Overexposed – Maroon 5

Two songs endlessly played on the radio this summer include “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen and “Payphone,” the first single from Maroon 5’s newest album Overexposed. Despite the overplayed aggravation of “Payphone”, Overexposed is the best Maroon 5 album yet. Unlike the band’s previous albums, Overexposed has more of a dance sound known for keeping radio stations very happy as proved by today’s hits. “Fortune Teller,” “Love Somebody,” and “Lucky Strike” are tracks from the band’s new album that could easily transition from popular radio to the club, making club owners happy, too. “One More Night” is the grooviest track on the album, and if it becomes a popular single, it will be responsible for millions of Americans dancing at their desks. “Tickets” is another extremely catchy number and its quirky lyrics are fun. “Daylight” is one of the album’s prettiest songs and really sparkles musically. “Let’s Stay Together” is a cover of Al Green’s classic and is a great ending to an almost-perfect album.

Tracks to Download: “One More Night”, “Daylight”, and “Tickets”

Overall Grade: A

My Head is an Animal – Of Monsters and Men

The group Of Monsters and Men is originally from Iceland and its members (aside from having completely unpronounceable names) create a musical mix combining pop, rock, and folk. Their single “Little Talks” has done well on the Billboard Top Rock Songs chart and is featured on a Best Buy commercial played during the Olympics. On My Head is an Animal, Of Monsters and Men tells a unique story through their songwriting that is cohesive without being repetitious, and is the perfect soundtrack to a summer or fall day. “Dirty Paws” and “Your Bones” are kind of mysterious and soar at exactly the right moments. “King and Lionheart” is sweet, lovely, and has the most poetic lyrics on the album. “Little Talks” has passages that are modernly symphonic which is a cool contrast to the quieter “Yellow Light” and “Love Love Love.” Of Monsters and Men is definitely a band to watch, with their memorable lyrics, melodies, and style.

Tracks to Download: “Dirty Paws”, “King and Lionheart”, “Little Talks”

Overall Grade: A