You Got My Attention

You Got My Attention is the first studio album by contemporary Christian-soul musician Dara Maclean, released on July 5, 2011 on iTunes and nationwide on July 12, 2011 by Fervent Records.

Critical reception
Allmusic's William Ruhlman told about the album that it "turns out to translate as blue-eyed soul singing, for the most part."

CCM Magazine's Grace S. Aspinwall said outside of the songs "Free", which was the song they liked, and "Suitcases" the album contains "moments of soul and pop are woven throughout, but with no clear style it feels a bit contrived, but fans of Francesca Battistelli will likely quickly become fans of Dara."

Christianity Today's Mike Parker referred to the album as a "12-song collection of happy-feet pop." The three song the magazine called the "top tracks" are "Suitcases," "Had to Be You"," and "So Good to Me".

Gospel Music Channel's Lindsay Williams called this a "stylish 12-song set that’s unexpected. One thing’s for sure, with her debut album Dara Maclean’s got our attention." Further, Williams was somewhat critical in saying "Lyrically, Maclean’s words are poetic, though not always deep, and at times ambiguous. Many songs could be interpreted to be written about God or a human relationship, while others stick to universal topics like love and grace." Williams' compared her to Natalie Grant, Francesca Battistelli, and Crystal Lewis.

Jesus Freak Hideout's Jen Rose indicated that the album is a "twelve summer-ready songs with a worshiper's heart." Rose highlighted how the album "shifts easily between styles to show off Maclean's musical depth and range." Rose noted the album "is great, retro fun that will brighten summer soundtracks", but cautioned that "It's not flawless, but it is a solid, fun record and shows lots of potential for this young artist's future."

Louder Than the Music's Jono Davies surmised "I hope I have been able to explain how great and soulful, powerful and rich in tone Dara's vocals are. But this isn't a singer who just rests on her own voice to carry these songs. The songs are all very different in style and are very good songs that any artist would be proud of." Davies mentioned the top tracks as being "You Got My Attention", "What Love Looks Like" and "Had To Be You".

Melodic.net's Kaj Roth was critical, when Roth said the "album is well produced but it lacks of originality."

New Release Tuesday's Kevin Davis praised the album as being a "flawless with twelve amazing songs." Davis continued by saying the album "blew me away!" Davis designated "this is my top album of the year for sure and Dara Maclean is the best new artist I've heard in CCM since Francesca Battistelli."

PARCBENCH's Greg Victor noted the album is "full of joy and purpose."

Worship Leader's Randy Cross advised to "add this CD to your personal music collection and watch as everyone in your family finds something to like." Cross said the album is "displaying a mix of influences, the truth of Christ’s love is evident as you listen."