Unlike the two Davids, who won the top posts in ‘American Idol,’ Jason Castro has had time to marinate and to woodshed before releasing his own album.

Those who watched Jason Castro on the seventh season of “American Idol” are by now familiar with his likeably down-to-earth personality and aw-shucks demeanor. When he opens his mouth to sing, it’s like watching a totally different person. Any off-beat quirkiness seems to fall away when his spell-binding voice melts the hearts of listeners.

This month, get mesmerized while Jason Castro belts out colorful summer lovin’ tunes in Manila! His Filipino fans are in for a sweet summer and post-Valentine treat from Warner Music Philippines and the Ayala Malls when Jason serenades his Manila and Cebu fans on March 18 at Trinoma, March 19 at Glorietta 5, March 20 at Ayala Center Cebu, and March 21 at Market! Market!

The singer-guitarist was among the most popular artists in “American Idol” history, entering the record books as the first contestant to play an instrument on the show. His performance of the Leonard Cohen-penned classic "Hallelujah" proved such an audience favorite that the late, great Jeff Buckley's rendition of the song hit #1 on the iTunes chart the following week, selling an astonishing 178,000 digital singles.

Jason scored a chart-topping single of his own a few weeks later with his interpretation of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," which also hit #1 on iTunes after a show-stopping performance of the song on “American Idol.” Upon the season's conclusion, Castro was among the stars of the hugely successful "American Idols LIVE! Tour 2008."

The 22-year-old Texan earned himself a devoted fan base eager to hear what he would do once freed to perform his own songs. Those folks will get their chance with the release of Jason’s eponymous debut album with Atlantic Records. His season’s winner David Cook and runner-up David Archuleta both released their debut albums about six months after the season finale. But no one rushed Jason to pin down his style, and he certainly didn’t rush himself. It’s among the most sure-footed records, debut or otherwise, by an “Idol” contestant from any season. Partly that’s because Jason has had time to marinate, and to woodshed.

The heydays of the two Davids are over; it’s time to make way for Jason Castro’s music to fill the days of summer and forward. Coming soon in the Philippines is his “The Love Uncompromised EP,” a prelude to a full album set to be released on a later date under Warner Music Philippines.

Fans can enjoy “Let’s Just Fall In Love Again” on their cell phones and get the heart-on-sleeve and toe-tapping pop ringtune by texting JC to 5677!

“Jason Castro Live” at the Ayala Malls is brought to you by Warner Music Philippines and The Ayala Malls.