Album Review: Tyler, the Creator's Chromakopia
Tyler, the Creator’s latest album, Chromakopia, is a journey—raw, introspective, and unapologetically black. As someone who grew up in Southern California, Tyler’s work has always resonated with me on a personal level, but this album hits differently. It’s a mature and vulnerable project, showing us a side of Tyler that many of us have been waiting to see.
Track-by-Track Review
1. St. Chroma (9.5/10)
The opening track sets the tone perfectly. The rhythmic beat feels like a warm embrace for any SoCal kid—sunny, soulful, and grounding. It’s like the soundtrack to cruising down PCH with the windows down. Tyler knows how to start an album, and this one feels especially personal, like an ode to where we come from.
2. Ra Tah Tah (8.5/10)
Silly, goofy, but never disconnected, this track strikes a balance that Tyler doesn’t always hit (sometimes his Loiter Squad humor feels like it’s for an inside joke I’m not in on anymore). The smooth transition into “Noid” keeps the energy flowing, though, making this track an essential bridge in the album.
3. Noid (9/10)
I’ll never claim to understand the trials of fame, but Tyler’s lyricism here is so raw it’s impossible not to feel it. This track is Tyler dropping the mask he’s worn for years, and the vulnerability in both his words and the production is deeply moving. It’s a moment of connection that feels overdue.
4. Darling I (7.5/10)
Featuring Teezo Touchdown, this track leans heavily into its dreamy, emotional vibes. Tyler’s Piscean energy is on full display (so much heart and wistfulness), but it doesn’t fully land for me. It’s beautiful, just not groundbreaking.
5. Hey Jane (7/10)
The storytelling here is fantastic, but the tempo and mood don’t fully align with my personal taste. Even so, it’s impossible not to appreciate Tyler’s growth as a narrator and his ability to paint vivid emotional landscapes.
6. I Killed You (10/10)
This is hands-down one of my favorite tracks. Tyler addresses the way his audience often erases his blackness for the sake of “vibing,” and he makes it clear where he stands—with his people. The rawness and defiance in this song are incredible, and it’s a powerful reminder of Tyler’s roots.
7. Judge Judy (6.5/10)
This track is mellow and tinged with sadness, which feels intentional but doesn’t fully resonate with me. (Also, is that Childish Gambino’s voice in there? If so, amazing choice.) The melody is great, but it’s more of a slow burn than I usually go for.
8. Sticky (10/10)
This collaboration with GloRilla, Sexyy Red, and Lil Wayne is a certified banger. The HBCU band influences and lunchtime call-and-response energy make it a cultural staple in the making. GloRilla is unstoppable right now, and Tyler’s decision to highlight black women here is a moment worth celebrating. (Sexyy Red, though—fix that one line, sis!)
9. Take Your Mask Off (8.5/10)
Featuring Daniel Caesar, this track explores themes of self-acceptance with a nostalgic, Motown-inspired vibe. Tyler’s delivery is heartfelt, and the old-school energy pairs well with the album’s overarching introspection.
10. Tomorrow (6.5/10)
This track feels like a lull in the album, but the themes of family vs. career resonate deeply. Tyler and I are the same age, and it’s comforting to see him grappling with fears and questions that feel eerily familiar.
11. Thought I Was Dead (7/10)
With ScHoolboy Q in tow, Tyler brings back the marching band motif. This track is loud, proud, and full of call-outs aimed at culture vultures. Tyler’s willingness to defend his people and the Culture is always appreciated, even when the track doesn’t fully land for me.
12. Like Him (10/10)
Absolutely devastating. Tyler’s exploration of fatherhood and loss is gut-wrenching. Even with a present father, this song had me mourning a man I’ve never met. It’s a masterclass in emotional storytelling.
13. Balloon (10/10)
Doechii’s feature shines here, and Tyler’s respect for black women takes center stage again. At a time when other artists (looking at you, Drake and Tory Lanez) are quick to diminish black women, Tyler stands firm in his support. It’s refreshing, and it makes the track all the more powerful.
14. I Hope You Find Your Way Home (7/10)
The perfect closer. Growing up is terrifying, and this track captures that fear while offering hope. Tyler’s maturity shines here, and I hope he continues to find space to grow, reflect, and thrive away from the noise.
Final Thoughts
With Chromakopia, Tyler delivers one of his best albums to date, solidifying his place as an artist who continues to evolve. For a long time, it felt like Tyler was stuck between his youthful antics and the complex man he was becoming. Now, he’s fully embraced his growth, offering an album that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Overall Rating: 9.2/10
This is the Tyler I’ve been waiting for—a man unafraid to be introspective, vulnerable, and unapologetically himself. As a SoCal native and a longtime fan, it’s been incredible to witness his journey. Here’s to the next chapter.
