With bright production and strong poetry, Tyler, the Creator’s Chromakopia is a work filled with self-reflection and social commentary—one where the artist wrestles with identity, legacy, and maturity. Introduced by Tyler’s mother, Bonita Smith, with the words, “You are the light. It’s not on you, it’s in you,” the masked protagonist, St. Chroma, guides listeners through the world of personal memories and cultural pride within Tyler.
“St. Chroma,” a marching beat underscores Daniel Caesar’s soulful vocals—a performance that comes off as somehow ritualistic, as Tyler delves into his inner conflicts and fears. Then there are songs like “Noid,” which excavate this paranoia over fame; “Like Him” considers the complicated relationship with his estranged father.
Here, Tyler confronts long-stemmed resentment, listening to his mother offer a new perspective: his father did want to be involved in his life, complicating the narrative he’s detailed in past albums. At times, Chromakopia feels celebratory: “Sticky,” featuring GloRilla and Sexyy Red, brings raw energy with its strong chorus and empowering lyrics. How Tyler has grown is clear: on both sides, Chromakopia balances humility in a compelling album of an artist unafraid to wrestle with his past and to march audaciously toward his future.
