by Matt Knox
Maroon 5 doesn’t disappoint with their fifth album, aptly named “V” (2014).
Frontline singer Adam Levine makes headlines as a judge on the singing competition show The Voice, and as husband of Victoria’s Secret model Behati Prinsloo. He’s known for his distinct pop voice and co-writes songs on the new album, all of which are strong enough to be singles. Credit is due to his talented band-mates who accompany the vocals with distinct sound.
The album kicks off with the single “Maps,” which you’ve no doubt blasted in your car this summer. The song is super upbeat compared to the romantic “My Heart is Open,” harmonized with fellow celebrity judge on The Voice, Gwen Stefani and soft piano accompaniment. The song was co-written by “Chandelier” singer Sia with lines like “cause I can’t breathe until I see your face.”
The album includes its fair share of heartbreak, including “In Your Pocket,” which calls someone out on cheating: “If you have nothing to hide, show me that phone in your pocket girl.” The slow track “Unkiss Me” is also about giving up on a relationship that has lost its spark, “You can’t light a fire, if the candle’s melted”.
Try to stay still while listening to the high tempo track “Feelings,” which is all about sexual attraction: “cause I can’t spend the rest of my life chasing you around, I want to get much closer you need to tell me how.” Or “Animals,” which is taking over the radio with its infectious hook, “baby I’m preying on you tonight”.
The deluxe version also includes a sub-par rendition of the classic tune “Sex and Candy” by Marcy Playground — nothing can top the original.
The band just announced their 2015 American and European tour with “Rude” singers Magic! and power ballad singer Rozzi Crane — artists signed to Levine’s 222 label. You may not be familiar with the Californian girl yet; she shared the track “Come Away” with Maroon 5 on the Hunger Games soundtrack. Her sassy song “Crazy Ass Bitch” featuring Kendrick Lamar is about a relationship that moves too fast: “student body, best in class, got me foolish for that ass.” It’s just as catchy as the album’s whole.