I used to be a huge boyband fan 6-7 years ago. Most of them did sound alike, but A1 stood out - and they still do. Perhaps it's unnecessary to point out that they played their own instruments and wrote their own material. But I'll point it out anyway since most boybands are being criticized for not doing their own thing. My taste in music has changed over the years, but a few of the songs on this album have remained on my Mp3. I'm writing this short review now, some years after the A1's break-up, to give the band some kind of justice. Besides, it's a nice journey down memory lane.

The melodies are catchy and the lyrics are easy to remember. Overall, the guys weren't great song-writers (love and baby are words constantly recurring and some lyrics are very predictable.) There are exceptions however.

"Forever in Love" is a nice a-capella song and the guys' voices are in perfect harmony.
"Ready or Not" is a good pop song that sticks in your head after 1 or 2 listening.
"Everytime" is still one of my favorite songs - ever. The piano is beautiful and the chorus is amazing. I love Paul's voice in it.
"Like a Rose" is also a favorite. Read the lyrics carefully, they're really good. Ben did a great job writing this song all by himself at the age of 16.

The other songs no longer apply to me - but a fan of 90's pop music will definately enjoy them.

If you should buy 2 CDs this year, make this your second choice. If you have to buy 1 CD this year, but A1's "The A List" CD. This CD is A1's first CD and it's a good CD. It has a few VERY GOOD slow ballads on there that you really can't pass up if you like A1. I first heard their song "No More" on an mp3 from their second album and thought it was really great. Then I started to slowly hear more of their songs and this is a really good band. All the boys can sing and their music is just soothing to the ears. So, what the hay, give this CD a try. You only live once and I don't think you should pass up A1. Thanks!

I bought this after buying and listening to their second album, The A List. Personally, I found the second album to be better, which is what I would suspect. However, this album has some really good songs, and if you like A1, you should give this a try.

I bought this after buying and listening to their second album, The A List. Personally, I found the second album to be better, which is what I would suspect. However, this album has some really good songs, and if you like A1, you should give this a try.

Here's the fantastic, upbest debut album from british boyband a1! It includes the singles, Be the first To Believe, Like A Rose & Summertime of our lives. Any fan of pop will wanna get their hands on this!