“Weird Al” Yankovic – Mandatory Fun

“Weird Al” seems to be everywhere right now, following his distinct appearance in hit YouTube channel Epic Rap Battles of History. As the title of his album suggests, fun is certainly something that is expected from listeners as we enjoy every song on offer. From parodies to big hits, such as Fancy and Royals, Weird Al’s latest collection is witty and enjoyable.

Opening track Handy is a clever way to introduce this collection as his take on Iggy Azalea’s Fancy is a sure summer hit that many will enjoy being spoofed. His clever wit and attention to detail is most evident in his standout song Word Crimes, a brilliant satire on Robin Thicke’s massive but controversial hit Blurred Lines. It is intellectually smart, yet doesn’t seem pretentious or over-worked. Whilst many may be sick of the infectious beat of the original, Yankovic’s brilliant take on it is sure to delight listeners of many ages, as well as, of course, putting across an important message about the English language.

Other major tracks can be seen in NOW That’s What I Call Polka! which contains an array of smash hits that listeners are bound to recognise. Yankovic portrays songs in a peculiar way that you wouldn’t necessarily think would work, yet he proves that an untraditional technique works in his niche. As the album progresses, his comedy never fails to amuse as he spoofs other chart numbers such as Imagine Dragon’s Radioactive in Inactive, and Pharrell Williams’ Happy in Tacky. Yankovic has created a masterpiece that is both humorous and intelligent, and his vocals and productions are completely on-point. Mandatory Fun will no doubt impress many!

Lauren Shean

Madatory Fun was released on 15^th July 2014. For further information or to order the album visit the album’s website here.

Watch the video for Word Crimes here: