The singer’s fourth studio album is soulful and as romantic as the title suggests.
It is hard to believe that it has been a decade since Bruno released his album ’24k Magic’ but now he returns with a beautifully written new album that proves that he hasn’t lost his touch.
From start to finish there is a real delicacy and sincerity to the music that features on the album. From the soulful ‘Risk it All’ that has some really pleasing rhythms that make it enjoyable to listen to, all the way through to ‘On My Soul’ that is both stylish and sophisticated both lyrically and musically there is much to be enjoyed on this record.
At just nine tracks long, it is also an album that doesn’t outstay its welcome. There is a real focus and dedication to the quality of music that is really pleasing to the ear. Particular stand out tracks include ‘Cha Cha Cha’ which is both playful and yet somehow also has a haunting quality to it that makes for intriguing listening, particularly when contrasted with’I Just Might’ that is filled with fun and comes across as extremely catchy and a perfect dance floor filler.
Perhaps there the occasional moments in which it feels as though Mars is playing it slightly cautious and safe as heard on ‘Nothing Left’ that suggests a slight lack in confidence. Yet this is perhaps just a minor observation because this is a real high quality album that showcases what a natural performer that Mars is. On every track, his charisma shines through and ensures that the music goes down easily and well with the listener.
What I most enjoyed on this album is the use of Latin influences – just listen to ‘Something Series’ for example, it is completely irresistible. There is plenty of swagger and confidence on display that makes it a standout track on the album. This is well matched with ‘God Was Showing Off’ that has a joyful spirit to it that is equally impossible to resist.
In addition, Bruno Mars has proved with ‘The Romantic’ that quality over quantity is an important part of capturing attention and holding it from start to finish. It really is a smooth and polished album.
Overall, this is an immensely strong album and definitely a standout release of the year to date. Let’s just hope it doesn’t take another 10 years before he releases another record.
Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️