Maroon 5 album review

Album/Band Info
Title: “Songs about Jane”
Tracks: 12
Label: Octane Records, J Records
Producer: Matt Wallace
Website: http://maroon5.com
Maroon5 is:
Adam Levine - Vocals, Guitar
James Valentine - Guitar
Jesse Carmichael - Keyboards
Mickey Madden - Bass
Ryan Dusick - Drums

Formerly known as Kara's Flowers, Maroon5 reinvented their sound with the release of their debut album "Songs about Jane." Combining their influences of soul, rock, funk and Stevie Wonder, they come up with a sound that's new and captivating. The first single, "Harder to Breathe," is a gritty rock piece with an angst-ridden theme. Then there's the track "This Love" which is a rather upbeat tune about letting go of a relationship that has turned sour. Both songs have been playing for quite some time on local radio and have gained a huge following. However, despite the edgy first tracks, the album also boasts of laid-back tunes that are perfect for an afternoon of lazing around. Tracks include "She will be loved," "The Sun," "Sunday Morning," (with the intro sounding like Jamiraquai's "Virtual Insanity" on a slower tempo), and “Secret.”

All in all, the twelve-track album deserves to be listened to and savored. The songs, with their catchy rhythms and soulful rock melodies, are refreshing to listen to despite being mostly about an ex-girlfriend. Three guesses as to what her name is.

Published: Culture Crash Issue 15, October 2004