Manufacturer: RCA
American Idol winner David Cook is set to release his self-titled debut album on November 18th, 2008. Produced by Grammy winning Rob Cavallo (Green Day, Kid Rock), David Cook is a quality album full with radio hits. Cook co-wrote 9 songs from his debut, along with songwriters like Chris Cornell, Brian Howes & Cathy Dennis. The 1st single "Light On" was co-written by one of rock music's most influential innovators, Chris Cornell, lead singer and songwriter for Soundgarden and Audioslave, and acclaimed producer / songwriter Brian Howes, who has worked with superstar rock bands such as Hinder and Puddle of Mudd.
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Release Date: 2008-11-18
1: Declaration
2: Heroes
3: Light On
4: Come Back to Me
5: Life on the Moon
6: Bar-ba-sol
7: Mr. Sensitive
8: Lie
9: I Did It for You
10: Avalanche
11: Permanent
12: A Daily AntheM
13: The Time Of My Life(Bonus Track)
A very eclectic record
So I decided to actually write a CD review of my new favorite record and put it out there into cyberspace. Unless, you have been hiding under a rock, you have heard the name David Cook. I am what you would call a die hard fan of his since his appearance on the show back in the spring. So I was very excited to hear his major label debut record. (His second overall because he release an indie record Analog Heart in 2006.) So here it goes.
This record overall is very eclectic. Ir has some power ballad, a gritty rock song and a piano ballad. I really think that this record has something that will peak many musical tastes. Personally, I would have liked a little more edge but I understand why he chose the songs he did. If I had to pick two favorite tracks, it would have to be "Bar ba sol" and "Permanent" These two songs are the two extremes from the record. "Bar ba sol" is a very heavy, gritty song which I love to blare in my car. Then we have "Permanent" which is a bare piano,strings and vocal ballad written about Cook's brother who is battling brain cancer. I cried when I first heard it and still get goosebumps when I hear it.
Now on the art of the power ballad. I am in my 20s but I have a great appreciate for great 80s power ballads. I think David has crafted some great mid=tempo power ballads. "Declaration" and "A Daily AntheM" are two of my favorites and I really think they will get some commercial airplay. Also, the single "Light On" is a great piece that was penned by Chris Cornell. It has alot of rock influences and is a great song that I think will stand up over time. It has not been performing that well on the Top 40 charts but I think people will remember it. Besides rocks stars sell albums not singles.
Some of the other critics out there have called his CD "predictable" or "Daughtry 2.0." I think they are way off. In my humble opinion, I think he is a breath of fresh air to hit pop/rock in a long time. He has a great set of pipes and is a great performer. I think his album is quintessentially him and can stand on its own. Chris Daughtry did help pave the way for him on Idol but musically they are different people. Interestingly, I looked back at some review of Daughtry's debut and some of the same things were said. Some called him "a Nickelback ripoff" or "generic". All I have to say is that David Cook is a great live performer and Nickelback is not. Part nof what makes a great rock artist is great live performances. So there you go. I give this record an A- and 4 stars.
David Cook
I have been anxiously waiting for David Cook's new album to release and it did not disappoint. I love this album. Can't wait to see him live!
Not for grown-ups
A little dissapointed that David's exceptional voice barely peeks through the repetitious background music. In other words, it all sounded the same with the exceptions of tract 11 and the bonus. But then I'm of a different generation. Not the one that this is targeted for. I'm still a fan, still love his voice. I hope in the future he showcases his wonderful vocal range and reaches out to a broader audience.
Amazing First Release
It's and amazing first release and all the songs are hit singles. It is like a "best hits album" for most singers/bands.
Excellent vocals - great melodies - excellent lyrics
Well, I think that says it all, right? He has a great voice he uses to perfection in this CD. It has great melodies and excellent lyrics. I voted my fingers off for David during AI, because he was so different, talented and a gifted virtuoso performer. If you want a great listen, buy this CD.
The only negative I have of this CD is the picture of David on the cover, it's awful. I think it's an unfortunate choice.
