//Neon Reviews: David Archuleta’s Self-titled Debut Album//
November 11, 2008 by Story Gilmore
Filed under Reviews
Season 7 of American Idol was sort of a let down. The drama factor was low, there were no William Hungs born and the talent was pretty mediocre. It did manage to produce a few stars: its reigning champ, incredible rocker David Cook and the silky smooth voiced youngster, runner-up David Archuleta. The kid affectionately known as Archie will one-up the season winner by releasing his self-titled debut album first.
Crush, David’s first single, starts things off. Though the song has the same mid-tempo pop sound that has made songs like Jordin Sparks’ Tattoo and Chris Brown’s With You popular, it’s definitely original for Archuleta since he is mostly known for singing ballads. In fact, mid-tempos and ballads are all you’re going to get on this album. But don’t think for a second you’re going to be bored to tears.
The set moves right along with beautiful numbers like second single Touch My Hand, A Little Too Not Over You and Barriers. One of the few true blue ballads, You Can, is a definite stand out. When David sings “If anyone can make me fall in love/You can/Save me from myself/You Can,” you can almost hear teenaged girls yelling I CAN!
While Running is probably the most upbeat song on the album, it’s one of the best at showing off this kid’s amazing set of pipes. This song also shows his AI critics that he can indeed be a contemporary artist.
If you weren’t convinced David Archuleta is the real deal yet, album closer Angels will seal the deal. This Robbie Williams remake is done remarkably well. It leaves you asking yourself why this guy didn’t win.
David stayed true to himself and made music that really works for his image and voice. That not-so-exciting season of American Idol brought us one of the most exciting new artists of the year. Guess it was good for something after all.
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WOW great review Story! very impress I guess I’ll at least listen to his album now. If its good enough I might buy.
i LOVE your review. thankyou so much.
for giving justice to his album.
i LOVE him && his album.! :)
Very good review, in a world where not all of the reviews have even been “fair” to this young man, let alone well-written. Archie is the real-deal, at least to those who really matter: the fans who buy the CDs. Look out, America and the world, David Archuleta has gone POP in a big, pleasing way.
Great review…well deserved!
David Archuleta IS the real deal, for sure. And to me, (and I think many others), that was clear from the minute he took the stage on AI.
I only disagree with you regarding Season 7…I thought is was the best unique array of types and talents and down-to-earth people (vs. just typical “star wanna-bes”)that AI’s had. Of course to me and DA’s many fans, he “made” the season the most exciting ever.
The CD is a great debut as they intended…a pop sound that reflects his youth, artistry and old soul…and foreshadows more to come from this very capable talent.
Good review. I agree, I think David’s album is a good one, and his voice really separates him from alot of mediocre pop singers.
Completly agree with this. David’s album is excellent for a freshman album. Really love “barriers” and “a little to not over you”. It is #1 on Itunes right now.
Yes, David is the real deal, this coming from someone who was so/so about American Idol in the past, but fell hard for the amazing voice and talents of David! We will see great things from this young man, and you are wise to recognize that- because you can tell the other hmmm.. “prof” reviewers-told ya so! He already has a big following, and it will only grow as he develops as an artist.
Thanks for the great review. David Archuleta is remarkable in many ways.
I love “You Can” also, but check out the Archuleta/Bedingfield bonus track on the Wal-mart album, I think it’s my new fav.
Thanks so much for this great review. It is all true!!!! David is such a talented young man. To think that he suffered from vocal chord paralysis; his voice is beyond amazing!! the feeling and emotion he puts performing each song is incredible. His first album is fantastic!!! each song is very special. David is also such a beautiful and wonderful human being. David Archuleta has it all!!!
I got the album yesterday and it’s FANTASTIC. Thanks for your wonderful review. I do wonder why he didn’t win.
Although, I think his lost in AI was a blessing. He will have a wonderful career and he deserves that. Not only he’s great singer but also great person. He inspire me so much in the way that I hard to explain.
Cook’s got an amazing voice too, but totally different genre. I can see the appeal of both of them. Archie made a first great album (I listened with my kid) who makes a great role model as well. That’s rare these days.
GREAT REVIEW :) DAVID ARCHULETA’S ALBUM IS A KNOCK OUT. GREAT MIX OF GENRES FOR ALL GENERATIONS TO LISTEN TO. LOVED THE MIX. DAVID IS A RARE GEM TO BEHOLD IN THE MUSIC BUSINESS. TO THINK THAT HE HAS ONLY JUST BEGUN, GIVES ME THE CHILLS.
David IS the real deal. Thanks for your insightful review.
I don’t think I gave Running the credit is was due. I’m going off to listen again.
David has indeed shown his versatility through song choice in this album and we get to listen to the results of his hard work. Aren’t we lucky?
His album is full of contemporary radio friendly songs. Some songs show off his vocal acrobatic skills that stand him out among current male artists. The album has something for everyone from rock, country, R&B to jazz. Archuleta’s vocal ability can cover many different styles of music, and it will be a shame if he doesn’t use his voice in maximum strength by making decision too early on which route he will concentrate on.
This was the best review I have read yet. It mirrors exactly how I feel even down to the songs! Some other reviews I have read, you could tell they didn’t even listen.
Yay…great review. Love the cd…catchy songs and David A’s voice is amazing and as smooth as ever.
I’m totally enthralled by this guys voice. These may be pop songs but he brings them to a different level!
PAM BOGDAN loves David
great review. :) i love the album to pieces. i really wish the bonus songs were added to it though. it’s sad reading a review knowing the best songs aren’t going to be reviewed.