Bruno Mars – Unorthodox Jukebox
Review by Morgan Waldorf
Bruno Mars took the world by storm with his 2010 album Doo-Wops & Hooligans which featured the Billboard number one hits “Grenade,” “The Lazy Song” and Grammy winning single “Just The Way You Are.” Now after a bit of time out of the spotlight he has returned with his sophomore album Unorthodox Jukebox.
Drawing much influence from artists of the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s, Unorthodox Jukebox is a very strong record made up of dance tracks and love songs, each with completely different sounds. Mars certainly shows his great ability to craft fun and clever songs on this record, even more so than on his first.
The album begins with “Young Girls,” a smooth, slow song dripping with emotion, than breaks into lead single “Locked Out Of Heaven.” This song has already got a lot of radio attention as it’s danceable and extremely catchy.
Standout tracks on this album for me included “Treasure” and “When I Was Your Man”. “Treasure” is a bass filled, Motown funk influenced dance track. “When I Was Your Man” on the other hand is a beautiful ballad featuring regret filled lyrics about a man who lost a woman he loved, “I hope he buys you flowers, I hope he holds your hand…Do all the things I should have done when I was your man.”
Probably the strangest tracks on the record are “Gorilla” and “Show Me.” “Gorilla” is a seemingly romantic, sexy song if not for it’s strange lyrics about “making love like gorillas.” “Show Me” is unique in that it has an entirely reggae vibe, a commendable step in a new direction that ended up a bit forgettable for me compared to other tracks.
Radio ready pop, reggae, rock and roll, or soul, Bruno Mars seems to be able to do it all and do it well. He has an excellent artistry about his music and lyrics that make for new and fun songs always. This album may not boast as many radio singles as Doo-Woops & Hooligans did due to its many nods to past musical styles and steps in new directions but it’s certain to be on repeat and praised by many who enjoy good music.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Recommended Tracks: “Treasure” and “When I Was Your Man”
Website // Facebook // Twitter
