Sep 18, 2015 Previous reviews: 1. Compton (9.5/10) 2. Rodeo (7/10) 3. 90059 (8/10) Yes, I am aware it was just commercially released today, but its been streaming all week, so its time to review it. The growth of Mac Miller, is astonishing. He started off as practically a mixtape/YouTube rapper in 2010. He got notorious buzz for releasing a song called "Donald Trump" off the mixtape "Best Day Ever". Donald Trump, before he insulted an entire race, praised Mac and quoted "Mac Miller will become the next Eminem". But Mac became the opposite on critically acclaimed 2nd album, "Watching Movies With The Sound Off" and hazy mixtape "Faces". His addiction to drugs sent him spiraling. The darkness inside of him was shown as he rapped on the dark production. Now he's clean, growing musically and recently signed to major label; Warner Music. He has set out to shine on his 3rd LP "GO:OD AM". Mac aka Larry Fisherman has left the production to various producers this time. This ranges from hit maker Vinalz, TDE headmaster Sounwave, creative wiz DJ Dahi, and his day 1 freind and producer, I.D Labs. He provides the majority here. The soundscape provided on this LP sets the tone for the vibe. Unlike his previous projects like "Faces", or his horrorcore alter-ego "Delusional Thomas", he has a optimistic outlook, discussing his drug use and various events in his life. Topics discussed for example like money, sobriety, hope and the future. "Yeah back when I made 100 grand, thought I was the s---," he raps on 1st single "100 Grandkids". If you were worried he was going to become a one-trick pony with his subject matter, you can lay that to rest. His impressive wordplay is a highlight as well. Mac does not rely on an abundance of features like some of his fellow artists. Ab-Soul, Miguel, BasedGod, Chief Keef and even Little Dragon contribute features. And yes, all of them deliver. Ab-Soul does his thing. Miguel provides a blistering hook. And Chief Keef provides a verse... I can say is really dope on "Cut The Check", a standout track produced by Vinalz. Pinpointing a genre to put this album in is difficult. It's hip-hop, but in so many different variations. You can hear the Jazz scattered throughout, similar to "SURF" by Donnie Trumpet and The Social Experiment. You can even feel the psychedelic influence, similar to "Faces". I even believe there is some Christan rap thrown in as well. Either way, its very interesting to hear everything come into play. Just about everything worked on this project. From the mindless intro, to the inspiring closer, It's actually hard to say what didn't work. He clearly took his time on the joint, and achieved what he intended. There should have been a ScHoolboy Q/Earl Sweatshirt verse, but I'm glad he didn't go overboard with features. Some of the skits in between songs; felt not needed, because the album was not a cohesive story like GKMC. Overall, I'm going to go out on a limb here and give this a... Light 9/10. I dont just throw around ratings like that, this is his best album yet. "Watching Movies With The Sound Off" was great, but this feels like the significant project he will be remembered for. Like J. Cole with 2014 Forrest Hill's Drive, he genuinely surprised me. If you don't like Mac, I suggest atleast 1 listen. If your a hip-hop fan, listen to it, please. You won't regret it. NEXT REVIEW: THE DOCUMENTARY 2.
Sep 18, 2015 I've been sick af all week so have had no time really to listen to this, skimmed through it briefly tho and it was pretty nice Wish he produced more of his own s--- on here man. Mac is a great producer. This beat he made for Vince was amazing
Sep 18, 2015 I think this was a project he intended to focus more on the lyrics and content rather then the production for himself.
