Adam Young, the electronica mastermind behind Owl City, returns to the music scene with Mobile Orchestra, his first full-length album since his 2012 The Midsummer Station. Young’s ability to play with a wide array of melodies, beats, and instrumentals underlying uplifting, kid-friendly lyrics is what makes his work unique. Young’s 2009 hit single “Fireflies” from his album Ocean Eyes is largely responsible for his success, and it is clear Young has not strayed too far from his roots, musically and stylistically.
Mobile Orchestra includes several artist collaborations, the first with Aloe Blacc in “Verge,” a steady pop track that celebrates being “on the verge” of some sort of adventure. “Thunderstruck,” a duet with Sarah Russell, seems to echo his 2012 collaboration with Carly Rae Jepsen, “Good Time.” “Thunderstruck” similarly has a ’70s dance disco vibe with multiple music breakdowns and could be comparable to a dance anthem appropriate for a preteen club.
There is nothing covert about Young’s musical faith statements, “My Everything” and “You’re Not Alone” (featuring Britt Nicole), as Young decides to “never wander on my own,” thanks to his belief in a higher being.