Mark Ronson’s new album “Uptown Special” can be summed up in just one word—funky. The good kind of funky.
It isn’t just thanks to his chart-topping collaboration with Bruno Mars. “Uptown Funk” may have brought attention to the British musician’s fourth album, but nearly each track can hold its own.
Ronson’s three previous albums gained minimal to no recognition, but so far he’s receiving praise for his skillful tribute to the sounds of ’70s and ’80s musicians. Listeners will instantly recognize a James Brown-esque vibe with the song “Feel Right” featuring New Orleans rapper Mystikal.
The album opens with “Uptown’s First Finale” featuring none other than the legendary Stevie Wonder on harmonica. Wonder and his harmonica also close out the album with “Crack In the Pearl, Pt. II,” which brings the album full circle and will leave the listener with a feeling of completeness. This was a good choice on Ronson’s part.
But in between Wonder’s tracks, the album features artists like Tame Impala’s Kevin Parker and Miike Snow vocalist Andrew Wyatt on multiple tracks. We hear Parker on “Summer Breaking,”“Daffodils” and “Leaving Los Feliz.” Each of these songs has a relaxed feel, probably some of the most relaxed on the album, and they’re worth the listen.
While Wyatt is also featured on three tracks, they all aren’t necessarily the album’s high points. They don’t bring the same power to the table as some of the other songs, but Wyatt’s feature on “Heavy and Rolling” makes up for the other two.
Producer Jeff Bhasker, who is featured on “In Case of Fire” and “Crack In the Pearl, Pt. II”, also had a hand in bringing together several songs on the album, whether lyrically or instrumentally.
Even though the well-known, upbeat “Uptown Funk” was the first single released, Ronson’s album has a little something for everybody. Apprehensive listeners should check out “Leaving Los Feliz,” “Feel Right” and “In Case of Fire” to name a few.
Ronson chose a good group of individuals to help him accomplish his album with a throwback sound, and fans of music from decades ago can appreciate the attention to detail that is evident in each song.
Ronson also announced via his Instagram account that “Uptown Special” is dedicated to several people including the late singer Amy Winehouse. Ronson produced Winehouse’s 2006 album “Back to Black.”
Overall, Ronson put together a good album that just might funk you up.