There is one thing apparent about Audio Adrenaline that really shines in this album. That is simply that this band has a passion for their music and mission, and they use that passion to their fullest ability.
In Worldwide, all the elements of 'good music' are drawn together to form one remarkable disc. First of all, it is "built around the theme of committing your life to following Christ, wherever He sends you." That message is primarily expressed through the lyrics of every song, giving inspiration and encouragement, and a real sense of God's love and personal submission to Him as you listen every time.
Another element is the instruments - which, in Worldwide, range from violins and cellos, to electric guitar and slamming drums; giving the two extremes of sounds and tempos all throughout the album. And not even necessarily in separate songs… some combine all these instruments in one, overall creating beautiful and totally ear-catching tunes.
And last, but not least of course, there is the singing itself that's a major draw. Mark Stuart has got such a unique voice that adds interest and a distinctive impression; and combining that with the backing vocals (and also the occasional lead vocals of guitarist Tyler Burkum), they together create wonderful harmonies that enhance every song.
The album starts out grabbing your attention immediately with the forceful "Worldwide One" - a tune that's strong and loud with a major focus on guitar work…. an overall pure rock and roll tune. "Church Punks" follows this, continuing in the same feel, but turns it up a notch and takes it to more of a punk feel (as the title insinuates) with the bouncy and catchy drum beat and guitar work that punk bands tend to have. I don't think I'd enjoy a full album of Audio Adrenaline doing this style of music, but in this it's fun and interesting to get a taste of it. "Worldwide Two" and "Start a Fire" (found towards the end of the album) are other songs in this heavier rock and roll style. They're all fun and good additions to the album, definitely adding a lot of interest.
Quite a number of songs are reminiscent of Audio Adrenaline's original roots - upbeat tempos, lots of great guitar and drum work, harmonious vocals and just an overall fun and entertaining sound. On Worldwide, songs like "Dirty," "Strong," "Pour Your Love Down," "Go and Be," and "Miracle" really take on this sound with their strong and catchy choruses, up beats, and notably inspiring lyrics.
Then it has a couple of slower songs that are, in my opinion, some of the best songs that really stand out amongst the rest.
Burkum takes lead vocals on "Pierced," a personal favourite. It's a slow song, but very melodic and calming - yet in no way boring. It's got a strong bridge that adds a bit of extra intensity to the song, but overall it's a song that simply makes you want to stop what you're doing and just listen. And the lyrics are of course another draw to this as they're quite personal… but also very connecting.
"Leaving Ninety-Nine" is another slower song that is, again, beautiful yet catchy. This focuses a lot on the instrumental side (featuring violins, etc.) giving it that melodious feel. But it's also got a little bit of edge worked into a section of the song that adds to it all and makes it an amazing song on the whole.
The closing is "Ocean Floor Radio Remix" - a great version of this already eminent tune. This remix is a lot more centred around piano as the main instrument (evident especially at the beginning and end) and is overall a bit more instrumental than the original. But the remix has in no way taken away from the original version… in fact; if I had to choose I would prefer this one.
Overall, Worldwide is a disc that you can put on and never want to push 'skip' on a song. It's a thoroughly enjoyable ride all the way through, that - though the songs are all diverse - flows very nicely and has a great deal of interest from start to finish. It will no doubt be a celebrated disc for years to come, with its style and message that doesn't grow old. I highly recommend it!
