With each new recording artist and album that emerges, different styles become popular. However, Tyler, The Creator’s “Don’t Tap the Glass” embraces traditional hip-hop styles and even samples well-known songs from the 2000s like “Pass the Courvoisier (remix)” by Busta Rhymes. This is Tyler Okonma, better known as Tyler, The Creator’s ninth studio album, including 10 songs.
This catchy album is honestly one of the best I have listened to of late. The funky basslines featured in almost every song are addicting, and each song is audibly interesting. Okonma utilizes synth, piano, violin and drums in a way that entices the listener. My personal favorites are “Sucka Free” and “Ring Ring Ring.” I enjoy the ratio of chorus to verse of both, the rhymes in the former seem carefully picked, and the vocals in the former are soft. The soft vocals contrast the harsh beat in the best way. One critique of the album I have heard is the repetitive nature of the songs. Some of the songs feature choruses that take up the majority of the song, making them seem bland compared to past albums. Historically I have only enjoyed his hits, but this album has made me a fan of Okonma. I understand where the criticism comes from, however I do not believe that all music needs to be deep, some of it is just meant to be fun.
Okonma features three artists in this album, all which bring the album to the next level. The first feature is “Sk8brd,” better known as Pharell Williams, on the song “Big Poe.” Williams has a verse that is unique compared to Okonma, but still just as appealing. The second feature is Madison McFerrin on “Don’t You Worry Baby.” McFerrin is actually the main singer of this track, with Okonma mostly singing adlibs and background vocals. Despite this being unusual, it is nothing to complain about. McFerrin’s voice is soft; it draws you in and stands out against the beat. The final feature is Abigail Smith, whose stage name is “Yebba,” in the song “I’ll Take Care of You.” Her vocals are similar to McFerrin’s, leading and soft. These features strengthen the album, adding depth to the songs and the subject matter of the music.
Okanma posted on Instagram following the release of the album, stating his goals for the album. He shares how “Don’t Tap the Glass” is not meant to be sat and listened to. It is intentionally designed to make the listener want to dance, or be doing any type of movement. This explains the repetitive nature of the album. His goals for the album definitely hold up. The catchy tunes and basslines make the listener feel like dancing and moving in any way. Another note is Okonma samples the 1980s’ band Mantronix multiple times during the album. This band created traditional hip-hop music during their prime. The use of their samples furthers Okanma’s intention of making music that promotes movement.
This album is definitely worth a listen. Whether you enjoy traditional hip-hop or the newer styles, this album satisfies both. “Don’t Tap the Glass” is complex both audio wise and in concept, making it one of my favorite albums of all time.
