Album Review: Slowthai – TYRON

On his sophomore album, Northampton rapper Slowthai showcases an ambitious, multi-dimensional approach. Turning down the volume on his trademark braggadocio, TYRON is divided into two parts; one illuminating the punchy outer layer of the artist, and the other highlighting his more introspective side.

The hard-hitting first half features Skepta, A$AP Rocky and Kwes Darko; and the latter half taps the talent of Mount Kimbie, Deb Never, Dominic Fike and Denzel Curry.

Opening with the hypnotic ‘45 Smoke’ and ‘Cancelled’, Slowthai makes use of dark beats, deploying dense background bass, while he spits lyrical gold. He reflects on his council flat childhood, learning from his mistakes, whilst eschewing the materialism of rap’s upper echelons. The raw energy that made him a rising star on his 2019 debut Nothing Great About Britain hasn’t dulled, but Slowthai has matured beyond measure. The more soulful half of TYRON dives deep into his psyche, touching on his grief following the death of his brother Michael John, as well as various fractured relationships.

‘Feel Away’ and ‘ADHD’, in particular, are incredibly poignant. Never one to shy away from brutal honesty, the rapper also explores mental illness and feelings of loneliness throughout TYRON. Overall, an incredibly exciting effort, confirming Slowthai’s status as a major artist.