Fans praise Creator as eighth musical exploration drops
Tyler, The Creator’s eighth album, Chromakopia, has burst onto the music scene as an introspective yet chaotic examination of fame, family, and self-identity.
As an extremely anticipated album, many fans have been waiting for this since his 2021 release, Call Me If You Get Lost. This album is superior to past releases due to its symbolic lyrics and powerful melodies. Listeners can hear the acoustic guitar, piano, and lush synths being played out to their fullest extent within this dynamic album. Despite the inspiring instrumentals, the lyrics prove to be the star of the show. Whether they are about learning respect and finding yourself in “Take Your Mask Off,” or dealing with loss and learning to move on such as in “Judge Judy,” Tyler continues to prove his musical genius.
These lyrics grapple with the overall theme of dealing with sudden changes in life, and figuring out the present by looking to the past. In “Like Him,” Tyler questions his mom on if he resembles his father, emphasizing familial difficulties expressed through his music; “She said that I make expressions like him. My legs to my shoulders and my chin like him… Like him, like him, like him.”
Tyler, The Creator’s Chromakopia expertly balances moments of self-reflection and chaotic energy. While the majority of the album dives deep into the exploitative nature of celebrity culture and the darker sides of fame, one song that stands out is the light-hearted “Darling, I.” Amidst the haunting undertones of the album, this track offers a brief moment of playfulness, providing a reprieve from the looming darkness. The upbeat, almost whimsical nature of the song contrasts with the heavier themes plaguing the rest of the album, and the exploration of his sexuality in this song adds a personal element.
Despite critical acclaim, reactions to Chromakopia among the fandom have been divided. Many feel the production and lyricism are on point, showcasing the perfect merge between catchy melodies and deep, reflective lyrics. Others have pointed out that Tyler's signature sound has evolved in ways not easy to digest. Some feel that, all told, the album is a little too chaotic-lighthearted one second, dark the next. Sure, one can appreciate Tyler's experimentation with genres and sounds, but for the segment of his fanbase that evidently loved the more cohesive, 'punchy' vibe of Flower Boy and IGOR, a new direction may have them reminiscing. Others have said that the dark undertones of the album overshadow the playful quirkiness of Tyler's character, which has always been a trademark in his previous works. But most importantly, many fans were rather disappointed that speculated features from artists such as 21 Savage, Frank Ocean, Kendrick Lamar, and Metro Boomin did not occur.
Overall, while Chromakopia is undoubtedly a bold and innovative album, it features its share of flaws. Tyler's exploration into difficult themes such as fame, identity, and personal growth is executed masterfully, but the somewhat fragmented nature of the album doesn’t always hit. The combination of stunning instrumentals and deep lyricism on Chromakopia, however, ranks high in his discography.
Tyler, The Creator’s has crafted a beautiful and sentimental addition to his collection of albums assimilating his own difficulties with growing up without a father figure for guidance, relationships with women, and his rising fame. Chromakopia expands on the artist’s struggles and life through lyrical and musical excellency that stands him out as an generational talent for aspiring musicians, along with anyone with similar circumstances to look up to.
by Jace Koepsell, Kenji Lo, Benson Lin
Published December 2nd, 2024
Oshkosh West Index Volume 121 Issue III