Mac Month: Coming in at #3...

Coming in at number three in Mac Miller’s discography is his 2016 ode to love - The Divine Feminine. This album is truly a love letter to love itself. Much has been speculated about for who exactly this album was written. A seeming consensus is that this album was made for Miller’s girlfriend of the time - Ariana Grande. Her feature on "My Favorite Part" could add to this theory. However Miller made it clear that this album is about love as a concept. It’s not written for anyone or about anyone, rather Miller penned the album to honor the love all around him.

Thematically, The Divine Feminine is abnormal. The album doesn't follow the traditional three act template most albums adhere to. The album starts on a light note with "Congratulations" and "Dang!". However there is really only a single deviation from this light tone - "Cinderella". Even then, "Cinderella" is only dark in sound, not in lyrical content. Ty Dolla $ign croons “I’ve been waiting all night for this moment”. The two rap / sing of sex and of intimacy. The dark tone belies the optimistic and grateful lyrics. Perhaps it is this contrast which makes this song a standout on the album. Miller finishes the album with perhaps his best song - "God is Fair Sexy Nasty". This song lazes around personal anecdotes and more universal allegories. The chorus, smokily crooned by Kendrick Lamar, refrains “ You don't mind that I don't care, God is fair”. The song is inherently sexual, but Miller with this song opens up a more expansive perspective. I don't care and you don't mind. This sentiment in the context of the song insinuates a loving and healthy dynamic. One that comes from a divine blessing, where god is fair.

Musically, Miller brings us one of his most consistent efforts to date. He uses heavy strings and pianos, reminiscent of some songs of Good:AM and Faces. He uses drums sparingly yet effectively. There isn't a beat from the album dominated by drums. This leads to softer beats, and a warmer sonic soundscape.

This album is by no means his strongest. Miller at his best delves into the abyss of his mind, exploring his inner demons. This version of Miller allows for the listener to connect to his music, and find solace in it. The Divine Feminine doesn't follow this formula. There is no solace to be found in dreary rhymes. This album is a celebration of love and of life. Everything from the beats to the lyrics to the overall vibe allows for Miller to perfect this vision. There isn’t a weak song, just songs that aren't quite as good as others, or slightly forgettable. The love that Miller feels in his heart while making this album is apparent.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ndf-eMyEVG8

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LR3GQfryp9M

Song Ranking:

1. God is Fair Sexy Nasty

2. Cinderella

3. Dang!

4. We

5. Stay

6. Planet God Damn

7. My Favorite Part

8. Congratulations

9. Skin

10. Soulmate

Score: 8.7/10