Marcus Collins [CD]

Considering how quickly this album was put together, it's a great debut from an x factor contestant. Marcus co-wrote 7 tracks, Gary Barlow wrote 1 and there are 3 covers. The vocals and production are great and the songs are all mid-up tempo - there are no ballads. My favourite tracks, after 1 listen are: Love & Hate, Mercy, Feel Like I Feel and Higher and Higher. If you liked Marcus on the x factor or are looking for a pop album with great vocals, I would definitely recommend this album!

What a great 1st album love all the songs and hear the 2nd single will be mercy which is a great pick for 2nd single. Its a feel good album that has a really good summer vibe perfect for a bbq on a hot summer night.

Headline: The album is a fun, entertaining, and ultimately a memorable collection of tracks that you and others with you can really enjoy listening to.

I think it's clear that there are some people, some of whom write on the Internet, that have a snobbish attitude towards former X-Factor contestants. But they could not be more wrong. It's very simple, those currently in the industry and in the charts, are not the only ones that can sing. And given the opportunity, whether it be the traditional means within the industry, or alternatively a televised talent contest - some individuals will rightly take the opportunity and have their chance.

Is Marcus Collins a good singer? Of course he is. If currently unsure, please log onto YouTube and watch his performances of Reet Petite, Moves Like Jagger, and Are You Gonna Go My Way. And he can really dance too! The first of the three performances that I mentioned, there's no doubt in my mind that any known popstar today would actually have a hard time matching. Watch it if you haven't already!

Now about the album. First of all most of it is new material that Marcus has written alongside other songwriters, which is impressive considering the short time that he's had to do it. I'd be really dissappointed if it were an album mostly of covers, because of course you want to learn what the person is really capable of rather than just singing the song's of others. But I would say that the album comprises of about 80% new material, 20% covers.

I am surprised that they decided to position his cover of 'Seven Nation Army' as the main track for the album. He's just done a 12-week long talent show of covers, why another first thing afterwards? Anyway, it's an excellent rendition that is catchy and memorable, and I remember watching the video for it when it was released before the album and thinking, "his career has now begun".

Beyond Marcus' first single, his new tracks on his new album are fantastic. Most note worthy are 'Mercy', 'Love & Hate', 'Break These Chains', and 'Feel Like I Feel' (the latter written by Gary Barlow). These songs are so pleasant to listen to, they each have a feel good feeling about them, and they are of a different sound to that we're used to in the charts and it's fun to hear something different. Another track 'Innocence' is also worth a mention, as is his cover of 'Tightrope'.

Overall it is undeniably a fun and entertaining album that can appeal to a wide audience once played. It is undoubtedly well worth your time. This is quality music, and I cannot wait for his next album when he's had even more time to work.

And by the way, I wasn't a fan of the X-Factor before I saw and listened to Marcus Collins - I became a fan afterwards when I came to admire people like Marcus with the raw talent and confidence that he has in showcasing his abilities and making the career of his dreams come true. Well done mate, and good luck.