Mario is looking to close out 2024 with a bang. The “Like Her Too” crooner seems to be on a hot streak with recent surprise appearances during Nicki Minaj’s current leg of her Pink Friday 2 World Tour and news that he’ll be joining Mary J. Blige on her The For My Fans Tour when it kicks off at the top of next year. He is taking advantage of this momentum by promising a new era that kicks off with his single “Space.”
“Space” is a different sound for Mario, who previously traded in super slick, hip-hop infused R&B and panty-dropping tunes aimed at his female fanbase. This time, though, he channels a bit of the funk-infused R&B of yesteryear. In particular, the BNYX-produced track channels ’80s-era Michael Jackson as it includes lots of lovely synth chords, backing harmonies and horns alongside a smooth bass line that allows Mario to put on his flyest persona. Perhaps that’s why, with a lyrical assist from James Fauntleroy, he lays down some of his best game since his “Let Me Love You” days.
“Hey, you look likе a good time / You got that look on your face / Look like a good time, all night every night / Look like you still wanna play,” he sings on the horn-laden chorus. “Even though you know it ain’t no game / So come on over to my place, yeah / Let you into my space.”
The song’s video allows Mario to tap into his performer side, featuring him as the center of attention at a happening party inside his mind’s eye. While he gets his jam on in technicolor, a scientist baddie observes in the drab outside world. She’s soon pulled into his realm, however, and is rewarded by her world being colorized as she becomes the object of his affections.
“Space” is a nice vibe from Mario and a great way for him to usher us into his next phase as we anticipate what he’s got in store. Listen to a stream of the track and watch its video below.
