David Cook: the first American Idol winner to release an album I actually like! I had a feeling this one might be good given his incredible voice, which booms with natural talent for singing classic rock.
A few more things in Cook's favor: Rob Cavallo is at the helm as producer, noted for his work with Green Day, Goo Goo Dolls, and Shinedown to name a few. Cavallo and mixer Chris Lord-Alge give the record a highly polished and thundering sound, but balance things well so that Cook's remarkable voice is not six feet under in the mix. And that is a good thing since some of these songs would only be so-so if sung be anyone else. Some other big hitters have helped Cook forge this impressive record full of radio friendly fodder, including some of his influences such as Chris Cornell, Ed Roland of Collective Soul, and Raine Maida of Our Lady Peace. In addition, Johnny Rzeznik (Goo Goo Dolls) helps with the rocking "Declaration" and Kevin Griffin (Better Than Ezra) contributes to the amazing "Avalanche". Consequently, there is a strong 90s alternative rock vibe permeating this record.
One thing about this record that REALLY irks me is the huge gap of silence separating "A Daily Anthem" and a hidden bonus track I'll call "Just A Kiss On The Neck". This makes track 12 over 15 minutes long, much of it being silence. Why do artists/producers still do this?! Seriously, what is the point? Make it a separate track for crying out loud!
David Cook will appeal to anyone who digs Daughtry, Shinedown, or Big Wreck. Born from American Idol, the record does veer more toward the 'Hollywood' side of things, but under the glitz and makeup is a true talent with his heart in it. The lyrics are certainly a step up from the typical sap that oozes from the nozzle of American Idol. On "David Cook", there are hooks aplenty, huge guitars, and an exceptionally talented dude who sings his lungs out - what more could you want?
iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 9, 10, 12 (actually two songs that you'll have to crop with MP3 DIRECT CUT or equivalent)
My CD had two bonus tracks...the stereotypical American Idol finale song, "The Time Of My Life", which really sticks out like a sore thumb here, and "Breathe Tonight", which is tons better - a catchy and upbeat tune that sounds right at home with the front half of the CD.
David Cook on MySpace. Official site.
Check out the video for "Light On"
2 comments:
You're a tone deaf SOB.. Cook is a good screamer, but a singer? Nope. He's a hack, and I've seen his kind all before. Nothing new, fresh or innovative her... and I much preferred his covers on Idol.. his original material sucks.
Another disgruntled David Archuleta fan!
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