By Randall Elvin · Staff Writer
Earlier this year, anticipation was building around Bruno Mars and his next solo album that fans had been waiting for since 2016. His album “24K Magic” was released 10 years ago, and fans were wondering when the Grammy winning pop star would finally return with a new project. The excitement stemmed from his growing online appearance, thanks to a huge collab with Fortnite and several global hits. Mars finally dropped “The Romantic” on Feb. 27 of this year.
Surprisingly, the album runs only 31 minutes across nine songs. This makes it a tight and energetic listening experience but also leaves many fans questioning how it took 10 years for 31 minutes of music.
However, even with a limited set list, Mars delivered a collection of songs that are drawn from pop, R&B, disco, funk and Latin pop, all with classic soul influences.
Momentum is high throughout the album, allowing it to move quickly from one style to another without feeling cluttered or inclusive of “filler” songs.
“The Romantic” opens with “Risk It All,” a dramatic introduction that touches nicely on his most common element of romance. It succeeded in being grand and emotional by utilizing sweeping horns and Latin inspired undertones.
One of the most exciting songs on the track list was “Cha Cha Cha.” Its upbeat rhythm and playful energy draw parallels to his fun side shown in songs like “Bonde do Brunão.” It’s a colorful song that calls even the most reluctant of dancers to bust a move or two. Mars was clearly re-inspired by Latin dance music blended with his classic mix of disco, pop and funk.
The album’s lead single “I just Might” felt like a taste of retro disco-pop. Guitar riffs, energetic basslines and rhythmic handclaps fill the song that encapsulate the ’70s dance floor type. One of the most infectious melodies runs its course on this song and summarizes the romantic spirit that flows throughout the whole album perfectly.
Toward the conclusion of the album, “Something Serious” and “Dance With Me” slow things down and focuses more on atmosphere and melody. These songs seem to be going for a traditional romantic pop ballad, and they certainly hit the mark. A soft finish ushers the fans out of the experience of the record and completes the romantic picture painted throughout.
Early reactions to “The Romantic” have been largely positive, with critics praising the album’s polished production and Mars’ continued ability to produce radio hits. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for reviving classic sounds that range from funk, disco, soul and R&B, reshaping them into music that feels modern. He doesn’t deviate from that pattern in this album. It had years of anticipation and speculation, but the album reminds listeners why Bruno Mars has remained one of pop music’s most recognizable performers. With a fresh record and strong fan reception, attention will likely shift to his next tour where he’ll perform “The Romantic” along with other favorites.
All and all, Bruno Mars has yet again produced an album full of songs you’ll likely hear at the bank, in the car, at the store and everywhere in between because audiences can’t get enough of the funky romantic icon.
