Mike & Tony Seltzer – Pinball I and II

Mike & Tony Seltzer’s Pinball I (2024) and Pinball II (2025) form a two‑part collaborative project that captures the Brooklyn rapper and producer at their most playful and adventurous, blending trap, cloud rap, and abstract hip hop into a loose yet cohesive statement.

Pinball I

Released on March 6, 2024 via 10K, Pinball I marked a stylistic shift for MIKE, known for his hazy, introspective rap style. Working with Tony Seltzer, he embraced bubbly, energetic beats and more carefree flows, resulting in one of his most accessible records to date. The album features collaborations with Earl Sweatshirt, Jay Critch, Niontay, and Tony Shhnow, weaving together underground rap sensibilities with a brighter sonic palette. Tracks like “On God” and “Handshake Drugs” highlight the tension between MIKE’s laid‑back delivery and Seltzer’s crisp production, while “The Late Greats” closes with humor and charm. Critics noted its low‑stakes fun and vibrant energy, a departure from MIKE’s usual heavy introspection.

Pinball II

Arriving on May 7, 2025, Pinball II expanded the formula, stretching to 17 tracks and pulling in a wider range of producers including Clams Casino and dj blackpower. While sequels often risk bloat, reviewers praised it for being bigger without losing the breezy charm of the first installment. Songs like “Golden Dragon,” “Money & Power,” and “Shaq & Kobe” showcase sharper production and more confident flows, while features from Earl Sweatshirt, Niontay, Lunchbox, and Sideshow add variety. Rolling Stone described it as MIKE “containing multitudes,” breaking free of genre boxes with trap‑infused tracks that still feel authenticRolling Stone.

Legacy of the Pair

Together, Pinball I and II represent MIKE’s most playful and outward‑facing era, contrasting with his earlier, more insular projects. They highlight Tony Seltzer’s versatility as a producer and MIKE’s willingness to experiment with new textures and collaborators. The double LP release of both albums underscores their unity as a two‑part statement, balancing laidback charm with bold production choices.