Music review: A Great Big World – ‘Is There Anybody Out There?’
Apparently, a lot of people out there are indeed listening to the savory melodic pop of A Great Big World.
The dramatic duo of Ian Axel and Chad Vaccarino met while music business students at New York University. One could certainly say that their studies have paid off in a big way. Axel and Vaccarino first made a memorable impact in 2013 on the strength of the viral hit “This Is the New Year.”
The uplifting number received mass audience exposure when covered by the cast of “Glee” on the popular Fox show.
Funded on Kickstarter by loyal fans, A Great Big World released a self-titled EP prior to the band’s debut full-length album. With traces of Queen and Billy Joel freely flowing from the charismatic band’s arrangements, “Is There Anybody Out There?” delivers piano-driven pop with irresistible hooks and mature and sensitive lyrics.
The innocence and energy of “Rockstar” opens with an infectious groove and sweeping harmonies. “Land of Opportunity” follows with a quirky and playful tone reminiscent of Panic! at the Disco. The synth-pop of “I Really Want It” is properly punctuated with in-the-moment fun, while the soulfully acoustic charm of “Shorty Don’t Wait” radiates a Jason Mraz laid-back vibe.
The intensely emotional and vulnerable “Say Something” serves as the album’s standout moment with Christina Aguilera lending her beautiful voice to bring the album to a stunning close. While the group’s sound sparkles with hints of Broadway flair, there is so much more to “Is There Anybody Out There?” than just a few over-the-top moments.
The appeal of “A Great Big World” is far-reaching and diverse, blending the craftsmanship of songwriting and the showmanship of performing into an act that says something hard to ignore.