For the second time since his passing in 2018, fans of Mac Miller have been gifted a new album.
Balloonerism, released on what would have been the late rapper’s 33rd birthday, offers listeners a poignant glimpse into his creative process during a formative period.
Miller, whose real name was Malcolm James McCormick, died at 26 from an accidental overdose, leaving an enduring hunger among fans for his music.
The album’s tracks were first recorded over a decade ago, during sessions in the LA studio Miller called the Sanctuary between 2013 and 2014.
Audio engineer Josh Berg and longtime producer Eric Dan, who worked with Miller extensively, emphasized that the recordings were left largely untouched, preserving the raw, unpolished charm of his original work.
“We made a conscious decision to keep things as they were and not go back and ‘fix’ mistakes,” Eric explained, describing the album as authentic and hauntingly reflective of Miller’s creative state at the time.
Miller’s debut album, Blue Slide Park, had been a historic achievement, becoming the first independently released record to top the Billboard 200 in 16 years. His subsequent projects solidified his place as a pioneer in hip-hop.
Written during a transitional period between record labels, Balloonerism was a product of what Eric described as a “creative renaissance,” showcasing Miller as a “creation machine” who explored new depths in his artistry.
While the posthumous release of Circles in 2020 was a critical success, the mixed reception of other artists’ posthumous albums raised questions about how much material should be released after an artist’s death.
Critics have debated whether these works stay true to the artist’s vision or risk diminishing their legacy.
Berg acknowledged the complexity of this process, noting that Miller’s constant revisions during his lifetime made it difficult to determine if Balloonerism aligns with how he might have finalized it.
Fans and collaborators alike seem reassured by the deliberate care taken in the album’s production.
Miller’s family worked closely with those who had an intimate understanding of his creative process to ensure authenticity.
Despite the melancholy of revisiting an artist lost in his prime, Balloonerism has been met with acclaim, described as “poignant” and “cohesive” in early reviews.
The release coincided with a companion film and a sold-out screening in London, where fans gathered to honor the artist’s legacy.
Many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to reconnect with his music, though some, like fan Conor, reflected on the bittersweet nature of posthumous releases.
“It’s sad, at some point it does have to end,” he said, echoing a sentiment that lingers among Mac Miller’s admirers.
Balloonerism stands as a testament to Miller’s enduring influence and artistic brilliance.
While it may mark one of the final chapters in his musical journey, it also serves as a reminder of the profound impact he left behind.
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