Review

Mac Miller’s posthumous album, Balloonerism, isn’t just another collection of unreleased tracks—it’s a deeply personal project recorded in 2014, around the time of his Faces mixtape. Thanks to his estate, this long-awaited album is finally here, paired with a short film that gives fans even more insight into Mac’s creative vision. The album starts with haunting instrumentals before Mac’s voice pulls you in, reminding us why his music resonates so deeply. Balloonerism feels more emotional than ever, as Mac reflects on life and death with lines like, “What does death feel like? Why does death steal light?” Yet, his signature humor and storytelling still shine, especially on tracks like “Funny Papers,” where surreal lyrics like “The moon’s wide awake, with a smile on his face” keep things playful. The dreamy beats and experimental sounds, created alongside Thundercat and Taylor Graves, showcase Mac’s underrated production skills. Songs like “5 Dollar Pony Rides” bring a jazzy vibe, while tracks like the nearly 12-minute “Tomorrow Will Never Know” push his music into new territory. Fans will also love the nostalgic nods, like “Excelsior,” where Mac reminisces about childhood, and the return of his alter ego, Delusion Thomas. More than just an album, Balloonerism feels like a final love letter to fans. It’s a raw, experimental, and deeply heartfelt way to honor Mac’s legacy—a reminder of the timeless impact of his music.