Rock solid is probably the best way to describe the major label debut from American Idol champion David Cook. The technical precision of his stellar voice sets him apart from a number of other post-grunge competitors. In addition, the album David Cook is a well selected and well programmed set of songs that range across sensitive ballads, towering anthems, and gutsy rockers. Cook's American Idol fans will be pleased, and he is likely to gather a significant number of new followers among previously skeptical rock fans.
Stellar Singing Enhances the Rock Growl
Perhaps the most valuable impact American Idol has had on popular music is the influx of new artists with stellar singing capabilities. David Cook proved on American Idol that his voice was an impressive enough instrument that he could step outside his rock comfort zone to tackle something as far removed as a Phantom of the Opera showstopper. This vocal skill makes a rousing anthem like the album opener "Declaration" stand out from the pack. David Cook's voice has a resonance and range that doesn't rely on but is enhanced by a raspy rock growl.
David Cook Dials Up the Intensity
Although the bulk of David Cook is filled with arena rocking anthems like the hit single "Light On," there are points at which Cook dials up the intensity and truly soars. The rocker "Bar-ba-sol" has a swagger and crunch that raises the stakes to another level. Near the end of the album David Cook bares his soul on the ballad "Permanent," written for his brother Adam who is battling cancer. Once again the intensity of Cook's music ratchets up in a way that moves his performance to the top ranks of current pop/rock performers.
Top David Cook Tracks
- "Declaration"
- "Light On"
- "Bar-ba-sol"
- "Mr. Sensitive"
- "Permanent"
Following the Trail Blazed By Daughtry
Chris Daughtry, with his band Daughtry, broke down the door for American Idol rock performers to find a place on pop radio and in the hearts of pop music consumers. David Cook charges through that opening in search of being an even bigger star. He has already been successful in being the first rock performer to win American Idol. With the quality of this album, he has the potential to become one of the most successful of all Idol champions with the music-buying public.
