OneRepublic, "Native" (Mosley Music Group/Interscope Records)
OneRepublic continues to show that the group's musical rapport is as strong as ever on their third album, "Native."
Frontman Ryan Tedder's falsetto is superb throughout the new offering, which bleeds with emotion and substance. He and his four bandmates are completely in sync.
Tedder, who has written and produced singles for music's biggest acts, from Adele to Beyonce, shines with star appeal alongside a variety of instruments that are smoothly intertwined, ranging from the acoustic guitar to drums. The 12-track album is filled with refreshing and catchy songs: That's certainly evident when the album kicks off with the well-crafted opening track, "Counting Stars," and first single, "If I Lose Myself," co-produced by hit-maker Benny Blanco.
"Preacher" has Tedder reflecting on the days of his childhood, recalling how his life was infused with wisdom by his grandfather, who was a pastor. Tedder's voice also touches the soul on midtempo tracks like "Burning Bridges," the Jeff Bhasker-assisted "Can't Stop" and "Don't Look Down."
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