Kris Allen
Kris Allen · 2009
48 min · 13 tracks · alternative rock
Uplifting pop rock melodies intertwine with earnest lyrics, showcasing a blend of vulnerability and resilience.
Top tracks — play these first
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Live Like We're Dying — This track serves as the album's anthem, promoting themes of seizing the moment and living fully. Its infectious chorus and motivational message resonate widely, making it a fan favorite.
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The Truth — With its introspective lyrics and melodic structure, this song showcases Allen's vocal range and emotional depth, reflecting the personal struggles many face in relationships.
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Heartless — A cover of Kanye West's original, Allen transforms this hip-hop hit into a haunting acoustic ballad that highlights his artistry and ability to reinterpret popular music through a different lens.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album features solid songwriting and production but lacks a strong cohesive identity.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks maintain a consistent upbeat tempo, while the fourth introduces a slower ballad that shifts the album's energy.
- Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the emotional impact of the lyrics.
- The album closes with a cover of 'Heartless', which contrasts with the preceding original compositions and alters the overall tone.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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5/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady, consistent energy levels
- dynamic emotional journeys
- thoughtful late-night reflections
- uplifting anthemic moments
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Kris Allen's self-titled debut album followed his victory on 'American Idol' in 2009, marking his transition from reality TV winner to recording artist. Released on November 17, 2009, the album aimed to establish his presence in the music industry amidst high expectations following his win.
- Stylistic neighbors
- David Cook· Daughtry· Lifehouse
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Live Like We're Dying 3:32
- 2 Before We Come Undone 3:31
- 3 Can’t Stay Away 3:21
- 4 The Truth 4:41
- 5 Written All Over My Face 3:34
- 6 Bring It Back 3:42
- 7 Red Guitar 4:27
- 8 Is It Over 3:34
- 9 Let It Rain 3:29
- 10 Alright With Me 3:08
- 11 Lifetime 3:38
- 12 I Need To Know 3:38
- 13 Heartless 3:42
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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