**Look Around (Anthony Rapp album)**
**Definition:**
*Look Around* is the debut solo studio album by American actor and singer Anthony Rapp, released in 2000. The album showcases Rapp’s blend of rock and pop influences, featuring introspective lyrics and a diverse range of musical styles.
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# Look Around (Anthony Rapp album)
## Overview
*Look Around* is the first solo album by Anthony Rapp, an American actor and singer best known for his work in musical theatre, particularly his role as Mark Cohen in the original Broadway cast of *Rent*. Released in 2000, the album marked Rapp’s transition from primarily theatrical performances to a recording artist with a focus on contemporary rock and pop music. The album features a collection of original songs that explore themes of personal reflection, relationships, and self-discovery.
## Background
Anthony Rapp gained widespread recognition in the mid-1990s through his role in *Rent*, which earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Following his success on stage, Rapp sought to expand his artistic expression by creating a solo album that would allow him to explore his musical interests beyond the confines of musical theatre. Collaborating with various producers and musicians, Rapp developed *Look Around* as a project that combined his theatrical sensibilities with a more mainstream rock sound.
## Recording and Production
The recording of *Look Around* took place in the late 1990s, with sessions held in several studios across the United States. Rapp worked closely with producers who helped shape the album’s sound, blending acoustic and electric instrumentation with layered vocal arrangements. The production aimed to highlight Rapp’s distinctive voice and storytelling ability, while incorporating elements of alternative rock, pop, and singer-songwriter traditions.
## Musical Style and Themes
*Look Around* is characterized by its eclectic mix of musical styles, ranging from upbeat rock tracks to introspective ballads. The album’s sound reflects Rapp’s diverse influences, including classic rock, folk, and contemporary pop. Lyrically, the songs delve into themes such as identity, love, loss, and the search for meaning. Rapp’s theatrical background is evident in the narrative quality of the lyrics and the emotive delivery of the vocals.
## Track Listing
The album consists of a series of tracks that showcase Rapp’s songwriting and vocal range. While the exact track listing may vary depending on the release format, the core songs include:
1. „Look Around”
2. „Out Out Damn Spot”
3. „Always”
4. „Human”
5. „Room to Breathe”
6. „Goodbye”
7. „The Next Time”
8. „The Only One”
9. „Love Is a Crime”
10. „The Last Time”
Each track contributes to the album’s overarching themes and musical diversity.
## Reception
Upon its release, *Look Around* received a modest reception from critics and fans. While it did not achieve significant commercial success, the album was praised for its heartfelt songwriting and Rapp’s vocal performance. Fans of Rapp’s theatrical work appreciated the opportunity to hear his voice in a different musical context, and the album has since maintained a cult following among enthusiasts of musical theatre and alternative rock.
## Legacy and Influence
*Look Around* represents an important milestone in Anthony Rapp’s career, marking his evolution as a solo artist. The album paved the way for Rapp’s continued exploration of music outside of theatre, influencing his subsequent projects and collaborations. It also demonstrated the potential for actors known primarily for stage work to successfully cross over into recording careers.
## Personnel
The album features contributions from a range of musicians and production staff, including:
– Anthony Rapp – vocals, songwriting
– Producers – various (names not widely publicized)
– Session musicians – guitarists, bassists, drummers, keyboardists (specific credits vary)
The collaborative effort helped create the album’s rich and varied sound.
## Availability
*Look Around* was released on CD and digital formats, making it accessible to a broad audience. While it is not widely available in mainstream retail outlets, the album can be found through specialty music stores and online platforms.
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**Meta Description:**
*Look Around* is the debut solo album by Anthony Rapp, blending rock and pop influences with introspective lyrics. Released in 2000, the album highlights Rapp’s transition from musical theatre to solo recording artist.