Artist: Christin Cool CD Title: "For the Love" Reviewed by: Nick Martinelli Reviewed: 10/5/2003

Christin Cook is a powerful female rocker that isn’t afraid to say what she feels in her music. She is a talented artist that has an angelic voice. Cook can’t be compared to any other female artists out there today, because she is truly the brightest of all stars. When it comes to song writing this woman knows how to combine melody, harmony and simplicity to drive her message across. Romance, spontaneity and fun are three words that best describe her writing style and after listening to the album I’m sure you’ll be quick to agree. She’s been touring all over the United States gaining the much needed experience to make it in the profession league. Its just a matter of time before she catapults into stardom. Fun songs, great melodies and some down and dirty chick power are what make “For the Love” timeless.

“I Need Your Love” is a very upbeat catchy radio song that everyone can jam too. The lyrics are very creative and thought provoking. The musicianship it top notch as well. The guitar playing helps drive the song along behind Christin’s heavenly voice. She sings with lots of emotion and poise. Another cool highlight was the bluesy rock guitar solo, filled with melodic and raspy bends.

Track two “Keep Breathing” is another spicy number from Ms. Cook. She has a knack for writing radio friendly tunes, and this one is another prime example of the strong song writing skills she has. The clean guitar work is very ear pleasing, and complements the vocal passages perfectly. It’s as if they were one entity bound together in luscious harmony. “Keep Breathing” is a great cruising song and I know this will be a major hit with fans.

“So Close to Far Away” is a great rock and roll anthem encompassing all the qualities needed to make a classic chart topper. I really enjoyed the lyrics, because they could be interpreted in many different ways. The title speaks for itself in this case. Christin uses a good range of vocal styles throughout the song as well. She knows how to accent notes to make her words come alive. Pros like Jewl and Alasnis Morrisete would be impressed with this woman’s musical endeavors. One word can best sum up this song; beautiful, because the melody lines are striking and they’ll stick with you forever.

Song four, “Beyond Me” has lots of layers and textures. Listen for all the detail put into the background music. There is superb percussion, and the guitar playing is truly the driving force behind this one, but, Christin is the heart and soul. Her elegant voice is such a pleasure to listen to. It can be soothing yet powerful at the same time. Cook is truly a diamond among the rest of the genre. I could only imagine what it would be like to know this beautiful woman in everyday life. She seems to have the aura that would light up any room that she walks into. This song is the song that musicians try to write their whole lives.

“Pink” is a mellow rock radio song jam packed with smokin’ guitar riffs and licks. All I can say is that Christin is a true rocker at heart! This lady couldn’t write a sour note if she tried. The song structure is priceless and her vocals are precious as well.

“You Don’t Even Know” brings the pace back up again with catchy guitar playing and breath taking vocal hooks. She seems to really let herself open up in this one, not holding anything back in the vocal department. Her soul pours out into the ears of her listeners and this something rare in the world of music today. Along with that, her lyrical content is cool as well, she is defiantly an artist who likes to make her fans ponder on the meanings of her lyrics. If I were to pick a favorite portion of the song all my votes would go for the bridge/chorus sections. Cook’s voice is so melodic and sweet its hard not to fall in love with her.

“Sweet Nothings” keeps the ballad fire blazing with this sizzling little number. The great combination of moody acoustic guitar and Cook’s vocals walk hand and hand. This track has a jazzy feel to it and it’s great to hear a bit a variety in her composures. The concept of this song is very strong and upfront.

“Silly Things” is the fun smile cracker on the cd. The lyrics are comical at times, but they bring to light the goofy things people do for each other. In this case she’s talking about all the little things that women do to make their guys happy. This song was a true musical treasure and always makes it way into the CD player on a regular basis. Hats off to you Christin!

“If I Had the Time” is a slow jammer with at huge atmosphere. Clean chordy passages build up the songs exterior, while Christin hits one out of the ball bark. Her performance is commanding deserves plenty of praise. Artists like her are the ones that really make listening to music a special occasion. I feel like I’ve been given a special privilege when listening to her perform. She has a heavenly gift and is using it to the fullest extent.

“Cause of Who You Are” is another emotional roller coaster of relationships, love and inspiration. This young lady really has a great outlook on life and is down to earth. Other musicians should lend an ear to what Ms. Cook has to say about life. She possesses wisdom that is rare in our younger generation today. This song is like a never ending dream of happiness. If you’re looking for a song to move you into another state of mind this is the one to do it for ya.

Sadly we come to the closing of this wonder work of art and love with “Thank You.” This song is very wide open and has a huge life-force. Some songs are just worth hearing once, but this one is a memorable one. Instrumentation is a large part of this track’s lifeforce. Sitar like guitars demoniate the background groove and allow Christin true musical freedom. Harmonies and melodies are in abundance throughout. Cook found the secret formula when writing this masterpiece, by being able to merge different sounds, and vibes together for a wonderful musical experience.

There is only one bad thing I could say about this cd and that is that it ended! Other than that, “For The Love” was untouchable. Listening to Cook’s soft voice is soothing to the soul. I think I heard an angel sing for the very first time. She has a magical gift that is making the world a better place with every song. Christin has a positive message to send to her listeners and I can’t begin to tell you how much her lyrics have to say about life and love. Most musicians don’t peak until later in life, but Christin is blossoming into an undying rose. Her voice will brighten your day and give you a new lease on everything. Christin Cook is a much needed musical role model in today’s world of trashy pop stars. Christian is one cute babe and doesn’t need to flaunt herself to make people listen to her sing. Music loves should really look up to artists like her, and radio and MTV should be showcasing artists who have brains and something to say about. Everyday isn’t a party and Cook’s wholesome songwriting is something that I really admire and respect. She doesn’t comprise one bit when it comes to artist integrity. And for that I hold her in the highest regards. Thank you so much Christin for opening my ears to truly moving and inspirational music. Whatever you do, please don’t ever stop what you have begun, we need musicians and role models like you. Please stop by www.christincook.com and pickup your copy of “For The Love” today!