Adam Lambert graces the pages of Rolling Stone Japan, and mentors some American Idol contestants.

Adam, who was in their shoes just one year ago (and, like latter-day Elvis, has a fondness for leather), is the first former contestant to be asked to return as a mentor.

But while the top nine seemed to take their meetings with Glambert in stride, none other than Ryan Seacrest tripped over his words, ultimately complimenting the scene-stealing Idol runner-up on his talented tongue. “You know, your singing,” Ryan quickly added.

“My mission is to be completely honest, but constructive,” Adam said going into Tuesday’s show. “So hopefully they take that spirit of Elvis Presley and they inject that into these songs, and they give you something to listen to, to look at and to feel.”

Why does he look like he’s in excruciating pain in every single photo?

source: [rolling stone]