Sneak Peek Review: American Idol's Chris Sligh Debuts with Running Back to You

Point proven. American Idol gives exposure to those who may have never had any otherwise. We've seen previous seasons contestants take their TV fame and build it into solid careers such as Daughtry and Kellie Pickler. Last season we saw Jordin Sparks win and other contestants such as runner-up Blake Lewis and Phil Stacey release albums. Chris Sligh, who was 10^th runner-up, is no exception. Sligh has signed with an independent label, Brash Music, with distribution through Warner Bros.

Chris Sligh is no stranger to music however. Sligh, back home, was in a band and because of the rules of the show, he was forced to leave. Once he was voted off Idol, he returned to the band and re-released a previous record.

Now he is releasing a solo effort titled Running Back To You due in stores May 6^th. The album contains 13 tracks.

The album opens with "Arise." He brings a nice vocal to the praising song. Powerful, he sings of God and the beauty of rising each day with the sun, happy to be alive. Each day he is thankful for his faith. Though Chris' appeal comes from American Idol, he stays true to his roots, Christian music, and combines strong lyrics against strong faith. For those who do not listen to that genre should take a listen to this track just for the uplifting spirit.

"Empty Me" is the first single that was released in February to promote this upcoming record. The song is almost a memory of his time in the main spotlight on Idol and his own touring he's done with his band. "Empty me of this selfishness inside/ Every vain ambition and the poison of my bride.." he sings as he wishes to be emptied of his fast life. He requests to be filled with God in his life versus the corrupt lifestyle of Hollywood. So far into the album, Chris' passion for music and his faith are evident. The style of the record is adult contemporary drizzled with rock licks.