Xdinary Heroes have distinguished themselves from other idol bands through their willingness to move past sentiment into whimsical theatricality. Early efforts in this vein weren’t quite to my taste, but they’ve found a satisfying middleground lately. New title track Voyager offers a slightly different sound for the group, bolstering their anthemic songwriting with celestial synth work.

I’ve always been a massive fan of moments when sci-fi and pop music mix. That synthesis formed a big touchstone of the 80s and supported much of my formative music taste. Something about big synths and equally big guitars will always get me. Voyager is not strictly 80s in nature, but it delivers a sprawling sense of fantasy. I wouldn’t be surprised if Xdinary Heroes were listening to bands like Muse when thinking about a track like this. They don’t color as far outside the lines as I’d like, nor do they find melodies that are quite worth the bombast undergirding them, but sometimes it’s the thought that counts and I very much appreciate Voyager‘s intentions.

In our modern economy of two minute singles, it’s also refreshing to hear a title track that gives itself time to explore a few different musical territories. Again, I wish these territories were a bit more compelling and that Voyager built to a climax worthy of its potential, but I’m having to remind myself again and again that beggars can’t be choosers. There’s plenty to admire here and I have a feeling that further listens will continue to draw out the song’s charms.

Grade: B