Maroon 5: Songs About Jane

Songs About Jane is the only Maroon 5 album I own. It is also the album that led me to become a fan. Although Songs About Jane is regarded as Maroon 5’s official debut record, the California based group initially formed in the ’90s as a post-grunge band called Kara’s Flowers. Their grunge-pop sound landed them a recording contract, which then led to a cameo at The Peach Pit on 90210, the hit television series from the 90s.

Many of the lyrics for the album are inspired by lead singer Adam Levine's relationship with his ex-girlfriend. Levine notes, "I saw this girl at a gas station, and I fell in love with her," he says. "I wrote a song about her and played it in the store where she worked.

Songs About Jane peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard 200 and was eventually certified platinum. It was on this record that Levine began to explore his range and lyrical talent. When most of us think about Maroon 5, we view them as very much a singles act. This is mostly because their ability to create hit singles is like few others.

However, Songs About Jane is much different than most of the recent Maroon 5 releases. It stands as their most complete album, with cohesive storytelling that’s weaved through every track. From Harder to Breathe through She Will Be Lovedto Sunday Morning, this record flows well and offers a diverse array of musical and lyrical experiences. One has to wonder why Maroon 5 has not been able to string together enough good songs to create another complete album such as this.

TRACK LIST
1. Harder to Breathe
2. This Love
3. Shiver
4. She Will Be Loved
5. Tangled
6. The Sun
7. Must Get Out
8. Sunday Morning
9. Secret
10. Through With You
11. Not Coming Home
12. Sweetest Goodbye

This version of Songs About Jane is a two record set and is probably one of the better pressings available to date. It is very dynamic, yet quiet. This is one of the few records from the era that appears to be recorded and mastered with vinyl in mind. The bass could be better, otherwise it is balanced, clear, and detailed. This pressing is definitely worth the investment, especially when you consider price to quality. 💰
💰 Invest
💵 Consider
💸 Pass