Top 5 Mac Miller Albums: The Best Mac Miller Albums, According To RGM

Mac Miller’s catalog is very impressive.

5. GO:OD AM (2015)

Mac Miller really began his introspective journey in “GO:OD AM.”

Mac Miller’s third studio album marks a turning point where he began exploring deeper themes in his music. The project delves into self-discovery, his struggles with substance abuse, and his quest for happiness. Musically, Mac strikes an impressive balance between delivering hard-hitting bars and pairing them with a blend of old-school, elegant, and impactful production.

Favorite Tracks: “Brand Name,” “Grandkids” and “Weekend.”

4. Watching Movies with the Sound Off (2013)

Mac Miller doesn’t exactly sound happy in “Watching Movies with the Sound Off.”

Later in his career, Mac Miller embraced a softer, more introspective tone. However, in Watching Movies with the Sound Off, he leans into a darker sound, reflecting on distancing himself from fame and grappling with trust issues. The album is characterized by moody, raw production and intricate rap styles. In fact, this project showcases some of Mac’s most exceptional rap performances of his career.

Best Track: “Objects In The Mirror,” “Red Dot Music” and “Someone Like You.”

3. Faces (2014)

Mac Miller just knew he was the s**t in “Faces.”

Faces by Mac Miller is widely regarded as one of his most underrated and deeply profound projects. Released in 2014, the mixtape offers an unfiltered glimpse into Mac’s rawest and most authentic self. Through its exploration of themes like addiction, mental health, mortality, and the relentless pursuit of peace, Faces finds Mac embracing vulnerability with a sense of creative freedom. The mixtape highlights his ability to connect with listeners on a deeply human level, making it a standout piece in his discography.

Musically, Faces is a showcase of Mac’s versatility as an artist, blending a wide range of sounds—from jazzy and playful tones to darker, introspective vibes. This creative range reflects his evolving artistry and willingness to push boundaries. Ultimately, the project is a battle for peace in the face of life’s harsh realities and the fear of death, solidifying its place as one of Mac Miller’s most significant and transformative bodies of work.

Best Track: “Diablo,” “Friends” and “Angel Dust”

2. Circles (2020)

Man, it hurt listening to Mac Miller’s “Circles” during the pandemic.

Circles is a deeply emotional and introspective album that balances hope and despair, reflecting Mac Miller’s struggles with depression and his efforts to piece himself together. While the album lacks the hard-hitting rap side of Mac (with exceptions like “Hands” and “Blue World”), it leans into subdued, soulful singing reminiscent of blues artists, creating a heartfelt and relatable listening experience.

The album’s imperfections and moments of incompleteness make it feel raw and genuine, touching the soul while leaving listeners unsettled and longing for more. At the time, Circles served as a poignant and fitting conclusion to Mac’s artistic journey.

Best Track: “Good News,” “Blue World,” and “Woods”

1. Swimming (2018)

This was the last album Mac Miller was alive to see drop.

Swimming is a deeply introspective album where Mac Miller takes a step back to analyze his life, creating a therapeutic experience both for himself and listeners. The project is filled with cries for help, with about 75% of the instrumentals feeling chill, and 75% of the lyrics delving into themes of depression. Yet, Mac masterfully weaves in moments of positivity that make you feel like he’s holding it together.

Mac’s willingness to experiment with soulful singing and diverse sounds complements his exceptional rapping, which remains his strongest suit. With raw vulnerability and confidence, Mac shares his highs, lows, and everything in between, inspiring listeners to embrace their own flaws and humanity

Best Track: “Self Care,” “Ladders” & “What’s The Use”