“CHROMAKOPIA” review: Tyler the Creator undergoes an emotional evolution

CHROMAKOPIA is an album that feels like a natural evolution of the sound of Tyler the Creator. It is a complex blend of maturity, soul-searching, and the playful boundary-pushing we’ve come to expect from him. Easily one of his top three projects, CHROMAKOPIA is a multi-layered reflection on aging, fatherhood, and the complicated relationship he has with his own dad. The album is a sonic diary that feels deeply personal, yet universally relatable, capturing Tyler’s growth as both an artist and a person.

One of the standout themes on CHROMAKOPIA is fatherhood, a subject that Tyler the Creator explores with rare vulnerability. It’s clear that the idea of being a father—whether biological, emotional, or philosophical—has shaped this album, and it gives a warmth to his otherwise bold and often abrasive style. He reflects on what he missed out on with his own father, all the things he wishes he could have experienced, and what that means for him moving forward. You hear it in the poignant moments where his voice cracks with emotion, but also in the more introspective tracks where he grapples with how his upbringing shaped him. Tyler’s ability to channel his past pain and turn it into art makes this album feel both cathartic and healing.

The production on CHROMAKOPIA is nothing short of lush, filled with rich textures and intricate melodies that add to the emotional depth of the lyrics. Tyler’s ear for blending genres continues to shine through, seamlessly mixing R&B, soul, jazz, and a touch of avant-garde weirdness that only he can pull off. But what truly elevates this album are the guest features.

While the absence of Frank Ocean’s signature emotive croon is certainly felt—particularly on tracks where the yearning for deep connection runs high—it’s clear that Tyler the Creator has found other kindred spirits to fill that space. Doechii brings her effortless cool to “Balloon,” delivering an unforgettable verse that matches Tyler’s introspection with her own flavor of empowerment. And Daniel Caesar’s appearance on the opening track, “St. Chroma” feels like a perfect pairing; his smooth falsetto and Tyler’s deeper, more contemplative delivery play off each other beautifully, adding layers of tenderness to the album’s emotional core.

“Sticky” emerges as one of the most fun tracks on the album, injecting an infectious energy into the project. The unexpected feature from GloRilla is a refreshing surprise, adding a raw and energetic edge that stands in contrast to the more reflective moments scattered throughout the album. Though Sexyy Red’s feature might not be to everyone’s taste, it’s hard not to appreciate the boldness Tyler the Creator shows in pairing such varied voices together. Of course, as always, Lil Wayne delivers—nothing more to say there.

And finally, there’s the intriguing presence of Baby Keem on “Like Him.” Though he only delivers a single word, his unmistakable voice and signature adlib instantly make an impact. It’s a testament to Tyler’s knack for bringing in distinctive voices, and even in such a brief moment, Keem’s contribution feels significant—his sound is so recognizable that it adds a layer of texture to the track.

As a whole, CHROMAKOPIA is a masterclass in musical evolution. Tyler’s ability to grow without losing his signature voice—both musically and lyrically—ensures this album will resonate for years to come. The blend of vulnerability, fatherhood meditations, and playful experimentation solidify CHROMAKOPIA as a defining moment in Tyler’s career. It’s not just an album; it’s a snapshot of a man, aging gracefully, dealing with his past, and forging ahead with a new sense of purpose.

Album cover image courtesy of Columbia Records