Mac Miller’s latest posthumous album, Balloonerism, is a testament to his artistry, offering listeners another glimpse into his creative mind even after his death. Long rumoured among fans as an unfinished project before his Faces era, the album arrives as both a celebration and a bittersweet reminder of his talent. With its dreamy production, introspective lyrics and signature jazz-infused sound, Balloonerism feels like a continuation of Mac’s journey—one that floats somewhere between reality and the afterlife. But does it serve as a fitting conclusion to his legacy, or does it leave us longing for what could have been?
After lingering on the internet for years, fans no longer have to rely on leaks or dodgy links to listen to Balloonerism after Mac’s estate @92tilinfinity released a statement on Instagram announcing its official release in the new year. The post explains: “We believe the project showcases both the breadth of his musical talents and fearlessness as an artist. Given that unofficial versions of the album have circulated online for years and that releasing Balloonerism was something that Malcolm frequently expressed being important to him, we felt it most appropriate to present an official project to the world.” Balloonerism revisits themes explored in Mac Miller’s previous albums, diving deeper into mental health, love and substance use. The album introduces itself with an instrumental track titled “Tambourine Dreams” setting an atmospheric tone before transitioning into “DJ’s Chord Organ” featuring Grammy Award winner SZA as the album’s sole guest. Her smooth, airy vocals glide over the ethereal production of Stephen Bruner, better known by his stage name Thundercat. Rather than dominating the song, SZA’s contribution adds layers of warmth and melancholy, blending seamlessly with Mac’s signature style. Offering a glimpse of musical chemistry that, tragically, we’ll never get to see fully realised. Another standout track is “Mrs. Deborah Downer”, which leans into Mac’s signature introspection. With the help of a languid bass, the songs taps into Miller’s psyche, pulling the listener into a dreamlike state that paints rich imagery of self awareness and existential questioning.
His effortless wordplay and stream-of-consciousness delivery make this track feel deeply personal—almost as if it were a diary entry set to music. My favourite hypnotic moment is from “Stoned”, a track that perfectly captures Balloonerism’s psychedelic, intimate energy. With a blues-driven guitar meandering through its soundscape, the song travels fluidly between your headphones, immersing the listener in its sensual atmosphere. The mellow laid-back instrumentation is reminscent of his jazzy alter-ego Larry Lovestein. Rather than focusing on drug use, “Stoned” finds solace in a shared escape with a significant other, offering a sexy moment of peace and vulnerability. Mac’s lyrics are raw and authentic, and feel hauntingly relevant to his life even after his passing.
With Balloonerism, Mac Miller continues to transcend time. It’s an album that doesn’t just showcase his artistry but reaffirms his legacy—one that will keep floating, long after the music fades.