Score: 3.5/5
After battling depression and drug addiction, Mac Miller released his inner demons in his surprisingly personal and well-rounded major-label debut “GO:OD AM.” 
The Pittsburgh rapper smoothly balances rapping about the spoils of money and fame and the dark temptations that come with it, all while expressing his sharp ear for beats and rhythms on “GO:OD AM.”
Miller enlists the help of Ab-Soul, Lil B, Miguel, Chief Keef and Little Dragon, making for some great features.
In particular, “Weekend” featuring Miguel is one of the album’s highest achievements. It is a slower track with an R&B sound perfectly suited for Miguel’s vocals. Miller’s voice blends seamlessly with Miguel’s throughout the catchy chorus. 
On “Weekend,” Miller earnestly ponders his life, rapping about his drug use and loneliness. “I’ve been having trouble sleeping, battling these demons,” Miller raps. “Wondering what’s the thing that keeps me breathing, is it money, fame or neither.”  
Despite the dark subject matter, it remains a positive song, with Miller saying he’ll be good come the weekend.  
Lead single “100 Grandkids” holds up as one of the album’s best. Over a polished and precisely produced beat, Miller reflects on the positive parts of his life. “100 Grandkids” is anthemic in its positivity and serves as an uplifting track filled with gloominess. 
With “ROS,” the album takes an unexpected romantic turn. This love song is jazzy and smooth, with soft, female backing vocals joining Miller on the chorus. It’s a nice detour from the frank discussions of addiction and sadness on the rest of the album. Instead of talking about pill popping and syrup sipping, Miller opens up about the love he has for his significant other. 
“GO:OD AM” is an exploratory, experimental album with influences ranging from R&B to pop to jazz. Somehow, it all works out, creating what is possibly Miller’s best and most honest project. 
The downfall of “GO:OD AM” is found not in its lyrical content or production but in its length. 
In a music industry consumed by shorter projects, typically between 10 to 14 tracks, the album runs a bit long at 17 songs. The songs are quality, but some could have been left on the cutting room floor, or kept as bonuses on a deluxe edition instead of being included on the final                                                       product.
Nonetheless, “GO:OD AM” is a lush, heavy and complex tribute to Miller’s triumph in overcoming the dark times in his life.