There are no two ways about it: I am an obsessive fan of American Idol. This ultimate reality series has always captivated me, from watching Kelly Clarkson win the very first season to witnessing stunning eliminations for the likes of Chris Daughtry. This is coming from the girl who cried when her favorite David Archuleta lost to winner David Cook.  If it’s possible to be emotionally invested in a TV show, I am. Because of this, my ears always perk up when I hear any American Idol related news, especially from recent contestants. Season 10 of American Idol was a doozy. Though my favorite Scotty McCreery came out on top, there were plenty of other contestants that fought hard and could have easily one that top spot, Casey Abrams being one of them. I always thought the incredibly talented Casey was cheated when he was eliminated, but his self-titled debut album proves that he did not need a silly reality show to prove himself.

Reminiscent of Jason Mraz (especially the song “Wore Out My Soul”), Abrams’ album hits the singer-songwriter spot of my music taste perfectly, considering he wrote all 10 tunes on the album, with the exception of a great cover of “Hit The Road Jack,” that also features fellow contestant Haley Reinhart.

A majority of the songs are rainy day; heartfelt tunes that make you feel like falling in love. “A Boy Can Dream”, “Midnight Girl”, and “Great Bright Morning” are sweet dedications to some lucky girl out there, laced with pretty acoustic guitar melodies. “Simple Life” is just what it sounds like: an homage to living and appreciating life for what it really is. “Ghosts” is one of my favorites on the album, simply because of its content. Abrams sings, “not afraid of the dark anymore, went to that haunted house and opened that door, but I’m still the same with you.” The girl he loves keeps him grounded and himself, a message that I find absolutely beautiful.

Abrams taps into his inner rocker with “Dry Spell,” a song with driving piano and drums, a complete 180 from the sweet love songs also featured on the album, but it only adds to the album’s greatness.  In addition, “Get Out” ‘s catchy beat has all the makings of a first single, reminiscent of bands such as Train. Abrams also features soul ridden songs such as “Blame It On Me” and “Stuck In London.”

I have absolutely fallen in love with Casey Abrams and his music after listening to this album. Abrams proves that American Idol is so much more than manufacturing talent, but providing a place for other real, true, and talented artists such as Abrams to showcase their music to the world.