nderson .Paak’s Malibu marked the moment his full creative identity came sharply into focus. After years refining his craft and a breakout appearance on Compton*, the record introduced “Cheeky Andy” in full: a virtuoso drummer, soulful singer and sharp, agile rapper working as one. Rooted in the haze and heat of Southern California, Malibu threads 1970s funk, gospel harmonies and boom-bap hip-hop into a loose, breathing sound built around feel rather than polish. Production from 9th Wonder, Madlib, Kaytranada and Hi-Tek gives the album its warm, lived-in character, with grooves that lock in deep and stay there. Beneath the easygoing exterior sits a candid life story. .Paak reflects on family turmoil, instability and survival with honesty and resilience, balancing heavy themes with humour, movement and melodic lift. Vintage surf-film samples add a cinematic coastal frame, while guests including ScHoolboy Q, Rapsody and The Game are used sparingly and with purpose. Both celebratory and hard-earned, Malibu stands as a defining statement: personal, rhythm-led and rooted in the pocket, with its sense of freedom and craft still resonating years on.