Swimming

Swimming is soulful, groovy, and deeply personal.

Mac shares his story and hopes with the matter-of-fact simplicity of someone who knows how very not simple it is to go from drowning to swimming. As if he’s convincing himself that it is possible to stay on the surface. And in turn, I find myself floating every time I listen.

Fast songs with funky bass (What’s the use?) aren’t mania, nor are tracks with solemn violins (2009) depression. Each song mixes tempo, instruments, and lyrical tone to highlight darkness and light in kind; the peace of realizing “it ain’t perfect but I don’t mind, because it’s worth it” and all the while wondering “is it, is it, is it?”

Swimming is a coming to terms with life’s lack of answers. The moment of staring at your reflection in a pool before diving in.

It’s one of those albums where you find a new favorite, and then another one, and then go back to the old ones that become new each time you pick back up.

Swimming meets you where you are, when you are. Thank you, Mac, for a timeless piece of art.

- Amy, May 19, 2025