[usr 3.5]

Returning with his first new music since ‘The Divine Feminine,’ Mac Miller drops not just one, but three new singles, including “Small Worlds.”

“No need for shame, I get more peace at slow speeds.” Mac Miller has returned for the first time since 2016, when he released his good, if uncharacteristic LP, The Divine Feminine.  It should be noted that the now 26-year old was dating Ariana Grande back then, and that particular relationship is no more.  But this isn’t about who is dating who – let’s keep it about Mac and the music. Often, when an artist reenters the building, the listener is only treated to one single.  Miller goes bigger, dropping three singles: “Programs”, “Buttons”, and “Small Worlds.” 

“Small Worlds” ends up being the lengthiest of the three singles.  Furthermore, it contrasts the previous two singles with a slower tempo and ‘spacier’ rhymes. Neither observation regarding “Small Worlds” is a downer – Miller’s nonchalant, chilled-out attitude is quite effective.  Beyond his mellowness, Miller has a superb backdrop to work with, in all its soulful, throwback glory.  The old-school production is representative of soulful sounds from Pennsylvania and of course the East Coast rap sound. Also, worth noting, “Small Worlds” has a hypnotic quality definitely feeling and sounding ‘faded.’

Final Thoughts

A couple more notes about “Small Worlds.” Lyrically, there’s a distinct golf/sex reference stands out: “She say that I glow below the waist / And a stroke is just so PGA.” Only Mac Miller. There is a change of pace within the last minute.  Miller is accompanied by piano and finger snaps, while his rhymes pack a bit more punch.  All in all, there’s plenty to dig about “Small Worlds,” maybe even a smidgen more than “Programs” or “Buttons.”

Mac Miller • Small Worlds – Single • Warner Bros. • Release: 5.31.18

Mac Miller • Swimming • Warner Bros. • Release: 8.3.18

Photo Credit: Warner Bros.