7:56pm Friday 11th July 2008
By Dan Menhinnitt
X Factor reject Ashley McKenzie is due to release the first single from his "hotly anticipated" album.
The Croydon singer's single, Deep in Love, from the upcoming album Set Me Free, is set for release on July 28.
His album is expected to be released in October, and according to his publicist listeners can expect "an original and British sound."
The 22-year-old stared in the third series of the reality TV show but was eliminated in the fourth week.
The series was eventually won by former Brit School student Leona Lewis.
Ashley said: "I saw the show as a learning opportunity and it gave me the courage and confidence to pursue my dreams further."
A statement put out by his publicist said: "The talented singer-songwriter has arrived, standing on his own two feet, armed with flawless production and raw talent."
It continues: "Accompanied by a controversial video, it makes for a combination to sit up and take notice of and shows he is clearly here to make a statement.
"Ashley McKenzie is ready to cement his name in the music industry and with his oh-so-smooth demeanour and charming yet edgy new look, plus an instantly recognisable voice; he can only hit the big time."
© Copyright 2001-2012 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk