Robbie Maroon - Reckoning

Robbie Maroon

Reckoning
self-released; 2022

4.0 out of 5

By Matt Jensen

Robbie Maroon should be a familiar name if you visit Divide and Conquer often. Maroon released Dream Factory Volume 1 and 2 a couple of years ago and he is back with a new full length LP entitled Reckoning.

The album is full of instrumentation and Maroon did all the work (besides the mastering) from the songwriting to the mixing. It’s an impressive feat. On this album Maroon flirts with a lot of upbeat and poppy songs that should make you dance.

The first song is entitled “The Fighter” and there’s an interesting combination of electric and rock. I liked the dynamics right off the bat and the chorus takes on the title of the song and feels like something that will get your adrenaline pumping and ready for battle. There’s an anthemic ‘80s quality to the chorus. Great opener.

“Cyberlovestory” was a highlight. This song is a blast and I was definitely getting funk vibes in the spirit of Prince with a side of Parliament-Funkadelic. The groove absolutely bangs but the prize is the vocals. Maroon tackles the lyrics with enthusiasm and it’s very infectious. “Maria” brings the goods as well. It’s got this interesting mix of genres. Something about this felt like it was an Americana based song that was done in an electronic and funk style. Maroon displays some of his lead guitar skills against digital sounding horns and a kinetic rhythm section.

“Rewind” is a little more chill and relaxing. It’s smooth as silk but also another dynamic song with a killer chorus and lush atmosphere. You should get your dancing shoes back on for “My Love” which is the funkiest song and just a blast. I loved what was happening on the bass. Maroon also shows his range in terms of the vocals and I enjoyed the background vocals which added a little extra kick.

“Falling Out Of Love” may sound like a depressing title but the song is very upbeat and fun. If anything, falling out of love might be a party. “Stand” is a highlight. The falsetto chorus alone was enough to have me hooked. This is another song ripe for a good time. “I Won’t Be Doing That” continues to showcase his signature sound and also has one of the coolest sounding vocal builds. “The Reckoning” is filled to the brim with instrumentation and sounds like there are a couple vocal harmonies with the lead. After an extremely funky and fun time Maroon ends the album with “Take A Bow” which felt like the one and only ballad. 

​Maroon is in top form here. I thought this was his best work so far. The songs all felt top notch and brought some of his best grooves to the table. Take a listen.

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