Artist: Crystal Bowersox

Title: Farmer's Daughter

Label: Jive

What was a little too left of center for "American Idol" is what ultimately makes Bowersox's debut such a delight. Just like the oh-so-glam Adam Lambert before her, Crystal Bowersox never quite fit the typical "American Idol" mode.

Truth be told, the folksy, cornrow-sporting singer/songwriter would've probably felt far more at ease singing at your local coffee shop than performing week after week on the national stage. And as much as she tried to own her decidedly homespun vibe, Bowersox's discomfort with the spotlight clearly showed, and because of it, she eventually ended up forfeiting the crown to Lee what's-his-name, a far more predictable choice, instead.

But letting the proverbial bygones be bygones, Bowersox proves she's still got what it takes to be appreciated by the masses on Farmer's Daughter. Not only do her bluesy vocals sound as lovely and equally potent as ever on the likes of "Holy Toledo," "Kiss Ya" and the memorable cover of Buffalo Springfield classic "For What It's Worth," but thoughtful lyrics, particularly on the provocative title track that recounts her abusive childhood, provide vivid glimpses into how her life experiences ultimately color her artistry.

Penning the bulk of the songs herself, Bowersox proves to be a consistently engaging writer. Unlike many of her contemporaries who focus solely on the matters of the heart, her songs cover a far  broader scope of life on this planet, whether she's serving up her life's personal mission statement of sorts in the aforementioned "Holy Toledo" or offering a gentle reflection on the disappointments that come with growing up in a broken world in "Hold On."

While the album's sometimes-bombastic production can occasionally be at odds with the laidback soundscape she's trying to create (see "Ridin' With the Radio," "On the Run"), Farmer's Daughter is largely a triumph, particularly for anyone who appreciated Bowersox's left of center approach on the show that's been known for churning out its fair share of cookie-cutter divas.

*This Review First Published 12/23/2010