Welcome back to Sound Bite! If this week’s music had a theme, it would be sad. In this issue we’ll be covering Mac Miller, JPEGMAFIA and MIKE. Music tends to reflect the reality of the time, and so I feel that the theme of this week is reflective of what a lot of people are feeling. So without any more delay, let’s just jump right into it.

Mac Miller’s estate released his second posthumous album since his untimely passing in 2018. The album, entitled “Balloonerism”, is what I can only describe as an amazing concept and a powerful yet unintentional execution. What I mean is, the bones of the album are there and Mac Miller delivers yet again with complex lyrics and layered production. However, you can tell that the project isn’t finished. Some of the vocals are rough, some of the audio unpolished, and yet it still holds value in a way most posthumous albums really don’t. If you are a fan, it’s worth a listen.

JPEGMAFIA released a single this past week, to mixed reactions from both fans and general audiences. “PROTECT THE CROSS” is a multilayered song critiquing the current state of American politics. The lyric “2025, your politics is a gang sign” basically states the whole message of the song. Politics are now just as divided, ironically in red and blue themes, and it’s reflecting in the general public. Personally, I love the song, and I don’t understand the controversy. I would highly recommend a listen, especially if you’re interested in the news right now.

And lastly MIKE released a new single this week entitled “Bear Trap”. The song is a powerful introspective blend of personal storytelling and social commentary. It covers his struggles with identity, trauma and touches many other aspects of his personal life as well. Honestly, I haven’t listened to much of MIKE, but when this song made its way into my weekly music stream I was instantly impressed. This single is amazing, and I can’t wait to dive in!