Twenty one pilots, Choker | Track Review

Grammy-winning alternative duo Twenty one pilots drop “Choke,” the second advance single from their sixth studio album, Scaled and Icy.

The wait is over! Grammy-winning alternative duo twenty one pilots return with their sixth studio album, Scaled and Icy.  In advance of the LP, their first in nearly three years, Tyler Joseph and Josh Dun first unveiled the well-rounded promo single “Shy Away”.  They follow up “Shy Away” with another fine single, “Choker.”

“Choker” checks off the usual boxes for twenty one pilots – that’s a positive thing in case you couldn’t tell/didn’t know! The record is incredibly groovy from the onset, establishing a clear rhythmic identity.  This is Josh’s forte, right?  Anyways, beyond the drums/programming, there’s solid, well-rounded production including keys and colorful synths.  There are some detuned synths in the mix, which makes “Choker” even more picturesque.  Add to those checked boxes solid vocals from Tyler Joseph who remains true to self.   He never under- nor over- sings which is always a win.  He always manages to infuse personality into his performances, which also, in this case, means serving up some of his spoken word/quasi-rapped moments.  Beyond the production and performance, kudos should also be given to the songwriting.  What is Joseph imparting narratively and thematically in “Choker” – “choking” in particular situations and life in generally.  Eventually, Joseph progresses to a more positive place and moves beyond the chocking, asserting, “You get taller, bolder, stronger, and the rearview only blinds you.” So true!

Final Thoughts

Once more, twenty one pilots have penned an awesome record. “Choker” likely won’t create the same buzz as say “Stressed Out” from Blurryface (Nothing on their previous album, Trench did to be honest), but it is another offering all in all.  As aforementioned, all boxes are checked off for this terrific collective: groove, production, vocal performance, lyricism, and a relatable theme.

twenty one pilots • Scaled and Icy • Fueled by Ramen • 5.21.21

[: Fueled by Ramen]