Review
OneRepublic really came through with "Waking Up" back in '09, serving up a sophomore effort that's basically a whole vibe check on what pop rock could be. Ryan Tedder wasn't just playing it safe here – he went full maximalist, weaving together orchestral strings, children's choirs, and even some Afro pop and drum and bass elements that honestly had no business working together but somehow totally did. The production is crisp and cinematic, like each track was designed to soundtrack your main character moment, whether you're contemplating fame or just trying to figure out what happiness actually looks like.
The album kicks off with "Made For You," which immediately sets the bar high with that piano line that gets stuck in your head for days and a children's choir that gives you chills in the best way. Then you've got bangers like "All the Right Moves" and "Good Life" that are pure anthem material – the kind of songs that make you want to roll the windows down and feel unstoppable. But the real showstopper is that nearly seven-minute title track, "Waking Up," which is basically an orchestral therapy session that takes you on this whole emotional journey about life's roller coaster moments. Sure, some people called it a bit dramatic, but honestly? Sometimes you need that level of emotional intensity to really connect with what you're feeling. - Morgan
