I wasn't sent Citizen Cope's self titled album, but had a copy passed onto me by a friend from New Jersey. This friend tends to sometimes have similar taste to me, but not too often. So, it took me a little time to actually give the album a spin. Thank god I did. Citizen Cope is definitely an artist I'd like to see succeed in this industry of watered down "music."

Armed with a powerful mic presence and singing voice, some help from Bob Power (who has worked with ATCQ, D'Angelo and Erykah Badu) and Me'shell Ndegeocello helping out the bass on 'Contact,' C.C. had everything in his favour to create a brilliant album.

From the tale of George on '200,000 (In Counterfeit 50 Dollar Bills)' a song about a drug addict who masks his money wasting as being spent on gambling to the scratch influenced 'Let The Drummer Kick' to 'Appetite (For Lightin' Dynamite).' Cope manages to tell detailed tales of intriguing characters to perfect musical backdrops.

If there were one song I'd advise you to listen to before purchasing 'Citizen Cope,' it would definitely be 'Salvation.' This gem is worth the price of the entire album alone. The strummed ballad is amazing. It's a depressing tale, performed with exceptional passion. The lyricism is poetic and overall outcome is a joy to listen to.

The self-titled album Citizen Cope assembled is well worth taking the time to seek out, or purchase online (check the above link). Though Citizen Cope isn't your typical release, it is one deserving attention. I eagerly look forward to his next.