“This album is us appreciating how amazing this thing we have is. The realization of how lucky we are that we get to be part of something like this for 25 years, and to have built a community that cares for each other in the way it does. It’s not about any of us individually. When we all work together to make something happen, something bigger happens.” - Jono, Paavo and Tony – Above & Beyond.
If much of the mindset and mantra behind Above & Beyond over the last quarter of a century has been born from the idea of connection, then their fifth artist album ‘Bigger Than All Of Us’ is best summed up in one word: reconnection.
It’s been seven years since Jono Grant, Paavo Siljamäki and Tony McGuinness released their fourth electronic album, Common Ground. A #3 on the Billboard charts – an achievement that speaks to the British band’s huge, arena-to-amphitheatre scale profile in America, a level of success replicated in pretty much every other corner of the world.
The time since has seen a series of projects come to life both collectively and individually: 2019’s ambient, yoga-and-meditation-friendly album Flow State, streamed over 400 million times worldwide; a series of club ready instrumentals under the Tranquility Base moniker; radio records ‘See The End’, ‘Over Now’ and ‘Crazy Love’.
In the meantime, the band embarked on personal projects outside of the Above & Beyond framework. Grant collaborated with long time friend Daren Tate on 2022’s self-titled synthwave JODA album. In 2023 Siljamäki, reprised his P.O.S alias, releasing dance floor focussed album Deeper Tales. Last year, McGuinness dug in his own crates for Salt, an album based on a studio-freshened selection of emotional singer-songwriter compositions originally written as the ’90s rave and Britpop fever-dreams faded.
A worldwide touring schedule, their weekly Group Therapy radio show, and overseeing a family of iconic dance labels, Anjunabeats, Anjunadeep and, most recently, Anjunachill – it’s never quiet in the world of Above & Beyond.
But it’s the spirit of music uniting us all championed through their studio albums ‘Tri-State’, ‘Group Therapy’, ‘ We Are All We Need’ and ‘Common Ground’ that has been their most enduring appeal. Real life stories of hope, heartbreak and healing that bring together dance musics’ biggest global community.
“There are songs on here that have stood the test of time in our little world and have had a new life breathed into them by the process that we've adopted. But they're classic Above & Beyond songs, and I think they speak to the huge, worldwide effect that Above & Beyond has. A worldwide meaning. A worldwide connection.” - Above & Beyond
To browse the full 'Bigger Than All Of Us' merchandise collection, please visit the US-based Anjunastore.
[review top="1"]
[item value="10"]Bigger Than All Of Us by Above & Beyond[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Above & Beyond returns with their latest masterpiece, Bigger Than All Of Us, an album that seamlessly blends emotional depth with their signature melodic trance sound. Here’s a track-by-track journey through this evocative collection: Stepping In - An atmospheric opener with lush synth arrangements, setting the tone with its gentle build-up and ethereal vibes. Start A Fire (feat. Richard Bedford) - Richard’s stirring vocals ignite passion, perfectly paired with dynamic beats that evolve into an anthemic chorus. Carry Me Home (with Zoë Johnston) - Zoë’s heartfelt performance brings warmth and nostalgia, layered over delicate melodies that crescendo beautifully. Everywhere I Go - A reflective track with a compelling rhythm, capturing the theme of presence and memory with touching lyrics. When You Believe (with Victoria Horn) - Victoria’s soulful voice adds a rich texture, as the track explores themes of hope with an uplifting arrangement. Quicksand (Don’t Go) (with Zoë Johnston) - A hauntingly beautiful song with poignant lyrics, Zoë’s vocals float effortlessly over intricate soundscapes. Bigger Than All Of Us (with Justine Suissa) - The titular track shines with Justine’s ethereal voice, emphasizing unity and connection through powerful harmonies. Blood From A Stone (feat. Richard Bedford) - A darker, moodier piece showcasing Richard’s emotive delivery, complemented by brooding synth layers. Into The Light - This instrumental gem is a beacon of optimism, with pulsating beats and radiant melodies that inspire. Letting Go (with Malou) - Malou’s tender vocals breathe vulnerability into the track, exploring the bittersweet process of release. Here Before (with Oliver Smith and Opposite The Other) - A refreshing collaboration with a vibrant energy, featuring crisp production and catchy hooks. Sailing Off The End Of The World (feat. Richard Bedford) - A cinematic journey where Richard’s expressive voice narrates a tale of adventure and introspection. Ride At Dawn (with Zoë Johnston) - A track that feels like an early morning drive, filled with hope and new beginnings, highlighted by Zoë’s luminous vocals. Heartland (with Justine Suissa) - Justine’s serene voice guides listeners through a rich, melodic landscape that feels both intimate and expansive. ’Til I’m Home (feat. Richard Bedford) - A heartfelt ballad with Richard’s comforting vocals, wrapped in gentle instrumentals that evoke longing and warmth. Lullaby (with Zoë Johnston) - A perfect closer, this tender piece cradles the listener with soothing melodies and Zoë’s angelic voice. Bigger Than All Of Us is an immersive experience that showcases Above & Beyond’s ability to craft music that resonates deeply. It’s an album that speaks to the heart, inviting listeners on an emotional and sonic journey. #PureGold LoveIT [/content]
[item value="10"]Beat and Rhythm[/item][item value="10"]Basslines and Groove[/item]
[item value="10"] Melody [/item]
[item value="10"] Synths [/item]
[item value="10"]Breakdown[/item]
[item value="10"]Climax / Drop / Crescendo / Pay off moment[/item]
[item value="10"]Intensity, Drive and Energy[/item]
[item value="10"]Sound-design and Arrangement[/item]
[item value="10"]Overall Atmosphere[/item]
[item value="10"]Goosebumps / Shivers moments[/item]
[item value="10"]Emotional affinity and heartfelt moments[/item]
[item value="10"]Originality and Inventiveness[/item]
[item value="10"]Radio Friendly[/item]
[item value="10"]Vocals & lyrics[/item]
[item value="10"]You can’t get this memorable track out of your head[/item]
[item value="10"]It has potential to become an anthem or a classic[/item]
[/review]
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