American rapper Tyler, The Creator has grown a lot over his career.

His sound has evolved over the years to become a welcome blend of hip-hop, R&B, and poetic storytelling.

He frequently comes through Vancouver but this visit felt a little more special. It may be due to the fact that he is currently up for a Grammy nomination for his most recent album, 2017’s Flower Boy.

When Tyler took the stage on Friday night, he started at the top of a staircase that was made to look like a fallen tree lined with ferns and other flora.

The set started out with a dramatic build within the very first song, “Where This Flower Blooms”. Once that heavy bass line kicked in, he jumped up and down and it triggered an epic reaction from the crowd.

His set flowed smoothly and carrier the audience thought an exciting night of chaotic energy. Dehydrated, overexcited youngsters were being pulled out of the front of the general admission crowd one after the other. For some, it was just too much.

Tyler is becoming a figurehead in the music community as a true live-performance master.

Do not miss him when you get the chance.

Photos © Jamie Taylor // Cryptic Photography