Balloonerism

Pitchfork 7.4/10 Recorded in 2014 but never released, Mac Miller’s second posthumous album is the missing link between the earnest rapper he was and the evocative songwriter he would become.

The Needle Drop 8/10 Balloonerism puts Mac Miller's wit, poignancy, and freewheeling creativity on full display; it being able to reach more ears now is only a good thing.

The Line of Best Fit 8/10 Plucked from the depths of his discography, Balloonerism is an emotive and plaintive testament to Miller’s lasting legacy and firmly establishes the profound impact he’s had on shaping rap.

Evening Standard 3/5 Balloonerism might not be the revolutionary posthumous project that finally wins Miller that well-deserved Grammy, but its release to the world is not without value.

Rolling Stone 3/5 The rapper’s second posthumous release lets listeners into his dark blue thoughts from over a decade ago.

The Independent 4/5 At times, the tracks loosen up to the point of unravelling completely. Yet Balloonerism remains a rather wonderful, albeit unsettling, reminder of a talent lost.

All Music 4/5 More than anything, this high quality album ... leads us to question what other unknown gems Miller completed and kept to himself during his all-too-short artistic journey.

Clash 8/10 Feeling distinct from his broader catalogue, ‘Balloonerism’ equally tethers itself to other points in Mac’s work. There’s a sense of cohesion here, and a consistency of quality that highlights the intent that Mac Miller had for this project.

The Observer 4/5 Made during a difficult time in the late rapper’s life, this abandoned work captures the musicianship and introspection of his fertile mid-career.

RapReviews.com 7.0/10 While Mac Miller’s latest posthumous release does accomplish something interesting and worthy of accolades, and is ultimately a strong album, it should be held to its own limits.