Post Malone Brings Back 2010 Indie-Rock Vibes in Fifth Studio Album “Austin”

Post Malone is gearing up to release his highly anticipated fifth studio album "Austin" this Friday, July 28th via Mercury Records/Republic Records. The album marks a major transition for the rapper-turned-pop star, as he delves much deeper into the guitar-driven rock influences that have always lurked beneath the surface of his melodic hip-hop and pop hybrid sound.

"Austin" finds Post embracing more earnest and introspective songwriting, shedding the party-boy persona and shallow lyricism that characterized much of his past work. As evidenced by the brooding, vulnerable lead single "Don't Understand," Post tackles issues like self-loathing, loneliness, and substance abuse head-on. While the album isn't devoid of pop pleasures and upbeat songs, tracks like "Chemical" and "Too Cool To Die" are tempered by dark, contemplative lyrics about vices, toxicity, and disillusionment.

Fans can expect plenty of guitar firepower across the album, with squalling riffs and emotive solos punctuating many of the tracks. The album title itself nods to Post's birth name Austin Post, suggesting a much more personal and introspective set of songs rooted in his identity. Yet he hasn't abandoned his genre-bending style altogether, still mixing rootsy, organic rock with contemporary pop and hip-hop flourishes. Standout tracks like "Novacandy" and "Enough Is Enough" showcase Post's effortless fusion of styles and his dynamic vocal range.

In recent interviews, Post has indicated the album reflects his personal growth into adulthood, as he embraces sobriety, fatherhood, and life changes. The 28-year-old welcomed his first child last year, and says his hard-partying days are firmly behind him now. Songs like "Mourning" find Post poignantly grappling with his complex relationship with alcohol and trying to break unhealthy habits.

While not quite a full-fledged rock record, "Austin" moves Post Malone several steps closer to the raw, guitar-driven sound he's always aspired to make. His evolution feels genuine, with the album painting a portrait of an artist who has matured both musically and personally. Fans will get the chance to hear the new material live when Post's massive headlining tour picks back up on July 26th. "Austin" ushers in an exciting, earnest new chapter for the genre-bending superstar.

Track-list:

1. “Don’t Understand”
2. “Something Real”
3. “Chemical”
4. “Novacandy”
5. “Mourning”
6. “Too Cool To Die”
7. “Sign Me Up”
8. “Socialite”
9. “Overdrive”
10. “Speedometer”
11. “Hold My Breath”
12. “Enough Is Enough”
13. “Texas Tea”
14. “Buyer Beware”
15. “Landmine”
16. “Green Thumb”
17. “Laugh It Off”

Post is currently a month into his tour If Y’all Weren’t Here I’d Be Crying with a dozen stops remaining. It is unclear is he will be extending his tour following his upcoming releases.

If Y’all Weren’t Here I’d Be Crying Tour Dates

07/29 — Charlotte, NC @ PNC Music Pavilion
07/31 — West Palm Beach, FL @ iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre
08/01 — Tampa, FL @ MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre
08/03 — Atlanta, GA @ Lakewood Amphitheatre
08/05 — Dallas, TX @ Dos Equis Pavilion
08/08 — Houston, TX @ The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
08/10 — Albuquerque, NM @ Isleta Amphitheater
08/12 — Phoenix, AZ @ Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre
08/13 — San Diego, CA @ North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre
08/15 — Wheatland, CA @ Toyota Amphitheatre
08/16 — Mountain View, CA @ Shoreline Amphitheatre
08/19 — San Bernardino, CA @ Glen Helen Amphitheater