Ryan Cabrera had a decent run of success with his first two major label efforts, and on his latest effort, The Moon Under Water, he's back to small label antics with creative freedom, a new grungy look, and fortunately - an album worth your time as a fan or pop listener.

The Moon Under Water never strays far from mainstream pop conventions, but Cabrera layers on a mixture of instrumentation that lends itself to some of what we see in today's indie-pop. "In Between Lights" kicks things off with a fresh energy and a chorus littered with hooks - showcasing Cabrera's smart writing. I think one of the things people like about Cabrera is that he doesn't take himself too seriously, and you can hear it in his lyrics in between the more sentimental and serious moments. The record strikes a fine balance between moods and provides a sense of roundness that many records of this genre don't quite flesh out.

The production on The Moon Under Water is layered with a lot of effects and classic instrumentation, making it refreshingly musical. Songs like "Enemies", "Rise (The Dog Barks)", and the infectious "Say" are good examples of the thoughtful and creative instrumentals. "Say" should have been a huge radio hit, and if it had enough exposure, I'm sure it would have been. So many artists are left out in the cold simply because they don't have the heavy backing of big fish industry advertisers. The album's modest commercial success is by no means a reflection of its' outstanding quality in musicianship.

I took a chance on the strength of past releases, and came away very pleased with The Moon Under Water. I hope more people listen to it, and I hope to hear more from this amazingly talented vocalist and writer. Very thoughtful, very smart, and worthy of a place in my collection as a buried treasure.

The Good

"In Between Lights" kicks the album off with plenty of energy and vocal melody. The vocal hook of "Enemies" is instantly memorable. The added electronic effects add texture to the track. The album's first single "Say" becomes quite addictive with it's repetitive chorus and syncopated drum beat. "Sit Back, Relax" starts off mellow with electronics dominating. Guitar fuzz kicks in around the dramatic chorus. "The Tango" is a guitar heavy track. "I Shoulda Kissed U" is a somber ballad of lost love and tender memories. "I Will Remember You" tends to tread the same territory, but does so in more of an promising way.

The Bad

Nothing notable

The Verdict

I'll admit it, I had no idea who Ryan Cabrera was. I just assumed he was another American Idol reject. That's the ignorant rocker in me. I pretty much avoided this release I much as I could. What was I thinking? Cabrera is much more than your standard pop-rock flavor of the month. First off, the guy can write a catchy song. Second, the backing electronic effects add a wonderful texture to his pop rock sound. Third, the guitars aren't pushed to the back where you can barely hear them. Fourth, the guy can sing, and sing well. Fifth...you know what, I could go on and on. Moon Under Water rocks, but still pops enough for all to enjoy.

Ryan Cabrera's new cd is very unique. He's back with a whole new sound and every song on the album is amazing. His new songs are different than his older ones but they are still really good and great to listen to. I love that he put his old song I Will Remember you on this cd. That song along with Say are my favorite songs on this cd.

Ryan Cabrera's back with a new look and sound that would please both old audiences and the new. The best Ryan Cabrera album is finally out with a great collection of songs. Every song is quite enjoyable with standout tracks such as (my personal favorite)Enemies, Rise, The Tango, Sit Back, Relax, I Shoulda Kissed U, Please Don't Lie, and a revamped version of his hit, I Will Remember You.

Ryan Cabrera is a very talented artist, and this CD shows his true talent. He broke out from the social moires of being the "teen idol" and wrote music that was true to himself. This is a must have for anyone who likes Ryan and his true music.