It pains me to admit it, but I’m an avid fan of reality music shows. Though pop music makes my stomach cringe, I cannot get enough of these shows. Maybe I like them because you get to watch someone’s dream come to life, but whatever the reason, I love them.

   Having watched every installment of American Idol, I think season five suffered from a lack of talent, with the exception of Chris Daughtry. Unlike season four’s rocker Bo Bice, who’s more of a throwback to the days of Lynyrd Skynyrd, Daughtry’s more relevant to music today, which explains why Daughtry will achieve more success than what’s his name.

   After making it to the top four, Daughtry suffered elimination, much to the chagrin of Idol fans. Although it appeared that he received a raw deal at the time, in truth, he couldn’t have asked for anything better to happen to him. By not winning, he received the opportunity to sign with the record label of his choice (RCA) and to compose the album he desired without the constraints of creativity that the Idol victor faces.

   After his defeat, Daughtry turned down the opportunity to front a well established band called “Fuel” to pursue his on endeavors, and the decision has proven to be a smart one.

   Out of left field, Daughtry burst onto the scene last week with the number one rock album, selling over 304,000 copies in the first week with his band Daughtry. The number one overall spot would have been theirs to claim, but their release date happened to coincide with that of Jay-Z’s new release “Kingdom Come.” I think everyone will agree, not bad.

   On their self-titled debut, Daughtry’s song writing ability stands out, having penned all but two of the tracks on the album. Unlike a lot of Idol alum, he’s able to create his own sound without the backing of professional songwriters. This says a lot about an artist’s credibility, especially a rocker.

 
   The emotion that Daughtry carries within his voice makes it impossible for the listener to walk away unmoved. The lead single “It’s Not Over,” immediately grabs you by the heart strings and causes you to reminisce about the one that got away. It’s rock and radio friendly; so, make preparations to hear this song a lot.

   As much as “It’s Not Over” gets my mojo going, my favorite track on the album manifest itself in the gritty but breath taking “Breakdown.” It starts off very subtle and Daughtry displays a different dynamic of his voice unseen before with the use of his falsetto. But just as you’re falling for his tenderness, he illustrates the strength of his voice, thus evoking all sorts of emotions inside of the listener.

   Just like “It’s Not Over,” “Breakdown” addresses the subject of second chances only from a different perspective. Either way, you cannot go wrong with either song.

   “Home,” also another standout track on the album, tells of the tribulations of life on the road and the desire to be home with the people who matter the most. With this being the holiday season, this ballad will definitely bring out a few tears.

   The album stands best when Daughtry pours out his heart, but he falls short when he dabbles in hard work. Songs like “What I Want” and “There and Back Again,” come off as if he’s trying too hard.

   Daughtry gets completely out shinned by Slash, former Guns N’ Roses lead guitarist and current Velvet Revolver lead guitarist, on the track “What I Want.” For some strange reason, it feels as if Daughtry’s trying to catch up with Slash, only to no avail. Slash’s guitar solo brings the only likable aspect to the song, which displays why he’s one of the greatest guitarists to ever strap on a guitar.

   In Rock’n’Roll, wearing one’s heart on their sleeve can give a perception of weakness, but Daughtry throws that ridiculous notion into the nearest trash barrel. He makes vulnerability sexy all the while maintaining his edge.

   The comparison to bands like Nickelback and Default are inevitable, but the Daughtry band has created their own niche in the music industry. Do not let it come as a shock to you if Daughtry wins several Grammy’s next year; this album’s just that good.