On her self-titled debut, American Idol contestant Brooke Barrettsmith crafts a style uniquely her own, melding her love of Jeremy Camp, Daughtry and Kelly Clarkson with passionate lyrics that reflect her own life and expe... more »riences. Though only in her mid-twenties, Brooke has already dealt with her share of life challenges and experiences.« less
On her self-titled debut, American Idol contestant Brooke Barrettsmith crafts a style uniquely her own, melding her love of Jeremy Camp, Daughtry and Kelly Clarkson with passionate lyrics that reflect her own life and experiences. Though only in her mid-twenties, Brooke has already dealt with her share of life challenges and experiences.
"I had never heard of Brooke Barretsmith prior to hearing her warm up for Barlowgirl recently. I had been missing something very good.
She has a beautiful voice and can really rock. Additionally, her lyrics are very focused on praising God. Unlike some artists, she is not afraid to use Jesus' name in her songs.
Hearing her perform in concert made me aware that this is a solid talent. After listening to this CD several times, I am very impressed. This will not disappoint. I recommend it."
Great new artist
Gary H. Nelson | San Diego, CA | 10/06/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Brooke has an incredible voice, powerful but not overbearing. And her lyrics are superb. Definitely worth having in your tunes library."
Solid Power Pop Album
Kevin R. Davis | Perkasie, PA | 10/13/2008
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Brooke Barrettsmith is another alum of the hit show American Idol, Season 5 and her debut album draws comparisons to fellow alums Kelly Clarkson, Carly Smithson and established CCM veteran and multiple female vocalist of the year Natalie Grant, in that her style can best be described as power pop similar to 1980's pop icons Heart and Pat Benatar. Those are fair comparisons as you listen to the solid vocals and guitar riffs. In essence, this album is the Christian counterpart to 2007's My December by Kelly Clarkson.
Brooke Barrettsmith kicks it off with Right Now, a power pop song similar to Never Again by Kelly Clarkson. Other stand-out songs are More Real, the first single Farewell and Father. The album has a nice feel to it and is accessible, but possibly a bit too manufactured sounding and not quite raw enough. The second half of the album winds down and closes nicely with Paper Tigers a nice ballad with the encouraging lyrics "Look around, don't you fear, Paper tigers are your enemy, I know they seem real, Stretch out your hands and feel, The wind against your fingertips, And know that help is here, Right here". Solid debut by Brooke Barrettsmith and I'm looking forward to more.
"
Great album
Doc Sevo | Chicago, IL | 08/27/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is an awesome album. Great music and lyrics, it's a must buy. Brooke has an amazing voice and an amazing message. I listen to it on my way to work everyday and it gives my day a positive start!"
Dan and Jen Marquardt
Jennifer M. Marquardt | Chicago | 08/26/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This album is FANTASTIC! Brooke has a unique style, a beautiful voice, and the music is great! Buy this CD and you'll be happy you did. We saw her live this past summer and she put on a great show. Her lyrics are very inspirational and she's a great role model for kids too! She's very talented!"