By Lizzy Tsuang
Staff Writer
Bringing classic sounds into the modern music industry is a hurdle artists struggle to overcome. Nonetheless, pop and R&B singer-songwriter Bruno Mars flawlessly incorporated both old and new tones to create a fresh sound in his “Moonshine Jungle” tour.
Mars’ performance at the Hollywood Bowl on May 31 delivered with captivating vocals, thoughtful and varied song choices and stunning special effects. Better yet, the artist showcased his raw talent not only as a singer, but a dancer and musician as well.
The 28-year-old Honolulu native and his band, the Hooligans, are currently on the “Moonshine Jungle” tour to promote his latest album, “Unorthodox Jukebox.” This is the group’s second album, following the commercial success “Doo-Woops and Hooligans.” Over the past four years of his music career, Mars has won numerous Grammys, such as Best Pop Vocal Album, has released several hit singles and performed as the headliner during the 2014 Super Bowl halftime show.
Mars exceeded the audience’s expectations as he demonstrated his talent as a Renaissance man. Not only did Mars play guitar and take center stage as the lead vocalist, he also led choreographed dances. Despite doing so many things while on stage, Mars was able to flawlessly balance these activities, resulting in a thoroughly engaging performance.
Such interest was also seen in the performance’s diverse set list. Mars’ style ranges from late-‘70s pop to mid-‘90s R&B. Despite the variation of music types, Mars managed to keep a consistent upbeat vibe by adding in covers of hit-singles from each period, like “Rock With You,” by Michael Jackson, and “This Is How We Do It,” by Montell Jordan.
Additionally, Mars illuminated the amphitheater with enthralling stage and lighting effects. Vibrant strobe lights, bursts of smoke, fire and confetti awed the audience as these elements lit up the stage. At the end of his final song, “Gorilla,” fireworks burst over the Hollywood Bowl, giving the audience a finale for the ages.
Not only did Mars display enthusiasm and dedication to his work, but the Hooligans matched his energy step for step as they danced and sang together on stage. Throughout the duration of the show, members of the group continuously poked fun at each other and shared inside jokes, showing their undeniable chemistry and bond expanding further than the stage.
Mars engaged the crowd as well with casual conversation and humor. The charismatic persona of both Mars and the Hooligans created an intimate atmosphere tangible to the audience.
Mars’ concert at the Hollywood Bowl impressed audiences by not only illustrating Mars’ ability to distinguish himself from today’s mainstream music sounds, but also with his band, which echoed his enthusiasm =by constantly engaging the audience. “Moonshine Jungle” affirms Mars as one of the most talented young artists in today’s music industry.
Mars will continue touring the Unites States before visiting Europe and Asia over the summer. Tickets range from $50 to $550.
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