From the Inside Out

Recording information: Artisan Studios, Birmingham, UK.Photographer: Jason Ierace.Championed by a diverse array of mentors including Liza Minnelli, Pete Wentz, and Michael Bublé during his time on Australian Idol, 2009 Kiwi-born winner Stan Walker's debut album, the rushed karaoke-style Introducing, failed to do justice to his Al Green-esque soulful vocals which had inspired such acclaim. At first glance, the Maori descendent appears to have learned from his mistakes with his second album in nine months, From the Inside Out which, apart from a faithful rendition of Des'ree's heart-achingly beautiful Romeo & Juliet soundtrack number "Kissing You," eschews cover versions completely. Indeed, Walker's sophomore album, which focuses on the modern, synth-led R&B sound he first showcased through his Idol performances of tracks by Rihanna, Mario, and Beyoncé, even features three co-writes, the shimmering, Usher-esque opener "Inside Out," the robotic, urban-electro "All I Need," also ho