Post by Sean on Nov 1, 2009 20:18:51 GMT
Owl City - Ocean Eyes
Universal Republic
***
Things associated with Minnesota one man band, Owl City, are a #1 US Single, the fastest selling electronic/alternative track ever, and a top 10 US album. You may be forgiven for writing them off as a one hit wonder, or a crafted product of some American record label bosses however, they are more than meet the eye. On his own, Adam Young had previously released two full length albums until being picked up by a major label and releasing third album, Ocean Eyes. First track, 'Cave In', opens up as something like a discarded Frankmusik song. As the song progresses we find that behind the dreamy synth pop nature, there may just be a fragile meaning to make the song worthwhile. Tracks like, 'The Bird and the Worm', and 'Hello Seattle', pass you by without much thought and don't sound any different to anything else you'd find in the top 10. It is the second half of this album where some potential is shown though, all starting with that number 1 US single, 'Fireflies'. Whilst instrumentally it could be used to better effect, the lyrics remind you of lost summer days while the chorus evokes emotion effortlessly. From this song, album closers 'The Tip of the Iceberg', and 'Tidal Wave' show that Young can create a commercially attractive pop song while at the same time show the thought and meaning required to be considered a credible song. This album suggests potential, whether Owl City will deliver remains to be seen. There are disappointing moments on this album don't get me wrong, however there are moments of greatness that makes Owl City the American equivalent of La Roux.
Universal Republic
***
Things associated with Minnesota one man band, Owl City, are a #1 US Single, the fastest selling electronic/alternative track ever, and a top 10 US album. You may be forgiven for writing them off as a one hit wonder, or a crafted product of some American record label bosses however, they are more than meet the eye. On his own, Adam Young had previously released two full length albums until being picked up by a major label and releasing third album, Ocean Eyes. First track, 'Cave In', opens up as something like a discarded Frankmusik song. As the song progresses we find that behind the dreamy synth pop nature, there may just be a fragile meaning to make the song worthwhile. Tracks like, 'The Bird and the Worm', and 'Hello Seattle', pass you by without much thought and don't sound any different to anything else you'd find in the top 10. It is the second half of this album where some potential is shown though, all starting with that number 1 US single, 'Fireflies'. Whilst instrumentally it could be used to better effect, the lyrics remind you of lost summer days while the chorus evokes emotion effortlessly. From this song, album closers 'The Tip of the Iceberg', and 'Tidal Wave' show that Young can create a commercially attractive pop song while at the same time show the thought and meaning required to be considered a credible song. This album suggests potential, whether Owl City will deliver remains to be seen. There are disappointing moments on this album don't get me wrong, however there are moments of greatness that makes Owl City the American equivalent of La Roux.
