Tyler, the Creator – Chromakopia Review
Tyler, the Creator wants Chromakopia to transform the ordinary into something poetic. But what about those who spend their days at home working? For people who only step outside to gather ingredients for chicken wraps or to fill their scarce free moments with the frustration of Call of Duty, this isn't the ideal way to experience his latest creation. Instead, take a moment in your home office, and let Tyler's amusing fears and wonders envelop you. The real magic happens when you take this album outside, using it as a backdrop while you drive or reflect on everyday life. Finding ways to integrate it into your daily routine is what makes Chromakopia so remarkable. It demonstrates a genuine respect for the listener.
We shouldn't have to sacrifice our sleep just to wait up for new releases at midnight. Instead, let's make the nine-to-five schedule more enjoyable. Chromakopia advocates for transparency and taking our time. It’s not merely about changing how we experience music or art; it’s about fundamentally changing the industry. Why do we always have to see new music come out on Fridays? What’s the point of dumping a massive amount of releases all at once? We can sift through them, but by the time we get to the leftovers, they’ll be irrelevant to the conversation. It’s better to focus on a couple of standout releases and then move on. More artists are beginning to challenge this norm, and we need to support their efforts. A Monday release from a major artist is just as daring as the music we find in Chromakopia. The opening track, “St. Chroma,” quickly immerses us in this intriguing universe. With soft vocals and a driving beat, it excels in its world-building. Those powerful rhythms never fade away, and neither does the sense of light and optimism that resonates in this opening piece.
The narrative seamlessly connects with the struggles and challenges present in Rah Tah Tah, offering a clear view of who Tyler, the Creator is—both as a public figure and as a person behind his art. Chromakopia emphasizes the significance of image and the idea of an artist being concealed behind a mask, revealing only certain layers to their audience. The artist's genuine self, expressed through lyrics and attitude, remains somewhat hidden. This complexity serves as both a reaction and a shield for Tyler, whose intense moments in tracks like Noid evoke memories of his life before fame. Amidst these fears and the times he glances back to check if his past is catching up, there are tender moments like Darling, I. Through artistic transformation, Tyler simplifies the complexity that characterized previous works like Call Me if You Get Lost and Igor. The choice of collaborators, rich musical arrangements, and intricate background vocals contribute significantly to this evolution.
The tender and almost comforting pop melodies of "Darling, I" are well-crafted and offer the support needed for more self-doubting tracks like "Hey Jane." This marks a pivotal moment for Chromakopia. Its boldness and determination to overcome obstacles shine through. Often, we are our own biggest critics, and the self-doubt explored in "I Killed You" stems from unexpected experiences throughout our lives—these are the insecurities we must confront and overcome. But how can we combat these fears? This internal struggle is palpable. Judge Judy offers some insight: always remember where you came from. While we might change our circumstances and seek better opportunities, our beginnings shape who we are. "Sticky" emphasizes this struggle—reflecting on the disbelief about our origins and our journey is beautifully executed, featuring the cries of infants, background singers, and faint sounds of helicopters. Together, they create a soundscape that echoes the past, as Tyler, the Creator emphasizes: our history does not define us. Rather, it is our responses that shape our future.
Chromakopia suggests a reality shaped by our own hands. Each person navigates their own unique journey, and all we can do is observe as those we believe we outshine find success. Yet, it's here that we can discover a sense of acceptance. "Take Your Mask Off" encourages us to express our true desires, all set against a backdrop of nostalgic synth music. What we seek is rarely pure, and Tyler, the Creator's lyrics dance around the typical complaints of the genre while introducing a delicate surprise. He addresses the struggles of postpartum challenges and the harsh truths of life—the darker aspects of existence that we often hide behind our personas. This is all part of the world-building in Chromakopia. No matter how you approach it, Tyler, the Creator urges you to uncover your authentic self. Delve into the layers of irony and fear you've accumulated over the years and discover what truly drives you.
Tender moments are what truly shape Chromakopia. Its standout features aren't found in the rough patches or intense happiness of a man lost in his self-made universe; instead, it's in the tracks where he reconnects with reality. While we may explore the depths of our minds, Tyler, the Creator encourages us to stay strong and resist the common life clichés. The idea of settling down, as heard in "Tomorrow," represents just one of the many pressures that drive both Tyler and those who relate to this song further into their own thoughts. Within this journey lies a mix of comfort and the discomfort that comes from honest, often poignant experiences throughout Chromakopia. This album stands out as Tyler's most authentic and cohesive work because it draws from personal stories and fears, all conveyed with such lyrical grace that every song feels like a gift, even with its challenging moments. Engage in a battle with your own thoughts and discover who emerges victorious. Chromakopia serves as a powerful anthem for self-transformation and is a deeply sincere project from Tyler, the Creator.
