October 14th marks the long awaited debut CD from American Idol 2 runner-up Clay Aiken. Titled 'Measure of a Man' (MOAM), his rabid fanbase starts the ball rolling in the form of several release parties throughout the world. Aiken fever is spreading, and if one is skeptical, the worldwide sales of his debut single 'This Is The Night/Bridge Over Troubled Waters' is proof that his fans are loyal, love his music, and prove it where it counts - at the cash register where Aiken's single far outsold those of the American Idol 2 winner Ruben Studdard dramatically.
'Measure of a Man' is a twelve song CD of various and somewhat surprising styles one would not normally associate being on a Clay Aiken CD. But that's saying more about the silly notion of those who tried to pigeonhole Aiken as 'Broadway' or Mr. Ballad - this effort is SO much more, it will please those who know what Aiken is all about since they saw Aiken's versatility during the Summer tour, and make believers out of skeptics.
MOAM starts out with the current hot Top 40 single 'Invisible', a catchy rock/pop tinged tune with creepy, stalkerish lyrics that if sung by Marilyn Manson would make some shudder; but sung by Aiken turns some people into butter. A big hit during the concert tour, Aiken introduced his now famous 'shirt clutch', cheesy? yes, but his charm won many over. 'Invisible' , the first hit off the album is catchy - so much so I found myself whistling it in the grocery. A fine song to begin MOAM.
'I Will Carry You' is the second song, one where Aiken provides a 'shoulder' to lean on. The line 'you should know that you're not alone' is perfect for the lonely, heartbroken or disillusioned out there. The predominant theme of Aiken as friend, confidant and possible lover/mate is started with this song, and is touched on with several tracks throughout this CD.
'The Way' - the third track and very reminiscent of the Chris DeBurgh hit 'Lady in Red' , it's Aiken's turn to yearn for someone he needs as he sings about how sometimes actions and expressions convey so much more than words do. A nice effort from Aiken, sure to be a favorite of his female fans.
'When You Say That You Love Me' - This song could easily be a top hit on the Country charts if there were steel guitars and such providing the background music. As it is , the drum tracks, etc., are a little too processed, but the voice is what sells the product, and Aiken makes up for all the little shortcomings that may be noticed. Nice song that actually gets better with multiple listenings.
'I Survived You' - A ballad of broken love - and overcoming heartache. True Aiken style, one of his best on the CD, from the perspective of all the real life heartache Aiken has suffered and shared with his audience in various interviews. Shows Aiken as triumphant and a 'lessons learned' man.
'No More Sad Song' - European superstar Robbie Williams music is brought to mind in the opening bars of this next track - another where Aiken takes a stand over affairs of the heart; and steels himself up instead of being a heartbroken pushover. A great example of a different style than was expected from Aiken.
'Run to Me' - Aiken as a patient 'I'll be there for you' with 'Open Arms' man. Perhaps to someone who's afraid to jump into love again - a decent selection. A trend no doubt, but a good listen.
'Shine' - Here's a song which made me sit up and notice the difference in Aiken stylings. Shine starts out sounding a little like a Chicago ballad, infused with Lennon-like vocals/lyrics. Ok..JULIAN Lennon perhaps, but a great song, in my top three certainly. Should make the male Aiken doubters take a 'shine' to Clay.
'Perfect Day' - Another pleasant surprise, very Lenny Kravitz-esque..yes, Aiken and Kravitz in the same sentence! But it works, and Clay adds depth to an already great CD. Perfect Clay!
'Measure of a Man' - According to Aiken his personal favorite, and just listening to the lyrics and emotion in Clay's voice you will see why. Soulful, sweet, could be Aiken's view of the pre-stardom view of himself - substance over style (looks). THE perfect Clay Aiken masterpiece - shows off what made the world fall in love with that voice. Awesome.
'This is the Night' - His debut best selling single. Aiken's vocals soar. He performed this song at the Miss America pageant and every Clayfan knows this by heart. While a good song, the new songs overshadow this old chesnut. Still nice for old times sake..
'Touch' - The final curveball by the surprising Clay Aiken is this danceable, sexy, uptempo number. A favorite of the many female listeners who previewed this song as Aiken describes his longing - perhaps to dance with his special woman, or something else? Use your own imagination as Clay leaves the listener a bit flustered and woozy with his lyrics and longing in his voice. Aiken pulls it off very convincingly, a nice way to conclude an awesome debut CD from one of music's rising stars.
Measure of a Man is a refreshing change of pace in a
musical junkyard of single entendre lyrics, booty shakin' dreck and the lolita du jour that's been dominating the pop scene of late. Clay Aiken shines throughout this debut, and a follow up is eagerly desired.
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