"Magic 8 Ball" is a journey of love and loss

By Ava Bourdeau, Staff Writer

Artist Mac Ayres released his latest studio album “Magic 8 Ball” on Jan 8, under the label Dixon Court Records.The album promises Ayres’s trademark instrumental precision, while also bringing a freshly cinematic quality to the table. His newest album is a perfect mix of chillwave and R&B, making it an intoxicating listen for fans of the genre. Coupled with Ayres’s instrumental prowess and vocal finesse, “Magic 8 Ball” is nothing short of a vibe. 

Despite only just debuting in 2017, Ayres has found considerable success due to his characteristically smooth tracks. Since premiering his first EP, “Drive Slow”, his music has been met with success amongst critics and average listeners alike. His songs have a characteristically addictive quality, which cemented his success after releasing his premiere work. He has steadily released well-crafted albums since then, with “Magic 8 Ball” being his fourth album to date. 

With only eight tracks, “Magic 8 Ball” is Ayres’s shortest studio album. Every one of these tracks, however, is intentional, with no filler or throwaway songs included. The record is a concept album, which follows the story of a man trying to get over a former relationship. The album opens with “Sunny & 62”, a song recounting the feelings of someone waiting to hear from a lost love. These themes are again explored in the next track entitled “Sometimes”, which features melancholy guitar and ethereal vocal backup. 

The following two tracks, “Nothing Else” and “Brand New” build towards the singer’s acceptance that their lover is unlikely to return. As the album progresses, the slow instrumental style is replaced by more upbeat tracks as the narrator accepts that what he desired from his lost lover was nothing more than an illusion. In a three-track climax (consisting of “Never Let Me Go”, “Every Time” and “What U Doing Tonight'') Ayres desperately uses the magic 8 ball to search for answers whilst simultaneously questioning his desires. The themes of love, hope and loss explored in the album make for a poignant listening experience, and also ensures “Magic 8 Ball” as Ayres’s most melodically captivating work yet.

Despite its serious undertones, “Magic 8 Ball” can nevertheless be enjoyed through a casual listen. The methodical beats and lo-fi style evoke summery feelings perfect for a quiet afternoon. Ayres’s seamless vocal precision further ensures a deeply satisfying listening experience. However, if one so chooses to look more deeply into the lyrics, they will find a treasure trove of meaning, metaphor and emotion. The soulfull storyline coupled with the neo-soul style will appeal to fans of artists such as Frank Ocean.  “Magic 8 Ball” is certainly worth a listen, and can be found on Spotify, YouTube Music and Apple Music. 

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