On 24K Magic, Bruno Mars is devoted to the resurrection of the soul, funk, and R&B of ’80s and ’90s. What elevates 24K Magic beyond pure pastiche relegated to wedding playlists is how well Mars, brimming with swagger and schmaltz, sells the flossy fantasy. It’s not all that surprising when you consider Mars began his musical career in his family’s band as an Elvis impersonator. The man has charisma and charm in spades, traits that have helped boost him to the top of the charts and turn the most idiosyncratic of lines into instant slogans. 24K Magic, stands at a frills-free nine songs and 33 minutes.— consequenceofsound.net
