Review
Tyler Lamar Okonma strikes back with "Don't Tap the Glass," his ninth studio outing that absolutely refuses to play by the rulebook he wrote just a year prior with "Chromakopia." This time around, Tyler's ditched the soul-searching for straight-up sonic hedonism, crafting a tight 28-minute ride that prioritizes groove over gravity. The man's completely self-produced this 10-track collection, weaving together danceable synth-rock threads with his signature hip-hop backbone to create something that feels both familiar and refreshingly unpredictable.
Where previous Tyler releases might have you contemplating your existence, this July 2025 drop is all about getting your body moving and your head nodding. Guest spots from Pharrell Williams (who brings his Sk8brd persona to the party), Madison McFerrin, and Yebba provide perfect counterpoints to Tyler's playful energy without overshadowing his vision. The lead single "Ring Ring Ring" perfectly captures this shift in philosophy – it's infectious, immediate, and designed to soundtrack your best nights rather than your deepest thoughts.
The whole project radiates this beautiful sense of artistic liberation, with Tyler himself emphasizing how he approached the sessions without overthinking every creative decision. Critics have noted the album's experimental edge and undeniable energy, even if some miss the emotional vulnerability of his recent work. But that's exactly the point – "Don't Tap the Glass" finds Tyler embracing pure musical joy, creating a dance-rap hybrid that feels like the sound of an artist who's earned the right to make exactly what he wants, when he wants it. - Cal
