Review Summary: Crossover-pop with soul, funk, and RnB influences that combine to make a highly enjoyable album from start to finish.
Although I cannot say that I am an avid pop music fan, I very much enjoy crossover-pop artists such as John Mayer, who effortlessly infuses blues influences and pop sensibility, and occasionally The Weeknd, who's dark soundscapes and drugged-out moods provide a unique tinge in a typically bright and airy genre. In the same vein, I very much enjoyed the Mark Ronson/Bruno Mars collaboration on "Uptown Funk", an upbeat 2015 smash hit and one of the more enjoyable pop songs to be released thus far into the 2010s. The song took funk and pop and played both genre's strengths to their fullest extent. With "24K Magic", Bruno Mars plays off the success and vibe of "Uptown Funk" by taking soul, funk, and RnB influences and wrapping them into a fun and enjoyable album that satisfies the craving for quality pop.
Although the album is quite brief, with only 9 songs spanning 33 minutes, each song is chock-full of addictive pop melodies and fresh instrumentation. From the infectiously cocky lyrics of the self-titled single, the crooning balladry of "Versace On The Floor", and the tender vocal harmonies found on "Calling All my Lovelies", Bruno covers a very broad scope of styles throughout the album, providing a very nice pacing that never bores. As expected, the production and mixing is top notch, with every voice and instrument shining through.
This album was a very pleasant surprise for me, as this is my first dive into Bruno Mars' discography. If you enjoyed "Uptown Funk", you will find yourself hooked on these songs. I would easily rank this in my top 20 records of 2016.
