BY HAILEE YAEGER
Jason Mraz is back with his fourth studio album, Love Is A Four Letter Word, and based on the sound of this record compared to his last two albums Mr. A to Z is no more. Mraz has decided to stick to a folk-pop mixed with reggae and jazz sound. He also doesn’t disappoint with the sound of his guitar and his smooth voice. The singer- songwriter has an optimistic vibe through the 12-track collection, which Mraz described as “personal, melodic and mellow.”
Even though the album is relaxing, there are the few standout songs that make you want to move and sing along. “Live in the Moment”, a fun anthem about living your life without a care, is irresistible and makes you want to bounce along with the beat. A similar song “Everything Is Sound” has an outstanding melody and a chorus that makes it nearly impossible not to sing along.
Although there are the fun and free spirited songs, there are also calm, laid back ones. “I Won’t Give Up”, is a beautiful and chilling single about not giving up on a current relationship because it’s worth it. This is by far one of the best songs on the album and is sure to leave girls swooning.
“Just know, you’re never alone, you can always come back home.” Mraz sings in the song “93 Million Miles”. Adorable lyrics are heard throughout the album, the song, “Frank D. Fixer”, about his grandfather, brings out an admirable side to Mraz and the album.
Love Is A Four Letter Word is a great album with a mix of fun and tranquil music that makes you want to dance and escape to a peaceful paradise. Jason Mraz has done a wonderful job on his fourth studio album and has come a long way from the twenty five year old who once stumbled over his fast paced lyrics. He’s grown up and has broadened his musical horizons to much more than pop. Mraz is one of music’s underappreciated, hidden treasures.