Post Malone's "Austin": A Soulful Journey of Brilliance
By Nathan Shepard
Post Malone's much-anticipated album "Austin" presents a remarkable departure from the grandiose productions that have characterized his previous works. Embracing a more raw and intimate approach, the album fully unveils a side of Post we have seen only a couple times before. "Austin" takes us on a soulful journey that centers around the simple yet captivating combination of Post Malone and his trusty guitar.
In this introspective opus, Post Malone sheds the layers of elaborate instrumentation, elaborate arrangements, and guest features that we've grown accustomed to, instead, focusing on showcasing his emotive vocals and expert guitar skills. The stripped-down nature of the album brings out a sense of vulnerability and authenticity in his music, allowing listeners to connect with the essence of the artist himself.
The opening track, "Don’t Understand," sets the tone for the entire album, featuring nothing but Post Malone's heartfelt crooning and the delicate strumming of his guitar. The lyrics delve into themes of self-discovery and the complexities of love, providing a glimpse into the artist's innermost thoughts.
The standout track "Chemical" encapsulates the beauty of simplicity, where the absence of flashy production heightens the emotional impact. Post Malone's voice effortlessly glides over the gentle melodies of his guitar, creating an ethereal atmosphere that captivates from start to finish his poetic prowess shines through.
The album's closing track, "Laugh It Off," exemplifies the emotional depth that can be achieved with minimalistic arrangements. With each strum of his guitar, Post Malone paints a vivid picture of longing and reflection, leaving a lingering impact that resonates long after the final notes fade away.
"Austin" is a testament to Post Malone's artistic maturity, showcasing a profound growth in his musical expression. By stripping down his music to its core elements, he creates a canvas where emotions run free, making this album his most intimate and relatable work to date. The album proves that Post Malone's talent transcends flashy gimmicks. The album stands as a bold statement of artistic authenticity, and his decision to present a more unfiltered version of himself pays off. It's a bold step for an artist of his magnitude, and it demonstrates the sincerity and depth behind the persona we have come to love.
The album's minimalist approach allows the true essence of his music to shine through, making it a must-listen for both long-time fans and those looking to discover a new side of this talented artist. "Austin" is a profound testament to the power of simplicity and a bold reminder that sometimes, all you need is an artist and his guitar.
9/10 listen to Don’t Understand, Chemical, and Laugh it Off