Chromakopia Album Review

Tyler, The Creator has dropped the pastels and harkens back to his roots for his eighth album, Chromakopia.

In his last release, Call Me If You Get Lost, Tyler shone in color and highlighted success and luxury. Additionally, he touched on the heartbreak and downfalls of fame on the Grammy-winning album. With the release of Chromakopia, he has dropped this persona and traded it for an uncut version of himself that calls back to his earlier works. This album explores the evolution of Tyler and his perspective on topics like love and self-discovery in our world today.

The album opener, St. Chroma, begins with the steady sound of marching feet, building a suspenseful atmosphere. Tyler enters with a low, introspective verse, reflecting on his achievements and signaling that he’s far from finished. The track sets an artistic and experimental tone for Chromakopia, pulling listeners into a space of self-reflection and ambition. Daniel Caesar’s soulful vocals elevate the piece, adding depth and a sense of liberation that complement the instrumental’s spacious feel, making it a captivating introduction to the album’s journey ahead.

“Noid,” the third track and lead single from Chromakopia, was the perfect introduction to the album’s themes and energy. The beat is intense and driving, mirroring the tense, paranoid atmosphere in Tyler’s lyrics. The song opens with a pulse that feels like the onset of anxiety, mirroring Tyler’s own sense of vulnerability and paranoia. As it builds, he pulls listeners deeper into his inner turmoil, questioning his safety and sanity under the constant pressure of public scrutiny. "Noid" encapsulates the essence of Chromakopia, offering an immersive experience that follows the album’s raw and suspenseful journey. 

In Darling, I, Tyler eases into a smooth, classic R&B vibe, elevated by Teezo Touchdown’s honeyed vocals. Here, he dives into the complexities of modern relationships, exploring the push and pull between love and loyalty. Tyler reflects on the tension between his desire for freedom and the weight of commitment, capturing the internal struggle between the need for stability and his restless spirit. It’s a theme that resonates deeply with Gen Z, who often feel caught between traditional expectations and a desire for independence in today’s fast-paced world.

A standout on the album, Take Your Mask Off blends synth-soul and classic hip-hop into a melodic anthem of self-acceptance. Tyler examines different human archetypes, highlighting those who mold themselves to meet societal expectations. He critiques this performative authenticity, urging people to shed their masks and embrace who they truly are. The track’s message is clear: real freedom comes from dropping the facades and living without pretense.

Chromakopia marks a return to Tyler’s raw, unfiltered self while still showing his growth and maturity as an artist. This album peels back the layers to reveal an artist unafraid to confront his vulnerabilities, insecurities, and questions about identity in the digital age. This project is a testament to the power of self-reflection and staying true to one’s roots, making it one of Tyler’s most personal, unguarded works yet. With this release, he reminds us that embracing one’s authentic self—flaws, fears, and all—might be the truest form of success.