Album Review: Mac Miller’s unreleased project ‘Balloonerism’ is light and experimental

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To celebrate what would have been Mac Miller’s 33rd birthday, his estate has released a highly anticipated and previously unreleased album, “Balloonerism.” This posthumous offering provides a rare opportunity for fans to experience the late rapper’s creative process in an intimate and raw form. “Balloonerism” was recorded around 2014 but was shelved in favor of his well-known album Watching Movies With the Sound Off and the mixtape Faces. While the album shares some similarities with Faces, it feels more unrefined and experimental, offering a different, yet welcome, side of Mac Miller.

The album consists of 14 tracks, featuring contributions from some of the industry’s finest talents. Bassist and producer Thundercat plays a prominent role in shaping the album’s sound, with additional collaborations from SZA and Ashley All Day. Miller and SZA were frequent collaborators during this period, and her contributions on “Balloonerism” are subtle, adding an extra layer of depth to the project without overshadowing Miller’s unique voice.

“Balloonerism” Explores Neo-Soul, Jazz, and Dreamy Soundscapes

“Balloonerism” stands out as an experimental and airy album, with strong influences of neo-soul and jazz. Its sound is dreamlike and often feels as if it’s floating in a haze, reflecting the introspective, drug-tinged vibe that characterized much of Miller’s late work. The album’s experimental nature is reflected in its unpredictable shifts in tempo, instrumentation, and ambient sounds. Some moments feature ghostly murmurs and sudden changes, providing an immersive listening experience that feels spontaneous and authentic. Additionally, Miller’s drumming skills are showcased on several tracks, adding a percussive richness to the album’s fluid sound.

Themes of Nostalgia, Life, and Loss

The album touches on themes that were central to Miller’s work, including his musings on life, death, and nostalgia. Tracks like “Excelsior” showcase his longing for a simpler time, with lyrics such as, “What ever happened to apple juice and cartwheels?” There’s a consistent thread of reflection throughout the album, with Miller pondering his past and the complexity of adulthood. The lead single, “5 Dollar Pony Rides,” is a standout track, featuring Miller’s heartfelt delivery as he reaches out to an old lover, singing with vulnerability and a sense of longing.

Miller’s lyrical prowess shines through as he blends lighthearted humor with moments of deep introspection. He often juxtaposes playful lines, such as “Just how super is a supermodel?” with more profound existential questions like, “Do I need to know the beginning to see the end?” This balance of humor and depth is part of what made Miller’s work resonate with so many fans.

Miller’s Alter Ego Delusional Thomas Makes an Appearance

In true Mac Miller fashion, the album features an appearance from Delusional Thomas, one of his alter egos. On the track “Transformations,” Miller distorts his voice through effects, creating a playful and somewhat juvenile sound. While the track’s quirky nature may not be for everyone, it serves as a reminder of Miller’s range and willingness to experiment with his persona.

However, not every track on “Balloonerism” feels fully realized. Some songs, like the indulgent closing track “Tomorrow Will Never Know,” may have been better left in the vault, as they don’t quite match the cohesive vibe of the rest of the album. Despite this, the overall release remains a testament to Miller’s artistic journey and his constant evolution as an artist.

Echoes of Previous Work and the Legacy of Mac Miller

“Balloonerism” contains several nods to Miller’s previous work, further tying it into his larger discography. The track “Mrs. Deborah Downer,” for instance, echoes references from his earlier albums, such as the track “Avian” from Watching Movies With the Sound Off. These subtle connections provide a sense of continuity for fans who have followed Miller’s career, while also offering new insights into his creative process.

While Balloonerism is not Miller’s first posthumous release, following the 2020 album Circles, it provides a unique glimpse into his unfiltered artistic journey. Posthumous albums can often be a delicate subject, as they sometimes present unfinished work that may not have been intended for release. However, albums like Balloonerism serve as a testament to the artist’s incredible output and the lasting impact of his music. Much like other posthumous releases, such as Tim by Avicii and Legends Never Die by Juice WRLD, Balloonerism gives fans a chance to connect with the artist once again, even after their passing.

Final Thoughts: A Gift for Fans

It’s unclear why Balloonerism was left on the shelf for so many years. Perhaps other projects took precedence at the time, or maybe Miller’s creative direction shifted. Regardless, the release of this album offers fans a rare and cherished opportunity to hear a side of Mac Miller that was previously unavailable. In a time when his voice is no longer present, “Balloonerism” serves as a gift, allowing us to reconnect with the artist and his music once again. It’s a beautiful, unpolished piece of his legacy that stands as a reminder of his boundless creativity and his ability to evolve as an artist. For fans hungry for more, Balloonerism delivers exactly what you’ve been waiting for.

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