As if receiving a message straight from the music gods, Mark Ronson’s latest album opens with a harmonica line from Stevie Wonder. Uptown Special is 38 minutes of pure psychedelic funk, with infectious melodies should make any listener smile, even for a moment.
Despite a variety of artists working with Ronson, Special has a unifying sound that was defined by its first single, “Uptown Funk,” with Bruno Mars on vocals. It’s the track that stands out the most, as Mars relishes the chance to be James Brown in a way he hasn’t done even on his own albums.
Most of the songs actually feature Tame Impala leader Kevin Parker, who must have forgotten that the ‘60s and ‘70s ended. “Daffodils” and “Leaving Los Feliz” thump along like forgotten singles by psychedelic bands. But under the careful eye of Ronson, Parker’s songs are modernized, with sounds that perfectly match Parker’s fuzz guitar.
Keyone Starr provides a break from the boys club with her wonderful vocals on “I Can’t Lose.” Miike Snow singer Andrew Wyatt changes up the sound on “Heavy and Rolling” and “Crack in the Pearl.”
Early on the album, rapper Mystikal announces that Special isn’t just a tribute to classic funk. “Feel Right” is one of the highlights of the album, with Ronson and Mars providing Mystikal with a funky backing.
Uptown Special highlights Ronson’s clear passions for entertaining music. This is music you’re supposed to dance to, not just listen to and it certainly helps that the mix of artists bring the best to the table.