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

Review this album

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. 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.
  2. AndrewM
    Nov 29, 2008
    10
    David Cook is the real deal- a great songwriters with a FANTASTIC voice. Cook IS the BEST Idol winner, and the FIRST actual artist to win the show. This album is proof of that.
  3. RMW
    Nov 29, 2008
    10
    Songs to appeal to everyone: beautiful ballads such as Lie and Permenant, mid-tempo romps like Light On and Declaration, and crunchy rock like Bar-ba-sol.
  4. UsmanS
    Jan 15, 2009
    10
    Finally a rockstar whose voice and songs are as genuine as his personality. His husky and powerful singing leaves listeners longing for him more than any of his own idols. He has the ability to sing a dictionary and make it sound great, imagine what he would do with a great number. Expect him to be very very successful with some big hit in the very near future.
  5. KarenK.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    Wonderful musician; can't wait to see him on solo tour.
  6. GRACEC
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    This is the best CD I have heard in a very long time. I love the feeling behind every song. You know he is not just singing a song, there is passion & feeling behind each song. Not everyone has this.
  7. KimN
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Wow! This is the best set of songs! Lie, Come Back to Me, Declaration and Bar-ba-sol are a few of the standouts of the album!
  8. 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.
  9. TammyL
    Nov 28, 2008
    10
    This is wonderfully written, masterfully produced, and amazingly executed. I can't imagine someone NOT liking this. It's a varied and eclectic mix of songs. I dare everyone to find something they don't like on it!
  10. JanineP
    Dec 6, 2008
    10
    I love it more and more every time I listen to it!!
  11. Dee
    Dec 6, 2008
    10
    I love this CD. I think it's a stellar record. It is full of eclectic sounds and themes that are so relatable.
  12. SteveD.
    Dec 6, 2008
    10
    It is very rare for me to find an album where I love every song but this is it. It offers a variety of songs from heavier rockers like BarBaSol to slower moving ballads like permanent. And they are all sung with David Cook's powerful voice. He is really able to bring the emotion into his song. I love this album
  13. EllenS
    Dec 6, 2008
    10
    If I could have I'd have given him an 11!
  14. judyD
    Dec 6, 2008
    10
    Love all his songs on this album... He is a fantastic musician.
  15. AnnieJ
    Dec 6, 2008
    10
    I think every song is a hit!!!!
  16. ValerieC
    Dec 6, 2008
    10
    I love every song from this album. My favorites are Lie, Permanent and Bar-ba-sol. The album has great rock anthems with some twists and turns.
  17. DollyB
    Dec 6, 2008
    10
    Love this CD. Favorite song is "Life on the Moon".
  18. CarolineB
    Dec 8, 2008
    10
    This album is awesome. It's the first CD I've bought in years and I'm so glad I bought it.
  19. DebbieP
    Dec 8, 2008
    10
    The best CD i have heard in a very long time and it is the only CD I listen to at the moment. Best idol winner ever.
  20. MaryP
    Dec 8, 2008
    10
    Great album. Loving all the songs - especially Avalanche, Permanent, Life on the Moon and Barbasol. But, honestly - every song is good. I do skip Time of My Life because I'ver heard it so much over the last six months.
  21. LoriW
    Feb 3, 2009
    10
    Every song is a gem. Ignore the 1s. We know who they are and why they give this CD a 1 and it won't work. David Cook is here to stay.
  22. BenH.
    Nov 19, 2008
    10
    Awesome album. Almost all of the songs could be potential singles. I can't decide which on is my favorite.
  23. bstock
    Nov 19, 2008
    10
    This first album does everything the first rocker out of the Idol stable needed to do. Cook has stayed true to his roots and to his sensibilities and, most importantly, he has relied on his two greatest assets - his voice and his writing skills.
  24. LowellS.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    First good new musician I've heard in several years!
  25. AriadneS.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    Refreshing, innovative and fun, Cook shows off his vocal versatility wonderfully on this debut album.
  26. 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.
  27. 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.
  28. 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.
  29. JasonR
    Nov 24, 2008
    10
    As the NY Times put it: "he stakes firm and unusually appealing claim to territory few covet: middlebrow
  30. 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!
  31. 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.
  32. 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.
  33. susanp
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Love the album, can't even pick a favorite song bc I love them all.. Have listened to it daily since purchase, It really has so many different songs and David's differing voice styles are amazing.
  34. LisaJ
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Mr. Cook shows why he won American Idol on this CD. The combination of his voice, melodic songs and raw emotion rank this CD a 10 for me!
  35. BrendaK.
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    David Cook has genuine writing talent and on top of that his voice is amazing and he sings with an edginess that is addicting to listen to. My favorite is 'Heroes' but don't foget about the hidden track 'Kiss on the Neck'.....it totally Rocks!!!
  36. EmilyT
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    One of the best CD in a while. Every song is perfect!
  37. VickiS
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    I absolutely love this album and each song. The songs are so well written, David's voice is the best it's ever been and the band rocks. The songs are all radio friendly and each a potential hit. This album is eclectic and has something for everyone. Some great rock tunes like Bar-ba-sol, Declaration, Heroes, Light On, and great love songs like Avalanche, I Did It for You, Lie, I absolutely love this album and each song. The songs are so well written, David's voice is the best it's ever been and the band rocks. The songs are all radio friendly and each a potential hit. This album is eclectic and has something for everyone. Some great rock tunes like Bar-ba-sol, Declaration, Heroes, Light On, and great love songs like Avalanche, I Did It for You, Lie, Come Back To Me. Another song, Permanent is so heartfelt and beautiful with a 15-piece string orchestra. I consider the David Cook album a masterpiece.… Expand
  38. SidnacW
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    The emotional impact of David Cook's music on this album is superior to any album released in this century! Love the unique vibe of each song! Excellent debut!
  39. SheriC
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    I am always looking for singers/songwriters that use their talent to tell stories. This album is chock full of great melodies and Mr. Cook's voice draws you into the story of each song. I was impressed; have listened to the album multiple times; and still enjoy every song. I think any lover of music will enjoy it, too. Kudos!
  40. JanH.
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Love, love, love, this whole album. Not a bad song in the lot!
  41. CherylL
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    David Cook is not only a wonderfully gifted musician and songwriter, he is intelligent, articulate, and humble. This CD, in my opinion, does not have a forgettable song on it. From rock (Bar-ba-sol), to soulful ballads (Permanent), there is something for everyone sung only as David Cook can sing. He has incredible range and sings with a passion that is unmatched. He has put his heart and David Cook is not only a wonderfully gifted musician and songwriter, he is intelligent, articulate, and humble. This CD, in my opinion, does not have a forgettable song on it. From rock (Bar-ba-sol), to soulful ballads (Permanent), there is something for everyone sung only as David Cook can sing. He has incredible range and sings with a passion that is unmatched. He has put his heart and soul out there for all to hear.… Expand
  42. CyndieE
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    What an addition to the music world this album is. It is written from the heart and the lyrics really let you "feel" the emotion in David Cook's voice. His voice is so very diverse in it's range, some times raspy some time mellow a joy to listen to him sing. The music is melodious with a lot of Davids' signature on it. Love it!!
  43. MissyJ.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    It
  44. KathyP
    Nov 26, 2008
    10
    I have been asked which song is my favorite and I cannot give just one, the whole album is wonderful. It is so much better than I could have dreamed possible! It shows David's personality, vulnerability and showcases his vocal range. Gave it a 10!
  45. Chiqui
    Nov 26, 2008
    10
    This record's artist and songs effortlessly transport listener from one intense crest of emotion to another - exhilaration, triumph, wistfulness, melancholia, nostalgia, regret, longing, and even mischief and an attitude. The vocals are excellent and the band is superb. Very well put-together record considering the short period the production was accomplished.
  46. MegW
    Nov 26, 2008
    10
    So amazing that he was able to write on this and put it together so quickly. Love his vocals, love the melodic, anthemic songs. Permanent will be legendary. Favorites are Declaration, Life on the Moon, Come Back to Me, Avalanche, Permanent, Barbasol, and Kiss On The Neck. The entire record is wonderful and unique.
  47. 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.
  48. GinaW.
    Nov 29, 2008
    10
    Intelligent and beautiful lyrics that are sung with passion and emotion. This album flows from start to finish and is great start for this budding artist.
  49. franniew
    Nov 29, 2008
    10
    I gave it a ten because I do love every song on the album. It has a variety of songs from ballads to hard edge rock. I love the personal feel David gives each song.
  50. DinaA
    Nov 29, 2008
    10
    This album went above and beyond. The lyrics, the music and the voice are all top notch.
  51. StephanieS
    Nov 29, 2008
    10
    Amazing album. My personal favorites are Permanent, Heroes, Declaration, A Daily AntheM and Bar-ba-sol.
  52. PattieH.
    Nov 29, 2008
    10
    This is best rock album to come along in a long time. Every song is great and every song is different. I never have the urge to skip one, and I listen to the album over and over. David Cook's voice is remarkable in his range and all of the textures from his husky growl to his beautiful clear tenor. The lyrics of all of these songs speak directly to the listener, as they were written This is best rock album to come along in a long time. Every song is great and every song is different. I never have the urge to skip one, and I listen to the album over and over. David Cook's voice is remarkable in his range and all of the textures from his husky growl to his beautiful clear tenor. The lyrics of all of these songs speak directly to the listener, as they were written from the heart. This one is definitely a "10".… Expand
  53. kathyp
    Nov 30, 2008
    10
    Terrific album, almost impossible to have a favorite song with them all so good.
  54. RE
    Dec 6, 2008
    10
    I was surprised by this record. Not sure what I was expecting? It's not just a random collection of songs. There are some great lyrics and riffs. Surprising....
  55. SueR
    Dec 6, 2008
    10
    Home run for Mr. Cook. This record has it all from the soft ballad Permanent to the concert friendly rocker Bar-ba-sol. I see numerous singles coming from this album. The only downside is that the hidden track was not included as a main track, but not enough of an issue to lower my rating. Completely enjoyable.
  56. TammyH
    Dec 6, 2008
    10
    I just keep listening to this album and it keeps getting better. I think David & band have done a great job. This is a good ROCK album. Love his voice, lyrics, style. Two thumbs up!!!!
  57. LindaT
    Dec 6, 2008
    10
    This is my favorite new album this year. Very often I have high hopes for the freshman effort from an American Idol alumnus and find myself disappointed. Finally, an album that surpassed my expectations! There isn't a skippable song on the album. Of special interest: the one two emmotional punch of Permanent, a gut wrenching promise to an ill loved one, followed by A Daily Anthem, a This is my favorite new album this year. Very often I have high hopes for the freshman effort from an American Idol alumnus and find myself disappointed. Finally, an album that surpassed my expectations! There isn't a skippable song on the album. Of special interest: the one two emmotional punch of Permanent, a gut wrenching promise to an ill loved one, followed by A Daily Anthem, a soaring life affirming testament to the human spirt, at the end of the track list.… Expand
  58. LindaO
    Dec 6, 2008
    10
    Eclectic and wonderful! The music and lyrics are uniquely David and the voice sells it like only he can.
  59. PeggyS
    Dec 6, 2008
    10
    Love every track - there is not a throwaway song on this disk. Even the hidden track "Kiss on the Neck" is amazing....he sings with such passion - he just feels every note and conveys that to the listener. Amazing record.
  60. SusanD
    Dec 7, 2008
    10
    Great Album!
  61. MaggieP.
    Dec 8, 2008
    10
    This is a great album. Every track is good. This guy puts his heart and soul into his music - you can hear it in the heart-felt lyrics. Love his voice. Beautiful.
  62. FranW
    Jan 2, 2009
    10
    Best album from an American Idol contestant ever!!
  63. NicoleH.
    Nov 19, 2008
    10
    An outstanding debut from a very promising rock artist. The vocals are top-notch, the lyrics are intensely personal and far more creative and original than many "generic" rockers, and every song has something unique and surprising. Every song is radio-friendly and has insanely catchy hooks. Considering what this album had to be to many different people, this is a tremendous effort.
  64. MinetteC.
    Nov 21, 2008
    10
    Not a single skippable track on this CD (except for the obligatory Time of my Life).
  65. MaryH.
    Nov 21, 2008
    10
    Absolutely love this album. There is something for everyone. Love his voice and the lyrics!
  66. 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
  67. 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.
  68. JoeB.
    Nov 21, 2008
    10
    Best album I've heard in a very long time.
  69. AmyK
    Nov 22, 2008
    10
    I am a huge Cook fan, I love this CD.
  70. 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.
  71. JordanW.
    Nov 22, 2008
    10
    This album exceeded my expectations. It's eclectic, the lyrics are beautiful and the songs extremely radio-friendly.
  72. 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
  73. LiliB.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    Can't skip a song and songs are smartly sequenced on this album. Great melodies, lyrics and performances.
  74. LenR.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    I love each and every song especially Lie and Permanent.
  75. 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.
  76. JamesT
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Great record! Lots of great songs and no real duds.
  77. lacib
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Great album.. love every song !
  78. 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.
  79. MelissaR
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Absolutely loved it.
  80. pamelam
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    This cd rocks.
  81. lauram
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Great album. No bubble gum here.
  82. 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!
  83. lauriem
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    awsome, love every song!
  84. 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.
  85. MadisonC
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    I LOVE David's new album!
  86. ChipB
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    I wasn't a fan of Idol, but my wife turned me on to Cook and I think his first album is great! Really like Barbasol and Avalanche, but ,all in all ,it's an impressive debut album. There definitely are enough changeups to keep me interested!
  87. JulieS
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    I haven't enjoyed a CD more in years. Even the one song I'm not crazy has started to grow on me. The lyrics are beautiful and taken from personal experiences, but can cross into the listeners life stories also.
  88. janlin
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    This is the best album I have heard in a long time. There is something for everyone here. I would give it a 12 or better if it were possible. David Cook Rocks!!!
  89. JohnM
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    This cd has a great selection of songs. I was actually a little surprised at how much I really like it. Some of these songs really rock!
  90. 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.
  91. 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.
  92. 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!
  93. 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!
  94. Tracyj
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    There is something for everyone on this CD. The album sounds good as a whole. Give it a try.
  95. GraceL
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    One of the best records I have heard in a long time. It's hard to pick a favorite song.
  96. SteveS
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Nicely done, David Cook. This CD shows off David's vocal range as well as his ability to sing with nuance and passion.
  97. RosemaryL
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Amazing debut album by an amazing talented singer/musician - David Cook. Can't stop listening.
  98. DalianaB.
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    A couple of critics have called this album schizophrenic and I couldn't agree more...however, I believe that is the quality that makes this album so great. I can listen to it from beginning to end without skipping a single song....while listening, I go through a different emotion for every song. That to me is a great quality album...an album that contains music that makes you feel. A couple of critics have called this album schizophrenic and I couldn't agree more...however, I believe that is the quality that makes this album so great. I can listen to it from beginning to end without skipping a single song....while listening, I go through a different emotion for every song. That to me is a great quality album...an album that contains music that makes you feel. Congratulations David Cook! Can't wait to hear your second!… Expand
  99. SuzyM
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    Finally a great singer/songwriter/musician to come onto the music scene. Great album, and i expect more to come.
  100. AdamM
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    David Cook really did a great job with his first post-idol cd. It is full of good songs with something for everyone from harder rocking songs like Barbasol and Declaration to slower ballads like Lie and Avalanche.
prev
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 »