From the very first song, Utopia (having never heard it on the radio) this album drew me in lyrically and musically. John's vocals are so good, the songwriting is tight and believable, and Lew Curatolo's production pleases my traditional ear yet sounds current.
In an era of singers trying to hit high notes on songs in the studio that they can't perform live, this is very refreshing. My hope is that Martinez will hearken in a new area of less pop, better songwriting, and songs that fit the singer and the mood of the nation.
What's great about it: An artist that understands country music, and where it needs to be.