Regular Columnists

Artist: Ziv
Album: 3 Song CD
CD Review: Genre: Pop/Rock
Sounds Like: Linkin Park
Technical Grade: 8
Production/Musicianship Grade: 8
Commercial Value: 7
Overall Talent Level: 7
Songwriting Skills: 7
Performance Skill: 7
Best Songs: Close To You
Weakness: Lack of identity/needs ballad
CD Review: I received this 3 song demo from ZIV, a singer, songwriter and recording artist from LA, who likened himself to U2, Coldplay and Seal - all Grammy award winners. Unconsciously I was set up to expect Grammy award caliber talent; whether it was in the songwriting or the singing - both of which he was responsible for on this project. Did he deliver? Sort of.

The best and most commercially viable song on the CD is "Close To You" because of its well defined and cleverly constructed chorus. It was sing-a-longable. While the opening track on the CD, "Fearless," does tap into the commercial vein of today's pop/rock sound, it falls short of being forceful or memorable. What he does bring to the table is a lot of potential for development with his excellent phrasing; good voice control; ability to work the subtleties of his voice; and good looks. He needs a pop ballad and a female fan club in the US.

Advice: Because you already look like a model/actor, why not use that to launch your music career? It would give you "media muscle" and help you to attract the audience that will play a critical role in your success. Also enlist the services of a producer to assist you in getting the pop ballad you need.

www.zivmusic.com