Rating: NNN
The standout element of Mac Miller’s second studio album is the production. Featuring beats from hip-hop veteran the Alchemist, Brainfeeder boss Flying Lotus, cloud rap producer Clams Casino and Daft Punk’s BFF Pharrell, Watching Movies With The Sound Off is the Pittsburgh rapper’s best shot at being taken seriously.
This means goofy songs like his bro-friendly hit Donald Trump (which drew Twitter ire from the billionaire himself) are out, in favour of reflective tales about struggling with drug addiction and the loss of a close friend, which Miller delivers in a hazy, conversational style.
These attempts at introspective are much more interesting than the rote misogyny that pollutes songs like Gees. While the exceptional company he keeps (see appearance by Earl Sweatshirt and the elusive Jay Electronica) sometimes highlights his shortcomings as an emcee, Miller’s guests also push him to be better.
Top track: I’m Not Real feat. Earl Sweatshirt
