Monday Review: Overexposure by Maroon 5

Maroon 5's latest studio venture Overexposure continues the band's token pop rock sound, but about half the album tries to lead off the massive success of last year's "Moves Like Jagger" by plunging into electropop. This is a fine move, though it almost seems like a desperate step for a band that perceives (whether that perception is on track or not) it needs a revival. Still, the songs are easy for the casual listener due to its continuous slick production.

Lyrically, Maroon 5 doesn't go anywhere it hasn't already: infatuation and weakness for the femme fatale or regret from wronging her. It's still as catchy as their other albums but contains a dance vibe on some of the tracks. The electropop isn't bad. It's just a new direction for the band's sound, as if Maroon 5 finally got the memo that electronic-heavy, club-playing dance pop is currently in. I'm not sure it's always necessary for this album, since it sometimes sounds used for the sake of being used (consider the synth bass of "Fortune Teller").

Standout tracks include funky opening track and second single "One More Night;" racing "Lucky Strike;" single- and dancefloor-ready, love-confessional "Love Somebody;" the jazz-rhythmed cover of Al Green's "Let's Stay Together" [on some Deluxe Editions]; and successful lead single and Wiz Khalifa collaboration "Payphone." Interestingly, the album version of "Payphone" is not explicit as the single release. The swears are replaced or wiped. Perhaps, this is to avoid the album being given the Parental Advisory sticker the single receieved.

Overexposure may be a surprise for some audiences while still a good throwback to what Maroon 5 is good at: defining pop rock.

Would I recommend it? If you've loved the Maroon 5 of the past, Overexposed should be a welcome addition to your library. Diehard fans of their unique sound may have trouble accepting some of the more electronic-throbbing tracks but will be happy with a majority of the album.

I give it 3 ½ out of 5 stars.