Macklemore - Ben (Gatefold 2LP)

Released in 2023, Ben is Macklemore’s third solo studio album, proudly named after his birth name, Ben Haggerty. The project serves as his most vulnerable work to date, shaped by raw, honest reflections on addiction, relapse, and recovery during the pandemic lockdowns. Musically, the 15-track LP balances upbeat, radio-friendly pop-rap anthems with atmospheric, contemplative hip-hop arrangements. The album boasts a dynamic lineup of collaborators, ranging from the vocals of Tones and I on "Chant" to gritty, old-school boom-bap with legendary producer DJ Premier on "Heroes". Stripping away that typical mainstream gloss, Ben offers a mature, cathartic look into the artist's inner world, making it a deeply compelling add to any hip-hop shelf.