I looked over it briefly, but didn't have a lot of time as I was on my way out when it first popped up. Resurrect away.
Here ya go, I had to grab this from the review I posted on amazon.com.. so I couldn't grab Shrap's review.. but nonetheless...
I think the best word to describe this album would have to be: "Variety."
As a whole, it's an interesting mix of songs that most people will find enjoyable, however there are some pop-esque tunes that may deter most listeners. It was produced by Steve Lilywhite (Dave Matthews Band, Sting, etc.) and almost every song varies in style, while still having a recognizable "Mraz sound."
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Life is Wonderful - This is a great start to the album, in which it builds from beggining to end. Starting off with a simple chord structure and monotone singing, which in turns into a smorgisborg of sounds and vocal builds. The lyrics are another stand-out, which initially comes off as a children's song.. but builds into something more motivational as well. I think this was a great way to start off the album, followed by one of the worst songs on the album.
Wordplay - Ok, so this is the "single." And it's very self aware. The lyrics are all about writing a single and can come off as self-rightous, which I think it is. The video even showcases people's hatred for radio-friendly songs, which throwing of stones and the eventual bleeding death of Jason Mraz. Personally, I really find that this song is the weakest and probably worst song Jason Mraz has ever written. It's a shame that it's the only song most people will hear, due to the airplay and videos on MTV and Vh1. Oh well, let's move on.
Geek In The Pink - I'm really on the wall with this song. It's white-boy-rap for sure. It's probably the next annoying single you'll hear on the radio. But it's also a very catchy song that is difficult to deny. The sound is very over-produced, with a crescendo of blips, beats and scratches. This is probably that one song on the album that people with either love or hate, I'm still deciding on which one. (P.S. The lilywhite remix that you get from preordering from Itunes and live versions of this song are 10X better than the album version)
You can find a great live performance of Geek In The Pink here: http://www.mtv.com/bands/az/mraz_jason/audvid.jhtmlDid You Get My Message? - This completes the "Mainstream Pop" trilogy on the album. This song is pretty fun, but never inspiring or impressive. The singing between Mraz and Rachael Yamgewoeh is pretty catchy, and portrays the typical Boyfriend-Girlfriend scenario of communication problems. The song does feature a variety of styles, 80's pop, 60's love and even some 50's swing shouts. The ending also has some soul influences. I think it's an ok song, but I usually skip on it. This is probably another single nominee.
Mr. Curiosity - This is where I think the album really takes off. This song is very simple, featuring mostly piano and vocals. Mraz can truly showcase his vocal talent, ranging from softly singing, to full blown Opera. The song comes together nicely, without any percussion and some nice acoustic guitar, cello and chime accompaniment. I highly reccommend checking this song out, just for Mraz's vocals alone.
Clockwatching - A catchy song about premature ejaculation? Sure! This song features an interesting beat arrangement and some really catchy lyrics. The chorus is where the song kind of sounds mainstream, but luckily there are only 2 of them and they're short. The finale is great, and coincides with the lyrics. As Mraz sings "Crazy." The song does just that, giving a jumbled mix of noises and sound effects. The song ends nicely with overal great syncopation throughout the entire tune. If they picked any "single" esque songs for the next single, I'd prefer this one.
Bela Luna - Latin-flavored lounge music about the moon. This song is very intricate and probably the most musical on the album, it also features a smooth solo by Raul Midón towards the end. This song can be classified under the term "easy listening." Good stuff.
Plane - This is by far, my most favorite song on the album. A meloncholy song about flying away from your love. Another song that starts off fairly simple, but grows into it's own with a haunting chorus and a powerful ending. The orchestra and blips and beeps by Lilywhite put together in the ending are really fantastic. I highly recommend this being the first song to listen to if you choose to do so.
O. Lover - One very interesting song, which sounds like a Shakira beat, wrapped around angry lyrics and intricate percussion syncopations. This is one very busy song, from beggining to its 80's Techno Pop ending. Check it out, it's hard to explain.
Please Don't Tell Her - Rock ballad, about a bitter break up. It's your darker song on the album, and sounds Areosmith-influenced in certain parts. It's a decent song, and an even better one to listen to after a nasty breakup with your girl.
The Forecast - For some reason this song reminds me of The Sims. Anyways.. this song is an easy-listening-esque, but ultimately pretty forgetable. It's a good segway into the final song.
Song For A Friend - This a great song, not only for the lyrics but it's your classic grand finale song on the album. It's probably my second favorite song on the album. The choir and build up towards the end is a fantastic way to close the album.
So yeah, that's my review. In a star system, I'd give it an overall 4 out 5. The songs I recommend listening to are Plane, Song For A Friend, Mr. Curiosity, and O. Lover.
I also highly recommend purchasing his CD/DVD "Tonight, Not Again" EP to appreciate his live talent.
for some good live performances and funny interview.
