“Angel Dust” is this reporter’s favorite track from Mac Miller’s newest mixtape release. PHOTO CREDIT: Contributed by pitchfork.com
As the leaves are changing, cozy up with some of my favorite music releases from October 2021.
The late Mac Miller’s mixtape “Faces” hit streaming platforms on Oct. 15 as a re-release of his 2014 collection. Originally, “Faces” was only available for free download before being added to Spotify, Apple Music and Tidal this month. Miller’s lyrics conquer his battle with addiction and explore his passions of creativity and unfiltered expression. The album is easily Miller’s most personal project, with its psychedelic instrumentals adding depth to his melancholy rhymes. Jazz tones can be noticed throughout this album, proving how Miller’s fearless experimentation with different genres was monumental during his reign as an R&B legend. With features from artists such as Earl Sweatshirt, Schoolboy Q and Rick Ross, “Faces” is absolutely addicting.
“Angel Dust” is my favorite track from Miller’s collection. He raps passionately over a swing feel and pleads with himself to confront his drug addiction, saying, “My pupils dilated, highly dehydrated, I’m lost inside a giant matrix.” Being a long time Miller fan, the lyrics in “Angel Dust” are some of the most hard-hitting when compared to his other works.
Decorated singer-songwriter and producer Finneas released his debut album “Optimist,” which offers his transparent view on life, on Oct. 15. He sheds his typical pose as a producer and strips down his music to provide an elegant, catchy charm. Finneas flaunts his experience with guitar, bass and harmonization throughout “Optimist.” Each song is distinct and striking, stepping away from the complexity of his most popular productions for his sister Billie Eilish.
My number one pick would have to be “Happy Now?” which contributes a bossa-nova feel. The lyrics in this tune are rather simple, but Finneas demonstrates an impressive vocal range and builds an instrumental arrangement that keeps me on my toes.
On the first day of October, rising pop singer Leah Kate dropped her seven song EP entitled “What Just Happened?” which includes the viral TikTok single “**** Up The Friendship.” Kate owns her own record label which she manages from her bedroom. She shows off her outspoken personality through unapologetic lyrics and sensual rhythms. “What Just Happened?” has already been integrated into my daily rotation. Each tune is upbeat and adds some spunk to my walks across campus.
I would rank “Told You So” as number one from this project. The track starts off somewhat somber with isolated vocals and builds towards a techno feel. Instrumental layers are constantly being added throughout this song, and the beat drop into the chorus is *chefs kiss.*
Although it’s not a full album, it would be criminal to disclude Adele’s “Easy On Me” from my October review, considering that this song quite literally changed the game. The track speaks for itself. Adele sticks to her roots; a tender, vocally-focused ballad with simple backing and a wide range. After a six-year hiatus, Adele does not disappoint. Her upcoming album “30,” set for release on Nov. 19, is bound to reach the top of the charts.
Make sure to check out all of these October releases, and as always, head over to your streaming service of choice to listen to “Our Five Cents,” a podcast brought to you by The Good Five Cent Cigar.