Circles
by Mac Miller
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 511 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 424 out of 511
  2. Mixed: 25 out of 511
  3. Negative: 62 out of 511
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  1. YeezusHoops
    Jan 17, 2020
    10
    Beautiful album & a perfect send off for Mac, Jon Brions production meshes with Mac fantastically.
  2. fifi3
    Jan 17, 2020
    9
    This album was really amazing to me. I was a bit concerned, it being a posthumous album and all. But Jon Brion and the everyone else involved did Mac justice. This is equally live, calming; but more eclectic, experimental and almost indie-like than Swimming. The production is absolutely superb and the lyrics change from relatable, inspiring, and heartbreaking from track to track. TheThis album was really amazing to me. I was a bit concerned, it being a posthumous album and all. But Jon Brion and the everyone else involved did Mac justice. This is equally live, calming; but more eclectic, experimental and almost indie-like than Swimming. The production is absolutely superb and the lyrics change from relatable, inspiring, and heartbreaking from track to track. The production and Mac's soulful performances feel like he delivered them from heaven for his fans one last time.

    At the end of the album it's bittersweet. The idea of 'Swimming', being that as long as you are swimming you can't drown. Now, he's reached a new level of inner peace: no longer is he swimming, barely keeping his head above water as waves come crashing down, but surfing above them. And then he passed. But his music lives on.    … Expand
  3. bituiz
    Mar 22, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. é um album muito bom e tenho certeza que malcom esta feliz de terem lançado ele… Expand
  4. benjiminss
    Jan 17, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. this is really his last album we ever get, which is sad. and the fact that the hidden/background vocal in ‘i can see’ is ariana grande’s vocal, made it way more emotional. songs are amazing. this is sooo emotional.… Expand
  5. T9t8
    Jan 17, 2020
    10
    This final piece of art from Mac is the perfect closure to his unfortunate demise. He takes the best elements of swimming and takes it up a notch. Noticeable influence from the Beatles clouds over the project where Mac opens up his soul and expresses his heavily pondered thoughts over an array of casual, eccentric, and enveloping instrumentals. The project ends with you pondering what isThis final piece of art from Mac is the perfect closure to his unfortunate demise. He takes the best elements of swimming and takes it up a notch. Noticeable influence from the Beatles clouds over the project where Mac opens up his soul and expresses his heavily pondered thoughts over an array of casual, eccentric, and enveloping instrumentals. The project ends with you pondering what is next for this brilliant artist, which ironically and unfortunately is the story of Mac Miller. The album will tug at your heart strings and will make you think deeply about how you approach your day to day life, it’s art at its purest form,… Expand
  6. Phalanx39
    Jan 18, 2020
    9
    A beautiful album. It is very emotional considering Mac's life and head space at the time of recording, but doesn't need to rely on it. It's just really damn good. There isn't a single track on it I don't like, and although it continues the departure from Mac's earlier work, it is a very fitting progression. Beautiful.
  7. Meisejr
    Jan 19, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. That's how to make a posthoumos album. Simply a masterpiece of art! Just balm for the soul...… Expand
  8. Squanchyy
    Jan 19, 2020
    10
    This album created energy I haven't had from music for a while. The rhythm and the lyrics had me vibing out, some songs brought me to a sadness hearing the sadness in his tone. The different and wide variety of music that Mac brought us was something special. From rapping to that soothing singing voice he has. What an artist. Rest in Peace. Your music will forever live on.
  9. 92tilinfinity
    Jan 19, 2020
    10
    Beautiful. Thank you so much for finishing this project, Jon Brion, and doing so through Mac’s perspective. Thank you, Malcolm.
  10. Dxogo
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Tjis is an amazing experience especially if you were a long time Mac Miller fan. What a closure for what it has been an amazing carrer!

    Rest easy Malcom
  11. WholeLottaNate
    Jan 22, 2020
    9
    Absolutely amazing. Production was spectacular, as well as his vocals. A wonderful send off to the late Mac Miller.
  12. Dfriedl2
    Jan 25, 2020
    10
    One of the best albums I’ve ever heard and at the moment is getting me through a rough time 10/10
  13. paije_breaks
    Feb 19, 2020
    8
    Posthumous records are often misguided money grabs or sound so far off from - from what we think - was the artist’s direction. Certainly not the case here - Circles felt pure and authentic.

    The album starts in an incredibly minimalistic& empty space. Each track is a progression out of that empty space with soft-spoken melodies to a layered, folk, Paul McCarthy inspired record. It sounds    Posthumous records are often misguided money grabs or sound so far off from - from what we think - was the artist’s direction. Certainly not the case here - Circles felt pure and authentic.

    The album starts in an incredibly minimalistic& empty space. Each track is a progression out of that empty space with soft-spoken melodies to a layered, folk, Paul McCarthy inspired record. It sounds like the soundtrack to the journey from depression to self-love and acceptance.

    I didn't really care for the album my first time through - I was just too thrown off by the sharp shift from Mac's usual sound. But once you accept that this is an indie-folk record and not a hip hop album, then you start to hear the blossoming effect.

    Circles in simple and soft, yet captivating and heavy.
    ---

    Or you could watch this review on my YT channel @paijebreaks    … Expand
  14. RegenT_A_1300
    May 5, 2023
    10
    words don't describe how good this album is, the greatest album of all time.
  15. Lucas_Santos
    Jan 18, 2020
    10
    Circles is the most beautiful album by Mac Miller. It's a piece of art. The production is so beautiful and mac should be proud in the heaven.
  16. neighel1
    Jan 22, 2020
    8
    Great send-off to an immaculate talent that will be sorely missed. Circles provide sweet and mellow tracks that a very in line with Mac's previous projects.

    Instead of a pure hip-hop album, Mac shares a more chill vibe with slower cuts like the opening track. And with this album representing the work that was to come from Mac, it is a real tragedy to listen to knowing he was only going    Great send-off to an immaculate talent that will be sorely missed. Circles provide sweet and mellow tracks that a very in line with Mac's previous projects.

    Instead of a pure hip-hop album, Mac shares a more chill vibe with slower cuts like the opening track. And with this album representing the work that was to come from Mac, it is a real tragedy to listen to knowing he was only going to improve and his skills.    … Expand
  17. lordmalcher
    Jan 17, 2020
    5
    A little bit plain and boring for my taste. The divine feminine and swimming were better.
  18. dubsv
    Mar 8, 2020
    0
    R.I.P. mac but this album still sucks awful it shouldn't b considered hip hop its dumb as f
  19. Thgst3
    Jan 23, 2020
    1
    I mean it's hard to put into words how bad this album is. I guess people are just being nice because the dude died....but this album is not good at all.
  20. Guidofawkes
    Jan 22, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. My review doesn't have any spoilers. But the album is straight wack. "Music to be murdered by" is a gem… Expand
  21. Goonjan
    Jan 23, 2020
    1
    His worst album.. lyrics are not good at all..its not mac miller.. production is rough
  22. a_sebastian
    Jan 23, 2020
    1
    Who the **** is working on those reviews?!
    Are these guys working from a retirement home or wtf?
    Any time some body goes out with a boring record to death, with some existential birdshoot, it gets 80 or more. Just go hang yourself on the nearest tree ffs!
  23. YokaiChallenger
    Jan 17, 2020
    3
    Due to a large majority of the songs consisting of Mac doing more singing than rapping, It comes off as more of a folk/R&B album with production that's almost lo-fi like. Lots of acoustic guitars and minimalistic beats. The music is very intimate with Mac really pouring out his emotons in a lot of the tracks. But man, it's hard to get through...Not a bad album by any means but It's aDue to a large majority of the songs consisting of Mac doing more singing than rapping, It comes off as more of a folk/R&B album with production that's almost lo-fi like. Lots of acoustic guitars and minimalistic beats. The music is very intimate with Mac really pouring out his emotons in a lot of the tracks. But man, it's hard to get through...Not a bad album by any means but It's a little on the boring side for me personally.… Expand
  24. Totie12
    Jan 22, 2020
    0
    Very bad album method and bust up songs are just finished with this album that is probably not his best
  25. YannisMaraj
    Jan 17, 2020
    0
    I do not like it when somebody dies but they continue to release album which even NOT GOOD. You guys have to let fans have good memories of the artist.
  26. Rtoon
    Jan 22, 2020
    0
    What a horrible situation for mac this is the worst album I've ever heard in my life
  27. IndianaParkWars
    Dec 10, 2020
    0
    9/12

    This album is very relaxing and calm. It feels exhausted. It feels posthumous. RIP Mac Miller. You were a beautiful artist. We hear the depression in your voice. "Good News" is the key song here and means so much more coming out this year. We all need and want to hear good news. Everything is going wrong. I also listened to the deluxe version and couldn't miss the unmistakable    9/12

    This album is very relaxing and calm. It feels exhausted. It feels posthumous. RIP Mac Miller. You were a beautiful artist. We hear the depression in your voice.
    "Good News" is the key song here and means so much more coming out this year. We all need and want to hear good news. Everything is going wrong.
    I also listened to the deluxe version and couldn't miss the unmistakable bass riffing of Thundercat. Happy to hear that legend on the album.
    The only problem with the album is that it all blends together and is a bit forgettable. But, that also compliments the chill vibe of album and serves as a great album to put on in the background or as something to just relax to.

    ALBUM ARTWORK: I love this cover. It's a beautiful and depressing portrait of Miller in monochrome. The photograph is iconic and memorable as it is. But, the doubled overlay makes the cover seem so much more concerned and confused and absent from the world. Just as he is absent from the world literally, the feeling of the music is out-of-body. Like we're chilling on a cloud or floating around like the low-opacity Miller on the cover. With the same spiritual theme, even though he's gone, it goes to show he lives inside us and still exists in spirit.
    Artwork rating: 11.5/12    … Expand
  28. Connorcox1997
    Jan 24, 2020
    10
    Mac Miller's posthumously album Circles is a masterpiece. Listening to Circles makes me feel how we all missed Mac Miller. I the production is a work of art. I Love this album.
  29. TomHutchcraft
    Jan 21, 2020
    5
    A much inferior album compared to its predecessor, 'Swimming', This album fails to live up to questionably high critical reviews. Parts of this album are very easy listening, and there are some enjoyable tracks. However, it lacks some originality when compared to previous efforts, and the sound of the modern industry.
  30. Ebi_2000
    Jan 22, 2020
    4
    Rest in peace to mac but lets agree all the high reviews are because of his death and if he wasnt dead it wouldnt get even 60 to be honest
  31. Jones0
    Jan 23, 2020
    9
    Beautiful sounding and it feels like we’re getting closure for mac. This is how posthumous albums need to be done
  32. Dt8301
    Jan 29, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Meh maybe he should of made a rock album cause rap was really never his thing kind of a whack album… Expand
  33. chickensusu
    Feb 24, 2021
    10
    Best posthumous album of all time 10/10
    Best posthumous album of all time 10/10
    Best posthumous album of all time 10/10
  34. Hendo250
    Mar 29, 2021
    10
    this album is a 10 this album is a 10 this album is a 10 this album is a 10
  35. darraghoco
    Jan 12, 2021
    9
    Mac Miller at his most musical yet. No genre in particular, possibly his furthest he's ever been from rap. Beautiful, haunting and a Polaroid of musical genius left for us.
  36. Kirixa
    Feb 21, 2020
    9
    Though I'm not a fan of the post-mortem releases, this is a true piece of art. It seems that whoever have been responsible for finishing the songs for the album have done an impeccable job. Beautiful, touching, catchy.
  37. vitortfv
    Dec 5, 2020
    7
    Circles - 7/10
    Complicated - 7,5/10
    Blue World - 8/10
    Good News - 7,5/10
    I Can See - 6,4/10
    Everybody - 7,5/10
    Woods - 6,5/10
    Hand Me Downs - 7,5/10
    That's on Me - 6,5/10
    Hands - 6,5/10
    Surf - 7/10
    Once a Day - 6/10

    Right - 7/10
    Floating - 6,5/10
  38. Menios
    Jan 18, 2020
    8
    What a great way to close a very promising and emotionally filled career of an artist. Expanding the boundaries of rap music, renovating its sounds and innovative to its core. Maybe his best work if combined with his second to last album "Swimming". One of the best rappers of the 2010s who will be missed. I hope he will be survived by many artists who will continue his so fine kind of rap music.
  39. mattyiceboy
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Beautiful as **** feels like a complete album and it goes really well with swimming. I love the chill vibe and he just is real on it. Not a banger but still really special ❤
  40. CalvinSchettini
    Jan 18, 2020
    10
    Intmate, sensitive. Well produce and written. Every word, flow and instruments talks to each other with beautiful harmony and the feeling put by Mac in the music by the way he sing just flavors the music it self. A beautiful goodbye for one of the greatest musician of the last decade.
  41. kennymccornmilk
    Jan 30, 2020
    10
    Don’t pay attention to all the reviews giving this album a 0. If you like genres outside of hip-hop, this album is beautiful, therapeutic and soothing. Great songwriting, beautiful melodies, and very smooth production. Flows well front to back and Mac’s lyrics are introspective, relatable and beautiful at times. Love this album, my favorite project by him, and unlike any other posthumousDon’t pay attention to all the reviews giving this album a 0. If you like genres outside of hip-hop, this album is beautiful, therapeutic and soothing. Great songwriting, beautiful melodies, and very smooth production. Flows well front to back and Mac’s lyrics are introspective, relatable and beautiful at times. Love this album, my favorite project by him, and unlike any other posthumous album. Sounds like a complete finished project. 10/10 easily.… Expand
  42. Andressat
    Jan 21, 2020
    10
    A beautiful album and a beautiful way to say good bye to us fans. The melodies, the lyrics, everything about this body of work is amazing.
  43. joao166
    Jan 17, 2020
    10
    The album sounds good, so smooth, cool. He really did with this album, so good. The vocals and his voice... everything
  44. Edilsonmiguel
    Jan 17, 2020
    10
    forever in our hearts. this album marks a dark period of Mac's eternal absence, but in its melodies a light comfort is transmitted.
  45. fabiann
    May 30, 2020
    10
    Best rap álbum of the year and one of the best in general too, deserves a lot more
  46. Atum_
    Jul 16, 2020
    10
    I didn't use to like Mac Miller's music, I still don't care too much for his earlier stuff. When he died, I tried listening to Swimming, but I just didn't get the appeal. When he dropped Good News a couple of weeks before Circles, I was sceptical, didn't see how I would like that song. Then I listened to it. Such a beautiful song, beautiful instrumental and beautiful, yet sad lyrics. YouI didn't use to like Mac Miller's music, I still don't care too much for his earlier stuff. When he died, I tried listening to Swimming, but I just didn't get the appeal. When he dropped Good News a couple of weeks before Circles, I was sceptical, didn't see how I would like that song. Then I listened to it. Such a beautiful song, beautiful instrumental and beautiful, yet sad lyrics. You can tell from Miller's voice that he is a man full of regret and sadness. After this, I was excited for the album, when it dropped, I stayed up all night and listened to it. Other than the opening track, closing track and I can see, i loved every track. Whether he is rapping, or singing, he really showcased great penmanship on Circles. It's so sad that we will never see another album. Mac truly grew into something beautiful. May he rest in peace. This is one of the best posthumous albums I've ever heard, and a worthy closer for his career.… Expand
  47. Lajaleaa
    Mar 22, 2020
    7
    ( 75/100 )

    Después de la triste noticia de su fallecimiento, es un poco inevitable voltear atras un poco y recordar su discografía. "Swimming" del 2018 de repente pareció una advertencia que se tomó con cierto animo gracias a una producción tanto madura como creativa y atractiva. "Circles", gracias a la influencia de Jon Brion, Guy Lawrence, Eric "E. Dan" Dan y DAVID x ELI se siente aún    ( 75/100 )

    Después de la triste noticia de su fallecimiento, es un poco inevitable voltear atras un poco y recordar su discografía. "Swimming" del 2018 de repente pareció una advertencia que se tomó con cierto animo gracias a una producción tanto madura como creativa y atractiva. "Circles", gracias a la influencia de Jon Brion, Guy Lawrence, Eric "E. Dan" Dan y DAVID x ELI se siente aún más madura, solida y congruente con ciertos toques de personalidad necesarios. Realmente, la música de Miller siempre ha buscado satisfacer sus propias visiones y por eso realmente no aspira a la sorpresa, novedad o creatividad, pero no por eso su música es mala, simplemente es un cool recordatorio de una esencia que era necesaria que existiera en el mundo de la música.

    After the sad news of his decease is a little inevitable to look back a little and remember his discography. "Swimming" of 2018 suddenly appeared as a warning that was taken with certain joy thanks to a mature, creative and attractive production. "Circles", thanks to the influence of Jon Brion, Guy Lawrence, Eric "E. Dan" Dan y DAVID x ELI, it feels even more mature, solid, congruent and with some sparkles of necessary personality. Milles's music always have wanted to satisfy his own vision, and that's why it doesn't really aspirate to surprise, originality or creativity, but that doesn't mean that his music is bad, it's simply a cool remembering of an essence that was necessary to exist in the world of music.    … Expand
  48. Article99
    Mar 20, 2020
    10
    Malcom’s final album, Circles, represents the beginning of something more. Circles is arguably his best album. It’s exciting, yet upsetting, to know Mac had finally found his place in music and had delivered a wonderfully-written masterpiece.
  49. Sadvilliany
    Jan 17, 2020
    8
    I usually dislike posthumous albums, but this... this is something else... It's lovely, Mac's voice compliments the instrumentals so nicely. I'm not sure what Mac wanted this album to be for sure, but I think he would be proud of this. You can tell that there was care and thought put into this album, it wasn't just thrown together like a lot of posthumous albums we see are. It's great.I usually dislike posthumous albums, but this... this is something else... It's lovely, Mac's voice compliments the instrumentals so nicely. I'm not sure what Mac wanted this album to be for sure, but I think he would be proud of this. You can tell that there was care and thought put into this album, it wasn't just thrown together like a lot of posthumous albums we see are. It's great.

    Favorite Tracks: Good News, Blue World, Everybody, Surf, Complicated    … Expand
  50. ofrlando
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    This album is hard to make a review cause is extraordinary in many ways thanks to Mac for this wonderful gift.
  51. BrezeanuEdy
    Jan 18, 2020
    10
    Beautiful. So pure and raw. Wasn't a big fan of Mac but i loved this album! Sad thing we lost him :(. R.I.P Mac
  52. ger89
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Es interesante como la muerte de un autor puede cambiar el significado de su obra. Cuando es una obra póstuma ese sentimiento se potencia
  53. TsotneKavel
    Jan 18, 2020
    10
    Whole album is full of emotions, thoughts and different feelings... Mac's death really gives this album a strange effect. It's really hard to not weep while you listen those songs. After all, Mac perfectly delivered his message to listener and that's the most important thing in this album, he showed his world, showed what's inside his head and heart.
  54. ginnhole
    Dec 7, 2020
    10
    actually that album deserves a solid 90 and more. bc it's a masterpiece. like, the best work from him. still cannot believe he's gone. i hope he's feeling good up in the heaven..... i love u
  55. Yoshermain
    Jan 17, 2020
    9
    Brilliant record. The fun moments pan out well, but the record is mostly just beautiful. Amazing production and surprising singing, rapping takes a backseat and it works so, so well. RIP my man. I think Mac would be incredibly proud of how this record panned out, and I can only see this record growing on me further in the future. Easily will be the one of the best records of the year, andBrilliant record. The fun moments pan out well, but the record is mostly just beautiful. Amazing production and surprising singing, rapping takes a backseat and it works so, so well. RIP my man. I think Mac would be incredibly proud of how this record panned out, and I can only see this record growing on me further in the future. Easily will be the one of the best records of the year, and I just know that That’s On Me is going to become one of my favorite songs ever and maybe my most played song this year. Awesome record.

    Best tracks: That’s On Me, Blue World, Everybody, Woods, Hand Me Downs

    Least favorite (but still great): Once a Day    … Expand
  56. Quinney
    Jan 17, 2020
    9
    Beautiful, raw and real, his best work in my opinion. I wish other artists went in deep and got this real on there albums like he did. He will be so missed, he is so loved.
  57. MusicGuyMack
    Feb 16, 2020
    9
    It takes a few tracks for him to find his footing, but Mac's newfound indie rock/folk sensibilities imbue the record with a rainy-day wistfulness more than straight melancholia, seeing the gone-too-soon rapper out on a haunting but hopeful note as he suggests that, however briefly, he finally found some semblance of the peace he sought for so long.

    Choice Cuts: "Circles", "Good News",    It takes a few tracks for him to find his footing, but Mac's newfound indie rock/folk sensibilities imbue the record with a rainy-day wistfulness more than straight melancholia, seeing the gone-too-soon rapper out on a haunting but hopeful note as he suggests that, however briefly, he finally found some semblance of the peace he sought for so long.

    Choice Cuts: "Circles", "Good News", "Hand Me Downs", "Surf"    … Expand
  58. Ruff_Ambassador
    Jan 17, 2020
    9
    It’s a very nice and calming album and a great ending album for Mac Miller’s discography, it’s very chill, atmospheric, and dreamy. better than Swimming
  59. soundmate
    May 6, 2020
    8
    Encased in lush, warmingly touching instrumentation, exquisite charm and mellow introspection, Circles is everything a posthumous album should be: fulfilling an artist's intended vision and completing the important final touches to a closing chapter when they're spiritually not with us. With much delicate care, it is truly the appropriate finale of Mac Miller's career.
    As an outsider who    Encased in lush, warmingly touching instrumentation, exquisite charm and mellow introspection, Circles is everything a posthumous album should be: fulfilling an artist's intended vision and completing the important final touches to a closing chapter when they're spiritually not with us. With much delicate care, it is truly the appropriate finale of Mac Miller's career.
    As an outsider who finds difficulty in truly investing myself in Mac's music, Circles serves as perhaps that rare moment of psychological immersion where I truly feel as if I'm walking in the shoes of the artist: a broken man in trouble, coping with inner demons looking for a safe space to find emotional and mental redemption. I can only imagine just how close to heart this record will really hit with fans, those who may regard him as a hero who've gone through the same experiences, the same struggles, the same pains. On Circles, Mac Miller presents what is perhaps his most confidential, down-to-earth and elegantly intimate set of bittersweet, sentimental songs yet.
    What Circles perhaps demonstrates is a man beginning to find himself again in an alien world and reaching for a light in the distance. It seemed as if things were taking a turn for the better with Circles. Given the context surrounding Mac's untimely death, it makes the story and concept behind the album infinitely more saddening and tragic, to know that in the end, Mac never got to see the light of day.
    Putting aside the tragedy of Mac Miller, I am in awe with the sharp amount of focus and the alluring, unprecedented elegance in the production and aesthetic of Circles. Never before have I been this invested and engaged in a Mac Miller project. Filled with incredible, soulfully immersive funky neo-soul energy and charmingly reminiscent pop-rap style, Circles is an undoubtedly gorgeous and chillingly rhythmic journey. Even in its rather rough and incomplete stage, this record rarely loses its groove and enthralling passion.
    To put it simply, this is a record one cannot take for granted. It is a rare, beyond-the-grave moment of aspirational sincerity, a moment of therapy and "zen" for a man who is perhaps finally at peace with himself. Circles is a fine delicacy of a record that serves as Mac Miller's most focused, undoubtedly mature, beautifully arranged, introspective, and generally, his best work as well in my humble opinion. Respect to Mac Miller, he knew not to leave his fans without a final genuine farewell message.    … Expand
  60. kixistrk
    Jan 24, 2020
    8
    I cannot say that I was not terrified by the prospect of another posthumous album after the flailing disgust I felt at the multiple XXXtentacion projects dropped over the past few years. However, I'm very happy to report that this was nothing short of a gorgeous record. The seamless blending of the production and vocals makes the holes left by Malcolm's unfortunate passing unnoticeable,I cannot say that I was not terrified by the prospect of another posthumous album after the flailing disgust I felt at the multiple XXXtentacion projects dropped over the past few years. However, I'm very happy to report that this was nothing short of a gorgeous record. The seamless blending of the production and vocals makes the holes left by Malcolm's unfortunate passing unnoticeable, and the truly chilling and calming words spring to life aboard the fantastic and ear-grabbing synths and orchestras. Truly soaring in stature, it feels as though Malcolm is giving us as the listener, a true goodbye, fitting of a truly remarkable artist.… Expand
  61. diegomoontoya
    Feb 2, 2020
    10
    this album makes me cry and be a little sad, it is a great honor to have this work to remember Mac's life and be honored and recorded by all generations.
  62. cbogert4
    Feb 13, 2020
    9
    Wow, this album was amazing. Props go to Joe Brion for completing this album after Mac's untimely death. Words cannot explain the emotions that I felt throughout my listen. My favorite track is easily everybody as it captivates the total feel and vibe given off throughout the album. I believe that this album is so close to a 10 it is almost aggravating. The production on this album wasWow, this album was amazing. Props go to Joe Brion for completing this album after Mac's untimely death. Words cannot explain the emotions that I felt throughout my listen. My favorite track is easily everybody as it captivates the total feel and vibe given off throughout the album. I believe that this album is so close to a 10 it is almost aggravating. The production on this album was immaculate and this is easily Mac's best album and, in my opinion, is a "way too early" contender for album of the year. Rest in peace.… Expand
  63. Spoonyon
    Feb 9, 2020
    7
    It's incredibly refreshing to hear a posthumous album that isn't disingenuous, slimy, clearly made to capitalize on the artist's death and completely devoid of the artist's vision. It's obvious Mac knew what direction he wanted to go in before his passing and what's presented here on Circles is undeniably him. A good send off album for sure.
  64. BeHonest
    Jan 18, 2020
    10
    When raindrops fell
    down from the sky the day you left me
    an angel cried... ohhhh she cried an angel CRIEEEEEED
    she CRIEEEEEEEDDDDDDDDDDD. RIP angel.
  65. melliejellie
    Jan 17, 2020
    10
    A beautiful album by a beautiful person. The songs are smooth but meaningful, and they get better and better after every listen. Rest in peace, Mac. Gone but never forgotten.
  66. irwinschwartz
    Jan 17, 2020
    8
    I was very happy to hear that Mac Miller's estate was releasing a posthumous album. Let's just say it did not disappoint in the slightest. The sound of the album is more laid-back than his previous releases and is very much focused on singing and not as much rapping. The lyrics are hauntingly foreshadowing and predictive which make the album even more powerful. It seems like Miller isI was very happy to hear that Mac Miller's estate was releasing a posthumous album. Let's just say it did not disappoint in the slightest. The sound of the album is more laid-back than his previous releases and is very much focused on singing and not as much rapping. The lyrics are hauntingly foreshadowing and predictive which make the album even more powerful. It seems like Miller is writing from the afterlife which is an almost spiritual experience. If you weren't listening to the lyrics then it would seem almost like easy listening but it is definitely not that if you do. While this is not necessarily my favorite album from Miller (who is one of my favorite artists) it is very impressive and powerful especially since it is a posthumous release.

    Favorite Tracks: Good News, Hand Me Downs, Hands, Once A Day

    Least Favorite Tracks: Surf, I Can See    … Expand
  67. wlsnwlsnwsl
    Jan 17, 2020
    9
    this album is a fantastic combination of lyrical content and sweet beats, a final goodbye from mac miller to the world.
  68. mondiaparte
    Jan 17, 2020
    10
    there's no right or wrong with how this turned out but i sure listen the whole album on repeat and its truly a masterpiece..
  69. ruloreybia
    Jan 17, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Es un álbum magnífico, un paso al antecesor de swwimming pero aún en un círculo perfecto combinado… Expand
  70. mcunha11
    Jan 17, 2020
    10
    Just perfect.
    Hhjíyygikbgggffggggggghjkiytfxddthhvftyhvvftyjjngujhfyhbvujyiojjikjbgyyhju
    Thanks
  71. Jeikuuuuu
    Jan 17, 2020
    8
    It's good, not insanely new and revolutionary, but it's good. This is not completely a rap album, so you shouldn't expect it to be. It's production is really fresh and atmospheric. The use of strings and synths really portray the mood of the album. The lyrics make it beautiful and depressing knowing that he knew himself well enough and expected the worst from his use of substances.
  72. DanTheFunnyman
    Jan 17, 2020
    10
    Tragic genius; an epilogue of a life lived in excess but not without cares or stresses. 11/10
  73. YanLouis
    Jan 17, 2020
    10
    A very emotional conclusion, not only to Swimming as a concept but to Mac as an artist. The album shows a large growth in his singing ability and explores his voice and abilities vocally. The instrumentals are groovy at points, and calm at others, reinforcing the tone of the album, melancholy with an optimistic outlook.
  74. blinkriana
    Jan 17, 2020
    10
    it’s amazing, i’m so grateful to get to hear this masterpiece. everybody should listen to it
  75. RachaelMills
    Jan 18, 2020
    10
    This album made me cry a lot, masterpiece. Didn't dislike a single track. R.I.P. Mac
  76. nabeiro2001
    Jan 18, 2020
    10
    Beautiful melodies all across the album, very well thought and put together to honor mac miller's life and career.
  77. Motiv8
    Jan 18, 2020
    10
    Even after death he gives us good music.this album has beautiful instrumentals that isolate mac and put him like he is talking to you from a place where he found peace
  78. Jinskip
    Jan 18, 2020
    10
    Such an amazing album, swimming was ok but Circles is on another level, this is some of Mac's greatest music ever released.
  79. somemusicpageig
    Jan 18, 2020
    9
    I really enjoyed his album and I think it’s a very fitting ending to Mac’s career. My favourite part about this album was this album was the overall vibe each song gave off, also I really enjoyed the production. I think Mac’s singing sounded a little soft in some parts but not to the extent that it heavily affected the quality of the music. Overall, I really love this album and I’llI really enjoyed his album and I think it’s a very fitting ending to Mac’s career. My favourite part about this album was this album was the overall vibe each song gave off, also I really enjoyed the production. I think Mac’s singing sounded a little soft in some parts but not to the extent that it heavily affected the quality of the music. Overall, I really love this album and I’ll definitely be coming back to it.… Expand
  80. coopsjt998
    Jan 20, 2020
    8
    A well written, produced, and cohesive record. Mac's lyrics paint the saddening and melancholy picture of his mindset during the creation of this record. Brion's production use of synths and string instruments is almost too appropriately paired with Mac's lyricism. Circles is a raw, beautiful, and sonically soothing, yet heartbreaking end to such a young and exceptional artist's career.
  81. R3lla
    Jan 18, 2020
    10
    Compelling, captivating and thought-provoking. This album is an inside look into the mind of Mac Miller over a body of work that culminates everything that Mac Miller is in hip-hop. This is a posthumous album done the right way, and a project that Mac Miller himself would be happy to put out. A phenomenal farewell from Malcolm McCormick.
  82. ChrstphrMobbinz
    Jan 18, 2020
    9
    Easily his best effort, and even better that it was released on my birthday. I love this guy. R.I.P.
  83. luhh
    Jan 19, 2020
    10
    Is a magical album, all the songs is so incredible and the harmonies is so amazing, I love this album so real much
  84. maddogmagson
    Jan 19, 2020
    8
    Circles is a light and sensitive album which shows the beauty of Mac Miller's talent. Every word, verse and hook mean more after his death as we are given an insight into Mac's thoughts before his untimely death. This is a perfect companion to Swimming as both shows very similar styles. This sounds very like a Mac Miller album. Jon Brion and other producers, as well as Mac's family, haveCircles is a light and sensitive album which shows the beauty of Mac Miller's talent. Every word, verse and hook mean more after his death as we are given an insight into Mac's thoughts before his untimely death. This is a perfect companion to Swimming as both shows very similar styles. This sounds very like a Mac Miller album. Jon Brion and other producers, as well as Mac's family, have done a great job in bringing this album together.… Expand
  85. StraightCash25
    Jan 20, 2020
    10
    Its impactful and introspective. Each lyric and sound resonates more each time I listen through.
  86. Svenvee
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Beautiful project that captures the talent of Mac as a full and multifaceted artist.
  87. GLang
    Jan 22, 2020
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Truthfully, I would rate this album between an 8 and 9, but I chose 8 because that’s probably closer. I loved Swimming, and I was really excited when I heard this album is a continuation of sorts to Swimming. This project does a great job of making the listener feel close to Mac, and it is very personal. Some of the songs are heartbreaking, but at the same time, it gives me a good sense of closure. Mac’s singing and lyrics are great, the production is great, and I can listen to it all the way through with no complaints. There are a couple of weaker tracks, and it’s not perfect, but it feels complete. I loved this album, and it is one of his best imo. RIP Mac… Expand
  88. Top5Center
    Jan 22, 2020
    9
    Mac Miller delivers a beautiful album and perfect send off to any Mac Miller fan.

    Best Tracks: Complicated, Blue World, Hand Me Downs, Hands

    Worst Track: I Can See
  89. SimplyTrifec
    Jan 26, 2020
    4
    The album offers a very specific mood for a very specific listener. Songs start to blend in with each other- Woods is a stand out for me but besides that this album is not great. RIP
  90. florian0612
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    wonderful album, the choice of beats is fantastic, mac great as always

    a pure form of art
    rest in peace
  91. Slinkky
    Jan 22, 2020
    8
    Incredibly melancholy, yet beautifully arranged, every moment is absolutely blissful while staying simultaneously downtrodden
  92. Kanao
    Jan 22, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. One of Macs best albums as far as experimental albums that he did. Brings hard bars and smooth production all the way thru. Slow beautiful lyrics too. Great album… Expand
  93. Yehsshsj
    Jan 23, 2020
    9
    This album is great! I loge the production and lyricism and the Singer-Songwriter approach he took on the project. The project has elements of Neo Soul and R&B while still having Mac rap. Definitely Mac’s best album
  94. dburnison
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Beautiful album, always puts me in a good mood. Best album of the year so far.
  95. Junotherapper
    Jan 22, 2020
    8
    Its like if Mac was talking to us from heaven, good production and the emotion i this project is very deep.
  96. Troman21
    Apr 29, 2020
    9
    Circles is a phenomenal send off to one of hip hops most recently tragic stories. The album feels totally complete despite being posthumous, and every instrumental perfectly fits Mac’s moods through each track. The tracks nail the swimming in circles theme and does give some hope in tracks like Blue World.
  97. doubleW
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    The best sendoff I could have ever asked for from one of my favourite artists.
  98. Jacob21
    Jan 22, 2020
    9
    Sad to see the late mac Miller lave this earth. This album was great and I’m glad it will be his last
  99. Pilkhoffer
    Jan 22, 2020
    9
    You will be missed Mac! Amazing last album. I cried a lot while listening to it.
  100. Freezobreezo
    Jan 22, 2020
    9
    Circles is probably one of the most emotional albums that I have listened to in a long time. His legacy of being a down-to-earth rapper has been accomplished. this post-humous displays mac miller at his best. grabbing what he would have wanted and making it even better. his legacy has definitely been one of the best ones than the others who have passed. The production leave this silkyCircles is probably one of the most emotional albums that I have listened to in a long time. His legacy of being a down-to-earth rapper has been accomplished. this post-humous displays mac miller at his best. grabbing what he would have wanted and making it even better. his legacy has definitely been one of the best ones than the others who have passed. The production leave this silky smooth rhythms that mac accompanies with even silkier rhymes with an admirable flow. RIP mac, you're doing your legacy proud.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

82
#82 Best Album of 2020
26
#26 Most Discussed Album of 2020

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
83

Universal acclaim - based on 14 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 14
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 14
  3. Negative: 0 out of 14
  1. Clash Music
    Feb 3, 2020
    80
    Despite the sadness that clearly surrounds this project there is plenty of positivity: the production of the album is impeccable, and the overwhelming message that shines through is of hope for the future.
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  2. RapReviews.com
    Jan 30, 2020
    85
    Mac’s sixth studio album is a surreal experience that’s filled with opaque contemplation and tragic connotations. ... Loneliness may be our greatest fear other than death. Mac was able to explicitly re-establish this idea through reflective songwriting and gentle crooning. His genius and thoughtfulness will always be remembered. “Circles” is a stark reminder of that.
    Read full review
  3. HipHopDX
    Jan 21, 2020
    80
    He finds beauty and peace in allowing himself to experience his own emotions. It’s an honest, matter-of-fact account of the grey areas of his life and mind. On Circles, Mac shows the unexpected joy that can be found in the darkest of times.
    Read full review
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