David Cook
by David Cook
  • Record Label: RCA
  • Release Date: Nov 18, 2008
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 482 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 381 out of 482
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 482
  3. Negative: 96 out of 482

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  1. JeanV
    Nov 25, 2008
    9
    I thoroughly enjoyes listening to this CD. There is the harder rocking "Bar-Ba-Sol," "Mr. Sensitive",and hidden track "Kiss On The Neck", as well as the tender, heartfelt "Lie", "Permanent" and "Avalanche", as well as many songs that fall between these ends of the spectrum. There is truly songs for every listener to enjoy on this album, and I enjoy them all.
  2. KristinaG
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    I am in love with this album from start to finish. David indeed accomplished his goal with this amazing compilation of music!
  3. LeslieS
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    This album is really good. This would a great gift.
  4. RoseS.
    Nov 25, 2008
    8
    If there's one thing that I can give David Cook credit for in releasing his post-Idol, self-titled debut, it's the measure that he delivered an album that seems to appeal to a lot of different listeners within the pop-rock spectrum, and was crafted in such a short span of time. As well, David Cook asserts firmly whom he is as an artist, and crafts songs that are both in the vein If there's one thing that I can give David Cook credit for in releasing his post-Idol, self-titled debut, it's the measure that he delivered an album that seems to appeal to a lot of different listeners within the pop-rock spectrum, and was crafted in such a short span of time. As well, David Cook asserts firmly whom he is as an artist, and crafts songs that are both in the vein of his experiences ("Life on the Moon" is a brilliant contribution of the overarching experience of his Idol Journey, while "Permanent" accounts a heart-wrenching dedication to his brother Adam) and those that are fun to listen to in a live setting (the heavily riffed "Bar-ba-Sol" and building anthem "Declaration"). Others creatively play with a concept or idea that makes it vastly original compared to most radio rock songs ("Mr. Sensitive"). There are a few songs that seem to drag their heels a bit in initial listen ("I Did it for You" and "Come Back to Me" were among a few I noted), but as you come into them, you realize the meaning they hold and how cohesively they fit into the album, like almost a story folding from one song to the next. In the end, I can say with certainty that this is one of my favorite releases from an Idol winner to date, give or take a few slower spots. Hopefully in the next album, he can work out the kinks and feel free to take a few more liberties with the material.… Expand
  5. JessicaK
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    This has got to be the best album I have ever heard!
  6. KimF
    Nov 25, 2008
    9
    I really think that this record is awesome. Rarely do I listen to a CD and want to hear more than one song, it started it with liking 8, then 9, then after hearing it two or three times, I like 11 of the 12. Not bad, at all.
  7. suel
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    This cd is one of the greatest I have heard. all of the songs have a great message and vibe. will be a hit for sure.
  8. MaryL
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    I have listened to this CD repeatedly since I bought it. Each day a new song grabs me.
  9. MerriH
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    I was pleasantly surprised after listening to David Cook's new record. It has a nice balance of soft rock ballads and just head banging rock. The emotion he reveals in his voice makes me really want to listen to the words particularly in songs like Avalanche, Come Back to Me, and Lie. Although I don't like every song, there are some definite winners on this. Bar-Ba Sol is pure FUN!
  10. PatriciaW
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    There are not too many CD where I like each and every trach--I LOVE this whole CD! Great Job, Mr. Cook!
  11. LindaC
    Nov 25, 2008
    9
    Excellent first effort! I really don't get tired of listening to any of the songs. I haven't bought a CD for myself in years but I DID buy this one! I expect to see several of the singles become mainstream hits.
  12. AngieS
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    I gave it a 10, I don't know how may albums I have where I only like a few songs. I go though the whole CD with out skipping. Plus if you buy at a store instead of online there's a hidden song. Cool!
  13. JonM
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    This is my favorite cd in a really long time. David Cook is not your average idol winner. He's the real deal.
  14. HelenH
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    This album is great. Love all the songs, especially Avalanche. It's just what I expected from David. He is the top tier.
  15. annj
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    This is one of the best CDs I've ever owned. I always have "skip songs" on any CD I buy - this one has no skips. I highly recommend this, it's well worth the money.
  16. caroles
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    I absolutely love this album! It has everything you could want from poignant ballad to heavy rock. Give the guy a chance and listen.
  17. kelliM
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    I love it. David's voice is amazing. The lyrics are intelligent and meaninful, no pop fluff, just great songs.
  18. lauriem
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    awsome, love every song!
  19. AmyF
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    I can listen to this album straight through---love every song.
  20. BrandonB
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    This is the best CD I have bought in a long while. I like near every song. Hardly ever skip over any. So thumbs up!
  21. lauram
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Great album. No bubble gum here.
  22. pamelam
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    This cd rocks.
  23. MaryC
    Nov 25, 2008
    9
    Charm your pants off, well-crafted rock anthems. Especially recommend Declaration, Lie, Avalanche, Daily Anthem.
  24. RobyneN
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Some recommended this to me and I am so glad they did. I abdolutely love it.
  25. EmilyJ
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    A truly great rock album full of radio hits. This one will be around for a long time.
  26. JaneA
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    I love it! Cant seem to quite playing it.
  27. MelissaR
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Absolutely loved it.
  28. RandyK
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    This album has exceeded my expectations. David has done a great job on this one. Every song sounds different and unique. Love Permanent and Barbasol the best.
  29. JaneH
    Nov 25, 2008
    9
    Love me some Avalanche, Bar-Ba-Sol, and Permanent. The album gets even better with every listen.
  30. RonH
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Excellent album. David Cook is amazing
  31. DebiG
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    I've enjoyed this record from the first listen. My faves change day to day, today they are Lie and Life on the Moon. Yesterday was Kiss on the Neck and Avalanche. Who knows which I'll like best tomorrow, but I'm looking forward to it.
  32. SoniaB.
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    This album proves all the nuances in Cook´s voice and has a reminiscence of the most influential alternative bands of the 90´s and an arena feeling similar to Journey. Not songs to discard in this album, so it deserves a thumb up from me. My special recomendations: A Daily AntheM, Avalanche, Lie and Barbasol.
  33. LindseyP
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    I love this album
  34. BrandonP
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Awesome!
  35. LeslieP
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    This is a great debut album by an artist that I will be listening to for years.
  36. anat
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    What stands out the most are the different tones of his voice and the passion in each song. It's an album with a sound for everyone and evey situation, be it calm or energetic, there's a bit for everything. Congratulations. I'm happy to have it.
  37. BriJ
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Love it. Give it a listen and you won't be sorry.
  38. Constance
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Excellant. Should be several hits from this one!
  39. ConnieS
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Awesome. Liked every song; No skipovers. Look for the hidden track after track #12.
  40. lacib
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Great album.. love every song !
  41. JamesT
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Great record! Lots of great songs and no real duds.
  42. AngelW
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Perfect!! I love every song in the album!
  43. DanT
    Nov 25, 2008
    9
    I think this record rocks, big time. I highly recommend it.
  44. DeanaM.
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    By far the best Idol album to date, and an album I can listen to from start to finish and then all over again. David's vocals here are at times anthemic, subtle, overwhelming and masterful. The one song he penned without any collaboration, A Daily AntheM, is a ROCK ANTHEM for the ages and I cannot wait to sing along live!
  45. AmyeH
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    I love this album. Although it had to be rushed (thanks in part to the AI tour), a majority of the songs were co-written by David Cook. Not a small feat ... especially when the songs are killer.
  46. JoyceB
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Wow! Best album I own, and I own hundreds.
  47. JohnC
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    I really like this CD. It has a lot on it and is fun, gritty, gut kicking and soaring all at once.
  48. SophieK
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Loved it because I like rock.
  49. JoshW
    Nov 24, 2008
    10
    I saw this band on Saturday Night Live, and thought I would give this album a try. And I'm glad I did because I am totally stoked. I look forward to seeing the David Cook band in concert.
  50. BetsyD
    Nov 24, 2008
    10
    Every single song on the album is fantastic. The emotion shown is heart wrenching. There is something for everyone here.
  51. JeanetteC
    Nov 24, 2008
    10
    Every time I listen I have a new favorite song. What a versatile vocalist! and amazing song writer!
  52. MadeL
    Nov 24, 2008
    10
    This is a comprehensive and cohesive album, unlike any of the ones released lately. It showcases Cook's rangy voice and provides the listener with meaningful lyrics. Great job by David, producers and co-writers! Although, IMO, we have even better things to expect from David in the future.
  53. MarkH
    Nov 24, 2008
    2
    Not much to say here. Not equal to all the hype. Nothing special stands out.
  54. mattb
    Nov 24, 2008
    10
    Awesome album. I love the lyrics and this guys voice.
  55. JasonR
    Nov 24, 2008
    10
    As the NY Times put it: "he stakes firm and unusually appealing claim to territory few covet: middlebrow
  56. SusanK
    Nov 24, 2008
    10
    Absolutely an amazing album. His vocals are impressive as well as his writing (with others). People can relate to. There isn't one song on here that I don't like. I can listen to it over and over!!! Can't wait for more videos. He will be a real presence in the music business for a long long time!
  57. CathyM
    Nov 23, 2008
    8
    A great first effort, especially considering time constraints. His talent and versatility shine throughout the album.
  58. LisaS
    Nov 23, 2008
    9
    Beautiful melodies and catchy lyrics. I love it.
  59. RoryG.
    Nov 23, 2008
    10
    The best album to come from an Idol winner so far.
  60. SandyG.
    Nov 23, 2008
    10
    There is something for everyone on this album.
  61. JordanW.
    Nov 22, 2008
    10
    This album exceeded my expectations. It's eclectic, the lyrics are beautiful and the songs extremely radio-friendly.
  62. StephanieL.
    Nov 22, 2008
    1
    Hated it.
  63. JillS.
    Nov 22, 2008
    1
    This is the worst CD to EVER be released by an Idol winner. I see him tanking faster than Taylor Hicks. WOW and his lead radio song LO is failing along with him. Way to go America. I LOVE rock music and would never play one of these songs.
  64. DonJ.
    Nov 22, 2008
    2
    His album sounds like a million other ones.....
  65. LindaJ.
    Nov 22, 2008
    9
    There isn't a song on the album that I don't enjoy and want to listen to repeatedly.
  66. AmyK
    Nov 22, 2008
    10
    I am a huge Cook fan, I love this CD.
  67. TaraS.
    Nov 21, 2008
    10
    I can't get the songs out of my head, especially "Lie" and "Come Back to Me." Awesome!
  68. JoeB.
    Nov 21, 2008
    10
    Best album I've heard in a very long time.
  69. MariaS.
    Nov 21, 2008
    10
    This album is has exceeded all my expectations. The lyrics are awesome and David sings with such emotion, especially in Permanent...pulls at your heart. Great job David Cook
  70. MaryH.
    Nov 21, 2008
    10
    Absolutely love this album. There is something for everyone. Love his voice and the lyrics!
  71. kayd.
    Nov 21, 2008
    8
    Smart, romantic, full-throated rock with that unique Cook mix of growl and soar. The album is highly addictive, but strangely enough, I'm gonna say you may want to get into this so guy so you can check out his act live. Early live performances by Cook and his band (a reformatting of local heroes The Midwest Kings) have been stellar.
  72. MinetteC.
    Nov 21, 2008
    10
    Not a single skippable track on this CD (except for the obligatory Time of my Life).
  73. LenR.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    I love each and every song especially Lie and Permanent.
  74. BethP.
    Nov 20, 2008
    8
    It's no secret that debut albums from American Idol winners (and runners-up) are typically produced and rushed to market with pre-processed hits and little to no input from the artists themselves. But 'David Cook' the album stands out (much as the man himself did on the show) as clearly the most introspective and eclectic debut ever to come from the Idol franchise. Cook It's no secret that debut albums from American Idol winners (and runners-up) are typically produced and rushed to market with pre-processed hits and little to no input from the artists themselves. But 'David Cook' the album stands out (much as the man himself did on the show) as clearly the most introspective and eclectic debut ever to come from the Idol franchise. Cook himself wrote or co-wrote 10 of the 12 tracks on the album, and the lyrics are extremely personal and raw, touching on the support of his family, the inner-conflict that comes with sudden fame, and dealing with loss. Cook has proven himself to be an extremely versatile vocalist, but the focus here seems to be highlighting the arena-filling upper range of Cook's voice, which can make the hair on your neck stand on end. But there are a few delicate moments where Cook is able to utilize the rich timbre that sets him apart from many other rock vocalists. One such song is the standout track "Permanent" (written for his brother who is fighting brain cancer) - it features just piano, strings, and a tender and wrenching vocal. On the other end of the spectrum is the driving urgency of the heavy riff-rocker Bar-ba-Sol, which is probably the best track on the record. It's obvious that some compromises had to be made in order to satisfy the 30 million fans who watched him sing covers on Idol every week. There are a few fairly generic pop-rock tunes ('I Did it For You' and 'Come Back to Me' most notably) which may become big hits in the Daughtry mold. But produced by the highly-respected Rob Cavallo, the album is for the most part a cohesive rock record with several songs that are both representative of the artist as well as radio-friendly. Under the circumstances, an imperfect but nonetheless impressive debut from the clearly talented Cook. I look forward to seeing him break the Idol mold and stretch even further on his next album.… Expand
  75. LiliB.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    Can't skip a song and songs are smartly sequenced on this album. Great melodies, lyrics and performances.
  76. KristynG.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    This CD is amazing for the amount of time he had to work on it. I'm really proud of what he accomplished. Love Permanent and Ba Bar Sol
  77. IreneA.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    David's vocals are strong, the energy and passion heartfelt and every song on the CD is quite good. I think this is better than I had expected. Many of the songs could and should be released as singles.
  78. PiaD.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    Great collection of post-grunge pop-rock songs. "Bar Ba Sol" will rock your socks, "Lie" will move you and "Permanent" will break your heart.
  79. LowellS.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    First good new musician I've heard in several years!
  80. KarenK.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    Wonderful musician; can't wait to see him on solo tour.
  81. AriadneS.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    Refreshing, innovative and fun, Cook shows off his vocal versatility wonderfully on this debut album.
  82. AshleyM.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    I was expecting a decent cd from this guy, but I actually really like pretty much every song. Permanent about ripped my heart out.
  83. LauraR.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    I listen to a lot of music, and there is not one throw away song on this CD. On most CD's I usually have to skip thru at least a few of them. Great voice and great job for a first effort. Don't get the Daughtry comparison at all. David Cook can actually sing.
  84. KatherineM.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    Maybe I'm biased because I am a hardcore fan, but this is the best album to come from any Idol alum. It has a good mix of upbeat pop songs and ballads as well as some harder-rocking stuff thrown in, and the songwriting is simply stellar. Here's hoping for only better things to come.
  85. MichelleD.
    Nov 20, 2008
    9
    There is not one song on this album that I don't like (which is pretty darn rare). Furthermore, there are some real standouts such as Permanent, Life on the Moon, Come Back to Me, Avalanche, Bar-ba-sol, A Daily Anthem and the hidden track Kiss on the Neck. I love that this record is eclectic (I love both rock, pop, and ballads), and think they did a great job choosing the progression There is not one song on this album that I don't like (which is pretty darn rare). Furthermore, there are some real standouts such as Permanent, Life on the Moon, Come Back to Me, Avalanche, Bar-ba-sol, A Daily Anthem and the hidden track Kiss on the Neck. I love that this record is eclectic (I love both rock, pop, and ballads), and think they did a great job choosing the progression of the songs. David Cook is a fabulous singer and poetic lyricist and this record really shows off both of those qualities. David Cook and Company did a great job!… Expand
  86. ChrisC.
    Nov 20, 2008
    8
    David Cook is awesome. He was awesome on the show and he surprised me with an awesome debut. One of my favorites of the year.
  87. MysticalC.
    Nov 20, 2008
    9
    Excellent first effort from David - lots of good hooks and that voice ... yes, that's the best part. His voice is what makes him stand apart from others out there. As he makes his way apart from Idol, I think we will see more of who he really is reflected in his music. As a big fan and someone who has seen him perform live, I can't wait to take these songs out on tour.
  88. CarolW
    Nov 20, 2008
    8
    This is a great first effort....David Cook has a really great voice....some songs are better than others, but they are all really listenable.
  89. TrishR.
    Nov 20, 2008
    7
    Great first big-time commercial effort. Hoping in the future, when he doesn't have so many VIPs to cater to, he can make something that sounds a little more independent/alternative. He has a fantastic voice, though. Most of these songs will sound great in a concert setting.
  90. DebbieH.
    Nov 20, 2008
    0
    Don't care for Cooks style, voice or his smugness. Gook Luck to him anyway.
  91. BrandonM.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    The freshman effort from idol-winner David Cook seems somewhat similar in from to DAUGHTRY, but think of it as a better, more vocally capable and diverse DAUGHTRY, no doubts on the success of this album.
  92. MartinT
    Nov 20, 2008
    5
    Listening to Samples from most of the songs on his album, a lot of them just sound too........alike. Hearing samples from the chorus from each song almost felt like listening to the same song over again. I admit, there are some songs that don't do this, but the album just sounds a bit too uniform for my tastes.
  93. LeslieP.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    Every song on this album is great. I especially recommend Bar ba sol, Declaration, Lie, and Come Back to me.
  94. MissyJ.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    It
  95. KatieT.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    This CD has a great variety on it, from the heart-wrenching Permanent to the saucy Bar-ba-sol. It begins with Declaration, a wonderful up-tempo tune, and includes the lovely Lies. The big-box editions include Kiss on the Neck, a seemingly biting tune with an interesting twist, as a hidden track. WIth Cook's wonderful vocals, this is a great buy.
  96. SusanD
    Nov 19, 2008
    10
    Great Album!
  97. JenniferJ.
    Nov 19, 2008
    10
    I am loving this album. Put it in the car and turn it up. A Daily AntheM is incredible and I can't wait to see him perform live. Barbasol is a great rocker, and Permanent is simple and beautiful. Get some tissues before you listen!
  98. AmyL.
    Nov 19, 2008
    10
    I loved his first album, Analog Heart, and this seems like a perfect progression. Bar ba sol, A Daily Anthem, and Heroes are the standouts for me. Oh, and Permanent is amazing.
  99. MelissaF.
    Nov 19, 2008
    3
    I was a fan of David's s when he was on Idol but I'm very disappointed in his CD. I was expecting an original rock cd but instead, I feel he sold out with generic songs trying to combine rock and mainstream pop. It doesn't work. Break away from the AI machine David. They've stolen your creativity.
  100. LouiseW.
    Nov 19, 2008
    8
    Good first album. Potential is there to become a great rocker given time.
Page:

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
61

Generally favorable reviews - based on 6 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 6
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 6
  3. Negative: 1 out of 6
  1. AllMusic
    70
    David Cook [is] remarkably similar to the debut of his AmIdol forefather, DAUGHTRY, but where Chris Daughtry wallows in his stylized amorphous angst, Cook is a friendly puppy dog, eager to please.
    Read full review
  2. Billboard
    70
    Much like his predecessors' quick-turnaround debuts, Cook's is fairly generic, but its rock edge is dirtied up with crunching guitars and the artist's tuneful growl.
    Read full review
  3. Boston Globe
    70
    Indeed, it's hard to distinguish Cook's sound from that of his own idols, like Our Lady Peace and Better Than Ezra.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »