Mac DeMarco Album Review: Is It Worth Listening?

Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the discography of the one and only Mac DeMarco. Known for his slacker rock vibes and chillwave sound, Mac has carved out a unique space in the indie music scene. But with a plethora of albums and EPs to choose from, where should you start? And more importantly, is it all worth a listen? Let’s break it down, album by album, and find out what makes Mac DeMarco so appealing.

Early Years and "Rock and Roll Night Club" (2012)

Before he became the mellow maestro we know and love, Mac's early work was a bit more rough around the edges. "Rock and Roll Night Club", released in 2012, showcases a more raw and unpolished sound compared to his later albums. This mini-album is characterized by its lo-fi production, jangly guitars, and Mac’s signature crooning vocals, though they're delivered with a more pronounced Elvis-esque swagger. The tracks are shorter, punchier, and have a more immediate, garage rock feel. Think less hazy sunset and more smoky dive bar.

While it might not be as refined as his later work, "Rock and Roll Night Club" has a certain charm. It captures the energy of a young artist experimenting with his sound and finding his voice. Songs like the title track and "Baby's Wearing Blue Jeans" are catchy and fun, even if they don't have the same depth or emotional resonance as some of his later classics. If you're a die-hard Mac DeMarco fan, this is definitely worth checking out to see how far he's come. For newcomers, it might be a bit abrasive, but it offers a fascinating glimpse into the origins of his unique musical style. It’s like peeking into the artist's workshop before he became a master craftsman. The rawness and unedited nature of this album is exactly what makes it so special, giving fans a taste of Mac's unfiltered artistic vision.

"2" (2012): Finding His Footing

Released in the same year as "Rock and Roll Night Club," "2" is often considered Mac DeMarco's breakthrough album, and for good reason. This is where he really starts to hone his signature sound: dreamy, lo-fi, and effortlessly cool. The album has a cohesive feel, with each track blending seamlessly into the next, creating a hazy, summery atmosphere. It's the kind of album that's perfect for lazy afternoons, road trips, or just chilling with friends. The production is still lo-fi, but it's more polished than his earlier work, allowing the melodies and harmonies to shine through.

Lyrically, "2" explores themes of love, youth, and nostalgia, all delivered with Mac's trademark wit and sincerity. Tracks like "Ode to Viceroy" and "My Kind of Woman" have become indie anthems, beloved for their catchy hooks and relatable lyrics. "Freaking Out the Neighborhood" is another standout, with its infectious guitar riff and humorous take on suburban life. What sets "2" apart is its ability to be both laid-back and emotionally resonant. Mac's songwriting is deceptively simple, but he has a knack for capturing complex emotions in a way that feels genuine and relatable. It's an album that grows on you with each listen, revealing new layers of depth and nuance. For many fans, "2" remains Mac DeMarco's quintessential album, the one that perfectly captures his unique blend of chill vibes and heartfelt songwriting.

"Salad Days" (2014): Maturation and Reflection

Two years later, "Salad Days" arrived, marking a significant step forward in Mac DeMarco's artistic evolution. While it retains the lo-fi aesthetic that defined his earlier work, "Salad Days" is a more introspective and mature album. The songs are more complex, both musically and lyrically, exploring themes of aging, fame, and self-doubt. It's an album that feels both personal and universal, reflecting on the challenges and uncertainties of early adulthood.

The album opens with the title track, a wistful meditation on the passage of time and the fleeting nature of youth. "Blue Boy" and "Passing Out Pieces" are standout tracks, showcasing Mac's knack for crafting catchy melodies with a melancholic undertone. The lyrics are more thoughtful and introspective, reflecting a sense of disillusionment and weariness. However, the album is not without its lighter moments. Tracks like "Brother" and "Go Easy" offer a sense of hope and optimism, reminding us to appreciate the simple things in life. "Salad Days" is an album that rewards repeated listens, revealing new layers of meaning with each spin. It's a testament to Mac DeMarco's growth as a songwriter and his ability to connect with listeners on a deeper emotional level. While it may not be as immediately accessible as "2," "Salad Days" is arguably his most accomplished and thought-provoking work.

"Another One" (2015): Breezy and Intimate

"Another One", a mini-album released in 2015, offers a more intimate and stripped-down sound compared to Mac DeMarco's previous work. Recorded primarily on his own, the album has a raw and personal feel, like you're sitting in his living room while he plays these songs just for you. The tracks are mostly slow and melancholic, exploring themes of loneliness, heartbreak, and longing. It's a perfect late-night album, ideal for introspection and quiet reflection.

The album opens with the title track, a breezy and melancholic tune that sets the tone for the rest of the record. "The Way You'd Love Her" is a standout track, with its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics. "Just to Put Me Down" is a more somber tune, reflecting on the pain of rejection and self-doubt. What makes "Another One" so special is its vulnerability and honesty. Mac DeMarco isn't afraid to wear his heart on his sleeve, and his sincerity shines through in every note. The lo-fi production adds to the intimate feel, creating a sense of closeness and connection with the listener. While it may be shorter and simpler than his other albums, "Another One" is a gem in Mac DeMarco's discography, showcasing his ability to create deeply personal and emotionally resonant music. Plus, who can forget the recipe for Mac's famous Jizz Jazz chili at the end of the album?

"This Old Dog" (2017): Synth-Heavy and Personal

With "This Old Dog" released in 2017, Mac DeMarco took a slight detour from his signature guitar-driven sound, incorporating more synthesizers and drum machines into his music. This album is perhaps his most personal and introspective to date, dealing with themes of family, loss, and self-acceptance. The lyrics are more direct and confessional, offering a glimpse into Mac's inner world.

Tracks like "My Old Man" and "Still Beating" are particularly poignant, exploring the complexities of family relationships and the struggle to come to terms with one's own identity. "For the First Time" is a more upbeat track, but it still carries a sense of longing and vulnerability. The use of synthesizers adds a new dimension to Mac's sound, creating a more atmospheric and dreamlike quality. However, the album still retains his signature lo-fi aesthetic, grounding the songs in a sense of authenticity and rawness. "This Old Dog" is an album that requires patience and attention, but it rewards listeners with its depth and emotional honesty. It's a testament to Mac DeMarco's willingness to experiment with his sound and his ability to create music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.

"Here Comes the Cowboy" (2019): Minimalist and Divisive

"Here Comes the Cowboy", released in 2019, is perhaps Mac DeMarco's most divisive album to date. Departing from the more lush and layered sound of his previous work, "Here Comes the Cowboy" embraces a more minimalist and stripped-down approach. The songs are slower, sparser, and more repetitive, creating a hypnotic and dreamlike atmosphere. However, some fans found the album to be monotonous and lacking in substance, while others praised its subtle beauty and introspective mood.

Tracks like "Nobody" and "On the Square" are standout examples of the album's minimalist aesthetic. The lyrics are often cryptic and ambiguous, inviting listeners to interpret them in their own way. The album's title and artwork evoke images of the American West, but the music itself is more introspective and internal. "Here Comes the Cowboy" is an album that challenges listeners to slow down and pay attention to the details. It's not an album that will immediately grab you, but it may reward repeated listens with its subtle nuances and atmospheric textures. Whether you love it or hate it, "Here Comes the Cowboy" is a bold and experimental album that demonstrates Mac DeMarco's willingness to push the boundaries of his sound.

Final Verdict: Is Mac DeMarco Worth Listening To?

So, after all this, is Mac DeMarco worth listening to? Absolutely! While his discography is diverse and sometimes challenging, there's no denying his unique talent and artistic vision. Whether you're drawn to his slacker rock anthems, his introspective ballads, or his experimental soundscapes, there's something for everyone in Mac DeMarco's music.

If you're new to Mac DeMarco, I'd recommend starting with "2" or "Salad Days". These albums offer a great introduction to his signature sound and showcase his songwriting at its finest. From there, you can explore his other albums and EPs to discover the full range of his musical talents. And who knows, you might just become a Mac DeMarco super-fan! Happy listening, guys!