Austin is an incredibly fitting title for Post Malone’s latest effort, as it feels like his most personal and introspective album to date. Known for his hard-hitting party anthems and genre-blending hits, Post is taking a deliberate step back from the sound that made him a household name. Instead, he leans into a more stripped-down, mature, and emotionally vulnerable approach. And for the most part, it works.
From the first track, it’s clear that Post Malone is on a different kind of journey. He’s exploring new territory, breaking free from the high-energy rap-rock fusion that defined much of his previous work. Instead, he embraces 80s-style synth-pop, country-infused ballads, acoustic-driven storytelling, and even gospel-inspired moments. It’s a bold move, and while not every experiment lands perfectly, the effort itself is admirable.
There’s an undeniable shift in tone in this record. Post Malone is no longer just the life of the party—he’s now the guy sitting outside, reflecting on his highs and lows, successes and regrets. His lyrics feel more personal, more raw, and more introspective, as if he’s truly inviting listeners into his world rather than just making music for the masses.
Vocally, he’s pushing himself in ways we haven’t quite heard before. He experiments with different pitches and vocal registers, sometimes nailing them beautifully, and other times veering into slightly bland territory. Still, the effort to diversify his sound is commendable, and it adds a fresh dynamic to the album.
The production is solid, blending live instrumentation with modern production techniques in a way that complements his new sound. However, some tracks stand out more than others—while some feel rich and immersive, others feel a bit too safe or generic. When Post fully commits to a style, like on some of the country or synth-heavy tracks, it feels authentic and engaging. But in moments where he seems to hold back, the songs can fall into a middle ground that doesn’t quite hit as hard.
With Austin, Post Malone is taking a huge creative leap, shedding the party-star image and embracing a more reflective and varied musical identity. It’s a personal, well-crafted, and often impressive album that shows his artistic evolution. While not every experiment lands, and some moments feel a bit underwhelming, the album as a whole feels like a necessary step forward for him.
He took a risk on himself, and it paid off. Fans who are open to this new direction will find plenty to appreciate, and even those who prefer his older sound might respect the growth. Whether this is a one-time departure or the beginning of a new era, Austin proves that Post Malone isn’t afraid to evolve—and that’s what makes him such a compelling artist.
RATING: 7.5/10
NOTIABLE TRACKS:
Something Real
Overdrive
Speedometer
Laugh It Off