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Released in 2013, “The Lonely Mixtape” is the first mixtape ever released by Blanning (FKA Aire during that time). It is a mixtape thematically based on detachment syndrome, and how Aire copes at 21 years old with losing friends, concluded romances, the acceptance of finding serenity in isolation, and his battles with his inner monologue. He was lyrically inspired by Andre 3000, Strange Music, Ab Soul, Mac Miller, and Black Thought in the recording of the mixtape. This is his only mixtape where it does not feature his beats mixing and mastering (He humorously admitted the beats were stripped from YouTube in a sit down conversation with him prior to the release.) His one featured artist DISHWASHER, is whom Blanning said in our interview “A friend and artist that could touch any record of mine whenever he likes. He’s that f***ing special.” Tracks to keep on repeat are:
The narrative masterpiece of imagery, innocence, and pathos that is “Hide No More”.
An underground classic where Blanning and DISHWASHER show all of their lyrical perfection in “Cut Throats”
Blanning’s self detrimental conversation with himself in first then later, in third person, the best verses I’ve heard this decade in “Terrapin Code”.
He could improve the overall mixing of vocals and composition, cohesiveness in the structure of the album and theme, and simplifying his lyrics at time.
4.3/5 Stars. A fantastic introduction to a bright talent in Blanning. — Orel Johnson
