You may know Josh Krajcik’s soulful voice from the first season of The X Factor. If you’ve loved him from the first notes of “At Last” (his audition song) then you’ll adore his newly released debut album. Blindly, Lonely, Lovely is filled with a “striking balance of raw emotionalism and sonic sophistication” and we were lucky enough to talk with Josh about the recording process, his influences, and more.

Read the interview below and watch the brand new video for “Back Where We Belong.”

Jessica Reed: Who are your biggest influences? Any that your fans wouldn’t expect?

Josh Krajcik: I grew up listening to everything from The Allman Brothers Band to The Beatles to Soundgarden. Stevie Ray Vaughan is one of my heroes. I think fans would be surprised to know I’ve been influenced by metal and industrial music too. I loved Megadeth, Metallica and Ministry.

JR: What are the perks of being a solo artist? Do you ever miss playing in a band?

JK: I still play with my band. That is always great. The nice thing about solo shows is the intimacy level between the crowd and I.

JR: What was the recording process like for your debut solo album? How was recording in Abbey Road Studios?

JK: It wasn’t a conventional undertaking. I recorded a lot in London, LA, and Malibu. Having some of my string arraignments recorded in Abbey Road Studios is clearly a wow moment.

JR: What’s more fun for you…being in the studio or on the road?

JK: I love both, but I belong on the stage. I think it must be the similar to film acting vs. stage. The audience is a part of the moment.

JR: What inspired you to audition for The X Factor (as opposed to the variety of other singing competitions)?

JK: Honestly, the title of the show had a lot to do with it. I have a hard time explaining what I am capable of. The phrase the “x factor” kinda fits. I knew I had it. It seems like on other shows they are restricted if they are musicians. They seemed more about being singers. I am more than just a singer.

JR: Who’s been your favorite artist to tour with? If you could tour with anyone, who would it be?

JK: I’ve had a chance to tour with some amazing artists. While a guitar player for my friend Gran Bel Fisher, we toured with Corinne Bailey Rae and Brandi Carlile (amongst others). They were both awesome. There are so many great artists I’d love to get on the road with. Gary Clark Jr. is great. And John Mayer can wail. That’d be great fun.

JR: What was the last album you listened to?

JK: I just listened to Depeche Mode’s new CD. Its fantastic. I’ve always been a fan of new wave and their dark brand of it is killer.

– Submitted by Jessica Reed, Social Media