Lee Vs. Crystal: Who is your Next American Idol?

I totally enjoyed tonight's final performances, and mostly because BOTH Lee and Crystal are just that darn good. I am truly a fan of both and think they will both make fine winners. Reminds me of the David vs. David face off....either of them could have won, and both Davids are both bestselling recording and touring artists today. I think the same will happen for Lee and Crystal. The rest of the Top 10? Not so sure. Are Big Mike or Siobahn the next Daughtry or Jennifer Hudson that will surprise us in 6 or 12 month's time? I don't think so......but I love surprises :)

I also think Crystal had the distinct fashion disadvantage. Lee was cool and collected in his usual (but drab) ensemble of black, grey and brown cotton but Crystal actually had to descend a set of stairs -- while singing -- in high heels. THAT is a true accomplishment!

I will rank tonight's performances in order of my favorite to least favorite....but before I do that, I have to give props to Ellen! She was in fine comedic form tonight.....OMG I LOL several times during the show (OK I am TXTING too much ths dys SRY). Started when she told Lee that she "couldn't be any prouder [of him] than if she had birthed him herself" which cracked me up. She then told the audience that all the wardrobe changes...."it's crazier than a Cher concert in here!" which I had noticed myself. Finally, she told Crystal that if she makes a record, "I'll buy it....if you go on tour, I will buy a ticket....if you make a salad, I will eat it...." Just some of Ellen's funniest stuff all season. Is she back for next season? Anyone know?

So, on to the performances. My favorite tonight, and I know I'm probably not in the majority here, was Lee's cover of REM's "Everybody Hurts." Haunting beautiful song that Lee obviously really connected with, and a totally retro choice....I don't think that song gets heavy airplay on even retro stations. I also recall the song back in the day as being more depressing than Lee delivered it....I was uplifted by his version! Loved his vocals, and given that this song was on the radio in 1993, Lee was all of 7 years old at the time, so he likely has no real personal connection to the song, but was able to make on after the producers picked it for him. Bravo Lee!

My second favorite performance tonight was Crystal's show-closing "Up to the Mountain." I must admit, I didn't get as goose-pimply or teary as the judges apparently did during this song but I appreciate Crystal's connection and exquisite vocals. I think the song is in her wheelhouse (to borrow an overused Randyism) but I don't think it's current enough to connect with. She is a star, there is no doubt, and had a gift going back to a young and tender age.

Third favorite tonight, for me, was Lee's reprise of his "Boxer" performance. I think he won over a lot of new fans with this song that week, and fans old and new were not disappointed to hear this tonight. Love, Love, Love it and agree with the judges that tonight was even better than the first time. Heart you Lee!

Following this, I would have to say that Crystals' reprise of "Me and Bobby McGee" comes 4th. Like Lee, fans loved this song the first time Crystal sang it, but in Lee's defense, I don't know how many NEW fans she won from this song tonight that weren't already won the first time around. It's a great song and totally the kind of music she could be successful commercially at singing,but she has not seen the kind of momentum that Lee has.

My bottom two performances tonight were - you guessed it if you are doing the math -- are split between both Lee and Crystal. I can't believe that I am actually going to write this publicly on this blog, but I am a little disappointed that there is no original song this year! What, the national recession has hit Idol? No money to pay songwriters anymore? Not enough staff to mount a national songwriting competition? What? As limp as many of the Idol coronation songs have been over the years, they have been original songs that have defined that season of Idol, and served as a bookmark of sorts...even though many aren't GREAT songs there are some that actually are, and all of them serve as passable passports into pop music for the Idol winners. So, I was wanting an original song.

Lee's performance of U2's "Beautiful Day" (personal fav) was pretty good, but who can really cover Bono? (Well, David Cook did a good job with "Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For" in the Season 7 finale, and the duet "One" by Elliot Yamin with Mary J. Blige in the Season 5 finale was all kinds of wonderful.....) but Lee tonight was not a Winner with this song. I don't understand, it's a COVER....and not something that I can connect to with Lee....I truly don't get the decision here to have covers be the winner's new release. I, for one, no matter how good it is will not buy/download Lee's cover of U2's song.....I am still wrapping my mind around this....

Finally, I know I am in small company, but Crystal's performance of "Black Velvet" just didn't work for me. Honestly I truly don't like that song, and cringed when Ryan announced it. Maybe I had finale performance fatigue, or maybe after nine seasons I am truly jaded, but I don't know....the judges did cause they clearly loved her....but me, it wasn't painful, but it wasn't a defining moment for me.

So, did you enjoy the finale? Did it meet your expectations? Who do you think will win? And who do you think deserves to win?

Lee and Crystal Sail Into Idol Finale

As predicted, blond-haired southern guitar playin' Casey James was sent home tonight on American Idol. Casey ended up lasting far longer than I had predicted, and certainly longer than I thought possible based on his shirtless audition (which we got to see again tonight). I do think he was pretty good but I'm not sure his third-place finish will rival those of ....wait, let's see the previous Idol 3rd place finishers: Nikki MicKibbin, Kimberly Locke, Melinda Doolittle, Syesha Mercado.....Jasmine Trias....Vonzell Solomon .....uuuuhhhhh....doesn't look good for
Casey! Seems there is a curse on the 3rd place finish!

His hometown visit was sweet, though, and I can't recall seeing an autographed dog nor half the hilarities I witnessed on that visit....some crazy folk in Texas! Good luck Casey! His sing out song was sweet. Was that his little sister? Neice? Neighbor? Seemed planned and comfortable so I don't think Casey blindsided her, and I don't think that adorable little girl was a stranger he plucked from the audience. No worries!

Meanwhile we were also treated to hometown visit footage from Crystal and Lee. Now, my hometown was actually about 30 miles from Toledo, so those were my old stomping grounds, and when Crystal talked about Northwest Ohio, she talked to me, and I loved seeing her groundedness and love for her hometown and roots. Tons o' people turned out! Dad was so proud. I liked her original song a lot and loved that they played it during her montage (why wouldn't they?) She represents so many bar singers who are talented and just need a break. I, for one, am glad she went out for AI.....no matter what happens, it's changed her world tremendously and her son's too.

Lee's footage from Chicago and Mt. Prospect, Illinois was amazing, and not just because I live here! Wow, the downtown affair (which my husband witnessed), the Wrigley pitch, the First Grade Teacher Giving A Speech About Me, the tearful and emotional paint store reunion....Lee showed himself in this footage to truly be Everyman, and one who was not at all entitled or demanding, but just grateful for the opportunity. His vocals at the racetrack sounded great, too. I think he is the only one of the three I would purchase....just saying....

There are split views in the idol sphere....either they are really pimping Lee to win, or they are setting the stage for a Crystal victory by pimping Lee so much. Recall how in Season 7 there was massive David Archuleta press and hype all season, while David Cook quietly made his mark....the top 3 and finale shows they really praised Cook, almost to even the playing field. Crystal has been a top performer from the very beginning, so they may be trying to create drama. Is Crystal a shoe-in? Or does Lee have a chance at the title? This is a great article from my hometown Chicago Sun-Times ....

I love the hometown visit footage, but I have to be honest: the other highlight of tonight's show for me was Justin Beiber's performance AAAccck, I know....a teenybopper? But in self-defense, I am the parent of kids ages 8, 10 and 13....so you can imagine that I had heard this name before (and likely unknowingly financed a download or two) and was terribly curious to see what the gist was. I was honestly impressed by his musicianship and talent. What a cutie! He was far less raunchy than Justin Garland, the act who got to appear before him who was supposedly 'discovered' on You Tube. Hmmm.

Can't believe that Season 9 comes to a close next week. I can't really even make a prediction right now....I honestly thought the playing field was even between Carrie and Bo and between Jordan and Blake......I have no internal radar on such matters! But I can tell you that I'm happy with both. I think Lee has grown the most and has the biggest commercial appeal for me, but I have trouble discounting Crystal because she is a great musician and vocalist. She is maybe more comfortable than Lee, and didn't show the growth that he did, which could hurt her. I really don't know, but I predict a DeWyze victory!

Top Three: Hallelujah Lee!

Wow, tonight's show was a real fight to the finish IMO....I enjoyed each performance and can't wait for more hometown footage tomorrow and the announcement of our finale performers!

I know you're shocked, but my favorite tonight was Lee, my hometown boy! His personal choice of "Simple Man" (Lynryd Skynryd) didn't thrill me at first only because I didn't know the song, but Lee delivered it beautifully and his connection to the lyric really showed through. He seemed more comfortable than ever (perhaps like Ryan suggested, that hometown visit did change him!) and I loved to see him smile. Simon says he crushed it....I agree! But the second song, Simon's choice of the show-closing "Hallelujah" was an Idol moment....it's not up there with Fantasia's "Summertime" or Carrie Underwood's "Alone" but it definitely makes the list. I think it a bit unfair that he got orchestral backing and a choir.....who decided that? Simon? And I also think it's a bit contradictory to call out the contestants for choosing songs that have already been done well by previous Idol performers, only to trot out a song that Jason Castro slayed 2 seasons ago.....but....Lee did put his own spin on it and it might end up being the first (and only?) track I purchase from iTunes this season. Well done!! I think I saw Simon start to shed a tear.....Kara was very convincing when she said that Lee has grown the most during the season.

No one can argue that Crystal is a strong Idol contestant, but she has been from the very beginning. Contrary to Kara's assessment of Lee's upward growth over the season, Crystal has been Stable Mable and that may be her downfall. Tonight's performances were both vintage Crystal, and held no surprises. Her choice of Melissa Etheridge's "Come to My Window" was excellent....I was a little distracted by how the mouth harp got in the way of her singing when she wasn't playing it, and I agree that her vocals didn't have the power nor the raspiness of the original, but I liked it and give Crystal credit. Paul McCartney's "Maybe I'm Amazed" was a bit of a bolder choice for her from Ellen, and while it is an incredible song, I agreed with Kara that it got away from her a little but her vocals were still awesome, earning her the first standing "O" of the night. I think it's a Crystal-Lee match-up for the finale, as predicted!

Meanwhile Casey, to his credit, held his own. I perused the Idolsphere this morning well in advance of tonight's show and was surprised to read, on many fronts, that many bloggers felt it was an even playing field heading into tonight's show. I couldn't disagree more...I think Casey was the weakest link heading into tonight's show and remains so at this writing. He chose an unknown song (Eric Hutchinson's song "Okay, It's Alright With Me") to open the show and while I really dug the song and thought it showed Casey's fun and easygoing side, the judges really didn't like it at all. I thought that was a bit harsh. I've said all season I haven't connected with Casey and this song I thought showed me what he might record post-Idol. And then he trotted out John Mayer's "Daughters" as requested by Randy and Kara and I got a new glimpse of Casey. I LOVE this song, so I figured I would like Casey singing it, and I was right....and we can all agree that Casey is the best guitar player Idol has ever seen. But I have to agree with Kara that it wasn't the "moment" Casey needed...laid-back song and nothing to really break out of, and indeed, a limp guitar solo (which I still think was pretty good). Casey, Casey.....you've come along a little too late I'm afraid. You were enjoyable for me, but you were outsung and outperformed by Crystal and Lee.

What do you think? Did Casey fight to the finish? Did you like the song choices? And did you think Lee was totally pimped as I did?

Big Mike Says Big Goodbye

Boy they really had us sweatin' at Casa Idolmama wondering if Lee was safe tonight! With Casey safe, we were a little nervous. I also have to admit that I wondered about the foreshadowing of Daughtry as a performer on tonight's show, and if it meant that front runner Crystal might be in danger. (Daughtry was voted out at 4th on his season despite being a fan favorite, and you can see why!). Happily, Lee will indeed journey back home this week to Mt. Prospect, Illinois as a Top 3 contestant.

Photo: Lee circa 2002. Lee DeWyze (center) takes a photo with Mt. Prospect Paint owner Bill Lagattolla (left) and present day manager Mike Binek (right) eight years ago. (Tribune photo by Phil Velasquez). (See other photos of Lee and his hometown of Mt. Prospect IL here.)

Fantasia, for those of you who missed Season 3, was a powerhouse to be reckoned with, in musicality, in personality, and in stage presence....well, in just about everything. Her career as I understand has been a little rocky post-Idol, and her last appearance on Idol ("Bore Me") was a little shocking (although remains one of my favorite performances and is in heavy Idolmama iPod rotation). I thought she was good tonight, staying true. Good luck to you in the rest of your career!

Likewise, I am a Bon Jovi fan although they are an aging lot....felt my own wrinkles watching them. Wondered if my guitar-loving 10 year old son found them at all relevant and I'm not sure. Why were they on tonight? That is the question...somewhat random 19/Fuller promotion that we aren't aware of. (?)

The Crystal/Mike bottom 2 match up left little mystery as to who was going home. Thankfully, Mike held his own with grace (while his wife totally fell apart) and his exit performance was lovely but reminded me of why I would never endorse him as the American Idol, just not my style.

Hate the Top 4 elimination, glad that it is behind us, and look forward to hometown visits from our top 3: Casey (Texas y'all), Crystal (small town Ohio) and Lee (suburban Illinois).

Was the right person eliminated? Did you enjoy Fantasia and/or Bon Jovi? And do you think the Ford commercials are necessary???

Top Four Go To the Movies

Where has the time gone?! When the ads for So You Think You Can Dance start appearing, you know we are nearing the end of the season of Idol. The finale is just two weeks from tonight, and I can't believe it. And I also can't imagine that anything short of a tsunami in Chicago will stop the finale from being a Crystal/Lee match-up, as well it should be.

Take Big Mike, for example. I really, really feel for the guy that his dream for the last 12 months has been to make the Top 3 on this Season's Idol and he has darn near come close! And he desperately wants those TeeVee cameras to roll into his home town of St. Petersburg, FL next week and paint his town red. But, his performance tonight of Micheal Jackson's "Will You Be There" (from the Free Willy soundtrack....ummm.....okay!) was a little flat for me...and I agreed with Kara that I really wanted the lovey dovey Mike to come back since that worked waaaay better. I'm not sure Mike's dream will come true....

...Likewise for Casey, who mysteriously chose "Mrs. Cougar" (I mean "Mrs. Robinson") for his cinema performance....I was watching just really wanting him to look into the camera, at least, and connect with ME but he never did. Lovely song, great looking guy, and sung with some conviction....and a very cool retro feel, and it was intimate, but with all of that said, I just really didn't love it. I still lack a connection with Casey! After all this time! And that is a problem.

Meanwhile, the Crystal/Lee Show was in full swing. Lee opened the show with "Kiss From a Rose", a song I agree might have been a poor choice given the vast options available.....but I still loved it, Lee has swagger and growl and unpolished-ness and humility and a tenderness that I just really like. Period. I will buy his CD!

Crystal's take on Kenny Loggin's "I'm Alright" was vintage Crystal...smooth, confident, solid. And from Caddyshack! Strange movie selections tonight, no?

Highlights of the night were the duets! Terrific! The Crystal/Lee rendition of the gorgeous "Falling Slowly" was incredible....I was only a little bit distracted by the spinning camera angles and the fact that I don't know about Lee, but I knew that Crystal's boyfriend was sitting in the audience. Dueling guitars indeed! Likewise, the Casey/Mike duet was surprisingly good....I was still thinking about Matt Giraud's performance of the same song in Season 8, the one that earned him the first ever Judge's Save and I thought Mike and Casey actually did it better :)

So what did you think? Is there any chance that Mike or Casey will make it to the finale? Did you think Jamie Foxx was (once again) a good mentor? And how much would you pay for tickets to the finale? Someone tossed out the $5K number to me today and I thought that was waaaaaaay high.....I suggested $300 tops.....

Harry Connick Jr. Brings Swing to Final 5

I have a new crush! Oohh, Harry Connick Jr. just won my heart tonight with his appearance on Idol. Best. Big. Band. Night. Ever. Still laughing about his Shania comment: "Was she working up in here? I don't think so". LOL He said that because last week the contestants sang Shania Twain songs....she had composed and performed them all.

This week, not only did he give vocal coaching to the contestants as Shania did, he also arranged each song for them AND performed with them on stage, neither of which she did. WOW. So smooth, so talented, so musical, and funny, too.
(Flickr Photo by Wendy Piersall (@eMom)'s )

Giving photo credit as due:

Random thought: Can anyone tell me why Simon only kissed the one visiting Sinatra sister for the monogrammed kerchief? I thought that was very odd....

My satellite was having digital recording issues tonight (in basically clear weather!) so my recording was less than perfect....lots of cutting out of song and video but I did see most of it. I thought it was a fun night overall, and that everyone did well....no obvious stinkers. You might recall that at this point in previous seasons (top 5), each singer performed 2 songs! Did you wonder why each one tonight did only one? I did.....I think it's because HCJr. had enough work and personality to fill the dead space...and perhaps there were more commercial fillers to close a revenue gap? Your thoughts??

Back to the show, I know that we do have to cut someone, and I think it should {gasp} be Casey. I know he was out of his element, but still...many, many Idol contestants have been out of their elements at various points in the competition, even at this Top 5 level, and have managed to make a better showing than Casey, which makes me lose steam for him. His take on "Blue Skies" was kinda hard for me to buy, and wasn't his best vocal. Loved the purple shirt, though, and his pre-performance story about his friend back home who wanted him to gig out locally tonight (not knowing he was busy!) was totally funny. Might be the end of the road for Casey, although I think his future as a print model might be very bright! (singing print model? Hmmm...)

I didn't think that Aaron's rendition of "Fly Me to the Moon" was all that great, but it was playful and fun. It was definitely flat in places. Ellen was her usual funny self with her comment that she "thought the piano was a little pitchy." I'm sorry, but in all of her usual drunken stupor, Paula was never that funny! And then Kara went and called Aaron "Honey" in her remarks, which isn't usually said in a complimentary way.

My middle spot goes to Mike. I haven't been a rabid fan, and this week leaves me neutral. Mike's wheelhouse (if I may borrow your word, Randy) is love songs, so Mike was in the zone with "The Way You Look Tonight", one of the greatest love songs ever, and I actually thought his vocals were quite good. The lip licking distracts me! A tremendous song that is tough to argue with and I think Mike is probably safe this week.

Top 2 tonight were Crystal and Lee. First of all, Crystal looked amazing! Loved the gown, loved the confidence. "Summer Wind" also has special meaning for Idolmama, although from what I gather Crystal and I probably have different associations of this song. I pretty much lost all judges comments on this one from satellite failure but I did hear Simon say that he expects better from her and then she talked back. I think she is safe....but needs to stay in control!

Lee, Lee, Lee. We knew it was going to be good when HCJr. admitted to you that his WIFE thinks you are HOT. Okay, Lee the last time I checked was when HCJr was married to a Victoria's Secret MODEL.....so you HAVE to be feeling good with that news, no? Plus Harry admitted that he dug you, so you are IN. Lee's "That's Life had a Billy Joel feel to me....rough and organic and just delightful.

Luckily it takes more than a compliment like that to make someone stand out. Sure, Lee was as always a bit pitchy and breathy, and of course, like Ellen I was distracted by Harry's organ. But Lee went out and delivered very much in a David Cook way....I don't think he needed quite the pep talk that Kara gave him but whatever works. Judges are clearly pulling for a Crystal-Lee showdown which will be a tough one to call.

So, did you dig Harry Connick Jr. as much as I did? Did you see who I believe to be Katy Seagal in the audience? And do you think this was the best big band night ever?

So Long Siobahn!

Everything leading up to tonight let viewers know this would be a big night....and that we should expect a surprise. I think this is because overall ratings are down, viewership is down, the Idols Give Back donations were down....they are trying to drum up voters. The whole opening sequence last night summed it up: "A glassblower, a paint salesman, a mom"....etc. Trying to reconnect America to what this show is all about, which is finding a star out of hard working obscurity....maybe we have collectively lost sight of that, and maybe gotten a little jaded in the process. I also think this is also when, historically, we have seen very, very talented people go home.

I AM surprised with tonight's results, but in a way, I am not. Siobahn was fun and quirky and very talented....she was so unexpected, in a way you expect a storefront and inexpensive Chinese takeout to be delicious, and you are surprised when it is. She had a style all her own, and was at one point considered a front runner. I'm not sure exactly how it happened that she fell to this point...but she is indeed talented and I imagine we've not heard the last of her. I thought she had a bigger fan base than she did!

The bigger news was that Casey was served! I was expecting either Mike or Aaron to be sitting next to Siobahn on the Bottom Stools of Dread....I still think Casey will make a better model than a singer anyway :)

BIG, HUGE shout-out to Rascal Flatts. Way to open the show. I really love them, and I have to say, they owe a huge debt to Idol and specifically to Carrie Underwood. Her performance of "God Bless the Broken Road" with Rascal Flatts during her Idol run prompted me (and many others) to look them up. I'm sure they would have gotten "here" without the Idol connection because they are uber talented, but....sure helped them out. And I loved the title track from the latest CD "Unstoppable", pick it up if you haven't yet!! Similarly, I thought Sons of Sylvie and Lady Antebellum were great although if it was supposed to be country night, why in the ever-loving heck was Shakira there?! Looked beautiful but hmmm....connection? maybe I missed it! Readers help me!

Can't believe we've reached the Top 5, and with just one lady remaining when we heard all summer about how this was a lady's year.....will Crystal deliver??

Idols Board the Shania "Twain"

I was really looking forward to Shania night tonight...after all, she was one of the most refreshing guest judges from the auditions, and in my hometown no less (Chicago), not to mention the fact that she is an amazing songwriter and performer. She was a part of one of the most endearing and funny audition segments when she praised local John Park's "bottom end"...remember that?? And just struck me as an all-around talented and nice lady. Plus, as a bonus, she was a judge when Lee DeWyze and Crystal auditioned...so interesting that she meets up with them again!

Shania looked just gorgeous and was so engaged with the Idols....loved her vulnerability. I thought she gave them pretty good advice. She was open, honest, and just terrific IMO....such a contrast to ....um.....MJ Blige for example??!! Loved how she confessed how much pressure there was for them to be singing her songs....love that.

Well, Miss Shania had nothing to worry about. Her songs brought out the best in each of the Idol contestants tonight, and made for one of the most enjoyable nights to watch in recent memory. Each performance for me was really good. I do, however, have to call out my favorites...

Lee stole the show for me in many ways, despite performing in the dreaded lead-off position. He was helped by the fact that he sang my favorite Shania song ever...and he really, really did it well IMO. Did I notice the pitchiness Simon mentioned? Nope. I loved Lee's growl and ownership of the stage and the song. Lee, "You're Still the One" for me... and I think I have a crush on you! OMG...Lee....you are still the one for me!!!

Course Crystal was great. I'm with Ellen, how many different ways can you keep saying that? I guess I could pull out a thesaurus and look up 'awesome'....but the fact remains that Crystal is really good. I totally disagreed with the judges...I loved her rendition of the rousing "No One Needs To Know" and thought she sang it perfectly! Loved seeing her playful side and her personal connection to the song and found it totally endearing. Boyfriend has been served! Simon thought it was coffee shop, but I thought it was Napa Valley Chardonnay baby!

If I have to pick another favorite to make an even three, I will choose Casey. I haven't been a huge fan of his to date, but thought this night stepped it up a notch. His "Don't" made me wonder if Casey could "Do" the finale!

I remain a lukewarm fan of Mike's, Aaron's and Siobahn's after tonight, despite the fact that each of them turned in decent performances, if not above-average. It is, however, getting down to the end of the game and every little thing counts. Mike was vocally okay on his version of "It Only Hurts When I'm Breathing" but I agreed with Simon that it felt a little contrived and, well, theater. I predict that this song will be performed on tour by Mike!

Aaron didn't get it for me tonight at all. "You Got Away" might be his swansong. I was totally distracted by the way he was holding the microphone for starters, and I don't know....just didn't feel it. Similarly, Siobahn's "Any Man of Mine" was rousing and brash and full of energy (the same energy I have when I play this song in the minivan) plus she had the coveted pimp spot BUT Siobahn was out of breath and mumbled a lot of the words, and was pitchy in places. I think Siobahn has the bigger fan base of these three...so I think she is probably safe....but this show is known for its surprises.

What did you think? Did you think Shania was a good mentor? Were you distracted by the Doublemint Twins directly behind Simon? And were you counting the number of times Randy said 'wheelhouse'?

Idols Fail to Inspire

I am starting to agree with the press that this is the weakest Top 7 ever. Peeps have been calling me, texting me, emailing me to ask if I am still alive, because this blog sure isn't. I assure them that I am alive and well and plotting the tour bus routes of both Jason Castro and Danny Gokey as we speak, as well as scheming behind the back of my employer to figure out how to be online at 9am Thursday to snag Carrie Underwood tickets for her local summer performance.....so all that to say, Idolmama does have a pulse! However, their point is well made. I am uninspired this season!

Tonight really didn't help that much. I think Alicia Keyes is gorgeous and way talented but the performances tonight fell short for me. I almost feel like the contestants chose songs that inspired THEM for whatever reason, but not the average listener.....so I wasn't feeling it.

I decided to rank them in terms of inspiration and not so much performance.....bear with me, trying to shake things up a bit....from MOST inspiring song choice, to LEAST inspiring song choice...now, bear with me, we are going to focus on SONG CHOICE.....

Aaron had the most inspiring song choice of the night for me, in terms of song and lyric and performance. He tackled R. Kelly's "I Believe I Can Fly" and didn't totally botch the thing, which would have been easy to do....I still think he's Theme Park, but the judges liked him (Simon was lukewarm). But I give song choice an A! And that modified 80's Members Only jacket.....too cool for school.

Second-runner-up on inspiration was Crystal's "People Get Ready". And yes, I was unduly swayed by her sobbing at the end. But chick has incredible musicianship and as all season, is leaps and bounds ahead of her competitors musically. Can she be stopped on her way to the Nokia Theater?

Third on the Inspiration-o-Meter for me tonight was Siobahn's choice of the Whitney/Mariah anthem "When You Believe." Applaud the chick for picking a great inspirational song, and she did sing it adequately, but I didn't connect with her on it at all. Agreed with Simon that he butterflies on her shoulder were a bit distracting, and I honestly found her performance (of an inspirational song) boring! I still just really don't get her!

Lee's nervous fingers betrayed him tonight. During his interview piece with Ryan pre-performance he sat nervously twiddling his guitar pick and I realized, he doesn't know how good he is. This may be Lee's biggest downfall. I LOVED his rendition of "The Boxer" and think it's way cool that his parents exposed him to the music greats while he was a kid,but my only fear is that there are so many lyrics in the song that are lost on a big venue like this. I only hope Lee connected with people!

Now we're getting into the hurt zone. Not only were these songs not inspirational they were poorly performed. Number 7 on my list tonight was Casey's "Don't Stop Believing". Casey does much better with his hair pulled back for some reason. I think I take him more seriously. Anyway, I have to wonder about the inspirational-ness of this song.....a little on the weak side IMO. He definitely rocked it out, but I agree with the judges that we are still lacking connection from him..something is missing.

Bottom two for me tonight in terms of inspirational song choice (and performance?) were Mike and Tim. First off, Mike's song choice might have looked good on paper,but I almost fell asleep during his performance. And Tim....well...the Goo Goo Dolls "Better Days" may have seen some better days....give him an A for effort.

What did you think? Was Alicia Keyes a good mentor? Are the best contestants left? And do you think this is a great season, or the worst ever?

Photo courtesy of Paul Bradforth, AdStockImages.com

Glambert Mentors the Top 9

It's Elvis week at American Idol and Adam Lambert has been tapped as mentor. Sitting with his Mom in the audience tonight, on tape he says he wanted more "personality and energy" from the contestants. Katie is rocking out the outfit! Glee is in the house!

Before launching in with my thoughts I read an interesting article this week about performance order. In years past, it has been widely recognized that singing first doesn't usually work out for contestants in that they are the most likely to go home that week. This year, new data analysis has been done by my friends over at What Not To Sing Dot Com, and they have written an excellent editorial which asks the question, Is Fourth the New First? This season we've seen three of the four singers who've sung fourth during the finals end up with the lowest vote total that week:Lacey Brown, Didi Benami and Micheal Lynche.

It's too soon to make conclusions about the 4th spot, but you definitely don't want to sing first. Turns out you are more likely to go home that week if you sing first (and 7th remains the safest spot). On the contrary, in all nine seasons only one contestant has been sent home the week he or she sang at position ten or higher (Leah LaBelle in season 3).

Given that strong data, I was quite surprised to see Crystal sing first. Happily she was her usual great self....electric guitar a boost from Adam's suggestion, on a song called "Saved" that I am not familiar with. Despite going first, I don't think she has any chance of going home or even being in the Bottom 3. Adam called her "authentic"....surprise! And Randy was a little more expressive calling her the "Second Coming" of Bonnie Raitt!

Crystal was followed by Andrew, who gave a rousing performance that I really liked of "Hound Dog"...had soul and expression that obviously made its way to the audience as they sprang to their feet at the conclusion. Even so, Randy hated it and Simon called it lazy. Boo!

Tim sang and strummed "Can't Help Falling in Love" and since he sang a love song, you know he ain't leaving this week....it sounded pitchy to me but judges loved it and the girls will, too, so he's safe.

Lee came on at this point.....whoops, 4th! E-GADS! But he totally rocked the house with "A Little Less Conversation" and had swagger! Confidence! Smiles! Growl! Loved it. Kara wanted it to be more playful, to which Simon replied, "What do you want, kittens?" LOL best line of the night.

Aaron attempted "Blue Suede Shoes" and my affection for this lad is unfortunately waning. I thought it was all over the place, vocally, and it didn't convince me to jump on the Aaron bandwagon....I was recalling that he was the Disney Idol winner at the theme park, right? This is what you would expect to hear there (and Simon agreed). Trouble brewing for Aaron....

Performing 6th was Siobahn who totally blew "Suspicious Minds." The problem for me started when she had a smile throughout the entire song about suspicion....didn't work! Fabulous figure but her vocals were annoying and the judges actually didn't like it either....wow....no danger for her this week ( I think) but wondering if S. can go the distance after all...

Big Mike took the inspirational road with "In the Ghetto", a song actually recommended to him by Crystal. (anyone remember when Taylor Hicks sang this in Season 5?) Wasn't my cup o' tea but the judges liked it, and with the drama surrounding last week, he's probably safe.

Katie looks all grown up and delivers what I think are quite good Kat McPhee-ish vocals on "What Do you Want from Me"....I was surprised. Finally Casey closes the show in the pimp spot on guitar with a rousing foot stomp in rendition of "Lawdy Miss Clawdy". Definitely in his comfort zone, nothing different but solid. Then Simon pronounces it forgettable which is a surprise since presumably he went last because he was the best/a favorite of the night.

I give 3 stars to Lee and Lee alone.....I give 2 stars to Crystal, Andrew, Katie and Casey, and 1 star to Tim, Aaron, Siobahn and Mike....but figure Andrew and possibly Katie are also vulnerable tonight! Will have to see!

Top 9 Come Together for Lennon and McCartney Night

I was on vacation last week, and despite taking mucho notes during the performance broadcast with every intention of composing the perfect review, did not. I did have Didi in my bottom 2 (along with Tim of course) so I wasn't surprised that she left, although I honestly thought he would go first. He is cute and clearly that matters in this competition!

On to tonight....I love Beatles nights because the music is so good. Such a vast repertoire to choose from, and the Idols really have no excuse for not finding one that matches their vibe. And while I really don't think there were any gross mis-matches tonight, I offer up my Top 3, Middle 3 and Bottom 3 because that is what you want me to do :)

My personal Top 3 tonight were Crystal, Lee and Casey. Crystal is in a league of her own. I am not saying she should automatically win this thing because of it, but she is so head and shoulders above every other contestant in her musical maturity and talent. Girl was born to sing, and as she herself said tonight, "I'll be singing on my deathbed!" I admit that "Come Together" is not one of my favorite Beatles songs and may not even crack my personal top 10 but Crystal pulled me in and sang it so wonderfully I had to sit and listen. Job well done!

Likewise from Lee. Mr. No Confidence busted out with smiles and conviction on his take on "Hey Jude", a song I didn't think could possibly be redone, but Lee convinced me otherwise. Wow, I loved his raw vocals and interpretation. What I didn't like was the bagpipe...don't get me wrong, I think it's way cool in a Sting sort of way (lute, anyone?) but what I mean to say is that I agree with Simon that it wasn't really needed. I love watching Lee grow in this thing!

Casey rounds out my Top 3 for tonight. I admit that I have not been an avid Casey supporter....that started when he took his shirt off...but since then I have found him to be flat and gimmicky. Tonight changed my mind....loved the way he put his soul into "Jealous Guy", a song I am not as familiar with as the rest tonight which played in his favor. Pretty hair! Ellen was spot-on that we needed to see more of Casey in his songs....Goldilocks accomplished that tonight.

My middle 3 were Andrew, Mike and Tim. First of all, I have to say that I have been a fan of Andrew ever since auditions....and I still liked him through his rough weeks...so you should know that. Agree that last week was way better and perhaps he had come back? For me, tonight's performance didn't capitalize on that momentum...while I thought his choice of "Can't Buy Me Love" was a great one, I agreed with Simon that the horns totally overpowered the song and weren't needed...I was so distracted by them and the background vocals and just wanted to hear Andrew. And then Andrew went and admitted the dreadful, "but I had fun" comment and received the usual Simon Eye Roll. Question is, will Andrew's fans save him from the chopping block?

Mike was his usual big self, with big vocals and big moves on his cover of "Eleanor Rigby". It was adequate, but for my taste, I agreed with Simon that it was kind of 'Beatles: The Musical!" But there is no denying that Mike is an Idol force to be reckoned with.

Tim doesn't have 9 lives, he has at least 10....because tonight was my favorite of all Tim performances. Goshdarnit, I really liked it! I loved the stripped-down guitar take on "All My Lovin" and he really looked the part with his straight moppy hair and vertical striped jacket. The whole performance was really retro and captured the essence of the 60's with great success! Tim....we may need to talk.....

...which brings us to our Bottom Three, which for me tonight were Siobahn (boo, I know, I hear you!), Katie and Aaron. First off, Siobahn totally put me to sleep with her interpretation of Lennon's "Across the Universe," a sleepy song to begin with. Plus, her corpse bride outfit didn't help. I liked seeing the human side of Siobahn when she talked about her little sisters ({hugs} but she may just be too quirky for me.

Meanwhile, Aaron and Katie were adequate but pretty karaoke and generic tonight compared to the rest of the lot. Katie, admittedly, was more grown up and less pageant-y tonight than usual during her version of "Let It Be", and she sounded great...but overall I have to put her in the bottom for not pulling anything out that really made her stand out, other than good vocals.

Same for Aaron (AKA Yoda) ...good vocals on "The Long and Winding Road" but nothing to distinguish him. Like Ellen said, his performance did feel like The Long and Winding Performance. Whoops.

So what did you think? Was Siobahn off tonight? Did Mike finally win you over? And does Lee actually have a shot at winning this thing?

Paige's Pager Goes Off for Her Trip Home

I apologize for my missing show review this morning....a little too much going on here at Casa Idolmama. I trust that you found your Top 11 review elsewhere in the Idolsphere and maybe missed me a little along the way? :)

I agree with most of the other bloggers I read today that dawg, seriously, last night really, really just wasn't good. The song choices were downright dismal (too many repeats) and vocals were all over the place for most of the contestants. And it was just painful in many ways, from Tim Urban's High School Musical-ish slide and desperate-feeling mosh-pitting to Paige's dull, wacky off-tune song and one too many sideways glances from Katie. I wish 6 could have gone home tonight....but alas, that lone honor fell to Paige, who held her head high and didn't cry (not that there is anything wrong with that.)

Sadly, her sing-out was actually really, really good and underscores the point the judges are always making about song choice....it really is critical, but proves elusive for so many contestants. How much better was she tonight on R & B compared to last night's Phil Collins dribble? Night and day, folks. Best of luck, Paige!

The tour line-up has now been set, and several peeps are calling their accountants: Andrew Garcia, Tim Urban and Katie Stevens, along them. Katie is probably busy just trying to figure out how she will graduate from high school.....(Katie, they will work that out, don't worry.....) Big Mike is busy trying to decide which college savings account will be funded for Baby with this tour, and Crystal is wondering how she will manage her son while away....or will he travel with her?! Huge implications (along with many ble$$ings) for these Top 10. Obviously Siobahn's boss is on board since he came to LA for the show. (And what is UP with those freakish friends/fans of hers.....the Zombies/Rhymes with Siobahnies.... FREAKY! I honestly thought the camera had initially caught someone unawares with a nosebleed...boy, was I mistaken!)

So, did the right contestant go home tonight? Will Crystal bring her magic carpet on tour? And most importantly will YOU buy a ticket for this year's tour?

apige

Danny Gokey's Best Days: CD Review

I text-ed two of my sisters last week to tell them that I had picked up Danny Gokey's debut CD, "My Best Days" and really thought it was fantastic, and better than Kris Allen's to my listening ear. Funny, both of them immediately text me back the same question: is it country? A neighbor on the sidewalk asked me the same thing the very next day.

So, what would be wrong if it was country, I wondered?

Best Days been on heavy rotation in the minivan while I digest it. You may recall that at the conclusion of last season of American Idol, I announced that the only CD I would purchase would be Danny's.

(I've kept to that promise....technically speaking....I was given the gift of Kris Allen :)

So, is it country? That depends on your definition. There are certainly a banjo, fiddle and mandolin on this record. I guess those are typically "country" instruments. The opening notes and lyrics of several tracks had me immediately thinking Carrie Underwood and Rascal Flatts, and the association was so strong I had to run to the Internet to see if there were any songwriters that crossed these three artists (there aren't. ) But to me, Carrie and RF aren't pure country, they are crossover artists who straddle the country/pop/mainstream markets.....hardcore country they are not. Bottom line is that if you like that sort of pop/country, you will DIG what Danny Gokey offers here.

Admittedly, I was a fan of Danny's last season. I think he was the kind of contestant who polarized viewers: either you liked him, or you didn't....and there weren't many people who were entirely neutral. While some viewers called him "Goaty Gokey" among other nasty monikers and found his style arrogant and preachy, I found him entirely endearing and was uplifted by his smile and terrific voice. Finally hearing his debut CD, I have to say, LOVE IT! It's just what I would have expected and wanted from him and I couldn't ask for more.

So what is the music like, then? If you followed Danny on AI, you know that at the time of his American Idol audition, he was serving as the worship leader at a large Christian church in Beloit, WI, and that his wife had suddenly passed away just 4 weeks before his AI audition. The first single "My Best Days Are Ahead of Me" has an amazing story. Turns out it's Nashville songwriter also lost his wife too soon; you can read the full story here.

But that's just the beginning of the CD; the songs that follow took me through a reaffirmation of faith with the rousing "I Still Believe" (with Kara DioGuardi as co-writer!) where Danny sings "...never saw a man walk on water, but I still believe..." The CD continues through the escapism of the upbeat "Getaway" (reminded me of Carrie Underwood's "Get Out of this Town") and the lovely "Tiny Life". This lovely tune's lyrics tell of a man peering out of an airplane window at 20,000 feet wondering what life is all about, and realizing that "...the love I have, and the love I have to give" are all that matters. I love the humanistic tenderness of "It's Only" , which urges us to consider those less fortunate, and the catchy "Crazy Not To", where in the lyrics the singer hesitates to jump into a romantic relationship and decides "aw, but look at you....I'd be crazy not to." This is all solid stuff, and more than worthy of Idol's Season 8's 4th place finisher. I think 19 gave him some awesome material to work with.

In "Best Days", Danny Gokey has teamed up with some of Nashville's best songwriters to craft a debut album full of hope and strength, with the powerful and rich voice we came to love on Idol. Checking my local concert listings to get out and support in person on the road this summer!

...and how about that Orianthi?

I was in such a hurry to get to bed last night that I forgot to talk about the best part of last night's show (other than Cookie) which was the performance by the amazing and way cool rising star Orianthi Panagaris. Most of us first met her in Micheal Jackson's "This is It", as she was set to go on tour with him. The 25-year-old Australian beauty is an amazing guitarist and -- surprise -- singer-songwriter as well. I I really liked her song, "According to You" and have to find it on itTunes! She certainly put the other performer, that Gaga wannabe Ke$ha, to absolute shame by showing us all what real talent is.

Oh, and according to this blog at the LA Times, Orianthi is a Casey James fan!

Lacey Gets No Satisfaction (Save) from Judges

I sat down to watch the show fully expecting 2 contestants to go home tonight and was a smidge disappointed to realize we'd only lose one this week.....heck, we could lose 6 and get on with it in my always humble Idolmama opinion. ....but anyhow.....David Cook kicked off the top of the show with a rousing rock rendition of "Jumpin' Jack Flash" and jump it did....he sounded great and looked totally comfortable and his backing band was terrific. In fact, I thought he looked much as he did in his Idol days, which was oddly comforting to me....so often regular people who become STARS just look different later on. But DC was his cool, confident and way talented self. (Note to self: check DC website for possible Chicago summer appearances!)

On to filling those silver stools, and those who filled them were no surprise: Lacey, Paige and Tim. I giggled, wondering if Lacey's hair accessory was one Haeley Vaughn made for her (I'm rotten). I really thought Tim would be called, but in the end we were sung out by Lacey who did a beautiful job despite emotions breaking through. I do like her voice, and find her every bit as quirky-interesting as Siobahn but somehow Lacey didn't connect. She held her head high and showed us a graceful and grateful exit. Well done, Lacey, and best of luck to you!

With Paige and Tim on notice, we move on to next week....

Top 12 Don't Rock the Stones

Always tough to take on the music of the most iconic bands and the Rolling Stones are among them. Lots of awesome hit songs to choose from, though, and for the most part, I think the Top 12 chose wisely.

The battle now is to make the lucrative summer tour, which means making the Top 10. I've read that the Idols each make six figures touring the country over a 3-4 month period, and getting the rock star treatment to boot, so be sure that they all want this, especially after tonight's debut on the big stage. So, who played with fire like wild horses on stage tonight, who got caught under my thumb, and for whom will it soon be "all over now"?

My two favorites tonight were Crystal and Lee. Again, effortless performance from Crystal who is just clearly so talented. I don't agree that Siobahn out sang or outperformed her tonight, I think that was just an effort by the judges (Simon) to downplay his recent prediction to Jay Leno that Crystal will win. Loved her sass back though! She's in this more than I've given her credit for!

I really dug Lee as well, although I fear that he will end up in the middle of the pack because he has no charisma whatsoever, and has not been able to get a hold of his nerves. His song was radio-ready! Even the piece with his parents didn't let us get to know him any better. Ah, Lee....wrestle those demons and give us what you got!

After those two, I heard decent performances from 4 contestants: Siobahn, Mike, Casey and Didi. I know I'm in the minority, but I am not on the Siobahn bandwagon....just don't get her. I agree with others in that she is style over substance. I thought that final glory note of her was all kinds of screechy and that she didn't deserve the heaps of praise she got. Yes, she's interesting and quirky (loved the outfit) but I don't have her in the final 2 just yet. Growing in confidence, however, is Didi and that showed tonight, although the song was just too slow for me, and I was surprised at how she botched the lyrics so obviously but the judges pretty much let that slide?!

On the male side of things, Mike opened the show with a big voice and even bigger dance moves which I actually kind of liked....I think this guy's stock is going up, and my son leaned over and said to me, "He could actually win this thing..." and I wonder.....meanwhile, Casey was adequate, but I just don't see any life there....it's just...THERE, and I like it okay, but I'm not all kinds of crazy for it.

That leaves the other 6 contestants, and honestly any of them could go home tonight and I generally wouldn't care. (Well I honestly don't care about any of the 12 this year....but that is for another post). The best of the bottom were Andrew and Paige, but they are on life support at this point and the plug could be pulled any minute. Katie looked great but still too pageant-y and Kat McPhee for me. Lacey just didn't work but I loved the strings. Aaron was better this week, but that doesn't say much since the bar has been set so incredibly low this year and I just don't see much long-term viability for him. Finally, Tim, Tim Tim....I love your big family (did you see how his brother's hair matched his?) the reggae just didn't work.

What did you think? Does Siobahn deserve all the accolades this week? Will Lee get control of his performance anxiety? And do you think the showdown between Ryan and Simon over Big Mike's feedback was real or staged?

Top 8 Guys Come Out to Win

Thoroughly enjoyable showing by the guys tonight! Wow, there suddenly are some really talented contenders out there....there weren't really even obvious stinkers in the bunch...and the guitars were out in full force. Five of the eight guys performed on guitar, which is amazing to me. (Note to self: sign 10-year-old son up for lessons.) Even so, two more must leave us tomorrow, so....on with my thoughts.

In my younger and more foolish days, I actually thought song performance order on American Idol was random. Ha! Reality couldn't be farther from that. Turns out it's veeeerrrrry calculated, and you can tell from the lineup before Note One is uttered who they think is best this week and who they are throwing to the voting dogs. So before the music started tonight, we knew that Todrick and Mike were in for big praise (Show Closers), that Opener Lee DeWyze was up in the air, and "the middles" (i.e. Tim Urban and Andrew Garcia) were being put on the back porch, only to see if a cat would lick them up. (that is a good 'ole Southern phrase I learned in my Tennessee days). Indeed, this is how it mostly shook out.

Out of the 8 guys, I really have four favorites (can't reduce any further), two guys who were OK in their own way but didn't thrill me, and then my 2 picks for going home.

Favorites for me tonight, in order of performance, were Lee Dewyze, Alex Lambert, Andrew Garcia and Mike Lynche. Lee opened the show with "Fireflies" on the acoustic guitar and he looked more comfortable than we've even seen him, and that worked for him. Cool song, and he pulled it off, and showed us what kind of artist he would be, in Idolspeak.

Following him was Alex Lambert, Idol's resident Rising Star IMO. Loved his innocence and his confidence has grown, all he needs is a makeover! STAT! or else he's in "Trouble"...

I don't know what the judges are talking about with Andrew Garcia....talking smack I think! The guys is mad talented and I totally dug his rendition of Christina's "Genie in a Bottle"...I thought it was infectious and fun and smart....sadly they pretty much all disagreed with me and told him he was still falling short. DISAGREE. Love shout out to Andrew this week!!

Finally, the show closer Big Mike took it to church with "This Woman's Work", a hauntingly beautiful song that he sang very well, only I didn't connect with it quite like Kara did with her (fake?) waterworks and Simon snuggles. Still, I think Mike belongs in the Top 10.

Middle for me were Todrick and Casey. Todrick, as Simon pointed out, belongs on Broadway and I think he will end up there post-Idol. He does have a great belting voice, and Queen's "Somebody to Love" was the right vehicle....but I'm still not a convert.

I will say the same for Casey James, who was adequate on the guitar while strumming and singing the great Keith Urban's "Think of Me"....but that is all he was to me, just adequate, and safe in the words of the judges.

We must have a bottom 2, and for me those are Tim Urban and Aaron Kelly this week. First off, you should know that we rocks that song Hallelujah here at our house and still have Jason Castro's version on our family iPod so Tim was quite bold to attempt it...and I was laughing most the way through it and so therefore shocked when the judges praised it so highly....hhhmmmmph. But the ladies at Casa Idolmama agree that he is one cute tamale!

Likewise, cutie SIXTEEN YEAR OLD Aaron Kelly was adequate on his number (Lonestar's "I'm Already There") but I honestly was grimacing through most of it....pitchy and just all over the place, and no connection at all. But what, Dawg?! Randy loved it! but then Kara called him Honey which never ends well...but wait, Simon thought it was good! Well, I hated it so we'll have to see what happens.

All those guitars tonight made me wonder if just being a good singer is enough for Idol anymore. But bigger question for me isn't the Top 12 but the Top 10, who are the ones who actually do the national (and quite lucrative) summer tour....who would YOU pony up money to see this summer?

Top 8 Ladies Struggle to Find Themselves (Well, Most)

Not feeling a lot of excitement over this season of Idol and judging from the many emails, texts and water cooler conversations I've struck up over the last few weeks, I'm not alone. And even though it has been widely touted as a ladies year by the Fox press machine, even they don't drum up much excitement. Tonight was a perfect illustration as to why that might be the case. Only one singer demonstrated true star potential, a couple of others were close, while the rest melted into nightclub karaoke singers, at best, or were downright dreadful.

Tonight's show treated us to a fakeout makeout session between Ellen and Simon (why?) while Kara called someone "sweetie" (surprise) and Randy called the girls "dude" while giving feedback (another shocker.)

Crystal continues to shine. I admit that I have trouble taking the subway out of the singer, but tonight I loved her rendition of Tracy Chapman's "Give Me One Reason." Great song, great song choice for Crystal, and for the first time I didn't see Crystal singing it outside of the Fullerton El stop here in Chicago but on a real stage. She showed star potential and for the first time this season, I felt that Idol might actually be good for her. But my question from last week remains: Will she be good for Idol?

My favorite performance of the night actually came not from Crystal (who I expected to be good) but from Didi Benami (unexpected, given her complete meltdown last week). I was riveted during her performance of Fleetwood Mac's "Rhiannon" and thought it was haunting and delicate and a glimpse of something special. Yes, InDidi as Ellen pronounced! Kara went so far as to say that it was one of her favorite moments of the season. I think Didi just got her spot in the Top 12.

I found myself thinking while listening to and watching Lilly Scott perform Patsy Cline's "I Fall to Pieces" the single thought that if Crystal weren't on this same season competing, I might actually like Lilly more. Because Lilly has that alternative, aggressive self-assured stance that Crystal has, that quirky something that we've not seen on this show in this talented of a package for a while on Idol. However, Crystal has it MORE....which makes Lilly kind of an afterthought for me. Her choice to play the mandolin was 'dope' in Randyspeak (although I couldn't really hear it) and I loved her little sundress....but didn't love the performance overall compared to Crystal's.

Also very good, but a little bit less stellar than Crystal and Didi was Siobahn. Very talented and I like what she did with The Animal's classic "House of the Rising Sun" but I didn't love it. Kind of an obscure song for this audience and while Ellen thought it spectacular and Kara thought it was a brilliant vocal, I was with Simon: a little weird. Was that her Dad or her brother in the audience?

Meanwhile, appearing down at the local beer and burger joint are Katie and Katelyn. Poor Katie Stevens to be put in the sacrificial first performance spot....does this mean (gasp!) that the Powers that Be are finding Katie's initial glow to be fading? Indeed, she has failed to measure up to what we saw in her audition and this week didn't help. Cardinal Rule of Idol: Do Not Attempt The Hit Song Of Another Idol. Don't they distribute handbooks to this effect? Kelly Clarkson's anthemic "Breakaway" was better sung by Katie's background vocalists than by her... and this is the kind of song one sings in the shower (where there are no judges and hopefully no neighbors in my case) and not on the Top 8 Ladies Idol Stage. (Sorry, Katie.....your outfit was way improved from last week, though! Cute jacket and belt combo and your accessories rocked, to channel Paula for a minute).

I took personal notes on this, as I am the proud owner of a massive head of curly blond hair, because didn't you take Katelyn more seriously last week when it was pulled back and you weren't so distracted by it as she sat in stark light at the piano singing her heart out? This week, it seemed out of control, bathed in that purple light, and her "I Feel the Earth Move" was waaaaaay nightclub for me as a result. Randy didn't feel any connection and was sleepy and bored, while Kara thought she was going through the motions and wonders "what happened." Me, too....yikes.

Which brings me to our bottom two for the night: Paige and Lacey. I have to be honest that I missed Lacey's performance....there was a scuttlebutt in my living room over some 2nd grade spelling homework. I looked up from some pretty serious spelling words as Lacey was finishing, and thought, hhhmmph. Therein lies the problem. And even though one of the judges (I forget who) pronounced her "back in the competition" as a result of the performance I had just missed, I didn't really care. Nor was I compelled to rewind the DVR to see what I had missed. Lacey fans, flame away but I'm just being honest.

But Paige really tanked tonight. I did think she had a nice voice from week's past and was therefore surprised tonight. As I gathered from what she said after the performance that this song had particular meaning for her? Ahem, also in the Idol Unwritten Rule Book: Don't Sing a Song With Special Meaning to You. It usually won't work and it totally didn't work for Paige and will probably cost her a spot in the Top 12 (or even Top 10).

Were you amazed by any of tonight's performances? Do you really think it's a girls' year? And do you think it's Crystal's crown to lose?

Four more out and Danny Gokey is Back!

Like Ellen, I hate Thursday nights....well, sort of. Let's get this group pared down to the Top 10 STAT. I can't say I totally agree with tonight's decisions, but that's part of the Idol experience.

I will say that I love Danny Gokey. Funny, at my house we had to check each other as to which season he actually appeared on....I couldn't convince my better half that it was actually the most recent one. That is really telling, I think. Anyway, I found Danny's performance and post-performance banter to be infectious and utterly endearing....I knew his disc came out this past Tuesday, and it's only because of logistics that I have not been able to purchase it....but he will, in fact, become my first Season 8 CD purchase. ( I know, I could download it in a second....but....I am one of those funny purists that still prefers buying CDs over downloading them because I like to read liner notes, see who played on what tracks, etc.) I will come back and blog a formal review of the CD!

The men were easy to pick off this week. I was sorry to see John Park go, mostly because I think he has a nice voice that never really shined post-audition, and also because he is a local guy. He exited with class and I think he's terrific. John, call me! We'll do lunch and an exclusive interview for this blog!

Jermaine, on the other hand, was ready to go. God, destiny, whatever.....bye bye to you and your man-sized onesie.

The ladies were a bit more painful, made all the more so by the drama offered up by Fox with the Michelle/Didi match-up and ultimate Michelle ouster (a surprise, given her fantastic feedback the night before and Didi's relatively weaker showing). Both are terrific singers but I think Michelle suffered from a lack of back story, which Didi had lots of, and then her post-performance waterworks to back it up which likely gave her some sympathy. Michelle, you are gorgeous and talented and I know you have a lot to offer the preschool kids you teach and the rest of the world. Good luck to you!

I hope that Didi can rally from this week and come back next week and surprise us all with her talent again....can't wait to see.

Haeley, on the other hand, WAS robbed, and not by voters but by the judges. Recall Angela Martin? From seasons 7, 8 and 9? Who made Hollywood Week three years in a row, but never the Top 24? Here is my problem....Haeley spent her Top 24 tenure being reminded of her inexperience....and then was ultimately sent home tonight because of it. Why couldn't the judges have given her a ticket for Hollywood Round Season 10, and selected Angela for this year's Top 24 for example....instead, what happens is that Haeley -- a truly talented and infectious teen with great potential with a little more time under her belt -- is now ineligible to return to Idol EVER because she made the Top 24 but went home at number 19. Something about that doesn't seem right.....

Did one of your favorites go home this week? Did you like Danny's performance? and did I really see Kara rubbing up against Simon tonight?

Top 10 Girls: Crystal and Who Else?

After battling back from a reported type 1 diabetes-related illness over the last couple of days, Crystal Bowersox kicked off tonight's Idol top 10 ladies performance show with the kind of artistry and raw talent that most all of the other contestants just frankly don't have. Nothing of her medical touch-and-go showed in her performance, and as Simon pointed out, she did not play the "sympathy card." Personally I hate that phrase, and coming from Simon I'm not sure I would put much stock in what he calls sympathy anyway. I get the feeling he's very much the pull-yourself-up-by-your-bootstraps kinda guy. The CCR tune she played was just great, beautifully sung, raw and natural. Her twin brother, however square he may be, is proud tonight! But as my husband pointed out, she is already a professional, so the question is, what can she offer the Idol franchise? And even more importantly, what can the Idol Machine offer her? I'm not quite sure, despite her talent, that it's the best fit. For the time being, I wish her the best of health and look forward to her next performance.

I also really dug Katelyn Epperly tonight. Liked her style, piano was beautiful, and her choice of the Coldplay song was a good one for her, even though it put Ellen to sleep. I do, however, agree with Kara: Katelyn needs to rein in her identity crisis and figure out her brand. I think has loads of raw talent, but is so much more marketable than Crystal and Lilly....and not that I'm in charge, but we hear about THE PACKAGE all too often on his show, like it or not, and Katelyn has it.

Which brings us to my final two-thumbs-up of the night.....Siobahn. Wow, she is weird! But in a good way, as Simon said.....(again, not sure it's ever good to be called weird, but)....she was way better than I expected, an awesome voice and while I wasn't digging her big note as others were, I was impressed.

(I'll give a half-shout to Lacey Brown for tonight. I thought her version of "Kiss Me" was actually quite good and a perfect fit for her voice and personality. The judges were split: Randy thought it was karaoke but Kara pronounced her Back In The Zone...I hope she stays another week!)

Meanwhile, we had mediocre. Katie, Paige, Lilly and Michelle are all talented ladies who can sing, there is no question of that, but since we are spending the next umpteen Tuesday and Wednesday evenings in front of the TV searching for that special something that distinguishes the cruise ship talent from the extraordinary 'it", the bar is quite high, and these ladies didn't reach that high this week.

Katie is a talented SEVENTEEN YEAR OLD who chose a more youthful song as the judges had asked for, but Corrine Bailey Rae's "Put Your Records On" wasn't, as Simon noted, a winning performance. Kara was right when she said it sounds good on the radio but it's not great to perform...I was bored and Katie offered nothing original. Similarly, Paige Miles' cover of the great Kelly Clarkson (and Kara! who knew!) anthem "Walk Away" was good, but not great for me. Can we call it Kara-OKE? LOL. (Also, note to Paige: when the other Idols are asking where is your coloring book, it's not really because they want it. They are MAKING FUN OF YOU.) The preschool teacher had fun as E pointed out, but Simon called it forgettable and I agree.

That leaves Lilly and Michelle in my "middling" category this week. Well, Lilly is better than average, but despite talking about it in the opening piece, forgot to open her eyes for most of her performance of Sam Cooke's "A Change is Gonna Come." Love the 12-string but am not digging her obvious obsession with long peacock feather earrings. Kara was "riveted" and Randy and Ellen agreed she was the best of the night, but Simon admitted to liking Crystal more. I am not grooving on Lilly....will reserve a final judgment.....but I am not feeling her as much as many others.

Michelle is drop-dead gorgeous and her smile is unbelievable. And she works with singing kids! Bonus points! Unlike Randy, I thought she had a weird bottom end (Vera Wang in the house) and I wasn't buying the rock vibe on her Creed cover.

Which brings us to my bottom two of the night: Haeley and Didi. Now, I am a fan of Haeley's and while I personally didn't think her rendition of that teen queen's song "The Climb" was that bad, the judges did, and that could be the kiss of elimination for her. Funny (well, not really) that she spent all of that camera time trying to get rid of her smile and all it took was one nasty comment from Simon and it was GONE. Seriously, girl was trying not to cry as the judges weighed in, and I swear I saw her still crying an hour later during Paige's performance. Look, I still adore her and think she has a special something....and I am hoping America does, too.

Speaking of crying, Didi was waterworks. Didi was absofreakinglutely verklempt in front of the judges after their feedback following her performance. She managed to squeak a thank you out for Ryan but it was work. Beautiful girl, and her Bill Withers "Lean On Me" was indeed more Brooke White than Haley Scarnato, but when Kara says you are NOT GOOD and Simon calls you screechy and cat-like, you can check your Idol expiration date.

What did you think? Is your favorite still your favorite after tonight? Is it the year of the nose ring or what? And did you catch that nasty exchange between Ryan and Simon over Haeley early on?

What a Difference a Week Makes for Top 10 Guys

Last minute switcheroo in performance order for the guys and gals today, which must have been a tiny bit stressful for the menfolk, but they didn't let on that it was. I've never heard of a schedule change like this one in Idol history. We know Crystal is a gal favorite.....but....this is unprecedented. Not that every contestant doesn't deserve the chance to perform healthy! Okay....I will switch out of critic and pimping/conspiracy-mode and wish her a speedy recovery.

I was so happy to see that tonight's show was 2 hours. It's so hard to squeeze everything in with this many performers. Everyone got a little extra time and feedback in front of the judges and based on tonight's comments, that feedback does get taken to heart.

Consistent theme tonight was how much better (most) everyone was than last week. I'll chalk that up to first-time nerves last week, and to contestants just not being sure what to do. I think we've seen the (almost) birth of a couple potential stars-in-the-making tonight! Because of tonight's long show I've got limited blog time so will cryptically offer my comments in order of performance:

Micheal Lynch: Theater + football = Troy Bolton with bigger arms! Love that he's everyman like Troy and can be a theater geek and a jock at the same time, and he's passable as a performer, but don't see that star potential tonight. Big giggle over this exchange: Kara, surprised at how much better he got from last week, says, "I don't know what you ate this week...[to make you a better performer]" to which Simon replies quickly under his breath, "Everything..." LOLOLOLOLOL (okay, my 7th grader will think that is really corny but I am really laughing out loud right now!). Micheal is in cruise-mode, safe into next week but in no way a real contender for the title.

John Park: I thought his song choice of John Mayer's "Gravity" once again showcased his nice bottom end...okay, that joke has run it's course. John, you have a nice enough voice and you are my hometown boy but I agree with the judges that there is nothing to get excited about and I, too, struggle with your believability. I really, really want to see you succeed but I'm afraid for you this week.

Casey James: I can't stop thinking of Bucky Covington when I look at James, and then my mind wanders and I remember Constantine Maroulis and I get all confused. Country Boy meets Curly-Headed Rock God and well, it's all topsy-turvy for me, and unfortunately not in a good way for Casey tonight. His rendition of "I Don't Wanna Be" was passable, by Idol standards, but paled in comparison to Bo Bice's, and maybe even to my main man Elliot Yamin's. Nice guy, okay voice, but I thought his vocals were thin and he was really Rock Star Lite with the whole performance. Clearly, the Powers That Be at Fox want him to make the Top 10 so we can all find out what was in the pre-performance box....ugh. Could you be a bit more obvious?!

Alex Lambert: I am still grinning from this performance. Here's a kid who doesn't even really know what he's got, who has never really sung in front of anyone, and who's biggest enemy is his own nerves, yet he has an awesome voice and real star potential. Wow. One to watch! This is why I love American Idol!

Todrick Hall: I liked that he chose a female song, so as not to be compared to the original artist -- Okay I'm being Ellen right now! Trying to find the positive about each contestant! -- but sadly he did Tina no favors tonight. Alas, I am not a fan. Just can't connect, and feel like he is putting on a show. Don't know how else I can describe it. Danger, Will Robinson.

Jermaine Sellers: I found it hard to get past the Pee Wee Herman outfit and strange hair, and that was after he told us about the man-sized onesie he sleeps in. I can see how he can knock it out the ballpark in church but I am not a fan....I am glad he didn't butcher Marvin Gaye but I wasn't really digging it. Bottom three.

Andrew Garcia: I love Andrew and like the judges, I am patiently waiting to see more brilliance, AKA 'Straight Up' from his audition....and once again this week, not so much. I still adore him and think he's great and I know America does too so he'll be back next week, but can we get some of that kickin' Andrew back, STAT?! Time is running out....I really do like his confidence on stage and know he can bring it.

Aaron Kelly: Again, likable kid and he didn't completely flop given the pressure tonight, but didn't see that star quality I am looking for.

Tim Urban: I can't imagine having such a famous last name, nor can I imagine having that many siblings! Is this another Mormon Idol family (not that there is anything wrong with that) that we didn't know about? Despite a fairly mediocre voice and stage presence, Tim is so utterly adorable that he's compelling. He may be an underdog if he can get with himself and really deliver the confident performance I think is there.

Lee DeWyze: Again, this is why I watch Idol. No experience, down on his luck, tough upbringing, no confidence or belief in himself whatsoever, doesn't know how to stand or act or even hold the microphone....but a glimpse of that something we could possibly call 'greatness.' Lee managed to get to the Idol auditions and get to the Top 24.....based on what he can do, and not much more since he's had virtually no screen time. I agree that he's a little too David-Cooky for my taste (no one compares with King Cook at my house) BUT I am really intrigued and humbled by this guy...and will keep an eye out, as are the producers obviously since they gave him the Pimp Spot.

So, distill this blabber down to, loved Alex and Lee tonight with Andrew coming in close; felt Tim, Casey, Aaron and Micheal were safe but need to step up their game, and see Jermaine, Todrick and (gulp!) John Park in danger tonight!

What did you think? Is Kara getting prettier every week? Do you think Ellen's comments are valid? And do you think my local guy John Park has a chance to turn his Idol ship around?

First Cuts: Idol Says Goodbye to Four

Tonight's results were a bit shocking for me! I don't know, I guess I missed the ball on this one, or I was sidetracked by the fact that Kara raided Paula's jewelry collection tonight. I had NO idea that adorable and talented Janell Wheeler was even in danger of going home, but she did. Did anyone else think her outgoing performance was waaaaay better than Tuesday night? It was far too early for her to depart, I can't even say much more than that. I almost wonder if her 11 on the Gorgeous Scale of 1 to 10 worked against her...but thankfully, she handled the ouster with great grace and class. Shout out to you, Janell!

Likewise, I was (almost) completely blindsided by Ashley's departure. I say almost because I read some other reviews today that drew media attention to her disappointing performance. BUT, I was totally unprepared to say goodbye tonight to her....an early pick of mine. Again, Ashley, like Janell, is an 11 on the Gorgeous scale and showed her true class by exiting the Idol stage with nothing but thankfulness and grace. Best of luck Ashley!

Allison Ireheta was a Season 8 favorite of mine and I was thrilled to see her take the stage tonight. Looking much the same as she did as a contestant with her flaming red hair and edgy clothes (did that dress really have a tail?) Allison delivered the kind of powerful and raw vocals we came to love from her. She is still so very young.....and couldn't really carry on a coherent conversation with Ryan, though! I wish her the best.

For the guys, although I predicted it, I regret doing so. Joe Munoz actually got great critical reviews today and was highly regarded as one of the better singers last night....so it was a cruel fate that he went home tonight. Again, if he had a back story about immigration, poverty, some sort of personal or family hardship....we would have voted for him, but producers left him out. Alas, just a good voice won't take you the distance in American Idol, at least not without a fight.

What I didn't predict was That 70s Guy leaving us so soon! Wow! Tyler Grady was a unique contender who I thought had at least enough of a shtick to keep him around a couple more weeks, but I guess not. I have to say, he was so class-less in his exit interview I found myself glad that he left. Yes, personality counts in this competition!

Then we come to Kris Allen. I admit that I wasn't a huge fan last year, wasn't a huge fan of anyone in Season 8. But I really, really connected with Kris on his Beatles cover "Let it Be"....I thought it was totally haunting and beautiful. I knew he had gone to Haiti and of course there were beautiful children in the video, and heartbreaking sadness.....so it accomplished what it set out to do: it reminded me of the humanity and loss in this tiny nation and that one person can make a difference. Very much like Carrie's African footage which is not a surprise, since Idol Gives Back has been enormously successful. And I believed Kris, and connected with his personal experience there. And can I just admit that I am so glad it wasn't Adam up there singing about Haiti! Can you imagine how different this whole piece would have been had HE won American Idol??! Yikes...

Now we have a Top 20 and it won't get any easier for those remaining....can't wait to see how the Top 10 ladies take this week's critiques into consideration and change it up....as well as the guys.

What did you think? Were you surprised with the results? Did you like Allison and/or Kris's performance? And do you think Adam would have done a better job visiting Haiti and getting us to send money??

Gals and Guys Bring it On....Sort of

I was excited for a bloated Idol week.....5 hours! And really looking for to the first "Live!" week of full-length performances by our Season Nine Top 24. For both nights I have to say I like Ellen....spot-on critique, even when she goes first, AND she still manages to say something positive about everyone, but not in a gratuitous way....liking her. All around, judges are giving better feedback....even Randy the Dawg has been relatively coherent this week. Simon has been largely critical of everyone, reserving praise for a very select few performers. Does he know that someone has to win this thing?!

As is customary, Ladies First.....and as many others have wondered, what the heck happened?! We've heard many times thus far this season how it is definitely a ladies' year...but as lady after lady took the stage, I was having my doubts. Listen, we saw LOTS of estrogen-riddled talent in auditions and Hollywood, and I know there are nerves and such at play at this point, but I was sure we would see the winner.

We saw authentic, we saw quirky....we saw honest and even saw "one funny little thing"....but where was the star power? I know it's early, and maybe my expectations are too high, but I wanted to see even just a glimpse of a shimmering, shiny star....and in my opinion, I saw that in only one contestant last night: Haeley Vaughn. I know from reading other reviews and talking around that I'm quite in the minority on this one, but for me, she was the most compelling, the most infectious and the most, well, delightful last night. I liked how she injected her own rhythms and vocals to a very well-known song. Hey, it wasn't a full blown David Cook, and her vocals weren't always spot-on, but for the first week out, for her over all others, I found myself grinning and hitting the rewind button.

The only other noteworthy -- strong word -- gal for me last night was Katelyn Epperly, and I think that's mostly because I didn't expect it, and she sang an upbeat song in a sea of otherwise dreary choices. But that said, I found her performance a little manic, and thought that she was trying too hard.

The rest of the others all fell together for me in a bland, slow, and frankly pretty boring melting pot. I was pretty disappointed with Ashley Rodriguez, Janell Wheeler, Lacey Brown, Didi Benami and yes, even SEVENTEEN YEAR OLD Katie Stevens. Ladies are all talented, but despite reasons I can only (maybe?) blame on inexperience and perhaps Idol coaching, chose songs that just didn't do them well and then left something to be desired with their singing. Ashley was quite flat, Janell's nerves were apparent, Lacey didn't bring it, Didi reminded me of Megan Joy in a bad way, and Katie was just all pageant for me as Simon suggested. Siobahn Magnus has a solid voice but again, chose such a boring and downer of a song, I didn't really care as I drifted off to sleep.

Our two resident "quirks", Lilly Scott and Crystal Bowersox, stuck out mostly because they just don't look and sing like everyone else, which is A Good Thing, but in the end, you've got to fit a certain mold on this show. Choosing an obscure Beatles song or covering an equally quirky and amazingly well-known Alanis Morrisette tune when you have a bazillion others to choose from, and you may misstep and worse yet, alienate voters. And I have to agree with Simon about the subway comment given to Crystal....plus the fact that her video beforehand where she admitted to never watching American Idol and just wanting to get a 'bigger paycheck' to help her son didn't win me over at ALL, however honest it may have been.

That said, the two ladies most in danger of leaving this week are Paige Miles and Michelle Delamor, and honestly it's mostly because of their lack of footage thus far in the show (but their mostly karaoke performances didn't do them any good). (Lovely and talented but karaoke). We have no connection with them, so it's easier to let them go over any of the other ladies with whom we have at least developed a rooting section for. I could also see Lacey and/or Siobahn in danger, since we also don't really know them as well as the others.

On to the men....strangely it was much a similar story tonight. Where was the Wow factor? There was only one stand-out guy for me, and that was Lee Dewyze. Again, I disagreed with the judges....(well, Simon strangely agreed with me). I called him a dark horse after he made the Top 24 and I think he still is....I am bothered by his flat affect and wonder if he can hang in there emotionally, but tonight he stood out. He was fresh and current and raw and real. I liked, too, how he was humble and said he was really enjoying the experience and wanted it really badly (take notes, Crystal Bowersox!)

Getting by tonight on personality and/or looks are Aaron Kelly (does he remind anyone else of Kevin Covais?), Tim Urban (who? but cute...), Tyler Grady That 70's Dude (ugh tonight), John Park (dreadful song but hope he stays another week!), Micheal Lynche (what a big guy), Casey James (better than I expected, but did anyone else think of Bucky Covington?! or in a non-performance way, Corey Clark.....Kara, watch out!) and Andrew Garcia, yes, getting by on his past performances and it was okay tonite but not great...still loving on him though!

Which leaves a healthy Bottom 4 with the guys for me tonight. In order of appearance, Toddrick Hall led the show with what was an attempt at originality in revamping the Uber Idol Kelly Clarkson's "Since U Been Gone" which I actually kind of liked, but his vocals were too distracting, and the judges hated it. First place slot doesn't help. Jermaine Sellers totally oversang "Get Here" and I just wanted to hear Justin Guarini's version again instead. I didn't even have anything to recall about Joe Munoz because producers left him out of the story....I was actually online checking my bank account during his song, I was so bored. Finally, Alex Lambert -- sorry for he of famous American Idol Last Name -- reminded me so much of Matt Giraud, which isn't a bad thing since MG went to top what, 6? last year....BUT....I wasn't a fan, and since Season 9's resident Mr. Lambert got no pre-finals screen time, it will be a tough row to hoe for him.

I will link my hometown paper here for more info on Chicago's own three contestants: John Park, Lee Dewyze, and Jermaine Sellars.

So, there you have it......24 soon to be 20. Who will it be? Furthermore, do you like Ellen on the judges panel? Has Kara gotten less annoying? And does Simon seem crankier than ever?