Ingrid Michaelson
Be OK
Release Date: Oct 14, 2008
Genre(s): Indie, Rock
Record label: Cabin 24
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Album Review: Be OK by Ingrid Michaelson
Very Good, Based on 3 Critics
Based on rating 8.0/10
In two short years, Ingrid Michaelson rose from relative obscurHotel Café alum proves staying powerIn two short years, Ingrid Michaelson rose from relative obscurity to the forefront of independent music, eschewing a record deal in favor of MySpace, licensing deals, and other homegrown promotional tactics. Occasional gigs at the Hotel Café helped increase her following on the West coast, nearly 3,000 miles away from her native Staten Island, while spots on Grey’s Anatomy and One Tree Hill aired Michaelson’s piano-fueled pop songs to a national TV audience. In two short years, Ingrid Michaelson rose from relative obscurRather than capitalize on such appeal by issuing another traditional album, the songwriter instead returns with Be OK, a benefit project comprising cover songs, acoustic performances, live footage and several unreleased tracks.
Based on rating B-
Considering that she rose to fame as a product of the mercurial MySpace scene, you can’t really blame Ingrid Michaelson for following up her calypsofolk hit ”The Way I Am” with this quickie collection of new songs, covers, and live tracks; after all, she’s got a moment to maintain. (She is also donating a portion of Be OK‘s proceeds to cancer research.) The most charming cuts are the perky title track and Michaelson’s wistful, ukulele-equipped take on ”Over the Rainbow.” B?Download This: Watch a video of Michaelson performing ”Over the Rainbow” live on AOL.com .
Based on rating 6/10
When the Hotel Café became a nationally recognized launching pad for songwriters in 2008, Ingrid Michaelson stood out amongst artists who regularly played the venue, flaunting a confident sound that was a cut above the average female crooner. Her second indie album, Girls and Boys, made waves one year prior when it topped some digital charts, eventually selling over 740,000 copies of its lead single thanks to licensing deals with Old Navy and Grey's Anatomy. Released in 2008, Be OK continues her Norah Jones-gone-pop approach with 11 tracks.