Calvin Harris Funky Wav Bounces Vol.1: Great for Fist Pumping & Dancing

Funk Wav Bounces Vol 1. Calvin Harris. Columbia Records. June 30, 2017. Funk. $13.99

Calvin Harris’ Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 1 debuted on June 30^th and is receiving a lot of attention. Already, the album holds the number one spot for Top Dance/ Electronic Album on Billboard. The album also holds the number two spot on the charts for Top R&B/ Hip-Hop Album. Even though this album is receiving so much attention, this is just the beginning of its success. Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 1 is an album that people will be listening to for at least the next four months. Calvin Harris has done a great job of putting together such a complex piece for listeners to enjoy and have fun to. Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 1 is one of those albums that can be heard on the radio, in bars, restaurants, and shopping centers. Harris’ album is without a doubt a must hear and should be purchased for more than one reason.

Funk Wav Bounce Vol. 1 is full of rhythm and dance, much like other projects that Calvin Harris has given his fans in the past. The album incorporates an upbeat tempo that is perfect for dancing and fist pumping. There is also a Caribbean influence that can be heard throughout the album, which is a bit different compared to Harris’ past songs. But he does a great job of including this Caribbean influence with his style of music, the themes are blended without any problems or glitches. Calvin Harris was the perfect person to pull off such a challenge with his skills and talents. The electric and Caribbean vibe is just so hard to resist on Funk Wav Bounce Vol.1. R&B is also another genre that can be heard on the album. The R&B influenced songs take the time to slow things down and provide a nice smooth rhythm. One particular song that stands out for its soul and gentle sound is “Hard to Love”. This song features R&B artist Jessie Reyez and gives the audience a portrayal of being hard to love with a relaxing and calming approach. I’m sure many people have this as one of their favorite songs because of the connection and truthfulness in the lyrics. Calvin Harris doesn’t make the charts for Top R&B/ Hip-Hop Album without a little hip-hop appearing on the album. Even with an array of different sounds being heard throughout the album, there are many songs that incorporate hip-hop.

Not only are there quite a bit of songs with hip-hop influences, there are a variety of features included on the album. It almost feels as though, no one was left out to participate on this album of fun. Artists include, Ariana Grande, Snoop Dogg, Kehlani, John Legend, Nicki Minaj, and so many other talented artists appear on the album. But these are no ordinary artists, these artists have had tremendous careers in the music field. Snoop Dogg, Nicki Minaj, Big Sean, and Future are just a few on the album that help carry out the hip-hop inspired songs. Kehlani, Ariana Grande, John Legend, and Jessie Reyez carry the torch for including some R&B. Leaving, Katy Perry to integrate some pop.

Each song has an appealing beat or sound, rather it’s a guitar in the background that’s full of electricity or a tambourine being played lightly. Some of the top party songs of this album would be “Skrt on Me” and “Cash Out”. These songs are upbeat and encourages people to get up and dance. Songs like “Faking it”, “Feels”, and “Rollin” tell stories about relationships and heartaches., making these three songs relatable. The artists are able to express their feels but not by telling the story from a sad prospective. They’re able to illustrate hurt and pain and still maintain some sense of party. Which is why this album is so great, it explores life and a party, all in one.

“Feels”, “Hard to Love”, and “Prayers Up” would have to be my top songs on Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 1. I’m a huge fan of R&B, but I also appreciate good upbeat music. I try not to limit myself in music options and Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 1 is a great example of broadening horizons and celebrating music.  Calvin Harris doesn’t limit his music to just one genre or artist, but instead, explores countless sounds. Due to Harris’ passion in his music, this album will continue to do well on multiple music charts.