"Wooooo!" The exclamation heard 'round the world is one of the many endearing qualities of Taylor Hicks. The almost 30-year-old Alabama native that won America's hearts and "American Idol" proved to be a phenomenon.

On the heels of his "American Idol" victory, Hicks released his debut, self-titled album Tuesday. His 12-track album features two songs that Hicks wrote himself, "Soul Thing" and "The Deal." In addition to showcasing his writing skills and soulful voice, Hicks' album boasts songs written by known artists such as Rob Thomas, Marvin Gaye and Bryan Adams.

One of my favorite songs on the album is track three, "Heaven Knows." The song, showing writing credit to the legendary Ray Charles, features a familiar beat, one that takes you back to the days of soul. The intro may sound familiar to Charles' fans, as it is a clip from his hit "What You'd Say."

Even as Hicks' screamed enthusiastically "Soul Patrol!" on national television, anyone listening could already hear the smooth sound of success.

Reminiscent of classic blues, soul and classic melodies, this album could be one of a veteran artist, not one fresh out of the limelight of "Idol."

Labeled by some as "Gray Charles," Hicks voice and personality come through as someone who is wise beyond his years and aged to [near] perfection at the mild age of 29.

The range of Hicks' voice is amazing; hitting notes both low and high, he is also able to find the happy medium; in addition to his broad range, the trademark roughness and gravel-like voice gives some of the tunes a feeling of funk.

The entire album is threaded with a sooth, yet upbeat feeling. With well-played instrumentals, his voice is evenly placed. Neither one overbears the other.