A Thousand Different Ways Reviews

• Not a typical Cover Album!!!

  
  By AJDFQJ3D5EH0Z on 2006-09-21
  I hope hearing this is a mostly cover album does not scare off anybody. Clay does sing other artists' hits, however Clay puts a new take on them that makes them feel like brand new songs. I will admit, I am biased towards Clay. I like his singing voice more than any other singer out there, and then with all his charity work and working with kids; I really care for his career. However, I do not be biased towards Clay's songs. First and foremost I like Clay because of his singing. So I want to judge each song based on how I like it. Just like any other favorite artist of mine, if I do not like a song Clay sings, I will definitely admit it. However, I can honestly say I have never heard a Clay song I have not liked. My first listen on this album, I thought that record might be broken. However, after listening to this album many, many times; I can definitely say I enjoy EVERY song. When you prepare to listen to this album, try to get the other versions out of your mind. Clay will do them different, and in most cases...BETTER!
  
  01. Right Here Waiting
  My first listen, I was not sure. I was thinking; maybe too soft,
  too sensitive. I now say "WOW!" Great song!
  
  02. Lonely No More * New Song
  Not a bad song. It is growing on me. It does have great lyrics. I
  find myself singing this song in my head often.
  
  03. Without You
  It has been covered many times, so I was not sure about being the
  first single. However, it definitely is one of the top songs on the
  album.
  
  04. Everytime You Go Away
  Layed back song, easy going. Not bad.
  
  05. Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word
  Similar to "Everytime You Go Away'; layed back, nice listening.
  
  06. When I See You Smile
  Nice Ballad. I really liked "Bad English's" version, but it was a
  little over the top and maybe a little cheesy. Clay's version comes
  off better, more real!
  
  07. A Thousand Days *New Song
  Top notch song! Some up-tempo parts. Should be a single.
  
  08. Everything I Do (I Do It For You)
  Classic Bryan Adams song; one of the best. Clay does it a little
  different, probably a little faster pace to it. Clay's version is
  very enjoyable.
  
  09. Because You Loved Me
  Not the Celine power ballad. My first listen I did not like it. I
  think it took one listen on these songs to get the other versions
  from other artists out of my head. These are definitely not the same
  songs. This song is not a big-ballad. It is more slow with a
  tender/caring feel. Very well done!
  
  10. I Want To Know What Love Is (with Suzie McNeil)
  Emotional powerful, strong song. Also needs to be a single. Suzie
  singing is a nice addition, she has a strong voice, and there is not
  too much of her.
  
  11. These Open Arms *New Song--Bon Jovi
  Good tune, great lyrics, easy tempo, fits in well on the album
  
  12. Here You Come Again
  Very laid back song. Nice listening, pleasant. I like it.
  
  13. Everything I Have (William Joseph on the piano) * New Song
  Need to notice the piano, it is a nice addition. Very caring song,
  make you feel good with the lyrics and Clay's emotional singing.
  Great song!
  
  14. Broken Wings
  Great song with some intensity. It has a serious tone to it, nice.
  There is a lady that talks a poem at different points of the song.
  I could have done without that part, but it is something different
  which is fine.
  
  
  

• Good covers, great new music - but not enough new music

  
  By A33CLVW2K7SL1P on 2006-09-25
  New music: 4.5
  Covers: 4
  
  When RCA pulled the plug on Clay's CD sometime earlier in the year I was frustrated, if not angry. The timing seemed too conspicuous to be anything but a response to all of the "nobody's business" nonsense that was going on. So I don't believe RCAs "official" statement that the release date for the CD was posted incorrectly. Not for a second.
  
  Anyway, Clay wants to be left alone, and I want the press (not only tabloid scumbags, but real journalists like Dianne Sawyer) to leave him alone. His life is his own, and it's his to live. We have no business prying. He sings for us, we enjoy it; he performs for us, we enjoy it. *That's all that matters*.
  
  Now that this has been released I'm similarly frustrated. Sure - I love Clay's voice, and it's wonderful to hear it again. After not having heard anything "new" from him listening to this was like slipping on an old, comfortable sweater.
  
  But I wanted an album full of new music, and I'm extremely puzzled - and a bit angry - at RCA for changing the course of this CD. I certainly hope it had nothing to do with - again - the "nobody's business" nonsense that was polluting the internet. If so, RCA should be ashamed with themselves. Clay deserves better than an album of covers.
  
  Without question, the strongest pieces on this CD are the new ones. So why weren't there more? On his last CD, there were a few songs - notably, "I Survived You" - that were never released and without question should have been. It's not as if there isn't new material that could be procured. Heck, they didn't properly mine the new material from Measure of a Man! (In other words, I think they did a poor job in releasing the songs in the appropriate order. This has nothing to do with Clay, but everything to do with the executives that were more concerned with presenting a certain "image" than they were putting his best foot forward.)
  
  Clay did a better job on these covers than I thought he would. Some were better than others. It's difficult for anyone to sing "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word", because it's difficult for anyone to cover an Elton John song. John's soulfulness was missing from this cover.
  
  But on "Because You Loved Me", he really impressed me. He's covering Celine Dion, and this girl is the cream of the crop. Her first #1 song (on Billboard's Hot 100), btw, was a cover of an Air Supply song - "The Power of Love". Point being here that Dion took a song that a group with a good lead singer didn't do much with (#68 on Billboard's Hot 100 in 1985) and made it wildly successful, and launched her into the stratosphere of female vocalists. Clay is gutsy to cover this.
  
  I was also impressed with Here You Come Again, and didn't think I would be. I grew up with all of these songs, so the original versions are burned into me. It's rare that a cover is better than the original. This isn't better than the original, but I still loved this song even without Dolly Parton's trademark enthusiasm that infused all of her songs. Clay sang this very subdued, and didn't even attempt to take a shot at infusing his own enthusiasm into the song. Kudos. There's something to be said for that, because he has the right kind of voice to "mimic" Parton's enthusiasm and cheer.
  
  A huge fan of Foreigner from their "heavier" rock days, I loved "I Want to Know What Love Is", and was expecting to be considerably disappointed. Somehow Clay grabs the passion that Lou Gramm's vocals had. It's also a collaboration, and well done. Also - and this needs to be acknowledged - the arrangement for this song was wonderful. Many of the arrangements for the covers were sorely lacking, and if not for Clay's terrific voice, would have fallen and scraped their knees on the sidewalk.
  
  I want to speak to the arrangements for a moment. Clay may not be RCAs biggest money-maker, but he's certainly made them enough money, and earned enough respect to have more talented people working on the arrangements. At times the background music felt decidedly amateurish - like he was on the American Idol stage and working with that band (oft criticized by the judges, especially, of course, by Simon).
  
  It is most definitely a shame that "Lover All Alone" is only available on iTunes, because it's arguably the most beautiful, touching song on the CD, made all the more so because Clay co-wrote it.
  
  His best cover, of course, was his finale for Season Two, the song that *should* have given him the win: Bridge Over Troubled Water. I still feel goose bumps just thinking about it. Unfortunately, the recorded version isn't as passionate as the live version. Oh well...it will live on in memory.
  
  All in all, I think this is a fine CD, and I have so much respect for Clay for getting through all of the nonsense that the press, both tabloid and respectable, and late-night comedians who have nothing better than to pick on people more talented than themselves (in most cases) put him through. And I have respect and admiration for him admitting to taking Paxil to help with his anxiety disorder. At least he didn't turn to cocaine or other drugs readily available in Hollywood.
  
  I would be remiss not to mention "A Thousand Days". That's a single waiting to be released. Let's see it.
  
  NOW. When's his CD with all NEW material coming out? Let's get with it. I don't want to wait two years. RCA needs to grow some...well, you know.
  
  
  

• Don't forget he was voted to the top on American Idol singing covers

  
  By A225OQE50TE6V7 on 2006-09-19
  I've been really looking forward to getting Clay's latest CD so I ran out today to pick it up and I must say it does not disapoint. I've always liked when artists take a trip down memory lane and re-record other people's material and the songs picked for this CD are right up my alley (Paul Young, Bad English, Richard Marx, Elton John, Mr. Mister) All bands I really love. Plus Clay went all the way to the top 2 on American Idol singing covers and everyone loved it then so what's not to love Now. His voice sounds very smooth and strong and gives a great new spin to some classic songs. My personal favorite is Paul Youngs/Hall&Oates "Everytime you go away"
  
  

• WOW! Just .... WOW!

  
  By A2K11BHST3CSOU on 2006-09-19
  As a Clay fan, I know Clay has the ability to take a cover song and make it his own, as evidenced by his Jukebox Tour summer of 2005. But, I had a few concerns when I saw the covers selected for the album. The 30 second clips I heard first were OK. Of the 10 covers, I could hear a "retooling" in maybe half of hem -- and I loved the preview of the 4 new songs. But, when I first heard the full tracks when they became available via ClearChannel -- GOODNESS!! They were SO much better than the 30 second clips. I adore every one of the 14 tracks, but here are my favorites.
  
  Richard Marx's "Right Here Waiting" -- this song is much better than the original. I liked the original OK, but it just seemed to drag a bit. This retooled version holds the listener's interest and moves forward much better.
  
  Harry Nilsson's "Without You" -- this is a perfect song for Clay. It really showcases his amazing voice and contains both the tenderness and huge glory notes that Clay can sing like no other.
  
  Bryan Adams "Everything I Do" -- this is ~totally~ reworked and has a kind of celtic flair throughout. Georgous!
  
  Dolly Parton's "Here You Come Again" -- this was a concern for me, but he knocks it OUT OF THE PARK (those low notes; how DOES he do that?? Especially when coming from a higher register??)
  
  Celine Dion's "Because You Loved Me" -- it is a bit faster with a stronger percussive beat that makes me like it so much more than the Celine Dion version.
  
  Mr. Mister's "Broken Wings" -- the first time I heard it, I was kind of like "OK, it's not bad", but the more I listen, the more I like; I'm now addicted to the song. The poetic voice strung throughout was a bit of a distraction at first, but now I can't imagine Clay's version without it. And, pay special attention to the very last line. It explains why this beautiful track is last.
  
  Elton John's "Sorry Seems to be the Hardest Word" -- this is another one that surprised me, as it is so very different from Elton's version. Clay sings it with such emotion, and the phrasing and falsetto he uses in the "sad sad situation" parts gives me chills (in a very GOOD way!)
  
  The new songs:
  
  "A Thousand Days" -- fans who attended the JBT last summer are familiar with this song. This studio version is quite good; they came very, very close to capturing Clay's "live performance" intensity.
  
  "These Open Arms" (written by Bon Jovi and Desmond Childs) -- this song was not a favorite based on the 30 second clip. But again, when I finally heard the whole track, it is a really, really good song. Some of the lyrics make me think it was custom-written for Clay, but I don't believe that's the case.
  
  "Everything I Have" (featuring William Joseph on the piano, who opened for Clay during his holday "Joyful Noise Tour 2005") -- this song is so very tender. It is a very quiet song -- no big glory notes, no big instrumentation. Basically an acoustic version that truly showcases Clay's amazing vocal talent.
  
  "Lonely No More" (co-written by Clay) -- This song is quickly becoming a favorite. I can't explain why, exactly, but I do find myself humming it while doing other tasks. It's got a nice hook that pulls you in.
  
  While I relly liked "Measure of a Man", this album is far superior to that; it is a masterpiece. The cover songs chosen really do showcase Clay's wonderful voice, and demonstrates Clay's ability to take VERY different songs, make them his own, and make one forget what the original sounded like (much like he did for "Bridge Over Troubled Water"). I can see this album becoming a classic. At least it will be for me. I can imagine myself listening to it decades from now.
  
  I am so thankful Clay has entered the entertainment world. A voice as pure and wonderful as his does not come around often, and it truly needs to be shared. And, he is such a wonderful celebrity role model for my children. He proves that nice guys can indeed prevail.
  
  
  
  

• The disappointment of others was my good luck...

  
  By A3VXBO4QQX3ZG8 on 2006-10-01
  I noticed that a lot of people seem let down because Clay Aiken released an album of covers. But in my case, it's a good thing he did, or I wouldn't have bought his CD, and you wouldn't be reading this now. The familiar songs were what made me take notice of him. (I don't watch "American Idol".) Frankly, I hadn't expected much, but before I bought it I listened to the samples one by one, and I found myself amazed to be liking them. Clay's voice is practically perfect technically, and it is really fervent and uplifting. And I like the breathy quality, because it makes his delivery very intimate. So, how do his vocals and arrangements compare to the originals? Well, I like the added muscle in the arrangement of "Right Here Waiting", and I would say the same for "Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word". As for "Without You", without a doubt it is very similar to Mariah's, but it is still gorgeous, and I can see no reason why both versions can't co-exist in the world of love Clay is trying to bring to us. I feel the same about "I Want To Know What Love Is". On "When I See You Smile", I actually prefer his vocal over the original. He sings "Because You Loved Me" in a more straightforward manner than Celine did, so the lyrics and their message reach me more easily. And his smoother version of "Here You Come Again" makes it a very different interpretation from Dolly Parton's. I want to add that in no way am I trying to belittle the other artists' versions of these great songs. I'm just saying that they sound different in Clay's hands, and there's nothing wrong with variety. My reaction to the 4 new songs isn't as immediate as to the covers, but I think I like "Everything I Have" the best of the 4. All in all, Clay has a beautiful voice, he does a terrific job, and I say, "You go, Clay, with your bad self!"
  
  
• Wow! Better than I could have imagined.
  By A23GRXIV2HAOE1 on 2006-09-19
  I am not exactly a huge clay Aiken fan. I listened to this CD on the Clear Channel web site. I really thought that this was one of the best CDs I have heard this year. The arrangements are top notch. As a music critic, I really did not want to like this CD. It's not so much that I have anything against Clay its more the whole American Idol thing. I have to say. Clay, Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood seem to be here to stay. As for the other winners, Fantasia, Ruben and Taylor, I'm not so sure.
  This CD showcases Mr. Aiken's great vocals and his ability to make a remake of a standard hit his own. Well done.
  
  
• A beautiful and melodic album by a wonderful pop artist.
  By A3OUA3K55Y2BV on 2006-09-19
  I have to say, I'm a sucker for Clay's voice. This album is ALL about the voice. While not quite as marketable as Measure Of A Man, this album lives up to it's potential.
  
  Right Here Waiting - 3.8/5. I am not quite sure why he covered this song. While it's a decent song, there isn't really much spark to it.
  
  Lonely No More - 5/5. One of the few original songs. A passionate song about being in need of somebody to share yourself with.
  
  Without You - 4/5. Wonderfully done. He really pulls it through with his glory notes after the bridge. Clay brought new life into this classic.
  
  Every Time You Go Away - 4.5/5. It's a beautiful rendition of another classic. I think this is as close to flawless as you're gonna get.
  
  Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word - 5/5. I wasn't sure if he was going to be able to pull of Elton John. This song has to be one of my favorites. Beautifully done.
  
  When I See You Smile - 3.8/5. Once again, wonderfully done. I don't feel that it's particularly unique though.
  
  A Thousand Days - 4/5. This is my least favorite of the originals. It is a wonderful pop song though.
  
  Everything I Do (I Do It For You) - 4/5. This song was kind of new to me, as I hadn't heard the original. It is a striking and beautiful song. Clay definately pulls off the vocals.
  
  Because You Loved Me - 4.5/5. I've heard criticism of this song being bleak or emotionless. I disagree however. I think the simplicity of it holds meaning in itself. Nicely done.
  
  I Want To Know What Love Is - 4.5/5. Fantastic duet. I think it's my favorite rendition of this classic.
  
  These Open Arms - 5/5. This song is more of Clay's style. It reminds me of "Run To Me" from Measure of A Man. It has a beautiful opening and then succeeds in giving you goosebumps by the time the chorus starts.
  
  Here You Come Again - 5/5. Again, an interesting choice in a cover. I absolutely love his rendition, simply beautiful.
  
  Everything I Have - 5/5. Here's another keeper. I love both the lyrics and the tempo of the song. It's quite refreshing. Clay's voice records very nicely on this one.
  
  Broken Wings - 4.8/5. This song has a little bit of a mysterious feel to it, but it seems like a bookend theme to "A Thousand Different Ways." This is emphasized when the girl whispers those words at the very end of the song. I have no complaints.
  
  Overall: 4.8/5.
  
  Pam
  
  
• One of the Thousand Different Ways to Listen to Clay's CD
  By A2VB42TQ8NCQDO on 2006-10-16
  This brilliant and artistic CD tells a story; maybe it is Clay's dream of the love he will once have, or perhaps it is a retelling of a love he imagines other people must have.
  It is even possible that Clay is in the process of building a love like the kind expressed throughout "A Thousand Different Ways".
  
  The CD begins with "Right Here Waiting", a semi-upbeat song that draws the listener in immediately. It has a catchy melody and a hint of strings that makes the song sound polished while remaining pop. It's a step above your average pop song. Clay's vocals give this song an entirely new meaning- it's not just a song about waiting for a loved one, it's a song about Clay waiting for a loved one.
  
  "Lonely No More", though it has a sad undertone, has an uplifting power. It builds and progresses; to me it is like the beginning of the story- the rising action. Then, "Without You" is a continuation of the story. Clay is lonely no more- he is so attached to his newfound love that he feels he cannot live without her.
  
  "Every Time You Go Away" is continuing the idea of not being able to live without this special person. Every time Clay and his lover are apart, he feels like a piece of him is missing. He and the girl are like one person, inseparable- and when they must part they still have pieces of each other
  
  "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word" illustrates the tension in this relationship. In this romance, as with all romances, there are rough times and rocky roads. Even the music that accompanies Clay's almost-edgy vocals on this song sounds tense. "When I See You Smile" is the resolution. This song is light and sweet but so meaningful. Even though his relationship is not always perfect, when he sees his lover smile, everything is perfect, even if only for a little while. He is so deeply in love that this girl overtakes his senses- he can feel nothing but his love for her.
  
  "A Thousand Days" makes the entire album solid, and it is also the stability of the story that is progressing through the album. Clay is proclaiming his dedication to his love. He wants to announce the way he feels to the entire world. Nothing could ever possibly keep him from being with the girl of his dreams.
  
  "Everything I Do" is another sweet song, a continuation of Clay's proclamation of his love. He is reassuring the girl that they will make it through every obstacle- that it is worth fighting for.
  
  "Because You Loved Me" is Clay's way of thanking the girl for all she has done for him. Without her he would not be who he is- her love gives him strength and courage. This is the perfect song to show the girl how much she means to him, and how much he needs her.
  
  "I Want to Know What Love Is" marks another obstacle- this time both Clay and the girl are expressing their doubt. They have both experienced so much pain in their lives, and they don't know if they can trust each other to be there forever. But, they want to know what love is, and they need to experience it together. They need to forget their doubts and face the world together. "These Open Arms" assures the girl that whatever she goes through in her life, and however much space she needs to figure things out on her own, he will always be there for her when she needs him.
  
  "Here You Come Again" talks about how this girl has him wrapped around her little finger, and that he cannot control the way he feels about her even if he wants to. Everything she does makes him more addicted to her. You can hear in Clay's voice that he loves her so much he doesn't even mind it; he has given into the way she makes him feel.
  
  "Everything I Have" is Clay's declaration of his commitment to his love. As many people have said, this is like a wedding song. It is a promise to the girl that the love they share is forever. Clay is admitting his inability to give the girl everything he wishes he could give her. He wants her to know that he can only give her what he is capable of giving, but that he hopes she still loves him regardless.
  
  The last song on the album, "Broken Wings", is a perfect, powerful, breathtaking end to the CD. It is sensual but also sweet. Clay and his love are helping each other to carry on, to live, to get through every obstacle and to overcome everything and everyone that tries to take them down. They are mending each other's broken wings, learning how to love again- how to fly again. "We are broken, but we are moving still- A Thousand Different Ways."
  
  This CD may not be entirely made of Clay's words, but he takes the covers and interprets them in his own way. The album is almost like a concerto, and he is both the conductor and the musician. His voice rings throughout each song, both figuratively and literally. This CD is clearly his own, whether the songs are his or not. He has adopted them and used them to create his story- making the album his and his alone.
  
  
• Very pleased!
  By A11OHHQCGI5BTC on 2006-09-19
  Clay Aiken makes almost every cover song on this CD better and his own! There are some that sound so different from the original... it's fascinating. While he may be known for his glory notes, of which there are a few, I am drawn to the supptle softness of his interpetation of the lyrics! His voice is so pure. There are four new songs that are extremely nice. He co-wrote Lonely No More, which is lovely. I understand he wrote another one for a bonus track called Lover All Alone.
  When he hits that low note in Here You Come Again... I just have to say, one more time... where is that voice coming from?
  
  
• Here you come again...
  By A2S764J4TDI8JI on 2006-09-19
  Well, just like the song "Here You Come Again" on this cd, here comes Clay Aiken, again..."looking better....wrapping our hearts around his little finger...smiling that smile...and there go all our defenses......here he comes again.... filling up our senses ..shaking us up....
  
  and here we gooooo".....
  
  Clay has captured our hearts with his voice that just reaches in and touches your soul and captures your emotions....
  
  This is a beautiful cd and sure to become a classic...His Christmas cd is another one that will be played year after year....
  
  I have a feeling that Clay will be around for a long time to come...
  
  Treat yourself, or a friend or your mom....Don't pass up this cd!!
  
  velvet
  
  
  
• Excellent!
  By A1TKHJSNF1MA7O on 2006-09-19
  While cover heavy, this cd is surprisingly a treat! If you enjoyed these songs in the past, and even if you didn't, you'll find different treatments on several of the tracks. Some highlights: Everything I Do has a wonderful Celtic feel, Broken Wings, a haunting blending of poetry and song, and Aiken's rendition of the Dolly Parton classic Here You Come Again, totally revamped...melodious and pure enjoyment. Lonely No More, co-written by Aiken, is a beautiful song, would love to see what he coes up with in the future as a songwriter. I personally would have picked These Open Arms (penned by Jon Bon Jovi) or A Thousand Days, (an original song), for the first single over Without You. While WY is richly delivered, both of these would have been better as the single, they're both terrific! I would hope we hear those two on VH1 sometime in the future. Clay Aiken's voice is an amazing instrument and his range is evident throughout the album. A must have for fans of Clay Aiken as well as those who enjoy beautifully sung melodies.
  
  
• A different spin
  By AORD5QVOQH8T0 on 2006-09-20
  I have read the customer reviews here, and this business about no covers is getting a little old. Rod Stewart did three albums of covers in a croaky voice, even stricken with throat cancer at one time. He did quite well for himself. He doesn't even sing as beautifully as Clay. Rod's a Rock legend. Because Clay is not historic and established is a poor excuse not to allow him to sing timeless classic 80's covers which just happens to be very popular now with the college kids. Clay retooled them, and they sound really great. I really like them. The album is composed of Love Songs. And Clay loves ballads. He really does.
  
  Clay's originals are favorites of mine. Lonely No More (co-written by Clay) has a strong almost country flavor hook, that I keep humming. The build with his voice and arrangement is commendable. A Thousand Days, is contemporary rock punch, that is really cool. Everything I Have is a gorgeous wedding ballad tenderly sung by Clay. And These Open Arms written by Bon Jovi does have a lyric change in it. Most likely by Clay himself, which he did not take credit for. This song really exhibits Clay's pure powerful bell voice.
  
  Of the covers Broken Wings stands out in my mind the most, because of the voice over. Did anyone think that there was a reason for that. Check out the back cover of the CD liner, you might find what it says. I think Clay has a big message with this CD which we don't exactly know about, but we will. It's theme. It's dedication to his fans, but is he trying to tell us something? The song is perfection, it starts low and builds to a rocking percussive beat that I find chilling as well as enchanting. I'm rocking this one out. WOW !!
  
  Clay's voice is sexy, and charming in this album. People who don't like this CD need to dismantle their tunnel vision, and open up to an amazing ride. I do think that this CD and his voice are Grammy worthy. No one sings like Clay Aiken. He is totally original. A lot can be said for an artist whose draw is so powerful that the recipients are extremely enthusiastic ever increasing in number, and their loyalty is remarkable. It reminds me of Frank.
  
  
  
  
  
• Clay Aiken's "A Thousand Different Ways" is Fantastic
  By A2A3TNWPBCPEGR on 2006-09-27
  Clay Aiken's new CD transcends the sense of sound. It is beautiful, sensitive and melodic. These are the qualities that describe Clay.
  It is a welcome relief from the noise and panic sound of Hip Hop, and Rock.
  If people listen to Clay's kind of music, perhaps a more serene, romantic and balanced world will prevail.
  God Bless Clay and his fans.
  
  
• Way Better than Expected - Even Non Fans will LOVE IT!!!
  By A3RQVG6FPZZ09T on 2006-09-15
  I have heard all songs from this CD - clips available here and full "sneak peek" [..]
  
  I have always loved Clay, and most of the songs on this CD, but at first I didn't think I would like a CD with "covers", but Clay's voice is so GORGEOUS - Anyone who didn't get the chance to hear/see Clay during his AI days (didn't do him justice) will be instantly "clayverted", and those of you who did and were "on the fence" won't be able to resist falling in love with him now.
  
  PLEASE GO LISTEN TO THE SONGS yourself if you don't believe it, before writing any negative comments. There is NO WAY that you could honestly write anything but praise if you listen to the full tracks or even the clips here on Amazon.
  
  There are four beautiful new songs, but all of the songs seem new with the new arrangements and with Clay's precious "breathy" voice.
  
  By the way, I am not just some blind fan who will LIE for Clay - this CD ROCKS and will be played for many love birds in the future!
  
  Be sure to pick it up - it can be preordered here or bought when it comes out on September 19th.
  
  
• VACLAYFAN
  By A3QY4CYM11MD1K on 2006-09-19
  WAS THIS EVER WORTH THE WAIT!!!!
  As a die-hard Clay Aiken fan, I was getting a little (no more than a little)impatient with the time it took to produce this CD. I can honestly say it is singularly the BEST cd I have in my vast collection.
  
  Can't wait to see what he comes up with next.
  
  
• Holey moley!
  By A38CWKZ9ASZ0BH on 2006-09-19
  I love this CD!!!! I think Clay's voice shows a maturity and a smoothness that was not as apparent on MOAM. I think he brings a freshness to each of the cover songs and sings them with emotion and attention to each nuance!!! Lonely No More is awesome!!! Broken Wings...ethereal. Here You Come Again - Dolly Parton should be proud Clay Aiken is singing her song!!!Beautifully crafted CD.
  
  
• Everything I have
  By A1C5TW9YCR423X on 2006-09-19
  I am in love...all over again!!
  Track 13 "Everything I have" is one of those songs that gives me an uplifting feel in my heart that I haven't felt in a while.
  The CD brings me back to a simplier time.
  I like that!
  
  
  
• Amazing :) I love this cd
  By A3KO10HOQR2JEJ on 2006-09-19
  Even though it is mostly cover songs , this is Clay Aiken at his best. His song Lonely no more co written by him is simply amazing and cant wait for more orignal songs from him. The cover songs are amazing and it seems like these songs were written for him he gives a new twist to them and makes them his own. Every clay aiken fan a must buy.
  
  
• Absolutely Breathtaking.
  By on 2006-09-19
  This CD is absolutely breathtaking. One of the best releases this year. Starting out with a classic like Right Here Waiting & ending with such a beautifully haunting song like Broken Wings, I don't think it would be possible to not love this amazing CD. "Without You", Aiken's single is exceptionally beautiful. All tracks could bring tears to your eyes. "Everything I Have" seems to be the new marriage song of those who purchased this CD, while "A Thousand Days" brings all a rock-type vibe to a tremendous love song. "Lonely No More", a song co-written by Aiken, showcases obviously his outstanding voice, but also his tremendous writing talents. "Everything I Do (I Do It For You)" and "Every Time You Go Away" provide you with a great feeling - the feeling of soothing, amazing musical talents. This album gives you the feel that the only male artist capable of singing "Because You Loved Me" without a flaw would be Aiken himself. If you're in the mood to just be peaceful, "Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word" is a softer song, but the vocals & notes that Aiken is reaching are unbelievable. If you're in the mood to rock to well known love songs, "When I See You Smile" & "I Want To Know What Love Is" are perfect for you. Flawless vocals, and accompanied by Suzie McNeil on "I Want To Know What Love is", these songs have no imperfections in sight. Aiken's rendition on Parton classic "Here You Come Again" gives you no doubt that he can sing in any genre, while "These Open Arms" gives you chills - Aiken never seems to lack the capability to amaze you, and therefore I give this album 5 stars.
  
  
• The Softer Side of Clay
  By A1THKD5B7TM7VO on 2006-09-21
  Clay Aiken grows up and steps out of his big belter comfort zone and explores new vocal territory with this new album of cover tunes. Gone, for the most part, are the bombastic power notes that were the highlights of such past hits as 'Solitaire' and 'Bridge Over Troubled Water'. Exec Producer Jaymes Foster has encouraged him to use the more subtle nuances of his voice instead of showy vocal theatrics; most notably on 'When I See You Smile" (which could have ended up being just another glory note power fest)and the Dolly Parton hit "Here You Come Again" rendered with an pleasantly surprising gentle charm. You can practically see the rueful grin on his face as he sings it.
  
  But this album isn't all quiet gentility. Clay does cut loose on several numbers like the new song "A Thousand Days" and a cover of the Harry Nilsson superhit "Without You" that ends with a socko emotional power punch. I was surprised at his expansive range, the lower end showcased in the Nashville-esque "Lonely No More" and in the almost delicate falsetto in "Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word".
  
  Despite the album being made up primarily of covers, the arrangements are so different I still have trouble identifying what song is which old favorite when they first start. The various producers seem to have had a really good time playing around with their favorite tunes, deivering complex and richly textured arrangements that are still accessible and fun to listen to.
  
  You'll have to listen many times to catch all the nuances. Turn up the speakers and stand in the middle of the living room and allow the sitar and the pan flute to just wash over you. Smile and enjoy.
  
  
• This one is Grammy-worthy !!!
  By A132I0UT217ION on 2006-09-19
  This man can SING !!! He makes an ordinary note sound heavenly and an average song sound phenominal !!
  
  This is NOT the same kid that sang on American Idol, not at all !! This guy has matured, he's mastered his God-given talents, he's breath new life into old classics and introduced us to a few that are Classic-bound !!
  
  He's proven, without a single doubt, that he's the real deal and not a flash-in-the-pan !!
  
  I'm proud to be a Clay-fan ! Always have been -- always will be !!!
  
  Thank you, Clay !! A Thousand Different Ways !!! :-}
  
  
• Some Old Songs Made NEW!!!
  By A3RIS84XU0R9VE on 2006-09-19
  I have listened to this new Clay Aiken CD a few times tonight. Most of the songs are familiar to me but many are done in a new and different way. What stands out the most are Clay's powerful and excellent vocals. He has true talent. The snippets of the songs are not enough to truly appreciate this CD. It is best when listened to from start to finish as the songs are beautifully arranged and the instrumentation on many is quite unique. The CD as a WHOLE is what impresses me the most. Well done Clay Aiken! I LOVE it! I'll play it again and again and again and again and..........
  
  
• GOOD JOB!!!!
  By A1I4FZWW35VKDB on 2006-09-19
  I really like this CD. I have to admit that when I saw the songs were all remakes (two of them I hated when they came out orginally), I was a bit worried. But I should have known that Clay would make them wonderful. Sorry for doubting that talent. I really like "Lonely No More" and "A Thousand Days." Hey Justin---I see that this is already No. 6 on the Amamzon list and you are at No. 4. I just heard about its release so the numbers can only climb. I guess AI can release artists that can "carry a tune in a bucket" afterall. Good job CLAY!!!!!!
  
  
• Finally Music
  By A1KQ886MXGJLTG on 2006-09-19
  Hooray for Clay Aiken and thanks for bringing music back! Finally a CD that gives us music the way it should be heard. There is something for everyone on this CD. The renditions of the love songs are new and different. The 4 original songs are superb.
  Broken Wings is a stand out.
  
  
• WOW WOW WOW
  By A35DNCLBVL15AR on 2006-09-19
  
  What a great CD, I was expecting this cd to be pretty good but it has exceeeded all of my expectations. The more I listen to it the better it gets, I can't even pick a favorite because they are all so good.
  
  I highly reccommend this cd...he hit this one out of the park!!!
  
  
• Absolutely fantastic @}->---
  By A24ZFFRQ4MG3XL on 2006-09-19
  This cd has blown me away. I have always loved Clay, but now I see him even better (if that's possible). He really has a superb vocal range and it shows through this music. Sure there are basically only remakes, but he has the voice that suits them and he's made some new songs too that are just as good. I Want To Know What Love Is, Right Here Waiting, When I See You Smile and Broken Wings are the best covers, and the most fantastic original (and a stunning song) is Everything I Have. He has chosen well and he's showing just how talented he is. I hope people will give him a chance because they'll be equally impressed too. It's hard not to be. The only song on here that I didn't like was Dolly Parton's Here You Come Again. I don't think that suits him or this style of cd, but each of the other 13 songs, be they remakes or original, are so brilliant and so worth you listening to. He is very talented and if you get this cd, you will hear why. I love this.
  
  
• Clays voice is amazing.
  By A16QKS6TXLCJ6X on 2006-09-19
  I don't know what else to say that hasn't already been said. So nice to hear a really incredible voice rather than some of the screeching out there today. Some songs soothe and others give me goosebumps.
  
  
• I love it
  By A1QF29G4VO15TP on 2006-09-19
  I was apprehensive when I heard that Clay's CD was going to be covers but Clay is a risk taker and I wish more people saw him that way. It's gutsy for him to do covers, gutsy for him to take on songs that were great and have been covered greatly by others. That said, Clay has a different voice than others that have sung these songs, so why not him. He and Clive's instincts are proven right with this CD, it is a work of art.
  
  The originals on this Cd are outstanding. His producer said he was a good lyricist and it shows in the song Lonely No More that he co-wrote. He's also written a song called Lover All Alone that is a bonus with ITunes download. This song is haunting, is just gorgeous and is suited to Clay's voice. I hope he continues to write and shares his musical soul with us.
  
  As for the covers, Clay has the ability to take a song and make it seem like you've heard it for the first time. One of the things that will sustain Clay's career is he seeks out and works with the finest musicians and producers. He takes his music seriously and he strives for excellence in what he does.
  
  I highly recommend this for the voice, the wonderful musicianship and overall excellent production of this CD and most importantly it's a wonderful and emotional listening experience.
  
  
  
  
  
• Awesome!
  By AGXQVC7FL0RFZ on 2006-09-27
  Ok, here's the thing that I hate about Clay Aiken. Every time he does someone else's songs, I can't listen to the original anymore! Case in point: Bridge Over Troubled Water. 'Nuff said.
  
  Yes, I am a Clay fan, but do not classify myself as a Claymate. I think his voice is incredible, and this CD shows it. I wasn't fond of "Measure Of A Man" because they tried too hard to "pop-ify" (is that a word?) his voice, you couldn't really hear Clay in those songs. His Christmas album allowed Clay to show his true voice, I loved it.
  
  Now this CD follows the Christmas one. Several of the songs on the CD, I didn't care for the original versions of: Right Here Waiting, When I See You Smile, Every Time You Go Away. Now that Clay has done them, I am enjoying them for the very first time!
  
  My favorite track is the cover of Elton John's Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word. That one is perfection! A Thousand Days is my second favorite.
  
  Weak moments, if you can call them that, is Dolly Parton's Here You Come Again, that one will have to grow on me with time. The other is Broken Wings. It is the only exception to the above rule, I prefer the original version. But it isn't bad.
  
  Nice, easy listening, has been in my player lots lately! Good job, Clay! Keep it coming!
  
  
• A Great Surprise
  By A21H12AO391U0T on 2006-09-29
  I wasn't really sure about this CD until I heard the songs streaming online. I have to say what a pleasant surprise I had when I heard them. I really like most of them, and I love several. Here You Come Again is a great treat. Everything I Have is also a favorite, and I read that Clay says he wanted an Art Garfunkel sound to this song. I'm a fan of Artie's. I think Clay did a great job. Broken Wings is really unique, and I love the way the poem ends with the title of the CD. Finally, Clay is given credit as a songwriter with Lonely No More. When the snow begins to fall and the fire is lit, I'll be having my glass of wine and listening to this CD.
  
  

• On My Way Here
• Measure Of A Man
• Merry Christmas With Love
• Taylor Hicks
• Daughtry