Photo: Brian David

While American Idol winner David Cook admits he enjoyed playing with people’s expectations and consciously threw curveballs on the show, his upcoming album is all business. “I just want the songs to kick you in the teeth or make you want to cry — or do something drastic, like jump off a building,” says Cook. “I want somebody to be exhausted when they’re done listening.” Click below for more on Cook’s upcoming album, including what he learned from producer Rob Cavallo and why he had such a small window to finish the record.

• In the Studio: David Cook Crafts the Heaviest American Idol Album Yet

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