In this 10 track short release, Tyler enunciates the new ‘non-concept’ he’s been teasing on social media for but a few days. Take a look at his unannounced, almost unanticipated new album — Don’t Tap the Glass.
What is Tyler, if not the most iconically unexpected curveball thrower. His latest release stands as a testament to his character, and of his new style as well. On July 21, the artist released his newest record on all major streaming platforms, making it his ninth studio album to date.
The creator explained his inspiration for this release on Instagram, feeling disheartened at the fact that people don’t dance anymore to music due to the fear of being filmed. He stated:
“I thought damn, a natural form of expression and a certain connection they have with music is now a ghost. It made me wonder how much of our human spirit got killed because of the fear of being a meme, all for having a good time.”
The idea that Tyler carries into his tracks in this album quite literally follows through on his request to his listeners — bring back shameless, free dancing. Not unbeknownst to many in the digital age, this sentiment has truly become a disabling trend of modern pop-culture. In the time of aestheticising movement Tyler, The Creator wishes to tear apart the insecurities that plague us — seen in this 28 minute long collaborative exploration.
The Tracklist
- “Big Poe (feat. Sk8brd)” – 3:02
- “Sugar On My Tongue” – 2:32
- “Sucka Free” – 2:40
- “Mommanem” – 1:15
- “Stop Playing With Me” – 2:12
- “Ring Ring Ring” – 3:21
- “Don’t Tap That Glass / Tweakin’” – 3:41
- “Don’t You Worry Baby (feat. Madison McFerrin” – 2:57
- “I’ll Take Care of You (feat. Yebba)” – 3:20
- “Tell Me What It Is” – 3:21
Reception
The Internet does not seem to feel as divided on this album as they did with Tyler’s previous release, CHROMAKOPIA. While the album has its polarities, Don’t Tap The Glass extends the predecessor’s fluent transitions, accompanied by the vocals of artists like Pharrell Williams, Madison McFerrin, and Yebba.
Some fans and casual listeners on Reddit have shared their thoughts, seen in comments like:
“I like that it’s a bit more of a vibes and head-nodding kind of thing this time.”
“Half an hour of pure vibes.”
Personally, “Sucka Free” and “Ring Ring Ring” did it for me. Having the ability to be simplistic in its Tyler-ness with motifs that pull you in, you certainly cannot resist bopping your head along the ride. So, give the album a listen and see if you agree with the sentiment. And remember:
“Number one – Body movement, no sitting still. Number two – only speak in glory, leave your baggage at home. Number three – don’t tap the glass.”
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