Drawing Comparisons: Adam Lambert Sounds Like Dio, Halford

Some have called the 1968 Steppenwolf song "Born to Be Wild" the world's first heavy metal tune. After all, a signature line even mentions "heavy metal thunder." At any rate, 'American Idol' frontrunner Adam Lambert tackled the well-known song this week, proving once again why he's soon to be a force in the rock world.

Yes, Noisecreep is all about the metal. Sometimes we talk about famous bands like Metallica. We give props to obscure death rockers. We even tolerate overly talented up-and-comers. You know, like Lambert.

'American Idol' is cheesy, with choreographed group performances and camp humor. We should never forget, however, that the show actually discovers some raw talent from time to time.

Lambert's voice easily draws comparisons to the likes of Freddie Mercury, Rob Halford and Ronnie James Dio. All three men are regarded for their signature vocals and unmatched stage presence. Enter Adam, the new millennium's answer to high-pitched metal yelps and exhaustive stage tomfoolery. Sure, Lambert dresses and acts the part: he's trying to win a competition after all.

While most 'American Idol' winners go straight to country or pop careers, Lambert actually has a shot of making it big in a rock band – maybe even a metal act thanks to a nearly unmatchable range and immense control over a falsetto that could easily wail over dueling guitar solos and screaming crowds at Madison Square Garden. You know, like the glory days of Mercury, Halford and Dio.

Only time will tell.