More than just a pretty face

Like most “American Idol” contestants, Jason Castro didn’t seem to bring much to the table. His airy, Ray LaMontagne-like performances never impressed me throughout his run to a fourth-place finish in 2008. Frankly, it seemed like he made it that far because he had the trait most appealing to the “Idol” voting block: looks.

That’s why Castro’s first full-length album was particularly shocking to listen to. The self-titled effort doesn’t reinvent any wheels but is surprisingly enjoyable and even has a tinge of artistry to it. “Let’s Just Fall in Love Again” and “That’s What I’m Here For” are acoustic-framed, melodic little ditties that don’t require Castro to cover a wide vocal range.

And even when things get more electric or even more country like on “Closer,” Castro handles the transitions nicely, always providing a sunny, optimistic viewpoint that is simple but infectious.

Though he’s not as talented as some of his season seven “Idol” peers such as David Cook or Brooke White, Jason Castro proves on his self-titled debut that he’s more than a pretty face.