There's no stopping Owl City. Adam Young's latest release, Mobile Orchestra, is a real treat. As usual, the album has a slight dreamlike quality and is filled to the brim with positivity.
Mobile Orchestra's greatest strength - and greatest weakness - is its honesty concerning religious beliefs. Young is unabashedly Christian, and the lyrics often reflect that. You're Not Alone's lyrics speak volumes about his faith - "God is love and He is all I need." The lyrics seem cheesy printed out, but the rich, sonic landscapes Young creates prevent that in the recordings.
But while Young's faith ties the whole album together and evokes his sense of rediscovery, the lyrics might not be relatable for some fans, and could alienate others.
Lead single Verge, featuring Aloe Blacc, is just as catchy as you'd expect. The lyrics are upbeat, and encourage listeners to see their lives "out on the verge". It's a nice message, especially as the new term starts.
Mobile Orchestra is a solid album, and proves once again, that Young knows what he's doing.