For the most of us it was about the age of 4 / 5 years with classical music and the 60th bands airing on radio at that time. All of us grew up similar and we were influenced by our musical parents.
How did your passion for creating music begin?
By listening to tons of great bands at the 60th , 70th and 80th. These bands were real musicians and there was tremendous talent out there.Starting with The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Queen, Chicago, Fleetwood Mac, Journey, Genesis, Eric Clapton, Santana and the list goes on and on.
What’s the story behind your current music project?
We started as a band with 5 close friends and professional musicians (therefore the name WORLD5) . Life put us in different locations, literally around the world on 3 different continents, but as the internet got better we decided to record music together again.
How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard your music before?
Our biggest advantage is the intentional influence from Europe, The United States and New Zealand , living in these countries and learning their culture and of course their music. We can blend all these influences together in our music and the listener will definitely hear it on our three album releases.
What is one thing you’ve learned that completely changed the way you make music?
Hearing the perfect compositions of for example Genesis / Peter Gabriel,( just an example) .
What tools, instruments, or software are essential in your creative process?
Good quality instruments and recording equipment , Pro Tools, and of course a good studio and producer.
Which indie artist or song are you loving right now?
There are amazing talents like Adele, who blows everyone’s mind with her vocals , on the male page also Teddy Swims , Jason Mraz and many more. These are also real musicians and don´t need AI or Auto-tune. AI or auto-tune is in my / our opinion a disgrace and people who are forced to use it, because they can´t sing or play a note right, don´t have a place in the music world. They should go back to whatever job they have and not pretend to be musicians!!
How have your personal experiences influenced your music and artistic vision?
We were always surrounded by music one or another way. Me personally, I grew up with classical piano played by my mum. All these great masters like Bach , Mozart, Chopin and so on. If you listen carefully to a bass in modern rock music, Bach is still all over the place.My Aha effect was when I first heard a Beatles song on the radio. That was were I decided to become a Rock / Pop musician.
What emotions or messages do you hope listeners take from your work?
World-piece and love in the world instead of any war. People should focus on the real values of life , like family, friends and relationships.
What’s the most important lesson music has taught you so far?
Music is the universal language and brings people closer to each other.
What is a dream venue or festival you would love to perform at?
Dodger stadium , LA.
If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, who would it be and why?
Paul McCartney – he knows how to write music ,he is a musical legend.
Where can our listeners follow and support your music?
There is something timeless about songs
that focus on love not as fleeting excitement, but as companionship
built through trust, sacrifice, and shared experiences. World5’s “You And I”
embraces that philosophy with sincerity, offering a heartfelt anthem
dedicated to lasting relationships and emotional connection. Rather than
relying on grand declarations or overly dramatic sentiments, the track
finds its strength in simplicity and honesty. Through thoughtful lyrics
and an inviting musical backdrop, World5 crafts a song
that feels deeply personal and universally relatable. The result is a
composition that captures the quiet beauty of standing beside someone
through every triumph and hardship life presents.
From its opening moments, “You And I”
establishes a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The arrangement is
polished without becoming overly elaborate, allowing melody and emotion
to remain at the forefront. Gentle instrumentation provides a steady
foundation while subtle layers add depth and richness to the soundscape.
Every element feels carefully balanced, creating a listening experience
that is smooth and comforting. There is an unmistakable sense of
optimism running throughout the song, reinforced by melodic progressions
that carry a natural sense of movement. Rather than overwhelming
listeners with excessive production techniques, World5 demonstrates
restraint, allowing the song’s message to breathe. This approach
imparts the track a timeless quality, reminiscent of classic pop-rock
compositions that prioritize substance over spectacle.
Lyrically, “You And I”
succeeds because of its genuine portrayal of partnership. The words
speak of two people supporting one another through life’s unpredictable
journey, emphasizing loyalty and mutual encouragement. Lines like “When I look into your eyes, I see the better half of me” and “You are ever near me with a loving hand, helping me become a better man” highlight
love’s transformative power without drifting into sentimentality. The
recurring chorus, centered around spending life together and walking “life’s highway,” reinforces
the idea of companionship as a shared adventure rather than a
destination. There is a refreshing sincerity to the writing that makes
the emotions feel authentic. Instead of presenting love as an idealized
fantasy, the song celebrates the everyday moments that provide
relationships their meaning and strength.
Equally impressive is the vocal
performance, which delivers the lyrics with warmth and conviction. There
is an approachable quality to the delivery that enhances the emotional
resonance of the composition. The vocals never strive for unnecessary
theatrics; instead, they communicate affection and gratitude with
understated confidence. This measured approach complements the song’s
themes perfectly, allowing listeners to connect with the message on a
more personal level. The harmonies and melodic phrasing contribute
additional layers of richness, helping to elevate key moments without
disrupting the flow of the arrangement. Together, the vocals and
instrumentation create an atmosphere that feels reassuring and
uplifting. It is the kind of song that invites reflection, reminding
listeners of the people who have shaped their lives through kindness,
understanding, and unwavering support.
Ultimately, “You and I” stands as a touching celebration of enduring love and companionship. World5
has created a track that values authenticity over excess, proving that
emotional depth often comes from honesty rather than complexity. Through
graceful production, memorable melodies, and lyrics that speak to the
importance of standing side by side through life’s challenges, the band
delivers a song that resonates far beyond its runtime. In a musical
climate often dominated by temporary trends, “You and I”
offers something refreshingly timeless. It is a reminder that love is
not merely about grand gestures but about the countless moments of
support, trust, and understanding that define a life shared. With its
uplifting spirit and heartfelt message, the track has a lasting impact
and serves as another example of World5’s ability to craft music with
genuine emotional substance.
Welcome "WORLD5" and thank you for having a chat with us.
- Thank you!
You guys aren't even from the same countries.. How did you ever even meet? and how does this affect your music?
-
The most important thing is to know each other musically very well
..otherwise we wouldn´t recommend to record an entire album that way we
did.
Steffen
(one of our guitar players) and me actually know each other from high
school and we played and recorded music since we were kids.
After
life separated us (he moved to New Zealand and me to the Canary
Islands), after a couple of years, (the internet was already a bit
better developed at that time), I thought let´s do something musically
together again.
We knew lots of great professional musicians, so we needed to find a way to connect musically and via the web.
The countries of these musicians are the United States, Germany, New Zealand, Spain and later on Sweden.
I would like to point out: WORLD5 is NOT an internet or Cyber band.
Bass och drums , guitars, keyboards and vocals ...we all played together.
All
the influences from these different countries do of course reflect in
our music and makes it interesting for listeners from all over the
Globe.
Multiple Grammy Award winner Randy Miller in Houston produced our first album”Global Experience”.
The
album made quite some waves ...and here we go, our third album “3” was
recently released by our record label Spectra Music Group.
WORLD5, What is the story behind the name and who came up with it?
- It was actually very easy to come up with our name: We are 5 musicians, literally spread around the world: WORLD5
What is your music about and how has that evolved over the years?
- Our music has always positive vibes and most of the lyrics are about human relationships.
We did of course evolve over the years as a band, just check out our 3 album releases.
How do you hope your music will inspire/influence your listeners/fans?
- Positive vibes are always something everybody can connect to.
Our music is very easy to access for everyone. We don´t want to “show off” or complicate our songs.
With
how the world looks today, do you feel like artists should "stay in
their lane" and just produce music? or do you feel like as artists, you
should try to get your voice heard?
- Artist shouldn´t stay in the lane, as soon as you follow a trend it´s already over.
Don´t follow trends, create your own trends. Follow your instincts and stay with them.
What are you currently working on and what are your plans for the future?
- We are always creative and write songs, as soon as we have enough good material, we will record it and release it.
What is the one thing you want to tell your fans?
- Enjoy our music ..we are writing it for you!!
What is the one thing you would want the music industry to know?
-
As an artist and also as a music consumer we think the music industry /
record labels have to sit down and rethink if they really want to
deliver their music to companies with crappy sounding low quality MP3s
instead of focus on quality.
The
sad thing nowadays is that a lot of (mostly younger listeners) don´t
even know how music really sounds.They think it sounds and was recorded
like they hear them on these crappy sounding outlets.
We recommend: Listen to a real records and you can feel and hear the huge difference.
It will be a real life experience!
And that was my chat with "WORLD5".
and I must say, it makes me smile everytime I hear a story about how music can connect people from all over the world.
WORLD5 announces the release of their third studio album, 3, now available in both vinyl and CD formats. Following its successful digital release through Spectra Music Group, the album is now accessible to collectors and music enthusiasts who appreciate physical editions.
World5, the
globe-spanning quintet whose musical tapestry weaves threads from the
US, Sweden, and New Zealand, has once again delivered a sonic gem with
their latest single, “You And I,” a captivating duet featuring the
ethereal vocals of Jonna Sailon. This track, plucked from their
acclaimed album “3,” is more than just a song; it’s a carefully crafted
emotional landscape, a testament to the enduring power of love and
connection, all wrapped in a warm, nostalgic embrace. “You And I” is a
journey through the multifaceted terrain of human relationships,
exploring themes of vulnerability, resilience, and the transformative
power of love.
Since their inception
in 2011, World5 has consistently demonstrated a mastery of blending
diverse musical influences, earning them a devoted following and
critical acclaim. Their previous albums, “Global Experience” and
“Heartbeat of the World,” boasting contributions from Grammy
Award-winning talents, solidified their reputation for producing
high-quality, emotionally resonant music. Now, with “You And I,” they
delve deeper into the realm of heartfelt storytelling, crafting a duet
that feels both intimate and anthemic. The band’s commitment to sonic
excellence and lyrical depth is evident in every note and carefully
chosen word. Their journey as a band, navigating diverse musical
backgrounds and cultural influences, has culminated in a sound that is
uniquely their own, a testament to the power of collaboration and
artistic vision.
The song’s sonic
architecture is a masterclass in blending the best of late 20th-century
pop-rock. The shimmering, crystal-clear production immediately
transports listeners to an era where radio-ready melodies reigned
supreme, evoking the polished sheen of 1980s pop-rock and the heartfelt
sincerity of 1990s AOR. Lou Evans’ soulful male vocals, warm and
inviting, lay the foundation for a narrative of personal transformation
and newfound love. His voice, rich with emotion and nuance, carries the
weight of past experiences and the hope of a brighter future.
When Jonna Sailon’s
voice enters, the song blossoms into a true duet, a harmonious interplay
of two distinct yet complementary timbres. Their voices intertwine,
creating a palpable sense of warmth and intimacy, as if inviting the
listener into a private moment of shared affection. The soaring
choruses, undeniably catchy and radio-friendly, echo the enduring appeal
of adult-oriented rock, their melodies designed to linger in the memory
long after the song concludes. The seamless blend of their vocal styles
creates a captivating dynamic, each voice enhancing the other,
resulting in a truly unforgettable listening experience.
The guitar solo, a
hallmark of the genre, is a masterstroke of melodic phrasing and
emotional expression. It’s a nod to the arena rock giants of the past,
imbued with an air of nostalgia, yet delivered with a contemporary
polish. This instrumental interlude serves as a powerful emotional
release, mirroring the lyrical themes of vulnerability and resilience.
The solo’s soaring notes and intricate runs evoke a sense of freedom and
passion, adding another layer of depth to the song’s emotional
landscape.
Delving into the
lyrics, “You And I” paints a vivid picture of a relationship that has
transformed the narrator’s perspective. The opening lines speak of a
past marred by distorted reflections, a sense of incompleteness. The
arrival of the “you” in the narrative marks a pivotal shift, a moment of
clarity where the past is eclipsed by the present, and the heart finds
its missing piece. The lyrics are a testament to the power of love to
heal and transform, to bring light into the darkest corners of the soul.
The song explores the
themes of unwavering support and mutual upliftment. The lyrics speak of a
“loving hand,” a constant presence that provides strength during
moments of weakness. This unwavering support, a cornerstone of any
enduring relationship, is celebrated with a sense of gratitude and
wonder. The song recognizes that true love is not just about romance,
but also about being a source of strength and comfort for one another,
through thick and thin.
The chorus, a
declaration of enduring love, serves as the song’s emotional core.
Phrases like “forever in love,” “no doubts anymore,” and “still standing
strong” resonate with a sense of unwavering commitment and shared
triumph. The repetition of “You and I” emphasizes the unity and strength
found in their connection. The chorus is an anthem of hope and
resilience, a reminder that love can conquer all obstacles.
The lyrics also
acknowledge the inevitable challenges of life, the “memories” that “make
me torn” and the “pain” that “cuts right through my soul.” However,
these moments of vulnerability are met with the restorative power of
love, a simple kiss capable of restoring balance and harmony. The song
doesn’t shy away from the complexities of human relationships,
recognizing that even the strongest bonds can be tested, but it
ultimately affirms the power of love to overcome adversity.
The narrative arc of
the song speaks of a journey towards love, a “road suddenly appeared,” a
moment of serendipitous connection. The lyrics express a sense of
destiny, a belief that their meeting was “meant to be,” a testament to
the power of fate. The song celebrates the magic of finding love when
you least expect it, the feeling that two souls were destined to be
together.
The final verses delve
into the transformative power of the relationship, moving beyond mere
companionship to a sense of profound aliveness. The lyrics speak of a
feeling that “no one can ever change,” a deep-seated conviction that
their connection is unique and irreplaceable. The song culminates in a
powerful affirmation of the enduring nature of their love, a bond that
has stood the test of time and continues to grow stronger with each
passing day.
“You And I” is a
testament to World5’s ability to craft emotionally resonant music that
transcends geographical boundaries and cultural differences. It’s a song
that speaks to the universal human experience of love, loss, and
redemption, delivered with a polished professionalism and a heartfelt
sincerity. Fans of melodic rock, AOR, and duets that tell a compelling
story will find themselves captivated by this timeless gem. World5 has
once again proven their mastery of the genre, delivering a song that is
both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary, a testament to the
enduring power of love and the unifying language of music. This single
is not just a song; it’s an experience, an invitation to reflect on the
power of connection and the enduring beauty of love.
World5 was dreamed up and created by five close friends/musicians. Despite being scattered across the world, they are united by their camaraderie and passion to collaborate. Stylistically, they revive pop rock as Phil Collins and Elton John did it, detailing it with their own personal and creative touches. It is expansive, explorative, and beautifully expressive.
Their song ‘I Get It’, a confessional letter that is penned by a man to his partner, acknowledging the strains in their relationships and reminding her the foundation of their love and its power.
The track is heartfelt. Crafted with seamless acoustic waves, warm melodies, and a vocal expression that is so authentic and driving that it fills the room, and inflates the spirit. And you can feel the emotions that ground the protagonist flowing through it, reaching you, passing it on.
Each element is forged and played in thematic congruence, as if it was held in the palm of their hand and reinforced with every arc. And flowing into the climax, an anthemic vocal build nicely wraps it all up and sets the values and tone for the future. Listen Now!
The track is available for streaming on popular sites like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and Amazon Music!
You can listen to ‘I Get It’ by World5 here – https://www.goodmusicradar.com/review/world5-i-get-it/
WORLD5’s III is a shining example of pop-rock that bridges cultures and emotions, released on May 10, 2024, via the Spectra Music Group. This 11-track album presents a heartfelt exploration of human relationships, underscored by the band’s characteristic blend of pop, rock, and soul influences. With powerful vocals from Lou Evans and a globally influenced soundscape, III is an immersive listening experience that showcases WORLD5’s growth as artists.
The album opens with "I Get It," a track that immediately captures attention with its emotive lyrics and polished instrumentation. Tracks like "You and I," featuring Jonna Sailon, and "Cry for the Children" reflect the band’s ability to balance poignant themes with accessible melodies. Meanwhile, songs like "Bellacita" and "Be You" showcase their versatility, blending soulful grooves with contemporary pop-rock sensibilities.
WORLD5’s strength lies in their global collaboration. With members hailing from the United States, Sweden, and New Zealand, their music embodies diverse influences, creating a unique sound that resonates universally. This international dynamic is brought to life by Lou Evans’ evocative vocals,
Joe Gavito’s multi-instrumental prowess, Steffen Goeres’ intricate guitar work, Jimmy Olsson’s basslines,and Raimund Breitfeld Sailon’s rhythmic precision. Guest contributions, including saxophone by Stephan Goessl and keyboards by Charles Leimer, add further texture to the album.
Standout tracks like "My Life My Soul (Tamara's Song)" and "A Moment in Time" exemplify the emotional depth that defines III. The album’s themes of love, resilience, and connection are universally relatable, while the band’s polished production ensures a captivating sound throughout.
WORLD5 has built a reputation for their seamless blend of international styles, and III solidifies their place in the modern pop-rock landscape. Critics have praised the album’s ability to combine emotional storytelling with sophisticated arrangements, with Skope Magazine highlighting its "true purpose and global connection," and Razorback Magazine commending its "unforgettable listening experience."
III brings a journey that reflects WORLD5’s dedication to meaningful music and their ability to connect with listeners around the world. For fans of melodic pop-rock with a global twist, III is a must-listen, offering a thoughtful and expertly crafted collection of songs that leave a lasting impression.
WORLD5's third studio album, aptly titled "3," is a masterful
collection of pop-rock tracks that delve into the intricate tapestry of human
relationships. Comprising 11 meticulously crafted songs, this album is a
testament to the band's artistic growth and evolution. With their unique blend
of pop, rock, and soul, WORLD5 has created an album that is not only cohesive
but also deeply emotive and relatable.
At the heart of "3" is lead singer Lou Evans, whose powerful and emotive
vocals serve as the cornerstone of the album's sound. Evans' voice
effortlessly captures the highs and lows of the human experience, drawing
listeners into the stories woven throughout the album. From the first track to
the last, his vocal performance is both captivating and profoundly moving,
adding a layer of depth and authenticity to the band's music.
One of the standout features of "3" is its cohesiveness. Each song on the
album seamlessly flows into the next, creating a continuous and immersive
listening experience. The band's signature sound—a harmonious blend of pop,
rock, and soul—is evident in every track, showcasing their ability to fuse
different genres into a singular, distinctive style. This blend is not only a
testament to their musical versatility but also to their commitment to
creating meaningful music that resonates with a wide audience.
The album opens with a burst of energy, immediately drawing listeners in with
its catchy melodies and infectious rhythms. As the album progresses, the songs
explore various facets of human relationships, from the joy of love to the
pain of loss and everything in between. Each track is a journey in itself,
offering insights and reflections on the complexities of connecting with
others. WORLD5's passion for their craft shines through in every song on "3." Their
dedication to creating music that speaks to the soul is evident in the
thoughtful lyrics, intricate arrangements, and emotive performances. This
album is not just a collection of songs; it is a heartfelt exploration of what
it means to be human and to relate to others.
"3" is more than just an album—it's a testament to WORLD5's growth and
evolution as artists.
Over the course of their career, the band has
continually pushed the boundaries of their sound, experimenting with new
styles and techniques while staying true to their core. With "3," they have
reached a new pinnacle of artistic achievement, delivering an album that is
sure to leave a lasting impression on listeners. In conclusion, WORLD5's "3" is a soulful and cohesive work of pop-rock that
takes listeners on an emotional journey through the landscape of human
relationships. With its powerful vocals, signature sound, and heartfelt
songwriting, this album is a shining example of the band's passion and
artistry. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to their music, "3" is an album
that deserves a place in your collection. It is a profound and moving work
that will resonate with anyone who has ever experienced the highs and lows of
human connection.
Don’t miss Lou M Evans with Pop Rock Band, WORLD5.
Lou
has been showcased with outstanding talents such as LeAnn Rimes, Lorrie
Morgan, America, Carrie Underwood, Bo Bice, Waylon Payne, James
McCartney (Son of Paul McCartney), Todd Rundgren, Gregory Page, Billy
Galewood (aka Bushwalla, co-songwriter of Jason Mraz), Toca Rivera
(Jason Mraz percussionist/background vocalist), and Con Brio.
Lou
Evans is a singer/songwriter based in the San Francisco Bay Area. He
played professional baseball in the Miami Marlins Minor League system
from 2001-2005. In 2005, he decided to pursue his burgeoning music
career. An American Idol Season 4 contestant, lately Lou has been
writing new music with WORLD5.
The information that accompanies this 3rd WORLD5 album, with a perfectly calligraphic logo, is as concise and simple as
it is interesting and illustrative at the same time. Founding members Raimund Breitfeld Sailon (drums) and Steffen Goeres (guitars), along with Joe Gavito (guitars, keyboards, vocals and production) and the additions of Jimmy Olsson (bass) and Lou Evans (lead
vocals), complete this new line up of a band with musicians distanced
and dispersed around the globe. In fact, the cover represents that
distant group reality and that World adequately, that musical and
virtually physical union of 5 musicians in front of the immensity of our
beautiful Planet.
Their previous albums were “Global experience” (2012) and “Heartbeat of
the world” (2016). On May 10, Spectra Music Group will publish this
album titled“III” that begins deliciously with “I get it”,
the tambourine protagonist, in a whisper sung with delicacy and
melodious vocalizations, gains ground and consolidates itself in musical
greatness, this extremely sharp singer. Tommy Shaw level packed with sonic soul. Beautiful with the relevant acoustic and electric guitars, a wonderful duet shared with Jonna Sailon enters the scene with the re-recorded of their debut “You and I” together with the angelic and imposing fine voice of Lou Evans. It is Pop Rock with an octane Soul “Just another night”, the quality of Mike & the Mechanics
prevails and you dismantle the ease of the Paul Carrack feeling, a shy
and slow saxophone that is peaceful until you savor the blissful
rhythmic tranquility of a jazzy exercise of well-deserved success
commercial. These songs like “Cry for the Children” could be part of the list of wonderful compositions tempered by Richard Marx and Clif Magness or included in the enormous albums by Chicago, Michael Thompson Band, Generation Radio or Soleil Moon.
It contours and entangles in elements of international, commercial, exquisite, flamenco and deep turn like “Bellacita”, the bits of Latin Rock filter in guitars and tasty percussion calculated between the Maná accentuating his personality and the luxurious Santana
more Pop. That line with warbles drawn by Soul and mixing Blues guitar
with pop velvet continue to lean towards Latin American and Soft Rock in “Be you”.Lou Evans has religion in his racial expression like Glenn Hughes at low volume and without exaggeration, we pray for the human essence in “That Kind of guy” and it reminds me of female voices at Christmas, with precision sewing and raised hands like Jaime Kyle , Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, Beyoncé, Celine Dion or Lady Gaga. My things….
The electroacoustics dominate the panorama of WORLD5 and provide them
with personality and quality, the rhythm section gives them therapy and
the solo voice hovers over the “everything” exposed. As an example, the
happy “That’s how she plays the game”.
The general and simple proposal of melodies that are difficult to
interpret is charming, they recreate brilliant sound elements of Eagles, Poco, Steely Dan, 10cc or Hall & Oates.“A moment in time” reminds me of RTZ by Brad Delp (RIP) and the adult Country Rock guitars are uplifting. “My life, my soul (Tamaras song)” has
a 100% solo and instrumental intro and development. Another delicacy
and demonstration of tasty musicality, a delicacy that arrives in 5
minutes to break the temporal rule of Pop and add virtuous contrast.
They end with a loquacious dialogue between strings, percussion and
relaxed vocals in “You are my why.”
He can DJ like Peter Cetera, caress like Antonio Vega, breathe deeply
like Richard Marx, smell like hot coffee like Paul Carrack, proudly
display Jason Scheff’s last name or place front-line vocalists like
Larry King, Billy Trudel, Glen Burtnik, Brett Walker, Lars Säfsund and
on their website they mention Bobby Kimball, Jason Mraz and Brandon
Boyle. You will love the sincere accentuations seeking to know the “why”
to decipher it with human and musical tenderness. There is nothing more
to say or add praise about the refined and immense songs of this
magnificent “III” by WORLD5.
I love how they call this pleasant album…”Pop Rock with a global influence”, and
they also stylistically describe each song specifying and
differentiating them between…”Pop Rock”, “Soft Rock”, “Ballad” or “Adult
Contemporary”. This fact, which facilitates and guides the orientation
of this calm review without any type of objection or embarrassment on my
part. Also, for curious completists, I recommend going back and
searching ViriAor to read Rocky’s review of his previous album from
2016. WORLD5 create songs that do not exceed 4 minutes in length but
tend to leave you with a deep feeling of extensive and lasting music.
