DAVID COOK

David Cook's "The Time of My Life" was that rare "American Idol" victory anthem that forged past souvenir status into a bona fide career-breaking cross-format hit. The first "legit" single from his full-length debut (Nov. 18) makes it clear exactly the musical recipe Cook intends to make his signature: Collaborators are all name-brand rockers, from producer Rob Cavallo to writers Chris Cornell and Brian Howes. He certainly does his part, with the most aggressive, growling and howling vocal we've yet heard from the talented singer, offering a newfound machismo in his lower register. Melodically, there's no question that this bullet is heading right for the brain, where the only thing stickier than the chorus is Cook's appreciably sweaty performance. Like Chris Daughtry before him, here's an Idol who is bound for true rock cred, while accessing the show's popularity to equally indulge a pop base. "Light On" is right on. —Chuck Taylor