Actor to Singer Songwriter

Jeff Bridges by Jeff Bridges

It takes a lot for someone to jump genre.  Heavy success in one area often means a raised an eyebrow in another, but since the Crazy Heart Soundtrack did so phenomenally well for Jeff Bridges, may we not give him any dirty looks and let the man prove himself?

To be totally honest, I didn't care for "Crazy Heart," the movie.  I guess the songs were okay.  They're not really my thing.  But I do like Jeff Bridges as an actor ever since he first portrayed Flynn in Disney's original "Tron" movie, and loved him ever since in whatever he was in.  Honorable mention:  Starman and The Dude!

But as a Singer Songwriter?  Here went the eyebrow for me.

Given he isn't the best lyricist, but I found a good deal of it has thoughtful sound.  Twinges of country, but moody with a contemplative palate.  I found myself listening to what he was trying to say.  Unlike the Crazy Heart soundtrack, which this is clearly not, it keeps you listening.  It's not gimmickry, which it could have been.  He could have tried to capitalize on the critical acclaim and make an album with the same people, but Bridges is trying to be honest in the songs, and that's a very good move.  He's not "Bad Blake," he's Jeff Bridges.