STARS: 4/5
Since bringing the Odd Future movement to the masses back in 2011 and making a name for himself as one of the most controversial and unique rappers out there, Tyler, the Creator has re-established himself with a glorious comeback album, “Flower Boy.”
Tyler’s early discography was marked by crazy, outlandish and sometimes offensive lyrics, but his wild work also catapulted himself to be recognized as a creative genius with the originality and success of Odd Future. With a TV show, various merchandise and his own music festival under his belt, Tyler, the Creator has ushered in a new era of sound for his music with this surprising latest release.
The album opens with “Foreword,” an interesting first track where Tyler poses questions concerning his popularity, mental health, sexuality and the current state of racial issues in the United States over a fast-paced beat. This song stands out for including rainbow imagery and other allusions to Tyler’s sexual orientation. British singer Rex Orange County lends his Frank Ocean-esque style to this introspective track.
“Where This Flower Blooms” is one of my favorites right off the bat. With a catchy, smooth chorus and Frank Ocean’s vocals, the second track is a great example of displaying Tyler’s growth as a rapper in both songwriting and production. He becomes candid when speaking of his humble California beginnings, and his rise to stardom, as well as the consequences that come along with it.
Tyler recounts struggling to afford food and finding a place to sleep, as exemplified by the lyric “Carpet was my baby mama,” when he used to sleep on his grandmother’s carpet. Riddled throughout the song is not only an extreme set of parallels about his quality of life, but also the “blooming” of his talent on this new record.
“See You Again” is another stunning track on this ode to love marked by Kali Uchis’ luxurious voice. This song is undoubtedly my favorite off the album, and is so infectious I can’t help but sing along. Tyler references a mysterious man intertwined with themes of glorified love, emotional turmoil, and the longing feelings he has in relationships.
Frank Ocean once again lends his sultry and calming voice to this album on “911/ Mr. Lonely.” This track starts off harmonious and soothing, then ends with intense, prolific rapping from Tyler concerning the facade he puts on in public and how he seems energetic and outgoing, but in reality is lonely.
“Droppin’ Seeds” is a notable track mainly because Lil Wayne took a break from his seemingly never-ending hiatus to lay down his raspy raps next to Tyler’s more crafted, emotional style.
“November” is another highlight of the album, with the name serving as a reference to a happy, carefree time in someone’s life. Tyler raps, “What’s your November?” with an array of voices providing different answers to the question. This song, and even the entire album, showcases Tyler being real about his fears and insecurities — something extremely refreshing to hear in today’s rap climate.
Hearing Tyler, the Creator bloom from ridiculous Odd Future character to an emotional and raw rapper is a shock that his fans warmly accept and can’t wait to hear more of in the future.
