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NorthernStar*
^NorthernStar*2187@excapethematrix.com
Taylor Hicks, A True "Idol"?
Last May, Taylor Hicks beat out great vocal talents such as
Katherine, Paris, Mandisa, Elliot, and Kellie and earned himself the
title of "American Idol". Whether one thinks Hicks deserved to get that
title doesn’t matter because to no ones’ surprise, HE HAS IT! Every
"idol" had something to offer whether it was Kelly’s "power-house
vocals", Fantasia’s "edginess", or even eliminated contestant, Jennifer
Hudson’s "confidence". But what Taylor has is his distinctive,
rich-textured vocals and GRAY HAIR, which permits him to easily stand
out from the rest. Celebrating his victory, he embraces it with his
self-titled debut album, "Taylor Hicks".
The album starts off with a fast-paced big band tune, "The Runaround", which compliments his classy tone and reminds the "Idol" viewers of his capabilities. Hicks shines on his rendition of Marvin Gaye’s "Wherever I Lay My Hat" and never for a second sounding like an imitation of Gaye’s version. He also shines on "Give Me Tonight" with a three-part harmony that backs up his soulful voice. Songwriter Diane Warren lends Hicks a helping hand with the ballad "Places I’ve Been". Beautiful in a sense but it is reminiscent of the Goo Goo Dolls’ hit "Iris", and one can’t help but get the idea that the song has been done already over and over again. But it’s not Hicks’ fault, it’s his production team. "Soul Thing" starts off with a numerous amount of instruments accompanying his voice such as hi-hats, snares, bass, etc. and ends with a jazzy melody.
There isn’t much filler on this album, but what the album fails to do is distinguish different sounds for Hicks. "Idol" is a show made for entertainment, but also to broaden the versatility of the artists’ range. Even though, Hicks’ album rivals some of the market, it sometimes comes off sounding repetitive. But all hail Taylor because his artistry will improve as time goes by and he is indeed, America’s "Idol".
B+