Bruno Mars
The Romantic (released February 27, 2026)
Gotta admit, I always chucklewhen Bruno Mars’ critics claim that he’s predictable and formulaic.
“Every song sounds the same,” they tell me. My response – um, which Bruno have you been listening to? Because this Mars kid is always on another planet.
In an era of music where complacency is commonplace, Bruno’s constant evolution has made him the rarest Pokemon of them all. From his early days as a pop balladeer, to infiltrating every grown folks’ function with his brand of neo-funk, to giving modern R&B a much needed shot in the arm during his 24K Magic era, and finding a soul brother in Anderson Paak during their 70s soul tribute, Bruno’s strength has been his versatility.
But after the release of his latest single, “I Just Might,” those critics were as loud as ever – and it seemed like they had a little credibility this time. Though it’s a solid track, “I Just Might” felt a bit too familiar – like a Target exclusive bonus cut from the previous Silk Sonic project.
Not bad, just not unique.
But after listening to The Romantic, I see the vision. Bruno’s latest project isn’t a drastic evolution of what came before – it’s a composite of the building blocks that have built Bruno’s legacy.
The funk, the classic soul, the hints of hip-hop, all energized by the same magnetic charisma that made Bruno a star.
And as great as Bruno is, you have to tip your cap to R&B’s reigning production MVP D’Mile. From Victoria Monet to Lucky Daye to, of course, Silk Sonic, D’Mile has been the architect of some of R&B’s best releases in recent years, and that hot streak continues here. Even though The Romantic feels familiar in many spots, it’s D’Mile’s expansive, diverse production that adds surprise elements to catch your ear off guard.
Take the album opener “Risk It All” – it was indeed a risk for an artist as energetic as Bruno to kick off his first solo project in a decade with an understated ballad. But paring mariachi horns with gentle guitar licks elevate the experience, adding sonic beauty to the simplicity.
Bruno glides onto the dance floor with his lemon pepper steppers on “Cha Cha Cha,” a smooth dance track that somehow blends ballroom grace with the cockiness of Juvenile’s “Slow Motion.” Meanwhile, D’Mile borrows the horns straight from the pearly gates for “God Was Showing Off,” as Bruno gushes over his goddess: “Is it your eyes that light my sky … Is heaven your name or is it divine?/Don’t matter girl, it’s gonna look good next to mine.” When the angels finally blow those trumpets, it might sound a little like this.
But the album’s brightest gem is “Why You Wanna Fight,” which finally revives the subgenre R&B has been missing – Rhythm & BEGGIN. Bruno is practically on his knees (“Girl I’ll call your mama, plead with all your friends”) in an attempt to salvage his love. It’s the type of track that defined 70s soul and made 90s crooners legends. THIS is the vulnerability the game needs.
Bruno isn’t afraid to pick up the pace on the latter half of the album. “On My Soul” picks up the octane thanks to a manic electric guitar, which also makes an appearance on “Nothing Left.” The latter feels more like Lenny Kravitz than Con Funk Shun, showing those subtle tweaks in Bruno’s sonic game. The set ends with “Dance With Me,” a returns to Mars’ 60s sensibilities, where he wonders if his partner will rekindle the love after the song ends. Whether he’s referring to his girl or his fans, I don’t think he has anything to worry about.
At just nine songs and barely 30 minutes total, The Romantic is a seamless, streamlined release. Thanks to the robust production and stirring performances, it feels fulfilling without overstaying its welcome.
While many of Bruno’s previous projects feel like bombastic statement pieces, The Romantic is much more measured and, at times, more polished. Bruno’s evolution on this album might not be as grandiose as those before it, but the growth is still there – as is the heart. He’s a romantic, after all.
Best tracks: “Why You Wanna Fight,” “God Was Showing Off,” “On My Soul”
4 stars out of 5
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