Maroon 5 continues its explosion in pop rock territory as it released their fifth studio: “V.” (Album cover property of 222 Records & Interscope Records)
By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com
V by Maroon 5
V marks Maroon 5’s fifth studio album and the first time in four years that keyboardist Jesse Carmichael participated in the album’s recording process. Since Hands All Over, the LA based band has been slowly evolving their music to a pop rock-based sound. With the help of guest artists Sam Farrar and Levine’s fellow Voice coach Gwen Stefani plus superstar songwriters-producers Sia, Ryan Tedder, Benny Blanco and the Monsters & Strangerz, Maroon 5 created an album that takes listeners on a journey through the emotional spectrum. A+
Tracks to Download: “Animals,” “It Was Always You,” “Unkiss Me,” “Coming Back For You,” “My Heart Is Open” & “Sex and Candy”
“Them Girls Be Like” by Fifth Harmony
X Factor USA’s only stable alumni act is Fifth Harmony! However, the girls do not need to worry about how the show’s cancellation affects their career, as they already charmed the hearts of Americans and fans around the world. “Them Girls Be Like” is the perfect track for every tween, but despite is catchy lyrics and sharp hooks…the track might not satisfy the average music lover. I really hope the girls try their hands at musical penmanship in the future…because, they need to do that in order to thrive in this overcrowded music industry. C+
Pentatonix brilliantly smashed two of Sam Smith’s collaborations together. (Photo property of RCA Records)
“La La Latch” by Pentatonix
Sam Smith has been a very busy boy! This year, he released his first studio album and two hit collaborations with Disclosure and Naughty Boy. Pentatonix brilliantly mashed these two songs together in this unforgettable a cappella track. I love hearing the group’s astonishing re-arrangements and Mitch, Scott and Kirstie’s polished vocals make this track come alive. A-
“New York State of Mind” by Barbra Streisand & Billy Joel
Two of New York’s most iconic music legends came together and recorded the American Piano Man’s ode to the Big Apple. Ms. Streisand’s classic voice blends terrifically well with Mr. Joel’s vocal styling and iconic piano playing. For these reasons, this track from Partners is my Song of the Week! A+
Bryan Adams’ “She Knows Me” is a throwback to his classic hits. (Album cover property of Verve Records)
“She Knows Me” by Bryan Adams
For Bryan Adams’ eleventh studio album, Tracks of My Years, the Canadian rocker will tackle multiple covers! However, he co-wrote one new original song for the album with his longtime songwriting partner: Jim Vallance. “She Knows Me” is essential Bryan Adams. Music lovers might recognize the themes of “Heaven” and “Before The Night Is Over” that are sprinkled in the song. Regardless, I thought this was one of Mr. Adams’ best tracks from the 2010s. B+
I do not own any of the songs that are featured in this review. They belong to their artists and record labels respectfully!
