IT IS likely that every single person who voted for Matt Cardle to win last year’s X-Factor finale will enjoy Letters.

Actually this is not a given, lest we forget efforts from the likes of Geordie Joe McElderry or Leon Jackson.

Anyway, Matt Cardle’s debut achieves exactly what early fans expected and wanted. Unlike other recent winners, Cardle has a mature voice and rock sensibilities. One can hear the influences of Coldplay and U2 throughout, which indicates the direction of a motivated artist rather than a bland marionette.

Cardle had a hand in writing all but two of the songs, albeit aided by the likes of Richard Stannard, Ash Cole and songwriter for the stars Eg White. Mostly Cardle’s songs are solid worthy sub-rockers, although tinged with slightly dated formulaic lyrics and a touch of Bono-esque angst.

The standout tracks are the two imports: Simon Neil’s When We Collide and Run For Your Life, supplied by Gary Barlow.

Cynics may dismiss Cardle as one dimensional, but fans will embrace the good old-fashioned quality and reliability on display. Besides, being slightly bland has not aversely affected James Morrison or Ronan Keating.