I don’t want to say Post Malone’s third studio album is worse than his previous album because I didn’t enjoy it any less. However, Malone fills the 51-minute runtime for Hollywood’s Bleeding (HB) with more mellow alternate and R&B songs compared to the energetic trap songs found in previous releases.

The stories told in this release also seem to mirror those told in his second studio album. Heartache, a pessimistic view of those around him, and a mix between glorification and hatred of substances are the focus of nearly all of the 17 songs on the album.

The first track on “Hollywood’s Bleeding,” sharing the same name as the album, acts as a sort of thesis for the rest of the album. Covering all the major themes, Malone paints a bleak picture of the city he lives in as well as his life, but acknowledges its the life he chose.

The third track, “Enemies,” featuring DaBaby, seems to mimic a song from his second album, “Paranoid,” in both flow and message. After hearing this song, and indeed the rest of the album for the first time, I realized that this project was more of an evolution, rather than a revolution for Post. 

Production quality, which was already an area Malone excelled at, increases again for this album. Post’s musical range is also improved. Both “Paranoid” and “Enemies” see post explore the upper bounds of his range yet in the latter less autotune is present and Malone’s voice seems smoother, while still retaining his signature raspiness. The largest improvement in my opinion, though, is the guest performances. Clearly seen when comparing “Spoil my Night” from his second album and new release “Sunflower,” Swae Lee, who features on both tracks, not only shines much brighter but also better complements Malone vocally on “Sunflower.”

Along with “Sunflower” and “Enemies,” other standout tracks include “Staring at the Sun,” featuring SZA, “I’m Gonna Be,” as well as the Album’s single releases “Wow,” “Goodbyes” feat. Young Thug, and “Circles.”

Though many things have improved on this latest album, Post’s lyrics remain somewhat generic. While some songs, “Goodbyes,” for example, seem to be a step forward with clever pop culture references and a pleasant delivery, others such as “Saint-Tropez” have the lyrical brilliance akin to Lil Pump. 

Overall, I have positive opinions on “Hollywood’s Bleeding” and am certain that the more pop-like songs will be played on repeat at every party and on every radio station for weeks. While the energetic pop songs are the ones most likely to be played on the radio, where this album really shines is in the more R&B/alternative focused songs.

Still, part of me wishes there was a bigger leap outside his comfort zone.