Gemini cover

Gemini

Macklemore · 2017

60 min · 16 tracks · hip-hop

A vibrant fusion of hip-hop and pop sensibilities layered with introspective lyrics and catchy hooks.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Glorious — This track encapsulates the album's uplifting spirit, featuring an infectious chorus that celebrates triumph over adversity. Its collaboration with Skylar Grey adds depth, making it a standout anthem for personal growth.
  • →
    Good Old Days — A reflective look back on life that balances nostalgia with a call to appreciate the present, this track resonates deeply with listeners who relate to the passage of time. The collaboration with Kesha enhances its emotional impact.
  • →
    Marmalade — Featuring Lil Yachty, this track showcases Macklemore's lighter, comedic side while blending hip-hop styles effortlessly. Its playful lyrics and upbeat production highlight a different facet of his artistry.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

39 /100
Lowland
Higher than 1% of albums we've rated

The album showcases a blend of styles but lacks strong cohesion and distinctiveness.

What we noticed

  • The last three tracks slow down the tempo significantly, creating a reflective mood that contrasts with the earlier energy.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
4/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady rhythmic journey throughout
  • uplifting anthems for motivation
  • introspective reflections on life
  • catchy hooks for sing-alongs
  • personal triumphs in every track

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification tracks
  • prefer standalone singles only

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on January 1, 2017, Gemini is Macklemore's first album after his commercial breakthrough with The Heist in 2012. At this point in his career, he was aiming to redefine his sound and artistic identity following the pressures of fame and success. This album reflects a more personal and diverse approach to storytelling compared to his earlier work.
Stylistic neighbors
G-Eazy· Logic· Wale

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Good Old Days

    The bridge shifts perspective as it directly addresses someone in the past, urging them to cherish fleeting moments together.

    This direct address creates an intimate connection that contrasts with the otherwise reflective nature of the song, emphasizing the urgency of appreciating life's ephemeral joys.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Ain’t Gonna Die Tonight 3:35
  • 2 Glorious 3:42
  • 3 Marmalade 4:24
  • 4 Willy Wonka 3:42
  • 5 Intentions 3:50
  • 6 Good Old Days 4:00
  • 7 Levitate 3:32
  • 8 Firebreather 3:25
  • 9 How to Play the Flute 3:28
  • 10 Ten Million 2:59
  • 11 Over It 3:38
  • 12 Zara 3:37
  • 13 Corner Store 4:33
  • 14 Miracle 3:44
  • 15 Church 4:10
  • 16 Excavate 3:58

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata