• Record Label: Jive
  • Release Date: Nov 11, 2008
User Score
8.2

Universal acclaim- based on 333 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 55 out of 333

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  1. KatherynH.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    This album is amazing when you consider the time constraints under which it was made. Even the critics who did not give the album a good review cound not deny that David Archuleta has an amazing voice. Instead, they chose to critique production values, song selection, and, most puzzling of all, David Archuleta as a person. Some of the best tracts, by the way, are on the iTunes preorder This album is amazing when you consider the time constraints under which it was made. Even the critics who did not give the album a good review cound not deny that David Archuleta has an amazing voice. Instead, they chose to critique production values, song selection, and, most puzzling of all, David Archuleta as a person. Some of the best tracts, by the way, are on the iTunes preorder deluxe version. Also, the Walmart CD has a bonus tract "Works for Me" that just may be the best song amongst the entire group, and which was co-written by David and Daniel Bedingfield. Perhaps if these critics had been able to include the bonus tracts in their reviews, they may have given the album a higher rating. Expand
  2. CarmenL
    Jun 30, 2009
    10
    Fantastique. I loved every second! He's amazing. Vocals are great, no? Crush is my favorite song here.
  3. JulieF
    Nov 19, 2008
    10
    Love this album. The best I've heard in a long time. David Archuleta rocks!
  4. HollyS.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    How refreshing and wonderful. You cannot deny that David Archuleta's voice is unique and beautiful. The songs on the album are catchy and addicting. Great job David!
  5. LornaL.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    I love this album. There is such a fixture of styles with David's always incredible smooth vocals.
  6. Matt
    Nov 14, 2008
    7
    I am not wowed by this collection of songs, but the talent of his voice is unmistakable. I predict he will eventually find a niche musically and shine.
  7. DanielleG.
    Nov 16, 2008
    3
    A snoozer. Nice voice but the songs are dull. Standard poppy licks with gooey lyrics. Even the Robbie Williams song is 'prettified' to a boring ballad without any of the personality or angst Williams brought to it. Chris Brown is still the best male pop star out there - vocally and musically.
  8. MattR
    Nov 16, 2008
    10
    I really like this album. Catchy tunes showcasing his vocal ability.
  9. KerriO.
    Nov 19, 2008
    10
    Amazing album. I really didn't care for David's music too much on idol, but since he put out Crush and then I bought the album I absolutely have fallen in love with this guy. Crush is amazing and the album is fantastic. If you haven't bought it you need to. I love it! There are so many hits on there. He has a beautiful voice.
  10. heartsong
    Nov 19, 2008
    10
    What an amazing talent. Considering that this is David Archuleta's first album and the time frame he had to create it, I think it's incredible! I'm truly a fan for life.
  11. DavidG.
    Nov 19, 2008
    10
    This is the best Album ever! I love all of the songs and bonuses! Go David!
  12. EricaD.
    Nov 19, 2008
    10
    I think this is a great first album. David's voice is intoxicating. I am a fan for life. I love the songs "Barriers" ,"Don't Let Go" and "Desperate"--- great job David!!! I adore all the bonus tracks too!
  13. Fancy.
    Nov 19, 2008
    10
    Something for everybody, and with that voice, all of it is a treat. Check out the Walmart Bonus Track, "Works for Me!", for a sample of what's to come from this young artist.
  14. BeccaP.
    Nov 19, 2008
    10
    As a child of the late 70ss, this album has brought music back into my life. Love the different genre of songs in this album. David has the ability to adjust his voice to the flavor of the song, for example, In Don't Let Go which has a "coldplay" sound to it, and it's amazing that this is David singing. My 16 yr son was listening to this song and he couldn't believe it was As a child of the late 70ss, this album has brought music back into my life. Love the different genre of songs in this album. David has the ability to adjust his voice to the flavor of the song, for example, In Don't Let Go which has a "coldplay" sound to it, and it's amazing that this is David singing. My 16 yr son was listening to this song and he couldn't believe it was David. He totally loved it. There is R/B in a few songs which I totally love. David'srich and smooth voice is delightful and not to mention his failing falsetto. I thoroughly enjoyed this album. Just one thing that I have a problem with , there are not enough songs to wet my appetite!! I want more David!! My rating is a perfect 10!! Expand
  15. RebekahCole
    Nov 19, 2008
    10
    This is a great album with a variety of songs. David Archuleta's soaring vocals shine through as he connects you to the emotion of each song. It's a winner!
  16. ConnieL.
    Nov 19, 2008
    10
    I love this CD (as do both my 21 year old son and 19 year old daughter!) David has so much talent! I can't wait to watch him progress through the years!
  17. SusanM.
    Nov 19, 2008
    10
    Every single song is worth listening to over and over again. The album has variety--pop, r&b, jazz, ballads. But most importantly, David Archuleta can sing with passion and has a voice of a soulful, melodic storyteller. Great freshman album!
  18. YahnsC.
    Nov 19, 2008
    10
    I love all the songs! David Archuleta is pure talent! Somebody out There, Worked For Me, You Can and My Hands are the best!
  19. DebbieH.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    I love David's album, every song that that blessed voice sings. I never preordered a CD before David, never requested songs on the radio before David. Look what you have done to us David, we Love You Forever.
  20. CathyT.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    Love the album. So many hit songs. This kid has so much potential. Can't wait for more.
  21. WendyC.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    This album is fantastic! There is something for everyone, including a few surprises. His vocals are flawless. If this is David's first album has to offer, I can't wait for the next one.
  22. LaurieR.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    I love this album. David's voice is unforgettable and flawless.
  23. KristynG.
    Nov 25, 2008
    0
    Boring, slow, and not catchy. All sounds the same. One of the worst debuts of an Idol
  24. CarrieT.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    I haven't heard a CD that I've wanted to listen to over and over and over again in years!! David's voice and emotions come through on every song which are all crazy catchy and addictive (I'll admit I cried when I first heard To Be With You). What an amazing first effort. David is AWESOME! (and adorably hot!).
  25. LauraB.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    His voice is silky-smooth and simply a pleasure to listen to. Many of the songs are purely pop genius. Infectious beats and catchy hooks.
  26. Natashaf.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    Fantastic debut album! Can't stop singing along!
  27. TonyP
    Jan 16, 2009
    10
    Just unforgettable, David Archuleta is one very special singer/person, and this album demonstrates it, he is actually the first celebrity now (as of Jan 15 in Live Search xRank) does it say something? Big success ! He is the kind of kid every person wants to have around.
  28. DavidM
    Feb 13, 2009
    9
    The voice of a generation. Who can compare? However, I would agree that the song-writing leaves something to be desired. "Crush" is excellent; "Barriers" is cheesy yet vocally magisterial. But, hey, the boy's so very young, so he'll definitely have additional opportunites to showcase that incredible instrument of his. Kudos on a solid debut effort.
  29. ChristopherF
    Feb 22, 2009
    8
    David Archuleta has an amazing voice. His first album is full of very fun and catchy songs. His songwriters need to step up the quality of lyrics from what the average song has to offer here, but I cannot complain about the melodies or David's amazing performances. I am very excited to see what he will come up with next, and would definitely look into watching him live.
  30. DanielR
    Aug 28, 2009
    7
    david's cool, dont be too harsh on him..he has the voice he just needs the perfect hit!!
Metascore
58

Mixed or average reviews - based on 7 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 7
  2. Negative: 1 out of 7
  1. So, it delivers exactly what Archuleta promised on the show: something sweet and safe, utterly old-fashioned and forgettable.
  2. A silky tenor with a natural melancholy that makes him a heartbreaker by default. His charming debut exploits that very quality with some strokes of pop genius.
  3. Happily, in a genre where the urge is to err on the side of overwrought, someone smart decided to stick with tasteful, understated production. Archuleta's delivery is likewise low-key and attractive, if predictably generic.