Posthumous rap albums often feel like cash-grabs that were composed for the sole purpose of generating money rather than honoring the life of the artist.
Mac Miller is a different story.
Since the rapper’s death in 2018, the Miller estate has set one of the better examples of how to honor the life of a deceased artist. This includes the two posthumous releases from Miller, “Circles” (2020) and now “Balloonerism.”
The Pittsburgh rapper was around 22 years old when he composed the music for “Balloonerism” and despite his young age, a level of maturity shines throughout the record.
Miller doesn’t say a word until around six minutes into the project but by the time you reach that point, you’re already entranced in the album’s soundscape. The vocals provided by SZA on “DJ’s Chord Organ” serve to elevate the album’s starting point.
Although Miller’s heavy lyricism is on full display, the production is the highlight of the record. The production is even experimental at some points with its psychedelic feels, which provides a new sound to Miller’s catalog.
It’s incredible to put in context, as the original “Balloonerism” sessions took place in 2014, the same year Miller released his standout mixtape “Faces.” So this experimental rollercoaster sat in the vault for 11 years, just now seeing the light of day. “Balloonerism” was written during one of the darkest times in Miller’s life, which is reflected in the introspective songwriting. The experimental direction of the project combined with the jazz-infused instrumentals make for some high quality songs that add to an already impressive discography.
It feels like one of those projects you can’t just put on in the background, it’s one you actually have to sink into and listen rather than just hear. There’s a rawness to not only the production but in the lyrics, as if Miller was in the midst of exploring who he was both as an artist and as a person.
The album flows together extremely well, with each song transitioning from one to the next without taking the listener out of the
album experience. The direction that the Miller estate took with this project results in a cohesive listen that makes it feel like a
new album rather than a decade-old project.
Per usual, Miller’s background vocals provide a comforting listen to the ears and help to boost the overall effect of his songs. That combined with the harmonizing bass provided by Thundercat provides a smooth and sound listening experience.
It’s a heavy listen, but not in a way that should deter any fans. Take for example the track “Funny Papers” which almost feels like Miller predicting his own future.
“Didn’t think anyone died on a Friday,” Miller raps.
The rapper died on a Friday, Sept. 7, 2018 to be exact.
The album may not be for everyone, as the heavy emotional themes and the context around the death of Miller might alienate the casual listener. “Balloonerism” might not have the same commercial appeal as some of Miller’s previous bodies of work, but it’s an honest look into the life of a troubled yet talented man.
That being said, his music has helped millions of listeners find comfort and “Balloonerism” will likely result in Miller’s impact continuing for years to come.
