Review by Shannon Shumaker
Are You Even There At All? is the first solo release from I The Mighty frontman Brent Walsh in four years, but it was well worth the wait. Although it is only six songs in length, Are You Even There At All? is easily Walsh’s most ambitious and diverse release to date, with songs ranging from softer, indie-leaning tracks and an a cappella opener to catchy as hell hip-hop influenced standouts. On top of the musical diversity, Are You Even There At All? also explores one’s quest to find meaning and purpose in life, making for a very fulfilling release.
Creative and fearless, Are You Even There At All? showcases Walsh’s immense talent and willingness to try new things right off the bat with the a cappella opening track, “Moon Creep.” The song not only proves once more Walsh’s vocal prowess, but serves as a perfect opener before lead single, “Cloud’s Song” comes in. “Cloud’s Song” is where things really get started, too. Although the song feels warm and inviting, lyrically, it’s very introspective, finding Walsh feeling lost, asking for answers and searching for meaning in life.
The songs that follow “Cloud’s Song” branch off of its vulnerability, with the heartbreakingly beautiful “Alone But Contently” serving as a perfect middle track. Each song on the EP showcases a different emotion and different side of Brent Walsh, and for only six songs, it feels very well rounded. The hip-hop influenced “The Way You Seem,” for instance is some of Walsh’s best work to date, and “Confession Repentance” (which leans toward a more Death Cab For Cutie-inspired sound) showcases some of his best vocal work so far.
Each track on Are You Even There At All? stands strong on its own, demonstrating Brent Walsh’s incredible songwriting and vocal abilities, but together, these six songs are even better. Emotionally vulnerable and very human, Are You Even There At All? is a fulfilling, well rounded and ambitious release.
LISTEN TO: “The Way You Seem”
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