Great Article about David + a TOSOD Review

I love the end of American Idol. The end part that is, because then you’ve gotten past all the folks who didn’t fare too well in their efforts, and now you get to watch the trailblazing, tear-inducing, mascara-wearing, hometown-mobilizing, glassware-shattering voices who will hopefully land a place in history. Or at least in our collective hearts. And today, I’d like to discuss one of the more appealing players on that stage. David Archuleta: American Idol runner-up, singer extraordinaire, bestselling author, tremendous go-to guy when it comes to bringing awareness to those in need, and all around whopping talent is now er, back. With a brand new album — this makes three records so far (nor is he yet twenty. Way to pave the way for the rest of us, Dave…) Anyway – if you’re not yet a fan, you’re probably about to become one. For two reasons. First) you’re going to get a David Archuleta song download for free, right here and right now. And second) you’ll play the free song at which point it may very well dawn upon you that this kid has, in fact, one terrific set of pipes. This is exactly what happened to me. I walked right into it. Who am I to turn down free music? And the less I know the better. Turns out, honestly, that free download was actually worth every penny. It’s called Something ‘Bout Love from the album The Other Side of Down, and he’s kind of astonishing. And, from what I can tell unusually genuine and down-to-earth for someone so young. That One/Two process with the freebie worked for me because I was late to the Idol game and didn’t actually get caught up in the madness til Adam Lambert and Kris Allen battled it out the following year. I didn’t know from David Archuleta. So when I got the download I was happy to listen, had zero expectation, and was entirely unprepared for what this 19-year old would deliver. Now here’s the deal: if you’re among the first thousand (1000) PCA members – you can join on the spot too – you get to click and presto, you get the free song. If you’re already a fan, you needn’t have even read this far – just one click and David Archuleta’s latest download’s yours – just for the clicking. They say there’s no such thing as free lunch, but this comes rather close.

People's Choice

I'm sure everyone already has SBL so there's no worry about the download.

Though not as exceptional as his 2008 self-titled debut, David Archuleta’s sophomore album, The Other Side of Down (Jive Records), is a consistently rewarding collection that moves swiftly through 12 tracks, kicking things off with the catchy, spirited opener (the title track) to the eternally optimistic album closer, “My Kind of Perfect,” which serves to wrap up the disc on a heartwarming note.

Indeed, ever since his arrival in the music world, fresh from a second-place finish on American Idol, Archuleta has been treating fans with his brand of pleasant, wholesome pop music that stays nestled somewhere between Jason Mraz and Justin Timberlake.

Who can forget his debut smash single, “Crush, “ that sugary-sweet and melodic ode to puppy love, or his equally mesmerizing follow-up track “A Little Too Not Over You,” a soaring, radio-friendly ballad he co-wrote? The Other Side of Down does not represent much of a departure for the talented 20-year-old vocalist, who effectively returns to his comfort zone with well-crafted, beautifully written contemporary pop numbers that tend to fare well on the commercial landscape, thanks in large part to his fanbase of eager teen girls, music-loving gay boys, and those grown folks who can always appreciate a warm spirit, great melodies and even more terrific vocals.

Such themes as unrequited love, heartache, and longing showed up on the first album and, not surprisingly, are back for a second go-round, lacing several singles on the new record. Look no further than the remarkable jazz-tinged first single, “Something Bout Love,” the funky-strutting “Stomping the Roses” or the aforementioned groove-laden title track. You might also be particularly fond of the playful “Parachutes and Airplanes,” the finger-snappy “Look Around” (also from producer Matt Squire) and other iridescent standout cuts like “Elevator” and “Good Place,” both of which show off Archuleta’s voice at its most gleaming.

With gifted songwriters and uber-producers like Squire and repeat collaborator Mike Krompass helping to steer the ship, Archuleta’s sound is crisp and bright, making the singer-songwriter come off more like an incandescent bulb in a tanning bed. Still, though delivering charm and spark, The Other Side of Down, offers nothing that depicts Archuleta as a risk-taker. At this point in his career, the singer seems content to play it safe, and considering his young age and promising future, taking it slow and pacing himself on his career path is probably a wise call.

As for the new album, Archuleta (who co-wrote eight of the 12 tracks) proves he has the goods to stay ahead of his class with a take on achingly bittersweet balladry that is quite his own. More to the point, there is no denying the young pop star’s seductive vocal skills and all-around appeal that oozes from the speakers.

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