Mac Miller’s posthumous, and hopefully last, album, “Circles,” is a gorgeous and bittersweet end to his artistic evolution, delivering subtle and poignant blends of hip-hop and singer-songwriter music.
Malcolm James McCormick’s music transformed almost completely throughout his career: beginning with carefree party rap on his 2011 debut “Blue Slide Park” then taking detours into abstract hip-hop and romantic R&B throughout the 2010s.
Before his death in September 2018 by accidental overdose, Miller released “Swimming,” leaving behind an album of sober reflections about his fragile mental health, his past relationships and his efforts to become a better and more stable person.
Following an announcement from Miller’s family that he had been working on his next album before he died, “Circles” was released on Jan. 17, giving his fans 12 intimate and comforting tracks to close his discography.
Thanks to the work of producer and multi-instrumentalist Jon Brion, who worked closely on the album with Miller before his death, “Circles” avoids feeling slapped together as a disrespectful cash-grab, like so many posthumous albums do.
On “I Can See,” Miller’s relaxed vocals float over a dreamy cloud of slow trap drums, washed out synths and sparkling chimes that should sound familiar to any fans of “Swimming.” Although Miller’s lyrics in the song are not as grounded or touching as others on “Circles,” Brion’s production ensures that “I Can See” is blissful to fans’ ears.
“Everybody” transforms a ’70s rock song by Arthur Lee into a mellow piano ballad with more gorgeous production from Brion, layering Miller’s downtrodden harmonies over light drums, warm bass and driving piano chords. The track’s intimate opening with only Miller’s simple singing over slow piano gives the entire song an overwhelming sadness, making this hippie rock song fit effortlessly into the album’s somber mood.
Excluding the album’s one cover, Miller’s ability as a songwriter shines brighter than ever before on “Circles,” delivering mature and confessional lyrics in bittersweet songs that grow more tragic with every listen.
“Hand Me Downs” is one of Miller’s most romantic songs. With soft keys, warm electric guitars and a simple drum beat, he forms a flawless foundation for his lyrics about depending on a significant other through tough times. A soulful hook from Australian singer Baro Sura completes the track, both with an addictive melody and wistful lyrics about settling down and starting a family.
The touching sentiment of this track is heartbreaking in retrospect, knowing that Miller died before he could make this dream a reality, but it stands as a beautiful reminder for those who loved his music to live life to the fullest.
The album’s most tear-jerking moments arrive on “That’s On Me,” a waltz with a timeless and simple blend of jangly electric guitars, warm piano and a walking bass line. Miller’s simple lyrics provide an uncomfortably close and clear picture of his mindset as he reflected on his life’s mistakes and comforted those hurting around him.
Hearing him sing, “That’s on me, it’s all my fault,” on the chorus, it’s hard not to imagine Miller reflecting on the addiction that led to his overdose and comforting his heartbroken fans from beyond the grave.
“Circles” is Mac Miller’s beautiful swan song, a bittersweet reflection on all the troubles and joys of life, unafraid to let simple songs speak powerfully.
If you have followed any of Miller’s career over the past decade and haven’t heard the album yet, expect to cry a bit when you do.
