The single, "Love Is An Animal" was written by Carr when he was only fifteen. He also wrote the single, "East Coast" and the title track "The Way the World Looks".[2] Carr stated that, "This new album is definitely more upbeat and a positive outlook for me, and has flavors from all my past and present influences. I think there's a broader sensibility to my work now. The big difference now is that I'm more comfortable with my musicianship."[2]
In December 2008, Carr, along with Jessica Mauboy, performed at Westfield stores. Carr performed the single "You" at the Sydney New Year's Eve concert in 2008. On 16 March 2009, Carr performed "Feels Like Woah" on So You Think You Can Dance. On 20 and 21 March, Carr performed in stores at Westfield Miranda, Sydney and Queen Street Mall, Brisbane. On 2 April 2009, Carr performed tracks from the album at the Sydney CityApple Store. In May 2009, Carr headlined his first national tour, "The Way The World Looks LIVE".
"You" was the first single released from the album. It was Carr's winners single for Australian Idol. In its third week on the Singles Chart, it managed to knock Poker FacebyLady Gaga from the #1 position, only for her to reclaim it the week after.
"Feels Like Woah" was the second single released. Due to stores selling the single early, the song debuted at #52 on ARIA Singles Chart. It later peaked at #14.
"Fearless" was released on 5 June 2009[1] It peaked at #51 on the ARIA Singles Chart
"Love Is An Animal" was the fourth and final single taken from the album. It was released on 18 September 2009 and peaked at #64 on ARIA Singles Chart.
The album met with positive reviews from critics. Christine Sams from The Sydney Morning Herald wrote that the album『Is an upbeat pop start to this album with Any Other Way and Carr's single, Feels Like Woah (with its touch of Bryan Adams) but it then veers into more gentle, playful territory with Hurricanes (delightful, with a distinct Jack Johnson feel). Further on, Light Years seems to come out of left field – dark and introspective. The mix keeps things interesting, with Carr emerging as a strong voice.』She went on to give the album 8/10. Oz Music Scene stated that "Even the missteps are enjoyable to listen to. It’s just that when Wes gets it right, he sets the bar so high. This is a really solid debut, the kind that takes up permanent residence in your stereo and leaves you anticipating what comes next."
Following the success of "You", the album entered the ARIA Albums Chart at #2. In its second week on the charts, it dropped to #4 and was certified Gold for sales in excess of 35,000 copies. The album peaked at #1 on the Australian Albums Chart (chart only for Australian origin), and at #2 on the Australian Physical Albums Chart.
