IS IT ANY WONDER - KEANE
After much critical acclaim in 2004 — and unbridled success everywhere but the United States — a rockier, dare we say, edgier Keane emerges on “Is It Any Wonder” from rousing sophomore set “Under the Iron Sea.” With an intro reminiscent of U2, the track traverses darker territories with a wide range of keyboards twisted to mimic electric guitars, thus spicing up an ensemble famous for its simple drums-and-piano melodies. Still undeniably catchy, the chorus questions, “All these days/After all the misery made/Is it any wonder that I feel afraid/That I feel betrayed,” which adds appealing, unexpected hints of bitterness and confusion to the mood. Billboard
