I’ve always been suspicious of singer/songwriters. They’re people who, instead of getting a band together to perform the songs, thrust himself or herself into the spotlight by using a backing band or going completely solo with either a piano or guitar.

Imagine the ego it takes to make that jump! With his album, King of Yesterday, Jude has changed my opinion of singer/songwriters. It is both exuberant and jumpy, yet keeps a humility not found in most acts right now.

Born Jude Christodal, Jude started playing guitar and writing songs while attending Emory University, in Atlanta. Shortly after graduating with a degree in Philosophy, he moved to Los Angeles and started performing acoustic sets. A few years later, he signed to Maverick Records and released No One Is Really Beautiful.

Based on the album’s acclaim, Jude toured with Ben Folds Five, Dido, Train, and Chris Isaak. He also contributed the song “I Know” to the City of Angels soundtrack.

With this album, Jude is aggressively trying for the mainstream pop audience.

Songs like “King of Yesterday” and “Everything’s All Right (I think It’s Time)” are upbeat, happy, and generally giddy.

He even covers `70s pop/rock giants Bread with “Everything I Own.” However, Jude doesn’t make an album of complete pop.

He contrasts the pop attacks with such songs as “Red Room” and “Indian Lover,” which are darker and far more stripped down than the other tracks. Yet, the album as a whole is one big smile.

As much as I loathe most power pop rock bands, this album is different. It has a sense of humor to its pop overtones, like the album is a beautiful satire.

Also, because of the singer/songwriter format, the album has a much more personal feel. This is especially prevalent in “I Do,” a song about missing his ex-girlfriend’s wedding on purpose.

If this were a band effort, I would cringe, but because I know this is one man’s emotions, there is a far better connection to the songs’ feelings and meanings.

Is this why singer/songwriters don’t form bands?

Those of you who prefer the mainstream, this album will make you look cool.

He has the sound and mood of a Train or Matchbox Twenty, with an indie respectability. As much as he should be on VH1, he’s far too “underground” to ever have a music video.

So, brag to your friends that you found this great new up-and-coming singer/songwriter, and we’ll keep this our little secret.