Idol loser wins praise for Queen performances

Adam Lambert may have missed out on the American Idol title in 2009 but the flamboyant singer’s performance fronting one of the biggest rock band’s in music history has been met with acclaim.

Despite many tipping Lambert to take out the show's eighth season he didn't win – but it was an outcome that actually played in the rocker's favour.

Since the show Lambert has released two albums and, most notably, was recruited by one of the greatest rock bands in history - Queen.

In 2011, Queen and Lambert teamed up for the MTV Video Music Awards and again for a brief European tour.

Queen drummer Roger Taylor said Lambert's voice was "extraordinary".

" I think we could really do something great with it," he said.

I see no end to the possibility and the potential of Adam Lambert."

The mix worked so well in fact, that Taylor and guitar God Brian May invited Lambert back into Queen and announced the trio would be touring North America and even Australia.

Lambert's performances have been well received by fans and critics alike.

Entertainment reporter Candice Barnes saw Lambert perform with Queen in Perth earlier this year and advised Queen fans "sceptical of Lambert need not fear".

"Even those with a slight interest in Queen's music can expect to have a great time.

Rolling Stone heaped praise on the re-formed group's sound and stage shows but pointed out that while Lambert can sing "he's no Freddie Mercury".

Since wrapping up the tour in September, Lambert has been spending time in the studio working on his third album.