By Roxy Augeri ’20

There was a time in my life when all I listened to was the song “Thrift Shop” by artist Macklemore.

With perfect diction and entertaining lyrics, Macklemore’s inspiring words led to an obsession which then led to me listening to other mega hits such as “Can’t Hold Us,” “Downtown,” “White Walls,” and on a much more personal level, “Same Love.” The composition of these songs was energetic and encouraging, adding to their appeal.

However, as time went on, other new songs came out by other artists. Before I even knew what had happened, Macklemore’s popularity was a thing of the past. I never really heard anything about him, and I started to think that his career was coming to a close.

But then, in late June 2017, I found myself turning up the radio to a song I’d never heard before. It had a good drum beat and a catchy rhythm. I was instantly drawn to it. With much surprise, I looked up “Glorious (feat. Skylar Grey)” and was shocked to find that the artist was Macklemore. At that moment, I knew he was back.

Since the song’s release on June 16, it has remained on the iTunes Top 100 chart.
I went to my phone and downloaded the new album entitled “Gemini” on Sep. 22. It was his first solo album in 12 years.

“Gemini,” named after Macklemore’s astrological sign, has become my new obsession.

It is Macklemore’s composition of music that makes him unique. Most of the songs qualify as alternative hip hop, but what I like about the album is the varied musical styles as well as instrumentals utilized throughout

While songs “Willy Wonka” and “Corner Store” are more typical rap, “Good Old Days” and “Miracle” have more prevalent singing.

Often when artists come out with new music, their songs tend to sound repetitive. But that is not true of “Gemini.”

The best part about “Gemini” is that each song is entirely different. You are able to listen to the whole album straight through without becoming bored.

Fifteen out of 16 of the songs on the album have collaborating artists, including Kesha and Lil Yachty

As it stands now, it seems that Macklemore is here to stay.

Some songs to look out for on the album would be “Ain’t Gonna Die Tonight (feat. Eric Nally),” “Marmalade (feat. Lil Yatchy),” “Willy Wonka (feat. Offset),” and “Corner Store (feat. Dave B. and Travis Thompson).” Along with these fresh hits, make sure to listen to previously released singles on the album including “Good Old Days (feat. Kesha)” and “Glorious (feat. Skylar Grey).