"Balloonerism" is Pittsburgh-native Mac Miller's seventh album and second posthumous release. He recorded it in 2013 around the same time "Watching Movies With The Sound Off" was released. While bootleg versions of "Balloonerism" have existed for years, an official announcement was made in November 2024 after being teased at Camp Flog Gnaw — Tyler, The Creator’s annual music festival.
"Balloonerism" blends SoundCloud-era Mac with the newer, more jazzy-style Mac. Rolling Stone magazine gave it "3 stars" but, in my opinion, it is a "5 star" album. My favorite tracks are “Stoned” and “Mrs. Deborah Downer.”
"Balloonerism" feels like if "Swimming" (2018) met "Circles" (2020) — it's almost like they filmed their life on a vintage camera, and then someone found it at the thrift store. The second track, “DJ’s Chord Organ,” features SZA, who on her own is an outstanding artist, but when you combine the two you get a sound that is personal to each artist, but blends together to make a gorgeous song. A perfect example of the blend of old and new is the single, “5 Dollar Pony Rides” which has the beat of a smooth jazz song, but with the lyrics and speed of one of Mac’s old mixtapes.
“Stoned” is a standout on "Balloonerism." It has an Arctic Monkeys-meets-Tame Impala beat with Brent Faiyaz-style vocals about trying to cheer up a sad person with music. “Funny Papers” sounds like it could have been on "Swimming." Its production and lyrics remind me of “What’s The Use” and “Self Care.” Aside from SZA’s appearance, there’s only one other song with a guest spot on the album: “Tranformations” features Delusional Thomas who, with some research, you discover is one of Mac Miller’s many aliases.
Getting to hear this album is a great musical start to 2025. "Balloonerism" has a special place in my heart because this is the first Mac Miller album that I was fully aware of and very, very excited for. I have always known of him as a fellow Pittsburgher and my dad listens to him on occasion, but for the last few years I’ve grown to really love his music. I’m really enjoying listening to "Balloonerism," but my favorite Mac Miller album will always be "Swimming." I love the story it tells and the music itself is gorgeous. Mac Miller is such an amazing artist — a master of almost any style from rap to jazzy instrumentals with heartfelt lyrics and great storytelling. I hope this isn’t the last we hear from Mac Miller.
Madilyn Spehar is a 7th grader at Holy Cross Academy, and an avid Mac Miller fan. She also happens to be the daughter of WYEP host Joey Spehar!