Is it the return of the Mack? This is the debut album from Mark Morrison, released in 1996, and it’s a bit of a time capsule when you listen to it today. Some of the production feels like it hasn’t aged as gracefully as you'd expect, while other parts have surprisingly stood the test of time. Overall, the album doesn’t quite match the infectious energy of its iconic hit, "Return of the Mack," which still feels as fresh as ever. That track sets a high bar for the rest of the record, and unfortunately, some of the songs can’t quite measure up.
That said, there are some moments where the production really shines. Mark Morrison’s vocal delivery has its highs and lows. On certain tracks, he’s charming and smooth, but at times, his lyrical choices and the overall vibe of some songs veer into a bit of corniness. I find it endearing, but there’s no denying that some of it can feel a little cheesy. It's an album that’s fun to listen to as long as you don’t take it too seriously.
When Mark steps away from the brash "Return of the Mack" persona and adopts a more subdued, introspective approach to his vocals, he can sound absolutely fantastic. A perfect example of this is the track "Tears for You," where his performance is emotionally charged and sincere. It’s a standout moment on the album, and really shows what Mark is capable of when he’s not relying on flashy hooks or gimmicks.
On the other hand, tracks like "Horny" tend to drag the album down a little. It feels like an attempt at something edgy or playful, but it ultimately comes off as cringeworthy and detracts from the album’s overall flow. Moments like these are where the album’s “corny” side really comes to the forefront.
If you love "Return of the Mack," you should definitely check out the full album to get a more complete sense of Mark Morrison’s style and versatility. While not every track holds up as well as his smash hit, there are enough solid moments to make it worth a listen and get a deeper understanding of his musical range.
RATING: 5/10
NOTIABLE TRACKS:
Return Of The Mack
I Like
Tears For You
Horny