riveting and genuinely human episodes within the hip-hop medium for the year 2024.
The Tyler we remember from his days with Odd Future seems now almost mythical, a figure from an age long past. I recall vividly those high school days when, seemingly overnight, every student's dikkies bag was adorned with the vibrant scrawl of "OFWGKTA," the acronym for Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All. Here was an 18-year-old boy, thrust into the spotlight, becoming a beacon for the disaffected, a new leader in the expansive landscape of alternative music. Tyler, in those years, embodied the very essence of teenage angst, flooding the airwaves with his skeletal, headbanging, cacophonic, and chaotic hip-hop productions. His early efforts were an attempt to meld the experimental sounds of Stereolab with the innovative beats of N.E.R.D., creating a unique beast within the alternative hip-hop scene. His debut, b*stard, though significant, was merely a precursor to the seismic cultural impact of Goblin, an album that, with tracks like "Yonkers," would leave an indelible mark on the music industry.
The phenomenon of "Yonkers" might never be replicated. The image of Tyler consuming a roach was less about shock value and more about the revelation of his capability to craft a simple, stock-sounding beat into something profound, layered with Eminem-esque themes and a flow reminiscent of '90s rap. This garnered him not just respect but a legion of followers from both fans and critics alike. While one generation viewed Odd Future as a rebellion against mainstream norms, others watched Tyler with bated breath, intrigued by his potential.
By the time Wolf was released, Tyler's third album, it was clear he had perhaps outgrown this initial phase. The sonic tapestry of the 2010s, dominated by digital synthesizers from the EDM wave, was fading, and Wolf represented a sort of farewell to that era. With the blog era waning, Tyler's fourth album marked yet another leap forward into uncharted musical territories.
Tyler's influences, vast and varied, truly began to materialize with Cherry Bomb. His first three albums had him somewhat shackled to the notion of being a rapper with a mission to create a dark, unconventional sound. Yet, Cherry Bomb was a pivotal moment, showcasing his love not only for rap but for chords, for lush harmonies, and for the art of vocal distortion. This album was the precursor to his later, more refined works.
Each announcement of a new album by Tyler feels like a cultural reset, a moment where time itself seems to recalibrate. "Who Dat Boy" from Flower Boy was no exception, especially given the backdrop of a leak that inadvertently disclosed Tyler's sexual orientation. Yet, Flower Boy was met with overwhelming acclaim, establishing a new phase in his production. Here, Tyler finally achieved his vision of blending dreamy European rock with the finesse of soul and jazz-influenced piano, all laid over uniquely rhythmic, head-nodding drums. The album was a testament to his growth as a musician who could manipulate Krautrock samples or engineer key changes with the precision of a master.
Then came Igor, an album that defies genre classification, narrating a breakup with such artistic flair that it's considered one of the crowning achievements of the 2010s. Igor is operatic, a seamless narrative that flows from one track to another, showcasing Tyler's bold artistic choices. The idea of Playboi Carti over a beautiful piano passage, for instance, could only have been conceived by a mind like Tyler's.
Igor stands as an undisputed classic, followed by Call Me If You Get Lost, a travel-themed odyssey under the Gangsta Grillz banner, where Tyler reaffirms his love for rap, demonstrating his unmatched prowess in the genre. Whether he was rapping over samples from Gravediggaz or Atmosphere, or employing his evolved production skills, he continued to conquer the art of composition.
Flower Boy saw Tyler transform himself; Igor was where he decoded the formula for his success; and CMIYGL was an amalgamation of all he had learned, revisiting his roots with newfound wisdom. The question lingered: what could possibly come next?
Liberation
Chromakopia reveals Tyler, The Creator, not as the public figure we might expect but as a profoundly human being. Despite owning a Ferrari, headlining festivals before massive crowds, he is also an individual contemplating fatherhood, questioning the changes in his appearance and weight, feeling both superior and akin to those who share his stage, his sound system. This album strips away the celebrity to reveal a man who, like all of us, is bound by earthbound desires and reflections.
Chromakopia emerged in a year rich with exceptional musical output. Personally, the release of new albums by Kendrick Lamar and Vince Staples was a blessing, yet the year was not limited to hip-hop alone. Charli XCX's Brat earned my Album of the Year, while The Cure's Songs Of The Lost World was a close contender behind my two favorites, GNX and Chromakopia. Deciding between Kendrick and Tyler was an exercise in futility, but now, with enthusiasm and a touch of reverence, I present to you my review of Chromakopia.
The Tyler we remember from his days with Odd Future seems now almost mythical, a figure from an age long past. I recall vividly those high school days when, seemingly overnight, every student's dikkies bag was adorned with the vibrant scrawl of "OFWGKTA," the acronym for Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All. Here was an 18-year-old boy, thrust into the spotlight, becoming a beacon for the disaffected, a new leader in the expansive landscape of alternative music. Tyler, in those years, embodied the very essence of teenage angst, flooding the airwaves with his skeletal, headbanging, cacophonic, and chaotic hip-hop productions. His early efforts were an attempt to meld the experimental sounds of Stereolab with the innovative beats of N.E.R.D., creating a unique beast within the alternative hip-hop scene. His debut, b*stard, though significant, was merely a precursor to the seismic cultural impact of Goblin, an album that, with tracks like "Yonkers," would leave an indelible mark on the music industry.
The phenomenon of "Yonkers" might never be replicated. The image of Tyler consuming a roach was less about shock value and more about the revelation of his capability to craft a simple, stock-sounding beat into something profound, layered with Eminem-esque themes and a flow reminiscent of '90s rap. This garnered him not just respect but a legion of followers from both fans and critics alike. While one generation viewed Odd Future as a rebellion against mainstream norms, others watched Tyler with bated breath, intrigued by his potential.
By the time Wolf was released, Tyler's third album, it was clear he had perhaps outgrown this initial phase. The sonic tapestry of the 2010s, dominated by digital synthesizers from the EDM wave, was fading, and Wolf represented a sort of farewell to that era. With the blog era waning, Tyler's fourth album marked yet another leap forward into uncharted musical territories.
Tyler's influences, vast and varied, truly began to materialize with Cherry Bomb. His first three albums had him somewhat shackled to the notion of being a rapper with a mission to create a dark, unconventional sound. Yet, Cherry Bomb was a pivotal moment, showcasing his love not only for rap but for chords, for lush harmonies, and for the art of vocal distortion. This album was the precursor to his later, more refined works.
Each announcement of a new album by Tyler feels like a cultural reset, a moment where time itself seems to recalibrate. "Who Dat Boy" from Flower Boy was no exception, especially given the backdrop of a leak that inadvertently disclosed Tyler's sexual orientation. Yet, Flower Boy was met with overwhelming acclaim, establishing a new phase in his production. Here, Tyler finally achieved his vision of blending dreamy European rock with the finesse of soul and jazz-influenced piano, all laid over uniquely rhythmic, head-nodding drums. The album was a testament to his growth as a musician who could manipulate Krautrock samples or engineer key changes with the precision of a master.
Then came Igor, an album that defies genre classification, narrating a breakup with such artistic flair that it's considered one of the crowning achievements of the 2010s. Igor is operatic, a seamless narrative that flows from one track to another, showcasing Tyler's bold artistic choices. The idea of Playboi Carti over a beautiful piano passage, for instance, could only have been conceived by a mind like Tyler's.
Igor stands as an undisputed classic, followed by Call Me If You Get Lost, a travel-themed odyssey under the Gangsta Grillz banner, where Tyler reaffirms his love for rap, demonstrating his unmatched prowess in the genre. Whether he was rapping over samples from Gravediggaz or Atmosphere, or employing his evolved production skills, he continued to conquer the art of composition.
Flower Boy saw Tyler transform himself; Igor was where he decoded the formula for his success; and CMIYGL was an amalgamation of all he had learned, revisiting his roots with newfound wisdom. The question lingered: what could possibly come next?
Liberation
Chromakopia reveals Tyler, The Creator, not as the public figure we might expect but as a profoundly human being. Despite owning a Ferrari, headlining festivals before massive crowds, he is also an individual contemplating fatherhood, questioning the changes in his appearance and weight, feeling both superior and akin to those who share his stage, his sound system. This album strips away the celebrity to reveal a man who, like all of us, is bound by earthbound desires and reflections.
Chromakopia emerged in a year rich with exceptional musical output. Personally, the release of new albums by Kendrick Lamar and Vince Staples was a blessing, yet the year was not limited to hip-hop alone. Charli XCX's Brat earned my Album of the Year, while The Cure's Songs Of The Lost World was a close contender behind my two favorites, GNX and Chromakopia. Deciding between Kendrick and Tyler was an exercise in futility, but now, with enthusiasm and a touch of reverence, I present to you my review of Chromakopia.
St. Chroma (feat. Daniel Caesar)
The inaugural track of Tyler, The Creator's magnum opus, Chromakopia, opens with a poignant maternal affirmation, the voice none other than Tyler's own mother, whose candid expressions, laced with an endearing touch of profanity, lay the emotional groundwork for the journey ahead. The transition into new territory is signaled by the chants of Tyler's voice, now refined, offering a melody that resonates with both wistfulness and a chill that pierces through the listener's soul. The introduction of subtle echoes, guiding us through layers of vocals, is accompanied by the ambient sounds of dogs barking, horses trotting, and the murmur of foot traffic, evoking images of arrival by horseback or perhaps on a carousel, setting the stage for a narrative of homecoming and self-discovery.
As the track hushes down, Tyler introduces himself in a whisper, his lyrics a reflection on his origins in Hawthorne, California, instilling a sense of place and pride. He speaks of his long-held belief in his destined greatness, echoing his mother's affirmations. The theme of light, both literal and metaphorical, is explored through Daniel Caesar's lush, harmonious vocals, crafting a hook that speaks to enlightenment and aspiration. Tyler's production takes a dramatic turn, with synths swelling into a chaotic crescendo that underscores his whisper-rap, all while the piano chords and the deep, resonant 808 bass form the backbone of the chorus. A breakbeat introduces a bassline that rumbles through the mix, with risers panning in and out, creating a disorienting yet captivating soundscape. As the second verse concludes, we return to the percussive claps and stomps, a rhythmic heartbeat, before Tyler's mother imparts one last piece of wisdom, leading into a seamless transition by Daniel Caesar, guiding us into the next chapter of this auditory saga.
Ra Ta Ta
Tyler dives into the fray with "Ra Ta Ta," where he delivers a hook that succinctly captures the essence of the track – confidence in his own narrative. The song's title, an onomatopoeia for the sound of his 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari, sets the stage for what is undoubtedly a bass-heavy, snare-driven banger. The production here is a masterclass, with jarring synths and unconventional percussion that complement Tyler's braggadocious flow. Chants weave in and out, providing a backdrop as Tyler dismisses any association with the so-called "Diddy parties." The DJ backspins are not just a nod to hip-hop's golden age but also serve as a playful transition into a verse where Tyler's lyrical prowess duels with the beat in a captivating, extended interplay. His final verse is a lavish display of his wealth, juxtaposed with reflections on his bullied past, asserting his and Kendrick Lamar's supremacy in the rap game, leading us into the album's next single.
Noid
The third track, "Noid," plunges us into a realm of prog rock, enriched by a psychedelic intro featuring WILLOW, whose presence adds a gospel-like quality to the track. The riff and release technique with guitars and drums evoke the spirit of King Crimson, while a sample from a Zambian rock band from the '70s adds an exotic, almost surreal layer, especially with the Nyanja sample hook. Tyler's lyrics here delve into his paranoia, a man under the spotlight, feeling more targeted than ever. His signature chords emerge, leading into a masterful display of keyboard virtuosity. An angelic break then introduces more maternal wisdom, before the final verse, where horns and a variety of percussive elements create a rich tapestry, Tyler's plea for solitude echoing through his art.
Darling, I (feat. Teezo Touchdown)
"Darling, I" introduces us to one of the album's brightest moments, with a smooth transition from Tyler's mother's voice to a landscape of lush acoustic guitars. Tyler's falsetto, supported by backup vocals, creates an ethereal atmosphere before Teezo Touchdown's entrance. The track then transforms into a smooth R&B ballad, exploring the dichotomy of Tyler's desire for freedom and his yearning for the emotional connection of love. Teezo's soaring performance elevates the production, leading into a bridge where Tyler speaks of sharing life's moments with multiple partners, suggesting a complexity to his views on love and relationships. The song concludes with a gentle, grooving synth, slowing down to a reflective close.
Hey Jane
In "Hey Jane," Tyler confronts one of life's most profound decisions with raw honesty. The track's simplicity in production allows for a thoughtful exploration of personal dilemmas. Here, we encounter "Jane," a pseudonym for a woman carrying Tyler's child, a scenario that brings forth a myriad of emotions. Tyler confesses his unreadiness for fatherhood, yet leaves the decision to her. The second verse provides Jane's perspective, highlighting her internal conflict between wanting the child and the fear of her biological clock, juxtaposed with her past experience with abortion. This track stands as one of the most significant in Tyler's discography, offering a raw glimpse into the complexities of human relationships.
I Killed You
"I Killed You" begins with a playful nursery rhyme, swiftly transitioning into a critique of cultural norms and personal identity. Tyler discusses the pressures on African Americans to conform, particularly regarding hair. The track features tribal drums and subby bass, with synths and guitars weaving in and out, creating a dynamic, evolving sound. The climax gives way to a serene, island-like outro, with Donald Glover's vocals adding a luxurious finish, before ending with a dramatic synth riser and scream, encapsulating the song's thematic intensity.
Judge Judy
"Judge Judy" explores the hedonistic side of Tyler's life through a sexually explicit narrative, reminiscent of Prince's "Darling Nikki." The guitar chords lead into a detailed account of a casual encounter, with Tyler and "Judy" engaging in various forms of sexual exploration. However, the track takes a poignant turn with Judy's letter revealing her battle with cancer, delivering a narrative twist that's both shocking and deeply human. The song concludes with Tyler's characteristic arpeggiated chords, now layered over the sounds of moaning, encapsulating the bittersweet nature of human connections.
Sticky (feat. GloRilla, Sexxy Red, & Lil Wayne)
"Sticky" starts with an explosive whistle and group chants, setting the stage for a hard-hitting track. Tyler's verses are sharp and impactful, with Sexxy Red's sticky performance adding to the track's energy. The high school marching band percussion and an over-the-top 808 bassline create an anthem of celebration and defiance. Lil Wayne's contribution brings a taste of New Orleans, enhancing the song's dynamic range. The track's playful call to get a mop due to the "stickiness" of the situation is both humorous and memorable, ending with a church-like chord progression and background harmonies, a signature Tyler touch.
The inaugural track of Tyler, The Creator's magnum opus, Chromakopia, opens with a poignant maternal affirmation, the voice none other than Tyler's own mother, whose candid expressions, laced with an endearing touch of profanity, lay the emotional groundwork for the journey ahead. The transition into new territory is signaled by the chants of Tyler's voice, now refined, offering a melody that resonates with both wistfulness and a chill that pierces through the listener's soul. The introduction of subtle echoes, guiding us through layers of vocals, is accompanied by the ambient sounds of dogs barking, horses trotting, and the murmur of foot traffic, evoking images of arrival by horseback or perhaps on a carousel, setting the stage for a narrative of homecoming and self-discovery.
As the track hushes down, Tyler introduces himself in a whisper, his lyrics a reflection on his origins in Hawthorne, California, instilling a sense of place and pride. He speaks of his long-held belief in his destined greatness, echoing his mother's affirmations. The theme of light, both literal and metaphorical, is explored through Daniel Caesar's lush, harmonious vocals, crafting a hook that speaks to enlightenment and aspiration. Tyler's production takes a dramatic turn, with synths swelling into a chaotic crescendo that underscores his whisper-rap, all while the piano chords and the deep, resonant 808 bass form the backbone of the chorus. A breakbeat introduces a bassline that rumbles through the mix, with risers panning in and out, creating a disorienting yet captivating soundscape. As the second verse concludes, we return to the percussive claps and stomps, a rhythmic heartbeat, before Tyler's mother imparts one last piece of wisdom, leading into a seamless transition by Daniel Caesar, guiding us into the next chapter of this auditory saga.
Ra Ta Ta
Tyler dives into the fray with "Ra Ta Ta," where he delivers a hook that succinctly captures the essence of the track – confidence in his own narrative. The song's title, an onomatopoeia for the sound of his 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari, sets the stage for what is undoubtedly a bass-heavy, snare-driven banger. The production here is a masterclass, with jarring synths and unconventional percussion that complement Tyler's braggadocious flow. Chants weave in and out, providing a backdrop as Tyler dismisses any association with the so-called "Diddy parties." The DJ backspins are not just a nod to hip-hop's golden age but also serve as a playful transition into a verse where Tyler's lyrical prowess duels with the beat in a captivating, extended interplay. His final verse is a lavish display of his wealth, juxtaposed with reflections on his bullied past, asserting his and Kendrick Lamar's supremacy in the rap game, leading us into the album's next single.
Noid
The third track, "Noid," plunges us into a realm of prog rock, enriched by a psychedelic intro featuring WILLOW, whose presence adds a gospel-like quality to the track. The riff and release technique with guitars and drums evoke the spirit of King Crimson, while a sample from a Zambian rock band from the '70s adds an exotic, almost surreal layer, especially with the Nyanja sample hook. Tyler's lyrics here delve into his paranoia, a man under the spotlight, feeling more targeted than ever. His signature chords emerge, leading into a masterful display of keyboard virtuosity. An angelic break then introduces more maternal wisdom, before the final verse, where horns and a variety of percussive elements create a rich tapestry, Tyler's plea for solitude echoing through his art.
Darling, I (feat. Teezo Touchdown)
"Darling, I" introduces us to one of the album's brightest moments, with a smooth transition from Tyler's mother's voice to a landscape of lush acoustic guitars. Tyler's falsetto, supported by backup vocals, creates an ethereal atmosphere before Teezo Touchdown's entrance. The track then transforms into a smooth R&B ballad, exploring the dichotomy of Tyler's desire for freedom and his yearning for the emotional connection of love. Teezo's soaring performance elevates the production, leading into a bridge where Tyler speaks of sharing life's moments with multiple partners, suggesting a complexity to his views on love and relationships. The song concludes with a gentle, grooving synth, slowing down to a reflective close.
Hey Jane
In "Hey Jane," Tyler confronts one of life's most profound decisions with raw honesty. The track's simplicity in production allows for a thoughtful exploration of personal dilemmas. Here, we encounter "Jane," a pseudonym for a woman carrying Tyler's child, a scenario that brings forth a myriad of emotions. Tyler confesses his unreadiness for fatherhood, yet leaves the decision to her. The second verse provides Jane's perspective, highlighting her internal conflict between wanting the child and the fear of her biological clock, juxtaposed with her past experience with abortion. This track stands as one of the most significant in Tyler's discography, offering a raw glimpse into the complexities of human relationships.
I Killed You
"I Killed You" begins with a playful nursery rhyme, swiftly transitioning into a critique of cultural norms and personal identity. Tyler discusses the pressures on African Americans to conform, particularly regarding hair. The track features tribal drums and subby bass, with synths and guitars weaving in and out, creating a dynamic, evolving sound. The climax gives way to a serene, island-like outro, with Donald Glover's vocals adding a luxurious finish, before ending with a dramatic synth riser and scream, encapsulating the song's thematic intensity.
Judge Judy
"Judge Judy" explores the hedonistic side of Tyler's life through a sexually explicit narrative, reminiscent of Prince's "Darling Nikki." The guitar chords lead into a detailed account of a casual encounter, with Tyler and "Judy" engaging in various forms of sexual exploration. However, the track takes a poignant turn with Judy's letter revealing her battle with cancer, delivering a narrative twist that's both shocking and deeply human. The song concludes with Tyler's characteristic arpeggiated chords, now layered over the sounds of moaning, encapsulating the bittersweet nature of human connections.
Sticky (feat. GloRilla, Sexxy Red, & Lil Wayne)
"Sticky" starts with an explosive whistle and group chants, setting the stage for a hard-hitting track. Tyler's verses are sharp and impactful, with Sexxy Red's sticky performance adding to the track's energy. The high school marching band percussion and an over-the-top 808 bassline create an anthem of celebration and defiance. Lil Wayne's contribution brings a taste of New Orleans, enhancing the song's dynamic range. The track's playful call to get a mop due to the "stickiness" of the situation is both humorous and memorable, ending with a church-like chord progression and background harmonies, a signature Tyler touch.
Take Your Mask Off (feat. Daniel Caesar & LaToiya Williams)
"Take Your Mask Off" serves as an open letter where Tyler addresses the phoniness he's encountered in the music industry. Over a smooth sample from People's Pleasure, he calls out the pretenders, from those faking street credibility to those hiding their true selves. His fourth verse is particularly scathing towards other rappers, asserting his superiority. Daniel Caesar and LaToiya Williams provide a melodic hook that breaks up the intensity, offering a moment of reflection amidst the confrontation.
Tomorrow
"Tomorrow" opens with a dystopian feel, the acoustic guitars painting a somber picture, with Tyler's mother expressing her desire for grandchildren. Tyler's sung verse over electric guitar accompaniment is introspective, discussing aging while promoting a philosophy of living in the moment, a theme recurrent from "Flower Boy." The second verse, with its rhythmic snaps, addresses the pressure of past perceptions versus his current self, showcasing his frustration with being typecast and his longing for a deeper connection beyond his material possessions.
Thought I Was Dead (feat. ScHoolboy Q & Santigold)
"Thought I Was Dead" is a fierce declaration of Tyler's resilience against public scrutiny. Starting with war cries, the track quickly escalates into a powerful verse, with horns and Santigold's background vocals adding to the chaos. The hook is as explosive as a volcanic eruption, with ScHoolboy Q delivering a slick second verse. Tyler's bridge and finale are a direct response to critics, with his lyrics both defiant and liberating, underscored by a barrage of percussion and 808 drops.
Like Him (feat. Lola Young)
"Like Him" is a tender exploration of identity and legacy, with a somber piano setting the stage for Tyler's falsetto, discussing his resemblance to his father, a man he never knew. The piano ballad crescendos into a chorus where Tyler expresses his longing for connection. The instrumental breakdown here is one of the year's highlights, with synths and guitars creating an ethereal soundscape. The bridge, with Lola Young's vocals, is a sonic spectacle, leading to a revelation by Tyler's mother about her decision to raise him alone, a poignant end that asks for forgiveness and understanding.
Ballon (feat. Doechii)
"Ballon" samples from Akiko Yano and Luke, creating a reflective track where Tyler and Doechii celebrate their success and authenticity. The happy-go-lucky synthesizer reflects the mood of self-acceptance, with both artists embracing their bisexuality in their lyrics. The track's structure builds and releases, mirroring the ups and downs of life, ending with Daniel Caesar's encouragement to keep pushing boundaries, symbolizing limitless ambition.
I Hope You Find Your Way Home
Concluding Chromakopia, "I Hope You Find Your Way Home" echoes the legacy of musical masters like Roy Ayers and Prince, with Tyler showcasing his multifaceted talent. The slow intro with synths, vocal arrangements, and soulful drums leads into a verse where Tyler displays vulnerability, discussing life's trials, from personal losses to legal battles, all with a reflective tone. His mother's emotional response to his journey adds a layer of depth, ending with a synth solo that's a testament to Tyler's evolution as an artist. This track, and indeed the entire album, leaves us with echoes of the world Tyler has built, a place called Chromakopia, where art, life, and emotion converge in a symphony of human experience.
"Take Your Mask Off" serves as an open letter where Tyler addresses the phoniness he's encountered in the music industry. Over a smooth sample from People's Pleasure, he calls out the pretenders, from those faking street credibility to those hiding their true selves. His fourth verse is particularly scathing towards other rappers, asserting his superiority. Daniel Caesar and LaToiya Williams provide a melodic hook that breaks up the intensity, offering a moment of reflection amidst the confrontation.
Tomorrow
"Tomorrow" opens with a dystopian feel, the acoustic guitars painting a somber picture, with Tyler's mother expressing her desire for grandchildren. Tyler's sung verse over electric guitar accompaniment is introspective, discussing aging while promoting a philosophy of living in the moment, a theme recurrent from "Flower Boy." The second verse, with its rhythmic snaps, addresses the pressure of past perceptions versus his current self, showcasing his frustration with being typecast and his longing for a deeper connection beyond his material possessions.
Thought I Was Dead (feat. ScHoolboy Q & Santigold)
"Thought I Was Dead" is a fierce declaration of Tyler's resilience against public scrutiny. Starting with war cries, the track quickly escalates into a powerful verse, with horns and Santigold's background vocals adding to the chaos. The hook is as explosive as a volcanic eruption, with ScHoolboy Q delivering a slick second verse. Tyler's bridge and finale are a direct response to critics, with his lyrics both defiant and liberating, underscored by a barrage of percussion and 808 drops.
Like Him (feat. Lola Young)
"Like Him" is a tender exploration of identity and legacy, with a somber piano setting the stage for Tyler's falsetto, discussing his resemblance to his father, a man he never knew. The piano ballad crescendos into a chorus where Tyler expresses his longing for connection. The instrumental breakdown here is one of the year's highlights, with synths and guitars creating an ethereal soundscape. The bridge, with Lola Young's vocals, is a sonic spectacle, leading to a revelation by Tyler's mother about her decision to raise him alone, a poignant end that asks for forgiveness and understanding.
Ballon (feat. Doechii)
"Ballon" samples from Akiko Yano and Luke, creating a reflective track where Tyler and Doechii celebrate their success and authenticity. The happy-go-lucky synthesizer reflects the mood of self-acceptance, with both artists embracing their bisexuality in their lyrics. The track's structure builds and releases, mirroring the ups and downs of life, ending with Daniel Caesar's encouragement to keep pushing boundaries, symbolizing limitless ambition.
I Hope You Find Your Way Home
Concluding Chromakopia, "I Hope You Find Your Way Home" echoes the legacy of musical masters like Roy Ayers and Prince, with Tyler showcasing his multifaceted talent. The slow intro with synths, vocal arrangements, and soulful drums leads into a verse where Tyler displays vulnerability, discussing life's trials, from personal losses to legal battles, all with a reflective tone. His mother's emotional response to his journey adds a layer of depth, ending with a synth solo that's a testament to Tyler's evolution as an artist. This track, and indeed the entire album, leaves us with echoes of the world Tyler has built, a place called Chromakopia, where art, life, and emotion converge in a symphony of human experience.