There are moments whenever you discover new music, you wouldn’t be sure what to expect—would it fit my style, is it going to be a nice listen, does it deliver, is it fun? I often ask these questions whenever I stumble upon a new artist, and when I first hit play for Worldview’s latest album “Everything is Temporary,” it sure is a musical treat to experience.
Worldview is an alias of an Oxford UK-based talent who has mastery of producing, songwriting, and performing. The name is Oliver Shaw. In this 11-track collection, this artist bared his soul for the listeners to look closely as he shared his life stories and personal views of the highs and lows of life presented through a heartfelt blend of rock, folk, pop, and dance that would definitely make you feel connected and energized.
The project opens with a laidback track entitled “Can’t Come Back From That.” While this track sets the tone for the whole collection, I can’t help but notice how the simplicity of its production works perfectly for this track (and it also applies to all the tracks in this album). The minimalist tone and instrumentation highlight the relaxed yet emotional free-flowing vocals of Worldview as he reflects on the weight of regret as you go through all the things and moments that you’ve lost. The song perfectly demonstrates that no matter how lost or bad you might feel, the world won’t stop for you, so live in the present and find joy through it.
The next track is the epitome of fun, as the track “Chance is Gone (Gatsby)” is heavily inspired by the upbeat and energized vibe of 80s music. The production is filled with energy in a disco hall, which is the type of vibe that would make you groove along each beat. Still, it isn’t all about fun, as the lyrics of this piece will surely leave a mark as Worldview delivers bittersweet lines of how haunting it is to realize that some missed opportunities and chances are just gone and will never come back.
Then came the mellow vibe brought by “We Walk Among You.” The whole piece anchors to the minimalist arrangement and instrumentation brought by the slow and mellow sound of the piano and the soft beats of the drums. This piece is unique in its own way as Worldview looks deeper into the situation of those who walk an unconventional path—those who prioritize their passion over what society dictates—like the thinkers and artists who are often undervalued because this world is obsessed with material recognition and success. The familiarity of this sound and its content felt too real, and that may have been the reason why it’s strangely comforting.
As you go deeper into this collection, you will see how diverse the genre that Woldview can offer in one sitting. This time, we go country-style with the track “In the Shop.” This track is warm, from the get-go; it has this feel-good energy inspired by its driving acoustic guitar, which would remind you of the days when everything was simple; it is nostalgic, and it reflects the notion that everything in the industry is rapidly changing, but all in all, it is a cheery track aimed to celebrate the creative industry as it evolves.
Finally, the whole collection closes with the track “Here Until You’re Not,” a funky ender with fun drum bets and the nostalgic 80’s sound of piano and guitars. While this piece carries a more energetic sound, this surely carries a much more serious message as Worldview goes on to reflect the fleeting nature of our lives as we live. This track is a huge boost and encouragement to live in the present and live with a purpose; a great track to end the collection with a lasting impression on the listeners.
The variety of sounds that Worldview could offer has shone in this collection with other featured tracks on this project such as “An Incantation,” “Artifacts and Heirlooms,” “The Exceptions,” “Simpler Times,” “A Force of Nature,” and “This House,” that would keep you hooked for sure. Each track offers a different kind of musicality, a different kind of story, and a different side of the artist’s character. By the end of this collection, “Everything is Temporary” has proved that Worldview is an artist to watch out for. He carries a unique musical sense that people can relate to, and all of the pieces in this project are carefully produced, written, and curated, so it’s all guaranteed a great listening experience.
So, don’t miss out! Check out Worldview and follow his social media accounts! Stream his latest album, “Everything is Temporary”! Out now on all your favorite streaming platforms worldwide!
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About the Author
Tine Quirino, also known as Kristine, is a writer (frustrated one), a dreamer (serial sleeper), an INFJ (also INTP/J), a (professional) fangirl, and a good listener (‘literally and figuratively,’ she states).
She is just here, lurking somewhere, enjoying all your music. Music of any kind is still music, after all.
