OneRepublic Album: “Dreaming Out Loud”

I first heard the song *Apologize* on "So You Think You Can Dance" last season... the 2 dancers that performed to it were mesmerizing and this song stayed with me after the show. Later I heard it on the radio but it wasn't the version that I had fell in love with it was a mix by Timbaland then all of a sudden EVERYONE is listening to them. I was glad that these artists got the exposure because that was just one of the good songs on this CD.

I finally purchased the CD yesterday... am Happy to report/review this is a solid CD at least 5 good songs that I liked enough to burn onto my hard drive at work to listen to. I would say about (to me) 2 different tempo variations. Nice music for a long drive or if you are like me and just like to have something playing in the background for cooking or while gardening this is perfect for that as well.

I have a listmania list titled "So You think You Can Dance & Grey'a Anatomy" music if you are interested in like artists that have this sound.

Respectfully Reviewed

MySpace phenoms OneRepublic give it their all on their Interscope release `Dreaming Out Loud.' The LA-based band, which was introduced to the general public by Timbaland through his remix of the band's hit single "Apologize," succeeds in proving they are much more than a novelty act.

OneRepublic kick off their debut major release with the U2-sounding "Say (All I Need)," which boasts a big-budget production value and lead singer Ryan Tedder displays his falsetto better than anyone in recent memory. The most emotional song on `Loud' is without question "Come Home," as Tedder tells the story of relationships, focusing on one between himself and the one he loves. But the underlying message is transferable to almost any situation in which the struggle for love to win the battle is present.

Besides the two versions of "Apologize," which are lyrical and production masterpieces, `Loud' includes a slew of worthy follow-up singles like "All We Are," "Prodigal," "Mercy," and most notably second single "Stop & Stare." What makes these tracks rise above other bands' works are without question the lyrics. Almost anyone who has an alright voice and can play piano can produce something that sounds good, but if the lyrics don't mesh, the result is something underwhelming. OneRepublic's promotion of solid values and ability to focus on positive subjects help them connect with the listener and sets them apart from other bands that are big at the moment.

OneRepublic show an edgier side in tracks like the up-tempo "Tyrant" and the riotous "Someone to Save You," but they still retain the positive message present in the album's previous tracks. In "You," Tedder sings of saving his friend and takes part in a rousing, soulful final chorus.

The lowest point on `Loud' is "Won't Stop," and that's only because it is boring. Another lackluster song is "Goodbye Apathy," which includes a very repetitive chorus.

Needless to say, OneRepublic easily prove they are not just "The Fray of 2007" on `Dreaming Out Loud.' Their ability to offer both up-tempo radio anthems and heartfelt, moving ballads put them on an elite playing field. One they should be around to play on for years to come.

If you have ANY doubts about buying this album....DONT HESITATE! I absolutly love every single song on the CD! I can almost count on one hand how many albums I have that I can say that about. They are an awsome group. It's one of those albums you can put on and just let play, sit back and enjoy! I almost didn't buy the album, espically after buying Timberland's CD since their breakout song "Apologize" is on his album as well. But that is actually a remix. On OneRepublic's album is the original version, which I actually like better! I am VERY happy that I decided to pick up this album. AWSOME! You won't be disapointed!

Timbaland obviously has a good ear for talented musicians today. We have all heard Apologise on our radios and know the pure beauty of the breathy vocals that are gracing the airwaves.

Don't make the mistake of thinking that One Republic are destined to be a one hit wonder. Their album Dreaming Out Loud is full of the same sweet melodies and tasteful lyrics as Apologise. With smooth production and intelligent tastes, they have triumphed with their debut album - it's well worth a listen.

With singer Ryan Tedder following in the breathy vocal stylings of Chris Martin of Coldplay fame, the band following the musical essence of acts like Snow Patrol and the industry smarts of their mentor Timbaland, it will be hard for them to go too wrong.

Dreaming Out Loud plays very nicely at a dinner party or when just reclining back with a nice red and good book. The sounds are anything but obnoxious. They can, at times, disappear and play unnoticed if you are not consciously listening directly it. When it comes to relaxing background music, this one is a perfect choice.

The album has both the original and Timbaland versions of Apologise. The magic doesn't end there - Stop And Stare, Say and the title track Dreaming Out Loud are all stand out tracks.

If you're hesitant to put this one on your `to buy' list, at least put it on your `to listen' list.

'Dreaming Out Loud' is an interesting debut for OneRepublic. While it proves that Ryan Tedder's songwriting scope is not limited to hit singles for divas, it does not prove that he can come up with an entire album's worth of consistent, cohesive songs. A deliberate, dark track here and there is fine, but 13 of them in a row is a bit much. His voice is downright impressive, but would be put to much better use on tracks that aren't so damn dark and lethargic. Here's hoping his next effort contains some central theme that keeps things moving.

Standout tracks: Come Home, Stop and Stare, Apologize