Carl Risely says it's a good thing he got kicked off Australian Idol last night because his swing version of the winner's single sounded "bloody horrible".

The former Navy trumpeter last night lost out to teen heart-throb Matt Corby and sultry Melbourne singer Natalie Gauci, one of whom will become the 2007 Australian Idol on November 25.

Today Risely said he was feeling good and a little relieved to have left the show.
"A lot of pressure's been lifted off my shoulders," he said.
"I'm so happy with how far I've got, and I'm a bit proud of myself actually.

"Some people say it's a bad place to go because you're so close, but really I got the most publicity out of it without having to go the full nine yards."

Besides, Risely said, his version of Here I Am, the song that will be released by the winner, was truly awful.

"I don't know if Australia was ready to here my swing version of the new Australian Idol hit," he laughed.

"We did it, and it sounded bloody horrible.

"It didn't quite work, but it was a lot of fun mucking around with it."

The 24-year-old said he was happy with his performances and how much he had improved during his time on the show.

But he said he knew it was his turn to go when Gauci was given the green light through to the final last night.

"As soon as Natalie left, I sort of knew it was me," Risely said. "I mean, we're talking about Matt Corby here - we're not talking about some Joe Blow.

"Matt's just been very good from the start - it would all depend on his song choice or how much his massive beautiful eyes look down that TV screen."

Risely said he can't pick the winner between his two good friends.

"Matt Corby is probably the most popular, but the favourite has never won it," he said. "I think the best outcome for both of them would be if Natalie won so she'd have a secure contract, because I think Matt will get one no matter what happens."

The swing king hasn't had any offers from record companies yet, but is determined to pursue a career in music no matter what it takes.

"I think it's a good time for me to get out there and try to do something," Risely said.
"Whether that be independently, or with a major label, it doesn't matter, I'm going to do it anyway.
"Go on tour, cut an album and try to bring the swing back."

One thing Risely does know for sure is that he won't be going back to the Navy.
"No, they'd make me cut my hair - I'm too attached to my new haircut," he laughed.