I have had a passing interest in American Idol. Watched David Cook intensely, otherwise pretty casual. Old guy, grew up with the rock that is now classic. Enjoy contemporary country. Was vacationing at Cedar Key, Florida playing 500 with friends with the minimal tv in a minimal room tuned to Idol back in March. Hadn't watched a minute of it that season so far, hate the foolish part. The women were heading towards the final qualifier and it was all pretty much the same. Then in the background a Tracy Chapman cover and I was stopped in my tracks. Since that moment, I haven't a good reason not to surround myself in this extraordinary artist. Crystal's story, the stuff of legends, is well told. How many artists thank the Chicago Transit Authority or the people who have harmed them on their liner notes?
Above all there is and always has been that voice...pretty, powerful, passionate...when it is front and center, there is nothing like it. Listen first to Mason with husband/friend Brian, then the title track, then the Buffalo Springfield cover, then Holy Toledo. Stay focused on Crystal's voice, let it move you. Get lost in it. There is nothing else you have ever heard quite like it.
Hard to imagine a better debut album, and I would expect it to remain on the charts for a long time to come. Absolutely brilliant from start to finish, this album is a must buy for those who are more than little tired of today’s formula pop scene.