Out of the American Idol final two this year, I’d have preferred Blake Lewis to win. Jordin Sparks was alright, but Blake brought something unique to the competition that we hadn’t seen before.

Better still, he took risks with his performances and did some innovative re-interpretations of classic songs (his Bon Jovi cover was particularly brilliant).

Anyway, all this is a very wordy introduction to the news that Blake is releasing his first post-American Idol single, Break Anotha. The single is taken from his debut album Audio Daydream, which will be released (in the USA) on 4 December 2007.

I’ve listened to Break Anotha a few times, and I’m impressed. This isn’t another safe talent show play. There’s an edgy bass riff played throughout, and Blake handles the lyrics alternating between a rap style and an almost Justin Timberlake vocal performance.

The record company are obviously fully behind Blake and have drafted in a world-class team including JR Rotem (who’s worked with Rihanna and Sean Kingston), and Ryan Tedder. The quality shows, and the end result is a cutting edge single that – as I said above – breaks the mould for former reality show stars.

They could have played it safe and toned down the urban vibe and Blake’s beatboxing, but all of what you’d expect from Mr. Lewis is right here. And sounding good.