Text by PRAHALAD MITRA, RACHEL LIT and GIAN-PAOLO VON RUDEN
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DISSECTING MAC MILLER’S FINAL ALBUM
OLLOWING RAP ARTIST MAC MILLER’S unexpected death by a drug overdose in September 2018, thousands of dedicated fans were thrilled to hear about the release of his final album, “Circles,” which debuted on Jan. 17. The posthumous record was given life with the help of producer and collaborator John Brion, who dedicated himself to completing the album despite not having Miller by his side, according to Rolling Stone. This album, a complement to his last release, “Swimming,” grapples with themes of hope and optimism after his previous anxiety-stricken showcases, and the contrast between albums brings Miller’s story full circle. The tragically ironic tracks of “Circles” provide listeners with a sense of closure, which Pitchfork, a magazine centered around music, considers one of the album’s most impactful motifs. “‘Swimming’ hinted at an artist who’d finally cleared his mind
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and found his footing,” a January 2020 article reads. “‘Circles’ provides some resolution and helps finish Miller’s final thoughts.” Miller had an immense impact on teenagers and young adults worldwide, many of whom anxiously anticipated the release of “Circles.” Palo Alto High School senior Dylan Duncan has been a life-long fan and considered the album to be a sentimental sendoff. “I loved it,” Duncan said. “It was very different from the rest of his discography, but at the same time had the same feel and sound that I love. It was like him giving the world one last hug and wave goodbye.” Verde Magazine analyzed several of “Circles’” new pieces and dissected the meaning behind the lyrics and melodies Miller shares in his final breaths with the world. While not all 12 tracks make it on this spread, we have included a mix of our favorites — the rest we suggest you listen to yourself. v
