WA beauty inspiration for Gresham

In the past, Rockingham musician Matt Gresham has looked inside himself for inspiration.

However, after months spent travelling the country and overseas, the former X Factor star has found inspiration in the world around him.

Gresham said his new material, which will soon be released as part of his latest album 2014-15 History, was the result of his recent experiences.

He said he had written songs, for example, about Noosa and Yallingup, as well as a second ballad lamenting the potential desecration of Cape Peron.

"The new Point Peron song is not an angry song and it's not against anybody - it's an upset song, upset about the idea of a hole getting cut through such a beautiful place," Gresham said.

"Most of my songs up to this point have been autobiographical, but I guess I am looking out now, rather than looking in."

Gresham, who lives in Warnbro when he is not out seeing the world, said he had been listening to Jack Johnson regularly, as well as John Mayer and B.B. King - but had also developed a huge appreciation for fellow Rockingham musicians.

He said EPs from local acts The Woods and The Scared Rattler had found their way into his music collection.

The 26-year-old said his upcoming show at Mandurah Performing Arts Centre would feature a variety of tunes, from his old X Factor ditties, to pub rock and blues stuff.

He said he had taken to rehearsing for shows - something he had never done before. "I used to just get on stage and jam out before, but these days I like to practice a bit and actually try to be good," Gresham said.

"My Mum will be getting up in stage to sing a bit with me and my brother will be playing the djembe."

Catch Matt Gresham in concert on May 30.