By Gracie Gorsline
Staff Writer
Finally, the moment the world has been waiting for since 2016 is here. Bruno Mars has released his first solo album in 10 years, “The Romantic.” Released on Feb. 27, it is beautiful, soulful and will make you want to cha cha cha!
Mars, the legendary singer, songwriter and dancer first rose to fame with some of his singles from his “Doo-Wops & Hooligans” album such as “Just The Way You Are” and “Grenade.” Known for his retro vibe and high energy, he is back again with another exciting album that will have you up and dancing.
The preview to this masterpiece of an album started with Mars’s single, “I Just Might,” which sounded similar to his original style of music: funky, hype and joyous. This lead single took his listeners back to some of his older albums like “24K Magic” and “Unorthodox Jukebox” with its incredibly danceable vibe and uplifting message.
Diving into the album itself, some of the hits include “Risk It All,” “God Was Showing Off” and “Something Serious.” Each tells a small story of love, invoking warm feelings within every listener.
“Risk It All” starts with the beautiful melody of trumpets and the guitar. It inspires gratitude for the love we have around us. He calls us to “risk it all” for our loved ones. He reminds us of the sacrifices and the passion that comes with loving someone. He shows the beauty that comes with romance, and the lengths he would go to for the people he loves.
“God Was Showing Off” prompts listeners to feel appreciative of their loved ones. It is filled with adoration, tenderness and passion as each note hits a new key of love. Listeners can not help but sway with the song as Mars’s voice carries the sound of romance.
In addition, “Something Serious” makes listeners want to clap along to the beat. Mars sings about the excitement that comes with having a crush and starting a new relationship. His smooth voice and melodic rhythm has his listeners reminiscing on their first “something serious” in the most nostalgic way.
With this new album has also come a new twist on Mars’s style. The incorporation of some aspects of Latin music in “The Romantic” is really what sets this album apart from his previous work, especially in his songs “Risk It All” and “Cha Cha Cha.”
Inspired by his Puerto Rican roots, Mars added some mariachi elements to “Risk It All,” including use of the guitarron and trumpets. To build on this, he embraced much of the salsa and bolero styles of Latin music throughout “Cha Cha Cha” and many of the other songs in the album.
Overall, “The Romantic” has listeners intrigued with the album already gaining over 26 million streams. It is filled with love, warmth and passion. It has kept his fans listening and prompted feelings of joy to spread throughout his fanbase.
