These days it is difficult to locate a decent example of pop-rock or singer/songwriter, with Ashlee Simpson and Avril Lavigne in that general category. However, if one is determined and perseveres, they will find some genuine musicians that fit into this category. The Graham Colton Band is an excellent example of this.

Their album Drive is the perfect mix of blues, pop, rock, and genuine emotion. "Don't Give Up On Me" is an up-tempo song more on the side of pop, and I wouldn't be surprised to hear it on the radio or on a soundtrack for a coming-of-age teen movie (as is the case with many of the songs on this record). If I were forced to compare this band, I would say John Mayer (the singer/songwriter aspect) meets Green Day (the rock aspect) meets Lifehouse (the pop aspect). Colton's vocals reminded me of the lead singers from Good Charlotte or Simple Plan (sorry), a bit deep and coarse. And although the comparison may not sound like a compliment, I will add that the vocals work extremely well with the music. The song that stands out the most, in my opinion, is "First Week", regarding the feel of relationships during their first week, and the longing for it to stay: "Everything that you feel that you can't describe/Why can't it be like the first week?"

This record deserves a spot on the CD rack of any John Mayer, Lifehouse, or The Calling fan. I would not be surprised to turn on the radio or MTV and see or hear this band. In fact, I expect to.

http://www.grahamcoltonband.com/