Adam Levine's voice is truly something to behold. He proved this week alongside Jimmy Fallon that he's even able to emulate some of the greats - including Michael Jackson - but it's that unique tone we hear on Maroon 5 tracks which sends a brilliant chill down your spine.

And so when 'V' opens with new single 'Maps', we're taken right back to wherever Levine left us off with a catchy, infectious tune that's sure to become embedded in the mind of anyone listening.

Of course, he's not the only one to be applauded. Mickey Madden on bass, Matt Flynn on drums, James Valentine on guitars and both Jesse Carmichael and PJ Morton on keys come together to form fantastic melodies and an instrumental that others should envy.

Passion comes through in spades during 'Unkiss Me', and Levine sings as a heartbroken man despite seemingly being very happy in his personal life, recently tying the knot with Behati Prinsloo. With a love life that has at times been extremely public, he's a man who I imagine has been through a lot relationship-wise - it comes through here.

'Sugar' is reminiscent of 2007 track 'Kiwi' from the group's second studio album 'It Won't Be Soon Before Long' in that it's laden with innuendo, being both sexy and sensual without going too far and crossing the line.

A rally to the troops comes in with 'In Your Pocket', calling on all fans to fall in love with a slightly new sound and approach. It's this kind of experimentation that wins the band even more points, continuing in what could be a super club smash, the raucous 'Feelings'.

Gwen Stefani makes an appearance on the record with closing standard album track 'My Heart Is Open', but it's not the massive banger you may be expecting. Instead, it opens slowly with just the backing of a piano leading into a beautiful ballad between the two Voice USA mentors.

With Max Martin in the role of executive producer and the record being mixed by Serban Ghenea, the group were always onto a winner with 'V', but this is a collection of songs that have to be listened to in their entirety to be truly admired. And, if you are going to give in and purchase a copy, go for the deluxe. It's worth the extra bit of cash.

The roman numeral for the number five - 'V' - gets five stars from us.

Maroon 5's 'V' is out now.


by for www.femalefirst.co.uk
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