Tyla’s APOP* feels like the kind of album that makes you understand why she’s become such an exciting name in pop and R&B. I was already aware of Tyla, but honestly, I first really noticed her through “Chanel” after hearing it all over TikTok. That song immediately caught my attention, so I was curious to see what she could do with a full album. What I like most about APOP* is how effortlessly Tyla blends pop, R&B, amapiano, and South African influences without making the album feel like it’s trying too hard to prove anything. She has a very distinct sound, and her voice gives the songs this soft, effortless quality that makes even the more upbeat tracks feel smooth. “Chanel” is still one of my favorites, but I found myself enjoying some of the deeper cuts more than I expected. There are definitely moments where the album feels a little repetitive, but overall, I appreciate Tyla leaning further into her own identity instead of simply chasing another viral hit. As someone who came into this album mainly knowing Tyla through “Chanel” and TikTok, APOP* gave me a better appreciation for her as an artist. It feels confident, stylish, and very much like Tyla is figuring out just how far she can take her sound. Not every song completely landed for me, but there’s enough here to make me want to keep listening and explore more of her music.