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. MusicCriticG
    Aug 28, 2023
    9
    This was Really a good Posthumous album, the way his Label/Family handled this was amazing, it generally was made for his legacy and didn't seem like a cash grab like most posthumous Records

    :FAVORITE TRACKS: that's on me, Blue World
  2. Melondemon
    Aug 20, 2023
    10
    this album just changed my life. thank you mac
    and probably my favorite and most outstanding album
  3. nachocmq
    May 18, 2023
    10
    this is pure art, this album made me cry, and think about a lot of things..
  4. RegenT_A_1300
    May 5, 2023
    10
    words don't describe how good this album is, the greatest album of all time.
  5. daytonatabooywr
    Feb 5, 2023
    10
    easy 10 wtf this is perfect i cried so hard and came all over myself when good news played top 10 song of all time
  6. LasseLong
    May 16, 2022
    10
    This album is absolutely gut-wrenching, it gets you every time. Mac was a genius, Rest In Peace.
  7. celdredge2
    Jan 6, 2022
    9
    One of my favorite posthumous albums, Circles by Mac Miller is an amazing journey of Mac's legacy and musical satisfaction left on others. This album does a great job of implementing his greatness even after his death, a general emotional journey that compares to the likes of Blonde. Overall 9/10, amazing album.
  8. JJ2FAS4U
    Dec 29, 2021
    9
    ------------------------------------9/10-----------------------------------
  9. Mellowry
    Aug 18, 2021
    10
    Beautiful, true art. A perfect track listing, the sounds mix incredibly good so it isn't "only a sad record", the instruments sound great and are very well chosen, and of course Mac Millers voice sounds incredibly good, it has a real modern jazzy vibe, with very overthinking lyrics.
  10. Gringovisky
    Jun 25, 2021
    9
    Lindo Álbum com uma belíssima produção, mas acho que a maior proeza desse projeto seja o fato de Mac Miller ter reconhecido suas limitações como cantor e ter usado a produção ao seu favor, fazendo assim que o seu vocal nesse álbum ficasse simples e perfeito.
  11. CreativeUsrname
    Jun 14, 2021
    10
    Great Album. I love how it didn't really rip off the style of Swimming, but had a different one instead :) Very unique experience
  12. hdcooper
    Apr 11, 2021
    9
    An easy-going, soulful record that discusses Mac's troubles he battled with. Offering a fulfilling, but still heart-breaking goodbye to an artist that seemed to just start understanding where he really wanted to take his music.

    9.0/10
  13. 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
  14. prettynikki
    Mar 1, 2021
    10
    This album is truly a masterpiece. Mac Miller has grown before our eyes. So many beautiful lyrics. This album has helped me through severe depression, we miss you easy mac with the cheesy raps. RIP
  15. 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
  16. Tal333
    Feb 3, 2021
    9
    Just beautiful. The writing is mature, the instrumentals are great. Mac's singing isn't perfect, but is has a lot of charm. Highly recommended.
  17. 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.
  18. boondocks
    Jan 7, 2021
    9
    What a fantastic send off for Mac Miller. Everything about this album is beautiful. Production and vocals are absolutely amazing. Best tracks are "Circles", "Blue World", "Good News", "Woods", and "Hand Me Downs". Rest In Peace Mac Miller.
  19. AMHDK
    Dec 18, 2020
    9
    I have always been a Mac fan, but 'Swimming' really made me love and appreciate his music more. It so unfortunate that he passed away shortly after Swimming, because it is so far his best piece of art. So i was really nervous about this posthumous album, but John Brion and everybody involved really did an amazing job. This albums is so good and a perfect follow up after Swimming. Forever Mac.
  20. 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
  21. 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
  22. 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
  23. enkhilada
    Dec 2, 2020
    9
    Incredibly beautiful album. The production work is perfect. It is so sad that Mac's best work was his last.
  24. keonbreez
    Nov 10, 2020
    9
    What you really want to see in an artist's career is growth. Mac Miller started up as a punk kid who then grew up to be one of raps premier talents. After the announcement of this album, I was really iffy on the quality, as posthumous albums are rarely finished and usually packed with filler tracks and features. This album is completely different. You can tell that these tracks were mostlyWhat you really want to see in an artist's career is growth. Mac Miller started up as a punk kid who then grew up to be one of raps premier talents. After the announcement of this album, I was really iffy on the quality, as posthumous albums are rarely finished and usually packed with filler tracks and features. This album is completely different. You can tell that these tracks were mostly finished before his untimely passing. Most of the songs on this album are slow ballads about self reflection, and it really makes sense as a next step for mac. His last album, 2018's Swimming, has a very similar tone yet included more rap and rhyme schemes that makes this album a more evolved and simplified step forward. Overall, one of the best albums of 2020 and the best posthumous album in recent years. RIP mac :(… Expand
  25. HavanaS
    Aug 28, 2020
    10
    Ja perdi as contas de quantas vezes corri para esse álbum. Mac era um artista incrível e faz muita falta.
  26. PINEAPPLE_X12
    Jul 28, 2020
    8
    It’s a little long, but other then that it’s amazing. “Good News” is one of the best songs ever made. I also like how chill this album is.
  27. smolheartbigpp
    Jul 18, 2020
    8
    This is a very beautiful and serene listen every time. The composition of his vocal melodies and instrumentals is eargasmic. Lyrics are deep and meaningful. Not every track flows well, "Surf" is a little washed out and boring. "Circles" is one of his best works and a great send-off. My favorite track is "Everybody".
  28. 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
  29. fabiann
    May 30, 2020
    10
    Best rap álbum of the year and one of the best in general too, deserves a lot more
  30. Clerisson
    May 28, 2020
    9
    The only Mac album that can really go against swimming, this album deserves to be the best of the year! Mac Miller always innovating and improving every year, I miss you
  31. yungnikgamer06
    May 13, 2020
    10
    This is his best record with Swimming.The songs are beautiful yet heartbreaking.It is the best record i heard for some time.Rest easy,Malcolm.❤️
  32. 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
  33. polishreview
    May 6, 2020
    10
    A true masterpiece of art. Circles may very well be the only good post-death album to be released ever. Circles exceeds at being the best sister album to swimming, completing the dream that Mac had envisioned. Circles far outhsines anything made within its same release year.
  34. 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.
  35. JakeWLovesRap
    Apr 2, 2020
    9
    The best ending we could have reasonably asked for. Mac builds off his unique sound on 'Swimming' and really gives his best vocals of his career. Packed with heartfelt songs and some spots to let you know that Mac could still rap. Beautiful album that I think will be looked at as Mac's masterpiece one day.
  36. illScapolo
    Mar 27, 2020
    10
    The whole album feels like being written from the other side. It's much more musical than the rest and it's profoundness lets us wondering how much better a next album would have been.
  37. lauramiranda42
    Mar 25, 2020
    10
    Beautifully done. We can relate to his feelings through soothing and calm music. Mac's death had a great impact on me, so it took long for me to listen to his late album. But it was even better than I expected. It's a work of art. Definitely his best, better even than the Divine Feminine which is my favorite album of all times.
  38. 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
  39. 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
  40. 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.
  41. jogui78
    Mar 9, 2020
    10
    Bro, this whole album just feels like a warm hug, a goodbye to everyone. he is just talking from his heart. wherever he is i hope he is smiling, rest in peace mac
  42. 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
  43. LukeNoctor
    Feb 29, 2020
    9
    This is the best posthumous release we've had in a very long while. It is a very sad and heart breaking project to listen to as he sounds so hopeful for his future on a lot of the tracks. Having said that he also covered a lot of issues he was struggling with on this release which makes this album even more of an emotional experience. This is a very heavy yet smooth listen overall. 9/10.
  44. 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.
  45. 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
  46. osnapitsg
    Feb 18, 2020
    10
    beautiful. and a truly incredible thing that the album was able to be produced. lyrically and musically beautiful. RIP Mac, you will forever be appreciated, loved and missed.
  47. 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
  48. Kaarentellier
    Feb 15, 2020
    10
    Hermoso álbum, Mac merecía la atención que recibió desde siempre. Te amo por siempre Malcolm❤️
  49. scrawnymfcker
    Feb 14, 2020
    10
    lovely album, miss you mac
  50. Igormatthew
    Feb 13, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Álbum Prefeito, trás muito emoção sentimento e é muito inovador, merece muito sucesso e notas maiores..… Expand
  51. 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
  52. ipeduarda
    Feb 9, 2020
    10
    Muito bom. Mac lenda eterna... Talento puro e genuíno... Impecável assim como quase tudo q ele criava.
  53. 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.
  54. 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.
  55. naomisge
    Feb 2, 2020
    10
    This album truly shows his growth. Makes me wonder how far he would of gone.
  56. diogovieira63
    Jan 31, 2020
    10
    What a great way to say goodbye to this phenomenal artist. Couldn't ask for better
  57. 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
  58. 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
  59. Jugraj
    Jan 29, 2020
    9
    This is how you do Posthumous music...I felt like he recorded this up in the heaven. Thankyou Mac
  60. MyOpinion1
    Jan 26, 2020
    9
    Although apparently unfinished, the albums themes, sound and overall composition is beautiful. There Is no other way to put it. The emotion conveyed by each individual song is immense and Mac sounds great on all of the tracks in my opinion. Beats are good. Lyrics are brilliant and tell a story of how Mac was feeling at the time of writing them, but most importantly is just how beautifulAlthough apparently unfinished, the albums themes, sound and overall composition is beautiful. There Is no other way to put it. The emotion conveyed by each individual song is immense and Mac sounds great on all of the tracks in my opinion. Beats are good. Lyrics are brilliant and tell a story of how Mac was feeling at the time of writing them, but most importantly is just how beautiful each song is and. A truly beautiful work of art the legend left behind.… Expand
  61. 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
  62. 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
  63. 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
  64. 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.
  65. thereviewmanman
    Jan 23, 2020
    10
    As someone who has been listening to Mac Miller since 2011, his passing has been a painful loss. His music has been the soundtrack to many pivotal and intimate moments of my life. I met my best friend through mutual love of his artistry; the highs and lows of both high school and college were amplified by his work. For me, "Swimming" was a score of loss. I related a personal loss of a longAs someone who has been listening to Mac Miller since 2011, his passing has been a painful loss. His music has been the soundtrack to many pivotal and intimate moments of my life. I met my best friend through mutual love of his artistry; the highs and lows of both high school and college were amplified by his work. For me, "Swimming" was a score of loss. I related a personal loss of a long time relationship to many songs off of that record. When Mac himself left this Earth, "Swimming" became both a comfort and a void in my life I didn't know how to fill...

    "Circles" has filled that void. It is far and away Mac's most melodic and detailed album in his discography. He mostly forgoes rapping for singing, and while it won't blow any one away with its technicality, his voice portrays the emotion of his lyrics sincerely. The instrumentation is lush and organic, with influences from Laurel Canyon pop music to modern house and synth-pop, all while building on the rapping and lyricism that made Mac Miller special to begin with. Credit to Jon Brion for helping shape a wonderous soundscape that simultaneously evokes melancholy and hope. Credit more to Mac Miller's family, who honorably and nobly saw his legacy to completion. And that is what this album is at its core; completion. It is the end of the journey for Mac Miller, and while the journey was cut short, the songs he has left behind give the message that all is going to be ok. Death was often on his mind, but it no longer seemed to scare him on this album. Rather, he seems to have concluded that when his time is up, there will be something greater on the other side. The album often feels like a voice from beyond, comforting and knowing, giving confidence that all is alright. Wherever Mac is, he assures us he is at peace. I will always keep Mac's music and legacy in my heart, but this album brought closure to the void left from his passing. I'm not sure I can think of another album that completes an artist's journey as well as this one does. Till we meet in another life Mac, rest in peace.    … Expand
  66. 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!
  67. 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
  68. 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.
  69. musicguystuff
    Jan 23, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. So beautiful with masterful writing and production. Lots of work and passion was took to this album. An album that will have an everlasting impact.… Expand
  70. 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
  71. Goonjan
    Jan 23, 2020
    1
    His worst album.. lyrics are not good at all..its not mac miller.. production is rough
  72. 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
  73. 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
  74. Pilkhoffer
    Jan 22, 2020
    9
    You will be missed Mac! Amazing last album. I cried a lot while listening to it.
  75. 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
  76. 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
  77. doubleW
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    The best sendoff I could have ever asked for from one of my favourite artists.
  78. 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.
  79. 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
  80. 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.
  81. dburnison
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Beautiful album, always puts me in a good mood. Best album of the year so far.
  82. 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
  83. 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
  84. 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
  85. Slinkky
    Jan 22, 2020
    8
    Incredibly melancholy, yet beautifully arranged, every moment is absolutely blissful while staying simultaneously downtrodden
  86. WholeLottaNate
    Jan 22, 2020
    9
    Absolutely amazing. Production was spectacular, as well as his vocals. A wonderful send off to the late Mac Miller.
  87. 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
  88. 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
  89. 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
  90. 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 ❤
  91. Rtoon
    Jan 22, 2020
    0
    What a horrible situation for mac this is the worst album I've ever heard in my life
  92. 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
  93. Svenvee
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Beautiful project that captures the talent of Mac as a full and multifaceted artist.
  94. 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.
  95. 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.
  96. 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.
  97. StraightCash25
    Jan 20, 2020
    10
    Its impactful and introspective. Each lyric and sound resonates more each time I listen through.
  98. 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
  99. 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
  100. 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.
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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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