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André Paine's rating
A drippier Coldplay
By
André Paine
13 May 2008
Ryan Tedder's biggest UK hit was actually sung by Leona Lewis: the One Republic frontman was the co-writer and producer of Bleeding Love.
The Colorado group had their own hit with Apologize, which was remixed by R&B super-producer Timbaland, who took them to his label after they became the most popular unsigned band on MySpace.
Based on this performance, Tedder shares the X Factor winner’s crushing lack of charisma. Yet, like her, he can also connect with an audience. It helped that he apparently went against doctor’s orders to play the show, arriving on crutches having snapped his Achilles tendon.
When they opened with Brent Kutzle playing cello alongside Tedder pounding the keyboard, One Republic seemed to promise something a bit different. But despite a few decent tunes, including the surging soft rocker Stop and Stare, they were more earnest than innovative.
Tedder clearly knows how to write a radio-friendly single, but he’s no rock star. His big, bland voice on Tyrant suggested a drippier Coldplay, while his anonymous band mates often sounded like an aimless version of U2.
The Tedder falsetto on Apologize was decent enough and his songs had a few affecting moments. But with a new Coldplay album on the way, what’s the point of One Republic?
Details are correct at the time of publication - please check with venue before booking.
Reader views (2)
why cant people see it for what it is..great talent.i have seen them live and they blew me away.cant wait to see them again.everyone out there BUY A TICKET you wont regret it.
- Heather, uk, 18/09/2008 23:30
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These guys were brilliant! OneRepublic put on one of the best live shows I've ever seen. The pulled off every song on their album live and sounded even better!
I'd give this show a 10 out of 10 and can't wait to see them again. I also don't know why the critic said a "drippier Coldplay"- I've seen Coldplay live 3 times and they couldn't pull of the stuff that these guys did last night musically or vocally, but then again I also don't think Coldplay are God's gift to music like Andre' Paine does. If he didn't like this band's album to begin with, then of course he wouldn't like the concert which I'm sure is the case. Why would a critic predisposed to disliking a band actually attend a concert of said band? pointless.
Do yourself a favour- check these guys out (if you like their tunes) next time they're in London- it'll be one of the best live shows you've ever been to- me and 5 of my mates had the best time.
- Jonathan, South London, 18/09/2008 22:30
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