Archuleta just released his third album, The Other Side of Down, since almost winning Idol in 2008, when he was beat out by David Cook. He recently did an interview with the Associated Press about his latest effort, and what he thinks about the news AI judges, Jennifer Lopez & Steven Tyler.

Below is an excerpt of his AP interview. Check back for more David Archuleta news and possible tour dates to support his new album release.

The Associated Press: This is your third album. Are you more comfortable going into the studio to record?

Archuleta: I’m always nervous (at first). … It’s like I hope I’m in a good place and in a good mindset because there’s no turning back once it’s on the album. Usually a couple hours into it I get more comfortable and start experimenting with notes. What’s funny is a lot of the engineers or producers say they usually use the first few takes anyway (laughs) because it’s more raw.

AP: Is it hard not to compare yourself with other musicians your age?

Archuleta: You know, you do kind of wonder, “OK, what are other people doing?” But it wasn’t really, “What are people doing that’s gonna sell?” It was, “What are people doing that I’m drawn to? That makes an impression on me?” That’s what I want to do with my music. It’s so important for me to have substance because … it will last a lot longer.

AP: There are new judges on “American Idol.” How do you think Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler would have judged you?

Archuleta: I haven’t thought about it like that before. … It probably would have been really different. It will be interesting to see their technique or what their opinions will be like because it really does matter. The way viewers were like, “What is Simon (Cowell) gonna say?” made you (as a contestant) wonder the same thing. I think J.Lo’s really talented. She’s worked hard. She’s made a great career for herself. She’s also Latina which I think is awesome. Steven Tyler is a legend. So we’ll see.

Among those nominees was David Archuleta, who won in the Choice American Idol Alum category against Carrie Underwood, Chris Daughtry, Jennifer Hudson and Kelly Clarkson for the top spot. He also received a nomination in the Most Fanatic Fans category.

This was David Archuleta’s sixth Teen Choice Award, following 2008’s awards for Most Fanatic Fans and Best Smile (Post Show), and 2009’s Breakout Artist, Music: Love Song (for “Crush”), and Music Rising Star.

In addition to snagging another Teen Choice Award, the 19-year-old star is also debuting his third studio album, The Other Side of Down, this October. His other studio albums include 2008’s David Archuleta and 2009’s Christmas from the Heart.

Check back soon to get more information on David Archuleta tickets and tour dates in support of his upcoming album!

Fans can pre-order the album as a standard CD, deluxe CD/DVD album and fan edition.  The Fan Edition includes:

Instant MP3 download of new single “Something ‘Bout Love”
Entry to win a HD Flip Video camera with video shot by David
The Other Side of Down CD/DVD Album
Deluxe 7”x7” memory box packaging
4”x6” picture window for your memorable photos
Four high quality David Archuleta 4”x6” pictures (2 doubled sided cards)
One picture hand initialed by David
One The Other Side of Down friendship bracelet

Fans also have the opportunity to enter the HD Flip Video sweepstakes without purchase, by clicking here.

When season 7 was challenged to perform Lennon & McCartney songs, it was the first time we experienced David’s momentous rendition of Lennon’s “Imagine.”  As the contestants get ready to hear the results, Archuleta sits behind the piano one more time to sing Lennon’s legendary tune.  David’s performance was nothing short of spectacular!

If you happened to miss it, the video can be seen on David’s official website.  Also while on the Idol Stage, David let fans know that he has been writing and working on new material.  He announces that a new album and single are to be released soon.  Keep checking back for more news and possibly David Archuleta tickets for an upcoming tour?! Time will tell.