With new artists springing up all the time, we've been able to basically categorize them into "sounds like" groups. Arising from Noblesville, Indiana, is the new artist Michael Cook, who may possibly be categorized into the "sounds like" groups of John Mayer, Jadon Lavik, and Warren Barfield. After going on a 30-day Unspoken tour with Jaci Velasquez, he ultimately fulfilled Velasquez's dream of starting a record label, A' Postrophe Records, when he became the first artist to be signed under the label.

His national debut album, Imprint, is also one of the first albums released from A'Postrophe records. Imprint reveals Cook's poetic gift, but does not show as much growth away from other artists of today as one would like. As an acoustic singer/songwriter, Cook can light up a room with his smooth vocals and catchy lyrics; but, once you get past the glimmer of the song and Cook's pretty face, you find a generic artist.

Although his music can be classified as generic, I found that Imprint is a beautiful album, just lacking innovation. Starting off the album is "Lately", a slow song that catches your attention right off the bat. Once you get into the 11 track album, though, all the songs seem to blend together as if Cook ran out of songs to put on the album. "Learning How to Love Again" is a nice piano-based song, while "Wipe Away the Tears" is more upbeat with an elegant poetic rhythm. Cook does show hints of development with "Extra Ordinary Day" and "Old Man in New York," two upbeat pop songs that keep you listening to the album.

I grew to appreciate Cook's attempt after listening to the album for awhile. Michael Cook should take his vocals a step higher and not be afraid to try new things. Everyone appreciates a diverse album like those of Steven Curtis Chapman. I believe that once he begins to explore all that he can accomplish with his talents, we can look forward to what he'll have in the future. So keep on eye on Michael Cook.

- Review date: 2/24/05, written by Jessica Vander Loop