James Durbin Signs with Wind-Up Records

'American Idol' contestant James Durbin has himself a record deal. The rocker has signed with Wind-Up Records, home of rock acts like Evanescence and Creed.

Wind-Up Chief Creative Officer Gregg Wattenberg says, “When the possibility of signing James Durbin to Wind-Up Records came up, we knew it was a no-brainer. James is a rock star. We’re all excited to have him as part of the family and can’t wait to let his fans hear his debut album.”

Durbin recently expressed optimism that his debut album would be out in November. That's an ambitious timetable since he won't start recording vocals until next week, but the wheels are definitely in motion now that he has a label. The album will be produced by Howard Benson, a multiple Grammy nominee who has worked on hit albums by My Chemical Romance, All-American Rejects and Daughtry.

Durbin finished fourth on the most recent season of 'Idol' and showed off his rock leanings throughout the competition, performing songs by 30 Seconds to Mars, Aerosmith, Bon Jovi and Judas Priest.

Durbin previously spoke about the progress on his debut, saying, "I’m doing co-writes with bands that I love. My favorite band in the entire world is a band called Hardcore Superstar and they’re from Sweden. I’m having a conference call with them next week and they’re going to be writing two songs for me, so I’m freaking out.”