Babbling Brooke

I can't say I'm surprised this week by the exit of America's favorite (former) nanny Brooke White, because it was down to the ladies and either one could have gone, but I've caught flak ALL DAY about my affection for Jason (okay, it's true! I just want to slip him into my pocket...) and now it will just be worse since many think it's unfair that he wasn't in the bottom tonight based on last night's performances.

Remember, folks: THIS (imagine dramatic pause) is American Idol.

Do you agree that the 'spaining for PaulaGate was a little inadequate? "She's part of the family, and we love her".....hhhmmm.....okay, sure, that clears things up!

Neil Diamond -- much success on your new tour. Natasha -- consider the Prom with Archie, I'll bet you'd have fun!

To Simon's 9-year-old crush 40-something years ago who thinks she has "aged well" : BALLSY to use the call-in feature to touch base with him. Had you tried Google and couldn't connect? Whatever.

Brooke, you endeared yourself to millions of Americans and did yourself proud on one of our toughest stages. Have a good night's sleep, and enjoy what comes! See you on tour!

Diamond in the Rough

DC, DC, DC....and I don't mean the 63 square-mile capitol of our fair nation, I mean David Cook! There is much Internet wonder as to whether he is unstoppable on the path to the coronation of American Idol Season 7's Winner. Tonight's performances definitely supported the unstoppable claims! The man is an incredible talent, no question, and I enjoy him each and every week! Wow! The guy is handed the Neil Diamond songbook, and he makes ruby-flavored lemonade. Now, I'm not rushing out to buy tickets to his July concert here in Chicago or his new CD, but I'm just sayin'.....

On that note, before we get to my take on tonight's performances, I'd better cover some housekeeping.

I owe an apology to Neil. I admitted last week that I wasn't at all looking forward to tonight. I didn't think I was that familiar with his songbook, was not feeling the older mentor vibe, and pretty much felt he was appearing on Idol because of the new CD and tour and was a little bit jaded by that fact. I must retract some of those sentiments after watching tonight's show. Much like Dolly Parton, I knew the name and a few songs, but really didn't appreciate this man's amazing songwriting and performing talents and his contribution to the American songbook. His four-decades-long career and his recently released 26th (!) album should be enough to impress, but I didn't know he wrote the Monkee's "I'm a Believer"! I'm a Faniamond! In fact, Blockbuster.com, take note: please add The Jazz Singer to my queue!

On to the "perky"contestants, as Neil aptly named them. In case you spent tonight in a cave (or an otherwise TiVo-less world) each one performed two Neil Diamond songs of his/her choosing. Because ten performances were squeezed into one hour, it was a fast-paced show. I will write about each in the order I liked them, from my favorite, to my least favorite! (Course, must be said, they are all talented....but someone has to go...)

As you probably got from the top of my post, David Cook deserves all my love tonight. His first performance of "I'm Alive" was so terrific mostly because it didn't sound like a Neil Diamond song (I mean no disrespect by that, just saying...) but also because it was just great. Like Neil said, DC has the"right material, the right attitude, and the right voice." I know he was thinking of his brother with his jacket and guitar tip off, and again, such public pain he is dealing with. 63 square miles of hugs to you, DC!!

I get a lot of flak at work and from my Mom about Jason, but still -- Love him! I can't believe the negatives he got from the judges tonight. This was pure, understated Jason. Beautiful voice, soft and heartfelt delivery. His "Forever in Blue Jeans"was terrific, and such a perfect choice for his laid-back self. "September Morn" again a slow song, and okay, Jason didn't break out of the box with this one, but he did deliver it solidly and with feeling. I sincerely hope you speed-dialed him!!

Third for me tonight was, regrettably, Archie. I liken him to a carnival novelty, where you put the quarter in, and watch the monkey do a trick or a dance? Every week I put my quarter in, and every week I get the same predictable, solid and somewhat bland (but proficient) performance from David Archuleta. No surprises. (Well, he forgot the words that one time, but other than that, for me his performances are good, but interchangeable from week to week.) "Sweet Caroline" was just that, and the flag waving "America"was as Simon said, a smart choice of song.

Number four tonight for me was Syesha. I know she's an actress, and she is beautiful, we've covered that, but she's also actually a very, very good singer and performer. Her "Hello, Again" was beautiful. Once I got past the dramatic eyeshadow, I liked her softer parts and could almost connect with the song's lyric of connecting with someone lost.....then she started that Belter thing and lost me. Her final number, the show-closing "Thank The Lord for the Nighttime" was great fun, she worked the stage and sounded great, but did she connect with people, and win over enough new fans from the departed Carly, to keep her safe?

Finally, for me, Brooke. She probably has a massive fan base to keep her in this week (past Syesha or --prepare yourself -- SHOCKER-- Jason, say it ain't so!) but I really think she has met her match. Her first number on guitar, the aforementioned Monkee's "Daydream Believer", was as Simon aptly put, a "nightmare." In fact, I found myself picking the eye boogers off my dog halfway through, I was so bored and distracted. Her second number, "I Am, I Said" was delivered on the piano and with much better fit and conviction for her, yet still lacking for me. I like Brooke, but she cannot win, and let's just be honest about that.

My favorite sign in the audience: "My husband has a man crush on Seacrest!"
Other favorite sign: "Simon for Governor of Cowell-Fornia!"
Other favorite moment: Paula's confusion over what feedback to give on which performances. "OMG, I thought you sang twice!" Let's call this Paula's Senior Moment. Very painful to watch. Although, in her defense, it's true that things are filmed out of sequence for the "Live"show....so maybe she was right....gotta look into that!

Who do YOU think is going home? Who had the best take on Neil Diamond's songbook? And will you be rushing out to buy Neil's new CD or buy tix to his tour?

slan leat Carly...

(That's Irish Gaelic for goodbye to someone who is leaving) ....I say, hoist your pint o' Guinness to Carly! Job well done! "Superstar" was her best performance (and dress!) to date in my opinion (leave yours to the right in my latest poll), and as I've written here before, she has looked prettier and more relaxed the last few weeks. Her words tonight about her song choices being about showcasing her voice and not about having fun were sad....what would we have heard had she made this decision earlier? I thought her exit was full of grace and her composure on what was a very difficult night showed her maturity and sensibility. You done good, Carly! See you on tour!

OMG

Okay, I'll come out with it. Floating my conspiracy theory right here and now, since Carly gives me another data point: Married doesn't work with Idol. Micheal Johns had the package, but he was Married. My proposition: Married isn't SEXY when you are Idol, and you are trying to sell records and promote concerts and appearances and sell key chains and posters and such. Not only did NOT being American count against her, but Carly was also Married. (Brooke is Married, too....in the end that will hurt her.) I think this is the most Married final group we've ever seen. We know favorite Archie is single and other favorite David Cook did the Idol franchise the biggest favor ever by looking directly into the camera a couple of weeks ago and declaring himself single....Idol went Cha Ching all the way to the bank on that one! Daughtry was Married....I'm just keeping it real...note to John Q. Public: Audition when you are single!

I'm actually not looking forward to Neil Diamond. And I'm a good sport, haven't said that about many (any?) Idol episodes. So I'm hoping he proves me wrong! And just for fun, I'll link an interesting article here....fellow blogger IdolHead Ed puts forth a revisionist Idol headline about Carly.....very interesting....what do you think?

Andrew Lloyd Idol

Okay, I have a new Idol after tonight's show: Andrew Lloyd Webber. Wow, what a fantastic mentor! Neil Diamond, take note! I was a little bit leery when I saw the promo....I know Broadway has been covered on Idol, but wondered how this crop would fare....I would say, it wasn't feast or famine, it was somewhere in the middle.

The Idols didn't all together seem "out of their comfort zones" as Ryan pronounced, just Jason and David Cook. The rest easily found a home in the works of one of the greatest songwriters ever. Loved that they brought the band down to stage level (finally!) and Ricky Minor was out front tonight, which I dug. (He's a cool cat, Google him!) In the words of ALW, it's all about the Words and the Stories. As an aspiring writer, I'm with ya! The key word tonight going into tonight's show was Survival to me....just get 'er done. Question: who would falter in that goal?

Syesha "no shoes" Mercado came out first (uh oh) in a red dress she'd been poured into to do a number from Starlight Express: "One Rock N Roll Too Many". I thought it was classy, and beautiful, with real persona.....she is an actress, after all! Her genre completely. We'll see her in NY when she does NOT win Idol '07. In the words of my SIL, she was "competent, but no 'wow' factor." She may have been in her "happy place" like Paula said, but she won't be happy in the B3.

Jason Castro admitted that he was not familiar with the music of ALW but chose a very well known song ("Memory") to perform. It was sweet, perfect Jason...not his best. Randy admitted that he's a "beautiful guy"but Simon said it was a struggle...

...speaking of struggle, in comes Brooke White. She did "You Must Love Me" from Evita, and her stop-and-start wasn't the only problem with the number. Even though ALW said she Got IT in rehearsal, I guess she was still so nervous and rattled from her botched opening that I didn't get it. When Paula offers real criticism, it's baaaaaad. Brooke = B3.

Archie, aka Little David, knew what had to be done, and like the professional he is, got in there and got 'er done. David Archuleta did "Think of Me" again from Phantom,but in an uptempo way which was a little bit unusual.....don't know this stuff. Gotta admit, liked it...solid as my kid's chocolate bunny in the freezer since Easter....but I'm still a bit bored by his robotics.

Carly Smithson is clearly having fun now. She looks relaxed, and prettier than ever...I'd pegged her to go home, but after tonight, who knows? One of her strongest performances to date. LOVED how ALW called her off on her first song choice and steered her in the direction of one that better suited her....and he was right. Tee-shirt at the end ("Simon Loves Me -- This Week!) was funny.

David Cook seemed to struggle a bit with the genre, but we know he's so totally safe, so why discuss?

I'd say Phantom was the winner of the night, with two songs of the six selected... was ALW the Best Mentor Ever? Also, the strings and background vocals really impressed tonight...thanks, everyone!

Kristy Lee Gone

Well, a cat only has 9 lives after all, and Kristy Lee Cook ran out of hers tonight. The favorite in the Bottom 3 for how many weeks running? finally bid adieu to American Idol. It was a tense couple of moments for viewers as she stood next to her Final 2 partner, Brooke, as we were all thinking, "Well, the improbable happened last week, Michael Johns left!" but yep, Kristy Lee, she gone.

My only question is, will we be seeing her this time next year at the CMT awards winning big like Kellie Picker? We very well may! Stranger things have happened....KLC, as you said yourself tonight, you made the Top 10! For all that has gone on this season, you have done very well and can be proud. You were actually growing on me! And girl, we will see you on tour!

As for the rest of the show, have you voted in the songwriting competition? I haven't. I don't know why, maybe it's because last year's song was pretty dull....I know, not fair of me at all, but just keeping it real....maybe I'll check it out when I have a working-mom-of-three nanosecond.

Back to the show. I HATE the split-the-group elimination method, and if they make the 7th contestant choose....I might .....might.....

Course, that is what happens! Jason (goes left), David Cook (goes right)(and course, you wanna be in DC's group), Carly (goes left), then KLC goes right.....now we know, total fake out. You can see the look of relief in her eyes standing next to David Cook....Idol is more evil than I imagined.

I LOVE Elliot, and this is one of my favorite tracks on his CD, and what a perfect number to perform tonight. It must be the key they are in, but it's all much lower than on the CD, and he seems to struggle a bit until about 3/4 through the song when it all kicks in. I hope Simon was thinking, wow! This guy shoulda won! Cause he shouldha! I'm a little thrown off by his "We Miss U Mom"on the hand, only because it's a DC copycat....and a little self-indulgent, as Simon might say. I give Elliot the latitude to mourn his Mom, absolutely, and to tribute and love her however he needs, but it was a little weird for me, that's all, just keeping it real.

Syesha (left, in the notgood group) and Brooke goes right (and hasn't anyone told her to stop talking back? obviously not). Then Archie comes out, he's safe, then he is asked to (duh!) pick which group to join and he does the thing wise Idol wannabees do and sits down.

Phone calls! Totally lame, as usual (can you say FILLER) although having David Cook announce (directly into the camera, no less) that he is, indeed, single was worth all of Fox's advertising this hour in revenue they will generate from sales of his music. Not going to comment on KLC's horse story, which we talk about AGAIN.

On to Mariah's performance...actually, this was a nice song. I enjoyed it, other than the fact that I was distracted not only by her chihuahuas but also her microscopically short skirt...don't bend over! Mariah may have left the Diva at home yesterday when she coached the Idols, but trust me....the Diva showed up tonight. Hugging Ryan and telling him "Thank you, Dahl-ing" was just the beginning. Still, overall, Mariah as mentor = A from me!

KLC's final performance was one I will remember, and maybe the most notable exit performance in recent memory....course, KLC's song lyrics lent themselves perfectly, but to watch her sit on the judges table and deliver those words to Simon & Co. was priceless. You go, girl!

Now we have an even three guys and gals! On to Broadway week!

Top 7 Glitter with Mariah Carey

Glitter! Glam! Leather! Heels! Sparkle! Cleavage! And thankfully, great music! All things Mariah tonight and I was so very pleasantly surprised at how solidly entertaining the show was. Mariah left her Diva counterpart at home, and took her mentor role seriously, actually gave the Idols constructive tips ...and just enough kind words and support to carry them through what were all very good performances. (her only Diva Sin was bringing her dog along! But he was kinda cute....)

Paula, too, was on task tonight and looked terrific in purple...lots of celebs in the audience including Minnie Driver, Teri Hatcher (how could ya miss her) and my kid's fav, iCarly (forgive me, hon, I don't know your real name). Tough night for the gals as Simon opines, and he knows what he's talking about...in the order of performance...

David A. opens with "When You Believe" which I am not familiar with, but after listening to a few bars, realize that Simon is right -- what a perfect song for the sunshiny-save-the-world David. Clearly he's trying to step up his image from G-rated to maybe PG-13 with those leather pants. Well, Archie believes in himself, believes in his voice, and he knows himself, just as Professor Randy asked him to do....and it works. Nice job. Even though he's in the number 1 performance spot, Prediction: he's so very safe.

Carly follows with a song I do recognize,"Without You" and is looking the best she has looked all season....outfit is perfect, and she looks happy and relaxed and like she is really enjoying this. When meeting Mariah, it's clear the mentor is a fan, as she tells Carly that she's been "waiting to meet her"(how cool is that) and embraces her warmly. Randy thought it was pretty good but Simon didn't think she pulled it off and said she was over thinking things and too wound up....I think that she knows that she "can't give.....can't give anymore!" and after tonight, maybe she won't have to! A talented singer for sure, but prediction: B3.

Next up was Syesha, with her version of "Vanishing", also a song I'd never heard. With the exception of one very weird and off run in the middle, I thought it was beautiful and vocally, terrific. Wow, Syesha was stunning tonight! All those sparklies, even in her hair. I finally saw all singer and no actress. But is it enough? Prediction: B3.

The piano and Brooke came out for an unplugged version of the hit "Hero"which has a special place for me (ask me about that later). Vocally, it was so-so....I honestly felt like it was the kind of performance you would hear in an upscale hotel piano bar...she absolutely rushed the tempo into the second half and seemed like she was just trying to hold it together and not doing a good job....maybe it was just nerves. When Simon gave his feedback, she got that pouty look that just doesn't sit well with me. Prediction: B3.

Kristy Lee chose "Forever" as her song, and this was the first time I'd heard it (guess I don't get to that many weddings anymore). To my great surprise, I liked it! KLC looked absolutely gorgeous and delivered the song very well. Paula is correct that KLC is a "very smart girl" even though Simon thought it was whiny...she just needs a little coaching from Mariah on how to stand and sing in heels. Far from Karaoke Hell as Simon called it. Prediction: safe!

Inquiring minds (well, mine!) were just waiting to see how David Cook would handle Mariah Week. We knew he could do it, it was just a matter of HOW. Tonight he showed us by picking the hit tune "Always Be My Baby"which I sort of recognized into it, but true to DC style, he shook it up just enough that I almost didn't. Loved the strings! I'm seriously glad that despite the footage with Mariah, he didn't play guitar for the performance because while I know he could have, it would have distracted me from his great vocals.

Earlier in the evening, I had noticed a fellow seated behind Paula that didn't look well and seemed, despite his very front-row Idol seat, not to have much energy for it...then changed seats with someone else...then went missing for two performances....then came back for David's. I am venturing a guess that this is David's brother who is battling cancer, and that David's tears at the end of his performance were for him, sitting there in the audience. David, for ME, even though often compared to Daughtry, is far more compelling a person and performer, and tonight's display of heart convinces me. Prediction: safe.

(NOTE: Just before I published this comment, I saw this article from the Terre Haute News that tells of David Cook's brother Adam Cook's heroic journey to Hollywood to see his brother perform on Idol...WOW). Kinda puts everything in perspective, no? I can only imagine how tough it must be to be facing that as a family, and to be in the public eye all the while...David and family, you are in my prayers. {{hugs}}.

Finally, Castro in the pimp spot! What will he do? He does what he does best....an acoustic version (but not playing, again thank goodness) of Mariah's "I Don't Wanna Cry"...and it's terrific. I loved the footage of him with Mariah, he's like, "Dang, I'm sittin' here with Mariah Carey!" with a giggle, seemingly pinching himself. I think Randy's coconut bra was strapped on a little too tight because it was fantastic.

Mariah! Awesome! Songs! Great! Mentor! Thanks! Idol!

G'day, Michael!

Ah, yes I was surprised...fully expected Syesha "she gone!" Mercado to exit Idol last night, and fully prepared for Carly to leave as well...but Michael? Not at all. It's painful when folks are repeat visitors to the B3 (i.e. KLC) while others are booted on their first visit! So unfair! And Ryan was unduly cruel throughout the whole thing...Micheal to his part also appeared to be a bit surprised, but carried himself as the gentleman he clearly is. This kind of shock sucked the life out of all that Idol Gives Back goodwill for me!

Michael, you done good, and we'll miss you! See you on tour!

For the rest of the show, I was also fairly aghast at the religious opener...not sure what's up with that, but I did like it and thought it was sung beautifully! I also liked the cheesy Ford commercial with the world in paint at the end....couldn't identify half the people in the IGB "I'm a Believer"montage, and found Obama's message to be the most natural and endearing of the three Presidential hopefuls.

The obvious highlight at our house (maybe yours?) was the Jordin Sparks/Chris Brown ditty....course, we've been singing that song in the minivan forever. She looked absolutely radiant, and did you catch the electricity between those two??!! HOT HOT HOT. My tweener tells me he and Rhianna are on the rocks...hhhmmm.....they both sounded amazing and it was great.

Michael, if it's any consolation, the 8th contestant voted off in Season 5 has gone on to enjoy amazing success in music: Bucky Covington. Can't wait to see what you bring us!

Idol Gives Back

I don't even know where to start. It was sooooo long. So many bloggers and news people have done a great job:

Read Entertainment Weekly's terrific recap here

I also liked Sleeping Beauty's very extensive commentary at http://americanidolsnark.blogspot.com/

Buddy TV sums the evening up here

Girls Talkin' Smack have lots of pictures with their write up here

You can read a recap from someone who was actually there from TV Squad here!

On the positive side, I liked the Top 8 working the phones this year (if they really were, that was powerful) and liked seeing the SYTYCD dancers! Woo hoo! The sad thing is, I actually knew their names ;) (But where was last year's winner, Sabra?)

I found Teri Hatcher's "performance" utterly indulgent and think she'd better stick to acting. Star of that song was that cool digi-fiddle thing! Heart still rocks..and folks, that was no cartwheel that Fergie did, that was a one-handed walkover! People! Best performances of the night for me were Carrie Underwood (WOW) and Annie Lenox (fantastic!!) (Does anyone know what her necklace spelled? We couldn't figure it out). As always, the video clips from Africa, New Orleans, etc. were very well done. Always awesome to see Bono, a true hero of mine.

Celebrities were, well, celebrities...and there were LOTS of them, mostly in pre-recorded segments. Message to you....wearing sunglasses on stage should be reserved for Stevie Wonder or others with visual impairments; otherwise, it looks very pompous. Also (yes, Mr. Pitt, I'm talking to you!) take the hat off! Loved the Manning brothers and thought Jennifer Connelly's H20 piece well done, too.

The comedy stuff (Billy Crystal, Robin Williams) didn't work for me at all, and "Millie Seeris" should have done one song. Jimmy Kimmel was brutal.

My TiVo cut off halfway through Mariah's number (you?) so I missed the end. I guess the Top 8 did another group number also. Have to check the Web for that (or maybe not!)

The kids bugged us until we picked up the phone and pledged...so they got the message.

Did you?

A Lackluster Inspirational Night

Maybe it was because it's the reprise of Idol Gives Back and we've lost a freshness, a joie de giving we enjoyed last year...or maybe the Idols are just tired (or maybe I am), but I found tonight's show lacking in inspiration, on the whole. Yes, as the judges told Larry King last night, it's a talented Top 8, but I was bored by a good half of them tonight and befuddled by song choices. I've settled on two performances that actually did command my attention, two that weren't great for me by performers that will certainly survive this week anyhow, and 4 that IMO could end up in this week's B3.

Jason and (OMG!) KLC actually got me this week. The UKULELE -- gasp -- made it's first appearance on American Idol with "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" and who better than Jason Castro to be it's escort. Yes, the song sounded much like Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's original version, but Jason infused some of what the French call, "I don't know what" into it, rendering it captivating and magical for me. Randy called him Dude (surprise) and said it was blazing hot, Paula pronounced his song the perfect choice, and Simon said it was fantastic. Jason's Excellent Adventure continues!

KLC did a favorite song of mine and did it well. I, too, recall Martina on that very stage one year ago singing "Anyway" and KLC surprised me with her solid take on this powerful song. Gold eyeshadow (AGAIN) aside, KLC may have sung her way into the T7 and outta the B3.

The Two Davids were kinda just there for me this week, but we know they aren't in danger of elimination. When I watched it again, I could see where Rocker David was trying to go with his "Innocent" but it fell short for me, a little disorganized and flat. I don't think I recognized Little David's song "Angels"even though Simon said it was one of the greatest pop songs of all time (can someone help me out here?) He sang it well enough but I didn't connect with it.

My four for the bottom three: Michael, Syesha, Carly and Brooke. First off, Micheal's turn to go first and that worries me. Again, the ascot. I admit that I'm not a fan of "Dream On"and Micheal just didn't convince me otherwise. Randy wasn't feeling it, Paula loved it (course) and Simon thought it was a good performance, but like he said on Larry King last night, he doesn't like the Rocker Micheal at all, and thinks he should stick to the R&B/blues stuff. I agree.

Syesha worried me GREATLY with her pronouncement of song choice, AGAIN, but she did a great job with it. But like Randy said, I agree about the lack of connection....we all remember Fantasia's performance of her winning song, "I Believe" , ahem, when she WON the whole dang thing, and how can you connect with the song outside of that? Simon was right to ask, who are you and what are YOU all about?

Carly, again, gets prettier every week, but I don't buy the whole rocker shtick, and didn't tonight at all. Hated the outfit, hated the song, Queen's "The Show Must Go On"...and she DID sound angry....trying to convince me that the show must go on reminded me of the old saying,"Pull yourself up by your bootstraps!" Meant to be inspirational, but isn't.

Finally, Brooke got the pimp spot, but I don't know why because she was downright b-o-r-i-n-g. Yes, her performance of Carole King's "You've Got A Friend" showcased her folk side, and yes, she dressed the part as always, but Simon was right: "Pleasant, but not original." Agreed.

What did you think? Was Paula squeezed into a size zero dress, or what (and not in Chico's sizing, if you know what I mean). Will you watch Idol Gives Back tomorrow? And what's up with all that gold eyeshadow?

Larry King (and Idol) Live!

I hope you caught Monday's broadcast of Larry King Live! with Randy, Paula, Simon and Ryan, it was very interesting. Larry posed the questions, the judges talked over one another constantly, Ryan acted like he was gunning for Larry's job, everyone disagreed on everything, and Paula babbled. In case you missed it, Idolmama's got you covered! You can also read the official transcript yourself here. Highlights below!

Front half of the hour focused on discussion of Idol Gives Back: where the money goes, how people can donate, where the idea came from...reran the clip of Fantasia and Elliot from a couple of weeks ago, and talked a little bit about the taping of the show, which happened on Sunday night.

Then some fun stuff began...talk about the final Eight! Larry asked if Paula had a favorite: "Yes. I mean, with these kids, they're...I mean, I think, we all pretty much agree who the top -- who the top -- (INAUDIBLE)" Got that? Larry asked Ryan if it was the best group ever, and Ryan agreed that he thought it was. Larry asked Simon and Ryan if theirs was an ongoing feud, or just for show? Simon answered, " It's like anything, there are times when I like him. There are other times, particularly on the show, where I find him annoying. I described him recently as like a little mosquito you have in your bedroom, which is after a while it's oh, shut up. You know, it's annoying. You don't hate the mosquito, you just want it out of your face."

Larry asked Randy, how do you judge/compare a country performance with a rock performance? Randy answered, there are lots of ways. It's not so much the style as was the vocal good? Was it in tune? Was the melody sang great? Did they have any emotion to it, you know, was there any connection?

Larry showed video of the final 8 and got judge's feedback on what they thought the chances were of each of them winning. I couldn't believe how brutally honest Simon was...and Paula definitely needed a chair because she had trouble standing up for the last part of the hour. Brief summary on each judge's opinion on the final 8, in the order they were presented by Larry King:

David Cook: Randy said, "Definitely a favorite. He is definitely one of my favorites. I think he's got a shot at winning the whole thing, this kid. Love him." Paula said, "Love him. Very talented." Simon said, "This is the guy I would actually choose to listen to on a personal level. Forget what I think about the business. I like this guy. I think he's very good."

Carly: Simon said, "I tell you the problem I have with Carly is I don't think she knows who she is. I don't think she -- I don't think you can listen to a Carly song and go, that's who she is. Does this, does that. She's a good singer but I think every artist has to know who she is." Randy agreed, saying "He's right. I have to give him trumps on that. He's right, 100 percent right." Paula added "But I don't think, I think she picks songs that she thinks we're going to, you know, approve" and that she thinks she has an amazing voice, and thought that Simon was " too hard on her with her not looking like a star."

Michael: Randy said "He's a really talented guy. My problem with him is up until recently he's been picking the wrong songs. He's kind of like this bluesy, soulful -- blue-eyed soul kind of singer but he always picks stuff that doesn't allow him to do his thing." Paula added "You know, he's wonderful. And then he gets it right when he does the whole kind of blues soul thing." Simon added only that "Yes, this suits him." but then agreed with Randy who said they didn't like it when he did the rock guy thing.

Brooke: Paula said, "She puts her heart and soul into every song. America really connects with her. She's got a very unique thing." Simon said, "I like her. She doesn't have a governor. In other words she gets on stage and she says what's on her mind without thinking about it, without being too much of a politician." Randy said "She is a pretty transparent as a performer. I just think that with her it's about really picking the right songs. I mean, people have been comparing her to like the new Carly Simon folk movement. She's just staying in that area to me. Anything outside of there is weird." Then Simon added "I totally agree. Carly Simon - she's great. Her problem is the last two weeks she's been boring." Can she make the Top 3 or 4? Yes, with good song choices, the judges agreed.

David Archuleta: Randy starts by saying that "I think David is really, really talented. He's also ones of the ones to beat. I think his big thing though is he started out with a big splash. It's about picking the right song. And it's hard to know who you are at 17. But I think he's got an idea. He just has to stick to his heart and be that." Paula says "He's been doing this for a long time. You know, when we were on the road I kept referring to him as the 16-year-old savant. He really has that presence. He knows who he is." Simon says simply, "He's the one to beat, Larry. He really is" and that "this guy is going to have the teen vote. He's going to have what I call the granny votes. The kids love him."

Kristy Lee: Simon starts quickly by saying" The odds of her winning are one million to one." Randy adds "Yes, I don't think she'll win but I think she definitely could have a recording contract somewhere down the road. She'd definitely make a good country girl." Simon continues by saying "She has no chance of winning, Larry. I honestly -- the trouble is, I mean, she does sound okay doing country music. She's just not a great country singer, that's the problem. It's all about being invisible and forgettable." Paula argues that " None of these kids are forgettable. They're still on the show."

Jason: Randy says "Jason's cool. I don't think he'll win either. I don't think he's got a shot at winning. I think he's okay as a singer." Simon says "I think this guy is all about song choice. When he same the Jeff Buckley song "Hallelujah" he was really good. The trouble is he turns up every week and he looks like he doesn't care." Paula adds that "He's got a definitive style vocally" but Simon says they are all unique. Randy surprises everyone by saying that " I wouldn't [sign Jason] but I'd sign Kristy Lee Cook. "

Syesha: Paula starts this round by saying that "[Country Week] was a big night for her. But I do agree, I think we are all on the same page that I wish she would have sang the song vulnerable like Dolly Parton, just like this. And never went into the power side." Randy adds that "With her I feel more like I'm looking at an actress singer as opposed to just a singer." and Simon agrees with Randy that theater will probably be better for Syesha.

Hour ended with call-ins from viewers...all interesting but too much to sum up here ...a couple of highlights were Simon's response to the question, who was your favorite past Idol winner? I thought he would say Fantasia, but instead he answered "I would have to say Kelly Clarkson because I think we have a lot to be thankful for to Kelly Clarkson because by her winning and doing so well it kind of gave the show credibility. And now I've got to know her better over the years. I like her more as a person now as well. The great thing about Kelly is, I have to tell you, no messing around with this girl. She makes up her own mind what she's going to do."

Another caller asked, What do you feel about the fact that idol voting often seems based more on charm, personal history, or looks than on genuine performing talent? Randy answered "All I can say is that every season the winner is the one chosen with the best vocal talent. I think they've gotten it right every time." Simon disagreed immediately and pointed to Season 5 as an example of Taylor Hicks not being the best singer. Larry asks if this is the final season of AI, and the panel responds, no, that they've got a few more years left, mostly because the show isn't on very often so people don't tire of it as quickly.

Predictions for who goes next? Syesha, Kristy Lee or possibly Jason. Predictions for the final 2? Unanimous: The Davids will square off!

Thanks to Larry for his neverending patience with this crew!

Bye Ramiele!

Tonight's results show was a real roller coaster, huh? The bottom three were predictable enough, but the emotions were running high, from Simon's apologies to Brooke's tears to homeless sisters being reunited in Africa....WOW. I'm still coming down from it all. I'm also still giggling from that opening group number, the best in recent memory! "9 to 5" looked like everyone was enjoying themselves, but especially Jason Castro ....his over-the-top moves were memorable. Watch it back if you have to. Did you see the fancy footwork the Idols did? Probably practiced that for hours. Look for this number on tour this summer....it will be a crowd pleaser! Also, if anyone knows where I can get a t-shirt of Dolly like the one MJ wore, let me know...that was entirely classic!

Loved the catch up pieces on Bucky, Phil and Bo. Glad to see real people making post-Idol names for themselves, and looking like they enjoy and appreciate it! And given that each of these former Idols did not win, I think it's important to keep reminding today's crop that there is, indeed, Life After Idol....we know that, but good to see it again. These are three talented guys and I'm happy for them! Ramiele could be up there one year from now, promoting her new CD....or not.

Dolly's performance of her new single "Jesus and Gravity" was everything I wanted, and more. Was she pitch-perfect, with stellar dance moves and the right outfit? Nope....but I tell ya, Dolly rules. The tune was quite catchy, with beautiful chord progression and melody, and the choir was a nice touch. I understand if it's not your "thing" but I admire her for putting it out there! I can't believe the dish she has gotten on the Internet about her Idol stint....PEOPLE.....she is the Jen-You-Wine article who is not only a prolific songwriter, but also an artist who has stayed true to herself...her banter with Ryan and Simon was priceless, and it's clear she's not about to stop doing what she's doing ...and I, for one, am glad!

On to the elimination...as I said, the bottom three were predictable...as was the result, thank goodness. With Brooke declared safe, I didn't care which of the two remaining actually left. Again, I say, does KLC have the record for Most Trips To The Bottom Three Without Being Eliminated?? She must, goshdarnit.

Ramiele....best of luck to you! You are a talented singer ....see you on tour!

Country Week With Dolly!

I must admit, I was super geeked for this week....I had heard rumors last fall that Dolly may be a guest mentor this season and I got my hopes up...what a perfect fit! When I learned she had a new CD out, I knew it would happen.

Dolly did not disappoint. In many ways, she reminded me of Barry Manilow's mentorship in Season 3....a true artist and national treasure who found ways to support each contestant without being fake or overly gratuitous. I absolutely love the spot that Entertainment Weekly did on Dolly this week and it made me appreciate her genius even more! Do check it out.

On to tonight's show. I absolutely loved it. Dolly was a gracious and lovely mentor, and provided a deep and beautiful songbook from which to choose, and I think the Idols did a good job selecting songs that fit each one of them, which can't be said of every country theme week or certainly of every mentor week. She made it easy! After all, the lady (as you saw in the opening montage) has been in the biz for 40 years , written over 3,000 songs, had 110 singles, 25 of them #1 hits, and has sold over 100,000,000 albums worldwide, in case you missed that :)

Since tonight's group is an 'even' 9, we've got a Top 3, a Middle 3 and a Bottom 3 quite naturally. While I must preface this write up by saying that I loved tonight's show a lot, someone MUST go....and with that in mind....

We'll start with my (personal) bottom three. In order of performance, Ramiele has met her match, who are the other 8 contestants. What I can't figure out is why she is still so popular!Idolblog's poll has her coming in third behind the two Davids! I know she is cute and all, and can actually sing okay, in a normal world....but stacked against this season's competition, she is outsung, and tonight was no different. I really didn't like that Catholic schoolgirl jumper and her "cruise ship performance"(see poll).

While I thought the song was a good choice for her, I'm hoping KLC's "Coat of Many Colors" isn't the Coat of Many Votes, because while country week suited her well, I still think KLC is still a weak link. Syesha may have fared better in Idols past...her big box voice and good looks would have carried her far enough in the competition, but against this season's fresh and original takes on classics (with Jason and Brooke leading the way), she pales in comparison. It's simply not enough to belt out Whitney and do it well anymore.

In the middle ground for me tonight were, in order of performance: Brooke, Jason and David A. Brooke was entirely likable and I was surprised to see her in the first spot, thought her choice of song was good and her performace was okay....but I had to agree with Simon that her delivery lacked emotion and that the band didn't seem cohesive. Jason's "Traveling Through" was a beautiful song that I hadn't heard and want to hear again after his performance....I'll admit that it didn't sound much different than his other performances, but it still sounded good!! People!!! I hope you voted!! Finally, David A. is not about to be eliminated, on this performance or any other, but I had to put him in my middle category because, goshdarnit, it was cheesy for me. I get that he felt the song and that's what made it work...but....pass the corn chips.

Tops tonight were for me, in order of performance: David Cook, Carly and Michael Johns. First of all, the Damage Control IDOL (all caps) did in response to the press about David Cook's lifting of other arrangements was spot on. Shows they are reading the blogs/press. I thought David's performance of "Little Sparrow" was pretty good...not my fav, but he done good. Like the new look (tall forehead combover). Secondly, Carly is looking more and more beautiful each week. She had massive eyeliner on tonight (don't try this at home!) and was sporting a great new hairdo. I just LOVED her performance of "Here You Come Again" but wondered about Simon's comment that she needed wardrobe help...what was that really about? I think he might have been suggesting that she needs to cover the 'toos!

Finally, I am thrilled to say I finally got to hear Michael John's vocals, and I loved them! For the first time for me, they were not overpowered by instruments or staging or lighting....I had found myself wondering, why is this guy even in the Top 10? Tonight should show you. We finally got to hear his voice, and it's great. What a power note he hit!

So favorites tonight for me were Carly and Michael....we'll see how America voted!

Top Nine(s) in Review

This is a great write up I wanted to pass along...a review of themes, performances, bottom threes and eliminations with the week featuring the Top 9 for the previous six seasons of American Idol. Check out Donna Reynold's piece at Foxes On Idol.

Author writes that we should "expect the unexpected" and concludes that "at this stage of the game popularity often overrides talent" citing the eliminated Gina Glocksen over Haley and Sanjaya as a recent example.

Great write-up Ms Reynolds! Wonder if this means the talented Jason or Syesha might be sacrificed while KLC and Ramiele continue??!! E-gads, let's hope not...