Outgoing American Idol contestant Tim Urban has been bigging up the former Idols stars who helped him on the show and in particular seemed impressed with the mentoring skills of last year’s runner up, Adam Lambert.

The Texan singer, who celebrates his 21st birthday this weekend told OK that it had been “really cool” meeting some of the shows past stars. Allison Iraheta, Danny Gokey, Kris Allen, Matt Giraud, Scott MacIntyre, David Cook, Ruben Studdard, David Archuleta, Carrie Underwood, and Adam Lambert have all returned to perform on season nine of the show.

“The former Idols who have come back have been really cool and super friendly,” he said.

“They totally get where we are at. Adam Lambert was a great mentor. He had really great advice for the show having been on it before. It’s been really cool getting to meet them.”

Tim also revealed that he is planning a low key birthday celebration this weekend. More here.