It's the perfect 'driving through the city at night' album for when you're feeling a little bit lonely.
A polished, nocturnal blend of romantic longing and smooth, mid-tempo grooves.
Released in 2017, Red Pill Blues represents a significant stylistic pivot for Maroon 5, moving away from the power-pop of 'V' toward a more minimalist, R&B-influenced sound. The album is notable for being the first to feature Sam Farrar as a permanent member and the last to feature long-time bassist Mickey Madden. Sonically, it is defined by its collaboration with modern hitmakers like Charlie Puth and J. Kash, resulting in a record that prioritizes texture and groove. The most surprising moment is the closing track 'Closure', which features an extended instrumental jam that harks back to the band's more musicianly roots, contrasting sharply with the radio-ready singles. While it received mixed reviews for its trend-hopping nature, it successfully cemented the band's relevance in the streaming era with multi-platinum hits like 'Girls Like You' and 'What Lovers Do'.
Put this on for
Neon signs reflecting on wet pavement through a taxi windowThat specific 2am quiet when the party is definitely overHeadphones on for the last train home across the cityRain streaking the glass while you scroll through old textsSunset driving with the windows up and the AC on highKitchen floor slow dance while the coffee machine humsEmpty gym workout when you just need a steady pulse
Moments worth waiting for
The sudden transition into an eleven-minute psychedelic jazz instrumental at the end of track 10.
The way the bassline locks into the tropical percussion on What Lovers Do.
The stripped-back, vulnerable vocal delivery on the opening of Whiskey.
Sounds like
2017s production with a 2010s soul
Sits beside
Starboy - The Weeknd, Voicenotes - Charlie Puth, Everything Is 4 - Jason Derulo, Nine Track Mind - Charlie Puth
Lyrical territory
love_lost, love_romantic, nostalgia
03Deviation
Red Pill Blues · vs · Maroon 5
Artist
This Album
Medium Energy
Energy · ↓ −19% less than usual
On this album, medium energy sits about 19% less prominent than across the rest of the artist's catalogue.
