Tyler, the Creator, has undeniably become one of the most influential and recognizable figures in both hip-hop and pop culture, and he absolutely lives up to his name. As an artist, he’s a true creator in every sense of the word. Whether it’s through his music, visual art, or fashion, Tyler constantly innovates and pushes boundaries, finding fresh ways to express himself and capture the ever-evolving stages of his life. His work isn’t confined to a singular genre or medium; he’s always on the cutting edge, forever evolving and reinventing himself.
With this new album, Tyler has once again crafted a striking and emotive piece of musical art that will provoke thought, stir emotions, and leave a lasting impact. Whether the listener feels love, anxiety, fear, or a sense of familial connection, Tyler’s work resonates on a deep emotional level. The album’s production and composition create an immersive sonic landscape that’s as beautiful as it is thought-provoking.
The lyrics and the themes Tyler tackles on this album are exceptional, challenging the listener to reexamine their perceptions of life and the world around them. He’s helping to reshape what hip-hop and rap can be when we step away from the superficial and the glamorous and return to the genre's roots: storytelling. This album is full of raw, genuine narratives that go beyond what’s expected in mainstream hip-hop. Tyler brings an honesty and vulnerability to his lyrics, and they delve into difficult, yet relatable, life situations.
The album’s narration is further enriched by his mother, whose interjections provide deep, insightful reflections that guide us through the journey. As listeners, we’re taken on an emotional ride alongside the protagonist as they navigate the highs and lows of life. For instance, Tyler explores the bliss of love on “darling, i,” the emotional turmoil of an unplanned pregnancy on “hey jane,” and the weighty decision of whether or not to have children on “tomorrow.” One of the standout tracks is “Justice Judy,” where Tyler encourages listeners to reject judgment and focus on love without holding onto outdated ideas about a woman’s worth, like body count. It’s a refreshing and empowering perspective, especially from a male voice in hip-hop, where such topics are rarely explored in such an open, non-judgmental manner.
On top of the heartfelt storytelling, the music on this album is unlike anything you might expect from a traditional rap album. The sound is unorthodox, mixing a variety of genres and styles to create a wholly unique experience. “noid” is a perfect example—this track blends so many different musical influences, but everything flows together seamlessly, making it feel fresh and exciting. Tyler’s use of real instruments, many of which are unconventional, helps elevate the songs and make them memorable in a way that is rare in today’s music landscape. The inclusion of woodblocks, horns, bongos, and finger snaps lends the album a stripped-down, calming atmosphere that’s both intimate and expansive.
Tracks like “Rah Tah Tah” have a laid-back, smooth beat, while “Darling, i” brings a Neptunes-esque vibe with its popping, quirky rhythm. On “Take Your Mask Off,” Tyler uses bass in a way that creates a smooth, rich texture that wraps around the listener. Then there’s the whimsical “Ballon,” which channels an 80s synth vibe, taking us to yet another sonic dimension. Each track is crafted carefully to bring a different feeling, from the chill vibes of one song to the more introspective energy of another. It’s a thrilling journey through diverse moods and sounds.
Tyler’s vocal range is on full display here, as he effortlessly moves between rapping and singing, showing just how versatile he is as an artist. He isn’t afraid to showcase his full spectrum of talent, whether he’s channeling his inner Al Green on the soulful “like him” or delivering delicate, emotive vocals on “tomorrow” over a beautiful acoustic guitar. His vocal performances on this album don’t just tell a story—they invite the listener to feel what he’s feeling. The backing vocals and chants on the intro track, “St. Chroma,” help to create a rich, atmospheric environment, drawing us into the world he’s created.
The guest features on this album are also incredible, adding their own distinct flavors to the mix. Teezo Touchdown brings a high-pitched vocal performance that complements the song’s vibe perfectly, while the collaborative vocals on “sticky” create a hypnotic energy that draws you in. Schoolboy Q delivers a monotone, yet captivating, performance on “Thought I Was Dead,” making it one of the standout moments of the album. Each guest artist brings something unique to the table, elevating the overall experience.
Tyler’s ability to seamlessly blend so many different sounds, themes, and emotions on this album is nothing short of mesmerizing. It’s unusual in the best way possible, and it keeps you coming back for more, eager to explore every layer of meaning, every instrumental twist, and every vocal nuance. St. Chroma is an album that will leave you thinking long after it’s over, making you want to take the journey once more. The depth of the music, the brilliance of the lyrics, and the authenticity of the storytelling all come together to make this album one of Tyler’s most compelling works yet.