Last November, he just dropped his new album CHROMAKOPIA, and less than a year later, Tyler, the Creator has surprise-released his ninth album DON’T TAP THE GLASS with zero warning, causing a massive stir and sparking tons of buzz online.
Tyler, the Creator sparked a wave of confusion over three consecutive days by posting a photo each day on Instagram featuring JULY 21st. Fans speculated wildly, with some guessing a new music video was on the way, others thinking he might be releasing CHROMAKOPIA, a concert film, and there were even humorous comments wondering if Tyler was pregnant. Finally, on July 20, he unveiled a transparent black vinyl record showcasing a picture of himself shirtless, adorned with a chunky gold chain, red pants, and a hat, along with the text DONT TAP THE GLASS, JULY 21st MONDAY. The answer was finally revealed, as the unexpected release of his brand-new album DON’T TAP THE GLASS took everyone by surprise.
It’s only been eight months since the last album CHROMAKOPIA, and fans are already asking where I’m still listening to 《CHROMAKOPIA. is… However, this has always been Tyler’s signature move—teasing a new album in such a short time. This time DON’T TAP THE GLASS is undoubtedly the most spontaneous and quickest drop he’s ever done.
The album kicks off with Big Poe and wraps up with Tell Me What It Is, featuring a total of ten tracks. Yesterday, Tyler expressed his dissatisfaction with the current state of the internet on Instagram, stating: I asked some friends why they don’t dance in public, and some said it was because they were afraid of being filmed. I thought to myself, damn, this natural form of expression, this connection they have with music, has now become a ghost. It makes me wonder how much of the human spirit has been stifled out of fear of becoming a meme. Everything should really be about enjoying good times..
The day before the release of DON’T TAP THE GLASS, Tyler hosted a listening party in Los Angeles and mentioned If you’re not ready to dance, then don’t come! in his promotional post. After the event, Tyler shared that it was one of the best nights of his life. With 300 people, no phones or cameras allowed, just a sound system and a dance floor, everyone is dancing, grooving, expressing themselves, and sweating—it’s truly beautiful. I played this album on repeat twice, feeling like the pent-up energy finally got released. We craved to unleash even more energy; a sense of freedom filled the entire room. He hopes this album will help people let go of their restraints and fears, allowing them to release their true selves; dancing and celebrating are the best expressions of that. He believes: This album isn’t really meant for sitting still; it’s best enjoyed while dancing, driving, or running. Any type of movement will help you grasp its essence..
The album has been released on major music platforms, and the MV for STOP PLAYING WITH ME has been published on YouTube.
