Idol Chatter & Voice Views

“Slumberland”
Lee DeWyze

1. So What Now
2. All Fall Down
3. Annabelle
4. Princess
5. Flower Child
6. Where You Lie
7. Stay
8. Another Sleep Song
9. Sweet Sweet
10. Good Night

Asked to comment on the interest in his pre-Idol music during a Friday afternoon press conference,
new American Idol Lee DeWyze seemed much more anxious to talk about plans for his first major label release.

But fact is, he’s likely the first Idol finalist ever to have an album in stores before his season ended.

Actually, Lee recorded two pre-Idol albums, “So I’m Told” in 2007 and “Slumberland” in December.

Both were recorded for the independent WuLi Records in Chicago; the label is co-owned by Louis Svitek and Ryan McGuire, middle-aged guys who backed Lee in what was knwon as the Lee Dwyze band.

Lee actually had a three-record deal with the label. He was released from the contract so he could compete on Idol, according to a recent article in the Chicago Sun-Times that covers the new Idol’s pre-show career and includes some interesting insights into that stage fright that was so apparent early in the competition.

Lee’s first album hasn’t been released to stores yet, but it’s available online. Meanwhile, “Slumberland” certainly shows promise.

If you’re expecting a rock album, forget it. You’ve been listening too closely to Randy Jackson. Think more of an acoustic folk-rock sound, more like a Dave Matthews or John Mayer album.

Lee wrote all 10 songs, with help from percussionist McGuire on “Princess” and “All Fall Down.” The arrangements are simple, allowing Lee’s raspy vocals to shine through. And it’s clear the guy has a knack for writing a catchy melody.

As for the song-writing … well, let’s just say the title is appropriate. The lyrics are filled with references to beds, pillows and sleeping, indicating that either the songs were written to the “Slumberland” theme or Lee might need to branch out into other topics when he starts writing for that major label release.

But it’s a minor complaint on an album that’s a good listen from start to finish, that compares very well to Kris Allen’s post-idol album and that features three songs — “Annabelle,” “Stay” and the aforementioned “Princess” — that sound radio ready.

It’s also an indication that if voters didn’t select the best singer as the new Idol last week, they might have picked the more commercial of the two finalists.

Grade: B.