Watching Movies With The Sound Off

Mac Miller’s Watching Movies with the Sound Off, released on 18 June 2013, marked a bold and introspective step in his evolution as an artist. Diverging from his earlier party-driven aesthetic, Miller embraced a darker, more contemplative approach, drawing influences from the psychedelic sounds he’d begun exploring in Macadelic. This sophomore album, produced largely by Miller himself under the pseudonym Larry Fisherman, showcases his growth both lyrically and sonically.

Miller recruited a stellar lineup, including Earl Sweatshirt, Ab-Soul, and Tyler, the Creator, with production contributions from the likes of Diplo, Pharrell Williams, and Flying Lotus. Such collaborations give the album a dynamic quality, blending gritty beats with airy psychedelia—a fitting soundtrack for Miller’s reflective, personal lyrics. Tracks like “S.D.S.” and “Watching Movies” highlight his sharp, self-reflective lyricism, while songs such as “Aquarium” reveal a raw vulnerability previously absent from his work.

Though Watching Movies with the Sound Off clocks in at over an hour, its cohesive flow and eclectic production choices keep listeners engaged. Critics praised the album for its experimental edge and maturity, hailing it as a significant leap forward. With this release, Miller set aside the party anthems to craft a more nuanced, intimate album, establishing himself as a serious artist in the hip-hop world.