At nineteen years old, 2008 American Idol runner-up, David Archuleta has had more success than most. The teen choice award winner’s sophomore album, The Other Side of Down was released Oct. 5.

“Most of the songs on the album represent thoughts and experiences that I’ve personally gone through,” Archuleta said.

The first single released from the album was entitled Something ‘Bout Love. The track featured digital sounds, and stylized pitches. The lyrics were age appropriate, but lacking.

After watching Idol, one would expect Archuleta’s album to feature tracks of vocal predominance and piano ballads. This is not the case.

Pop tracks make up the majority of the album, and most songs seem to feature similar melodies and rhythms. Most impressive were Other Side of Down, Starry Nights, and Things Are Gonna Get Better.

Producers perhaps encouraged Archuleta to focus on his “youth appeal” too much.The Other Side of Down is a solid pop machine, bursting out track after track of looped hooks.

Yet impressively, Archuleta claims penmanship rights for ten out of the twelve album tracks.

“I hope this album helps people understand more of where I’m coming from as an artist and as a person,” Archuleta said. “It’s about moving forward in life, making progress in accomplishing your goals and dreams while appreciating what life has given you.”