As Chris Daughtry and Carrie Underwood storm the music charts, another American Idol finalist is savoring personal success.

Jon Peter Lewis has become the first Idol contesant to independently produce and release a full-length debut album with all original songs. Called a "true entertainer" by MTV, an "American Idol favorite" by Billboard magazine, and "brave" by Simon Cowell, industry insiders are not only impressed with Jon's passion and determination to create his own label and maintain control of his first record, but with his music as well.

JPL's eagerly awaited debut album, Stories from Hollywood, follows on the heels of his critically acclaimed singles, "If I Go Away," "It's Christmas," and "California Christmas."

Here are a few reviews:

"Stories from Hollywood is a collection of instantly infectious songs with clever, provocative lyrics ... in other words, it's the sort of album you wished more former Idols dared to make. We knew JPL was a true entertainer, now we know the kid can write."- Corey Moss Senior Writer, MTV

"Don't take a road trip without this CD. Jon Peter Lewis has many stories to share - all worth listening to." - Monica Rizzo, People magazine

"Jon Peter Lewis has real charisma as a person, a performer and recording artist. The songs are honest yet accessible and Jon sings them with warmth and conviction. I prefer this album to some of the other major label Idol releases." - Don Grierson, Former Head of A&R at Capitol and Epic Records

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.