Rating:
Bruno Mars released his first debut album “Doo-Wops & Hooligans” a little less than a month ago, selling more than 50,000 copies in the first week. It also reached number three on the Billboard 200 by October 13th! And now with well over 30 full plays on my iPod, I’d say it’s a perfect time to give this album exactly what it’s been looking for; a slammin’ review from a simple fan.
Bruno definitely surprised me on this album. Up until the albums release, I had only heard “Just The Way You Are” and “Billionaire” probably about a hundred times on the radio. Before listening, I expected something mediocre, and similar sounding to his hits. You know, one of those albums that just kind of makes you go “Egh, that was alright…”, and go back to listening to the hits. And wow, was I wrong! Whoever taught this kid to songwrite and play the guitar should seriously pat themselves on the back.
Lyrically, Mars may not be the most crafty writer in the world. But what I love about him is the things he writes about. Okay, okay, he’s your typical pop writer at some points; singing about the girls he’s into, and how much he loves them and whatnot. But take a listen to “Count On Me” (my personal favorite track of the album). “If you ever find yourself stuck in the middle of the sea, I’ll sail the world to find you”. How beautiful is that? Simple, catchy lyrics, talking about your best friends. You can tell that a lot of his lyrics come straight from the heart.
And what’s better? His playing field is so vast. Meaning that his style can’t be placed in just one genre. Is he Ragaee? Is he R&B? Is he Techno? Is he just one of those guys that just floats from one genre to another? Who knows, but Bruno Mars puts on a great show. In tracks like “The Lazy Song” and “Runaway Baby”, all you want to do is open all the windows in your car, and bob your head back and forth. In others like “Dancing In The Mirror” and “Grenade”, who doesn’t want to just get up and dance a little?
I applaud you Bruno. Job well done on this first album. Four and a half stars from this girl, who loves to hear those great lyrics, catchy beats, and beautiful voice.
Get Bruno Mars’ album now here for $9.95, or get it on iTunes!
