Origin: Boston, Massachusetts
Genre: Alternative rock/Folk rock
Record Label: Mercury Records
With their debut studio album, Oh, What a Life, comes Boston’s newest up-and-comers in the alternative rock scene, American Authors. In the seven years that the band has been together for, they have released one self-titled extended play, along with their recently released full-length studio album signed with Mercury Records. American Authors is undergoing a rapid climb to success, which allows their first album to be something unique and compelling to listen to.
The album starts out with the uplifting anthem “Believer”. This song is well-equipped with inspirational lyrics, and a remarkably catchy chorus that is captivating from start to finish. This is the type of song that one starts off their morning with in order to gain motivation for the day. This song epitomizes the mood of the entire album: energy and encouragement. The track also displays the lead singer’s rough and powerful male vocals that are an unexpected feature for each and every song. The well-received single of the album, “Best Day of my Life”, pairs fun and memorable lyrics with a distinct beat throughout the verses. This track continues the theme of happiness and reassurance, while providing an entertaining atmosphere to carry listeners well in to the summer months. It can already be heard in TV series such as “Glee” and “The Vampire Diaries”, as well as in several advertisements. An instant hit amongst the charts and a favourite of the critics, this song catalyzed American Authors’ launch to triumph.
Furthermore, the band demonstrates their diversity through the song “Love”. The track features electronic elements that is laced throughout, and also shows a more romantic side to album. It also supplies a nostalgic and youthful feel that allows the listener to reminisce about their first love. Finally, the album closes with the album-titled track, “Oh, What a Life”. In addition to “Love”, this song also shows the dynamics in the band’s music. With a more folk-rock vibe to the beginning and chorus, the song becomes an instantaneously compelling change of pace. The start contains a violin and banjo, while the bridge kicks up the original alternative rock feel. The chorus combines the previous folk atmosphere and becomes coupled with the band’s usual sound to create an unbelievably flawless ending to the debut album.
American Authors created a diverse and uniquely uplifting album to announce a warm hello to music industry and their audience. The band’s high energy, rough vocals and motivational lyrics combine to create complete harmony in the debut album, Oh, What a Life.
Oh What a Life: 9.6/10
