The success of fellow X Factor 2008 contestants, Alexandra Burke + runners-up JLS has been quite remarkable over the past year. Both of which have scored themselves #1 singles and albums. But, one woman who shot to fame via the same programme, has been earning success with rave reviews on stage production 'Little Voice' and has also been working on her debut album with the likes of Ellie Goulding and Lightspeed Champion. That woman - Diana Vickers. The one with the claw. The one with the, well, unique voice. And, here she is, 16 months on, from being announced 4th on the ITV hit show, ready to release her 1st single.

Now, when somebody finishes 3rd or below on a contest, you may think they're destined for a huge flop - see Niki Evans and Journey South for proof. However, Diana hasn't just shot straight into the 2010 spotlight preparing to fall flat on her face. With a big record label on her side, RCA Records (who have spawned artists such as Christina Aguilera, Kings Of Leon and Avril Lavigne to name but a few), she is ready to go into this industry head-first. Sure, Eoghan Quigg, got backing from RCA Records. But, you don't see Patrick Wolf & Alexis Strum ready to work with Eoghan Quigg. Nor, did he have Guy Sigsworth prepared to produce for him (produced for Britney Spears, Alanis Morisette and Madonna). It's fair to say Diana Vickers has got good backing to ensure that she receives healthy success in the charts.

Now, on to the single itself. Once, which comes from the album, 'Songs From The Tainted Cherry Tree'. The track, written by hit songwriter Cathy Dennis, really does scream 'hit' from first listen. The chorus sweeps in nicely with 'I'm only gonna let you kill me' before smashing in with some power, as she belts out 'ONCE' several times. Now, with Diana having that noticeable voice, that could easily get annoying - this song really does do well to ensure that Diana's, at times, squeaky voice, doesn't get too irritating. Those vocals give off a nice whispery and floaty effect, and they reflect well on the track, which boasts a rocky chorus. To sum it up nicely, this is one monster of a track, that is destined to challenge for the #01 spot later in the month. What a debut.

Rating: 9.5/10