Stinkus, real name Tyler Thompson, is an artist, songwriter and producer who has just hit my radar through the release of his debut solo album. Written in the wake of a end of a long-term relationship, it’s a very personal project used to process the feelings that came with it.

By Graeme Smith

It may not feel like it at the time, but sometimes the end of a relationship is a good thing. In their new album 23, Tyler reflects on the abuse they received from their now ex-fiancée, and the highs and lows of exploring new, healthier pairings. There’s a lot of weight in the topics covered – bipolar disorder, suicide, drug abuse – but Tyler tempers it all through intelligent use of metaphor.

The music reflects the rawness too, with a stripped-back approach taken to the compositions. We hear the recordings like we are in the room witnessing them happen. The album’s title track 23 is the perfect example of how this works well. Though brimming with textures and variations, it’s never compromised by over-production, and there’s plenty of space for Tyler’s expressive vocals.

Overall, the album’s fourteen tracks take us on a journey that ranges from the light and dreamy (album opener I Am, good luck, good love, Star, mollie) to the jangly and disorientating (Spiral, Gone For Good, FOLLOW, Fall / Restart). Recently released single Rodeo Mary hits hard with some suitable licks of country rock while Not Like Dying is woozy and saturated. I was impressed by the diversity of genre on display without losing any cohesiveness of sound, or distorting the strong narrative that runs through the album.

I listen to a lot of music as part of this job and can always tell when someone has put their heart and soul into theirs. That’s the case with Tyler and 23. With it, they’ve invited us on a deeply personal journey. They hold nothing back but give us enough musical balm that we don’t flinch. It’s a beautifully-crafted debut.

23 is set for release 5 April 2024. You can pre-save it here.