Idol Update, Part 2: Daughtry Rocks Out

There’s a pattern developing in “Idol” land, and it’s a welcome change.

It looks like the “Idol” gurus have finally learned their lesson and are allowing the Idols to be themselves on their CDs. It started a few weeks ago with Kellie Pickler and now the trend continues with Chris Daughtry.

“Daughtry,” the self-titled debut from Chris’ new band is the CD that Bo Bice probably wishes he could’ve made. Whereas Bo’s CD was full of light rock (instead of Bo’s stronger original stuff), Chris gets the chance to rock out. One track (“What I Want”) even boasts a guest appearance by Slash of Guns ‘n Roses.

Personally, however, I like Chris when he’s showing his softer side, which he does quite well on “Breakdown” and the power anthem, “What About Now.” My favorite track is “Over You,” which strikes a good middle ground between hard and soft with a more upbeat tempo.

The only problem is that I keep getting a “been there, done that” feeling when I listen to the CD. The first single, “It’s Not Over,” sounds like a combination of Nickelback’s “Saving Me” and Fuel’s “Hemorrhage”—which isn’t a bad thing, necessarily. I’m just concerned that Chris will get lost in the crowd of similar acts.

“Daughtry” hits stores November 21st. You can listen to it for free at http://www.vh1.com/artists/az/daughtry__chris/1377926/album.jhtml?popThis=playIt().