FOR many, Marcus Collins was robbed of last season’s X-Factor champion title. However, the news of One Direction topping the US album chart must be heartening to the former Scouse hairdresser.

The power of the X-Factor/ Britain’s Got Talent goes from strength to strength, and although there have been some spectacular casualties the shows have showcased a generation of new idols from the super talented (Leona Lewis, Will Young), the uniquely charismatic (Susan Boyle, Jedward) and the likeable also-rans (JLS, Olly Murs and Rhydian Roberts). But Collins need worry not.

His debut is a classy pop affair. Totally disregard anything you may have read in the Sunday Times, this debut set is a masterclass in good old-fashioned Smash Hits-style pop. Covers of White Stripes’ Seven Nation Army and Janelle Monae’s Tightrope may offend purists, but it is likely Marcus’ versions will earn the writers more in royalties than the originals.

Predictably, Gary Barlow supplies a new song, Feel Like I Feel. But it’s a good song and one which will please those who love their pop.