Tyler, the Creator returns with 'CHROMAKOPIA,' an album hailed as a classic before anyone even heard it.
Adriel Smiley and Demar Grant open 'Album Mode' by introducing Tyler, the Creator as one of the most important contemporary artists, setting the stage for a review of his new album 'CHROMAKOPIA.' They discuss Tyler's evolution since 2017's 'Flower Boy,' noting his unique aesthetic and sound. The hosts examine the album's rollout, including the singles 'No ID?' and 'I THOUGHT I WAS DEAD,' and the hype that led many to call it a classic before release. They compare Tyler to Kanye West, suggesting he serves as a similar genre-blending figure for a younger generation. The review delves into specific tracks, praising 'St. Chroma' for its militaristic vibe and 'Sticky' for its catchiness, while critiquing songs like 'Darling Eye' and 'Hey Jane' for feeling derivative. Lyrically, they highlight themes of aging, sexuality, and personal struggles, with deep analysis of 'Hey Jane' as a song about a pregnancy scare. The hosts debate Tyler's place in hip-hop's upper echelon, considering him among a 'big six' including Kendrick Lamar and Drake. They express concern that universal acclaim might lead to creative decline, citing examples like Jay-Z and Kanye West. The episode concludes with scores of 7.5 and 7, noting 'CHROMAKOPIA' as a good but not great entry in Tyler's discography.
