MAROON 5 will probably have the #1 album in the country by this time next week. Having seemingly recorded the same album for the third time, the Los Angeles band has managed to increase the pop factor with each session, producing consistently safe music aimed at the most mainstream of audiences.
There’s nothing particularly offensive, nor remarkable about HANDS ALL OVER (due out September 21st via A&M/Octone), creating a listening experience that’s neither good nor bad. It’s just more of the same, and that’s pretty bland.
There’s not a song here that doesn’t sound like a continuation or leftover from the band’s previous two albums (not counting their early work as Kara’s Flowers).
Already spawning a radio hit with “Misery,” the band has proven that they still have what their audience wants – or thinks they want, circa 2002. It’s played well, recorded well, produced well (by Mutt Lang), and sure to make fine background music while browsing the produce section of your local supermarket.
Rating: 1.5/5
