BLYTHE DAHLEM, Special to The Denisonian — It would be a gross understatement to say that Post Malone’s third album is enjoyable.
Hollywood’s Bleeding is a slight departure from the hip-hop singles that made him famous. In an interview last year, Malone said, “I don’t want to be a rapper, I just want to be a person that makes music.” He affirmed that statement in his song “I’m Gonna Be,” where he tells the world, “I’m gonna be what I want… I’m gonna do what I want.”
Post’s versatility as an artist really shines “Hollywood’s Bleeding.” The best example comes from his collaboration with Ozzy Osbourne and Travis Scott on the track “Take What You Want.” Post actually used to play in a heavy metal band while he was a teenager before he moved to Hollywood and started his career as a rapper. This track really shows his love for the heavy metal sound Ozzy helped make famous with Black Sabbath in the 80s while simultaneously showcasing his fondness for hip hop, the genre that put Post on the map.
Hollywood’s Bleeding is filled with more than just hit songs you would listen to at a party. The fourth track on the album, “Allergic,” is a song that begins with an upbeat, hard-hitting drum sound similar to something MGMT would have released in the 2000s with a slow guitar melody during the chorus. The last single for the album, “Circles”, is a smooth indie-rock style song that sticks to a simple four chord melody and has an insanely catchy chorus.
The most lyrically diverse song on the entire album is a slow two minute song called “Internet.” Produced by Kanye West, Malone raps about how the internet has made our society focused on the approval of others and getting “Instalove.” He finishes the song by saying “If ignorance is bliss, then don’t wake me up/And I’ll probably be the last to know/’Cause I don’t get on the internet no more.” Malone’s take on internet culture is a strong message that I hope resonates with those who spend their time obsessing over their online appearance.
I have been a fan of Post Malone since Stoney was released back in 2016, and this album leaves me very excited for the future of this young artist. At 24 years of age, Post has worked with some of the best artists in the music industry, sold out stadiums, been nominated for four grammys, headlined some of the biggest music festivals in the world, and has even put together his own music festival (which will now be held for the second time at AT&T Stadium this November). Listen to Hollywood’s Bleeding now on any streaming service.
8.5/10