The Touring 10

America, THIS is the group we have formed for this summer's Idol Tour. Do I think some of the contestants will make for as good of a tour as we have seen in the past? Eh. However, with the likes of Crystal, Lee, Siobhan and Casey (my Final 4 Dream Team) I think I will definitely be buying a ticket this year when they roll into my town. At any rate, tonight our theme was R&B and Soul and overall the contestants really put their own spin on their song choices. Granted, this kept some of the songs from feeling R&B or Soul, but at least they made it their own. Usher is our mentor and overall I think he did a good job trying to convey the importance of stage presence and emoting, which is what a lot of these contestants need. So, let's see how they ranked. 

Crystal Bowersox ♪♪♪♪ - This week Crystal and Lee tied for best performance in my opinion. Last week she promised to change it up, and she definitely did. One thing she did not change up was her amazing vocals; her voice soared on "Midnight Train". I agree with Simon though, she seemed to be focusing too hard one the piano while playing and seemed slightly uncomfortable when she stepped away from it. However, this girl is amazing and showed she can do anything. 

Lee DeWyze ♪♪♪♪ - My man brought it once again this week AND after having walking pneumonia!!  I really liked how he downplayed that effecting him, as if to say "no sympathy votes for me please."  Lee does not need sympathy votes by any means! His voice was the best I have heard (even better than when he did "Beast of Burden" on Rolling Stones week). He continues to grow and improve and he rocked this song to its core. This guy is a package artist and will have no problems in the music world once his time on Idol is over, however, I believe he still has A LOT of time left on this show. (I have in my in Final 4 Dream Team).

Casey James ♪♪♪ 1/2 - Casey showed some more of his vocal range and he slipped up into some higher notes in his register, which was really nice. I would like to see him do this more since he obviously has the ability. He has a great voice and he did an awesome job on this song and improved his stage presence. 

Michael Lynch ♪♪♪ 1/2 - Yes, Mike is a good singer and he is consistent but my issue with him has been that there is nothing standout about him and at times, like Simon has pointed out, he comes off totally cheesy on stage. However, tonight, he did a great and subtle performance that was actually likeable in my opinion. I liked his song choice and his interpretation was well done. 

Siobhan Magnus ♪♪♪ - For the first time, we saw a little crack in the perfection of Siobhan. She struggled with the start of the song and she strayed off pitch more than I have ever heard her. I have said before that the "scream section" in the end of her songs will eventually start to annoy people and become predictable, and tonight Simon called her out on it. Overall, I think she did fine and I think Simon was a bit too harsh on her. Was it her best performance? No. Can she sing circles around a good majority of the other contestants? For sure! I still think she is great. I think sometimes it is good to show weakness so that America does not think you are too perfect. 

Andrew Garcia ♪♪♪ - Although I do not think it was a "moment" nor a significant step in progress from where he has been, tonight was definitely a small step in the right direction for Andrew. It is better than what we have been getting from him but I still would like something more. His take on "Forever" didn't really seem to go anywhere for me and at times I was thinking how it seemed to be lasting forever, which isn't necessarily the best impression. I hope he continues his climb back to where he was. He has proven to have a strong fan base, I have predicted his departure for the last 2 weeks and he never even made the Bottom 3. I am sure this week will be good enough for his fans to continue their rally, OR they could get slack since he had a "good week" and he may finally slip into the Bottom 3. We will see. 

Aaron Kelly ♪♪ 1/2 - Aaron needs to learn about breath control and support. He started out the song with no support and that gave way to that jittery vocal that he sometimes has. As the song built he got better but I do not think this was the right song for Aaron. He is likeable and is more talented than Tim, whom he is splitting votes with, so I think he will be ok.

Katie Stevens ♪♪ 1/2 - Katie is really trying and this week was a little better. In regards to the "Pop/R&B vs. Country" battle ongoing between Kara and Simon, I side with Simon. Her voice is too mature sounding to do pop and I think it would be better suited in country. PLUS, there is no "country contestant" this season and that is a lost voting fan base. If I was Katie I would jump all over that just to ensure my longevity on the show. Country music voters are VERY dedicated and could ensure her a longer stay on the show than she might have trying to "listen to herself" in regards to her style. 

Did Benami ♪♪ - Ok, what happened to the hip, indie sounding Didi? This season we had a whole gaggle of Indie artists like Lacey, Lilly and Didi and this is what we end up with? When did Didi decide she was going to be a Broadway/Lounge singer?? I mean, her voice is still there but she is choosing the completely wrong songs and presenting herself in the completely wrong way. Kara and Simon are right...she has TOTALLY lost herself. I do not know where it went wrong. Maybe she does not really know who she is as an artist and now it is starting to show as others step up their game. Either way, this was Didi's worst performance ever.

Tim Urban ♪♪ - Oh Tim, you keep trying and keep smiling but your time is quickly slipping away. The vocals tonight were not as bad as in the past but it is not believable. Also, this constant response of  "I had fun and that is all that matters" is a crock. If you just wanna sing for your own enjoyment go home and do that, THIS is a competition for a recording contract my friend. You are NOT just singing for yourself my friend. Will the young girl voters be strong enough to keep him around again? Like I said above, he is splitting votes with Aaron Kelly and eventually I believe Aaron will victorious in that battle. Will this be the week we say goodbye, or is Simon right and it does not matter, he can do what he wants and continue to stay around?

So, for the last 2 weeks I have put Andrew in the bottom 3 and said he was going home, which I was totally wrong about. Predicting the Bottom 3 is a difficult thing, as singing ability is not the only factor to consider. This week Andrew pulled off a decent performance and that could mean continued security OR his fans slacking off and his appearance in the bottom 3. On the flip side, we have Didi who did a less than stellar job and was reamed by the judges. This, in turn, will cause her fans to vote extra hard to ensure she is safe because they feel she is in trouble this week. Both Andrew and Didi have proven to have a strong fan bases. The question is will Andrew's continue to vote strong or will they think him having a "good" week means their dialing fingers can take a breather? Will Didi's fan's go into overdrive or will they give up on the girl who seems to have lost her way and her charm? That being said, I believe the bottom 3 will be a combination of Tim, Didi, Katie and/or Andrew. My gut says Didi's poor reviews and the tears at the end of her judging (along with the reference to the song being for her friend who committed suicide) will ensure her safety from the Bottom 3 and Andrew will be the victim of this. Ultimately it does not matter as I believe that tonight we will finally say goodbye to Tim. He has proven with his multiple trips to the Bottom 3 that, although he has some sort of fan base, it is not as strong as others left in the competition. Lacey and Paige were his only bets to have some longevity in this competition, and with his buffers now gone it is his time to say so long. Let's hope Simon's words do not ring true at results time, and the teeny boppers do not continue Tim's time on this show.

The Final 12

Our first night on the big stage and this is usually a tough night for the contestants with their nerves, getting used to a large room, full orchestra, etc, etc, etc. However, quite a few of the contestants surprised me tonight and I found myself saying "that is the best I have heard sing so far!". So, how did they stack up? Let's break it down...

Siobhan Magnus ♪♪♪♪ ½ - I think this is the highest rating I have given a contestant so far this season. I was excited to hear Siobhan was doing “Paint It Black” because I LOVE that song, and then she knocked it out of the park with her performance and her kickin’ vocals. LOVED the money note and everything about her performance! This girl is trying to win and I love it. Seriously, Simon said she could be a dark horse and I am starting to believe it. She is definitely one of my picks for the Final 4. This was a definite “moment” in my book for Siobhan. Watch your back Crystal, Siobhan is coming for your spot!

Lee DeWyze ♪♪♪♪ ½ – I think I am ready to announce that my new favorite male contestant this season is none other than Lee DeWyze. Sadly, Andrew Garcia has dethroned himself for this spot in my books. Seriously, and I found myself saying this about quite a few of the performers tonight, this was THE best I have ever heard Lee’s vocals. Seriously, it was spot on and he delivered. Was this his “moment”? No. But I think this is just a glimpse of what is to come. I think Lee is finding his confidence and settling in to being on stage and although he was apparently extremely nervous, it did not show one bit. Bravo!

Crystal Bowersox ♪♪♪♪ - Crystal in the “pimp spot”? WHO WOULD HAVE GUESSED? Lol Personally, this week, I would have given this spot to Siobhan, but Crystal still held her own. Momma Sox did her thing and she did it well. She is truly an artist, you can tell she is not about the whole “reality show crap” and is just there for the music. I see what the judges mean about her laid back style though, when singing comes effortlessly to someone, it can look like they don’t care or are not putting everything into it. We did see some personality come out tonight though and from the sounds of it, Crystal is aware of what she needs to do. Smart girl.

Casey James ♪♪♪♪ – He lives in COOL, Texas…love that! However, the “Bucky Hair” is back; I thought the stylists had gotten over that. Bleh. Anyway, his voice was strong, he picked a great song and put his stank on it so it came off a bluesy/southern rock vibe. I really liked this from him and he should keep choosing songs like this.

Michael Lynch ♪♪♪ ½ - Great voice and solid performance as always from Mike. Totally lost points for the dancing and I totally called it that Simon would comment about that in his comments. Mike is a solid singer but I am still waiting for a wow moment from him. Hey, if nothing else he is reppin’ St Pete and that definitely gives him a boost.

Didi Benami ♪♪♪ ½ - Best I have heard from her to date (said it before Randy). Great song choice. Sounds like she is having a little bit of vocal problems, especially at the last note, sounded like a catch in her voice. Yea, she dropped a couple of the lyrics but she is nervous no doubt and it happens, but still a great job! She really gave a glimpse of the colors of her voice with this one. 

Paige Miles ♪♪♪ - Ok, I will admit I was INFURIATED when Paige Miles took one of the 12 stools last week, especially over Lilly Scott and Katelyn Epperly; but I am mature enough to admit that she sort of redeemed herself in my opinion tonight. This was her best vocal I have heard from her AND with laryngitis! You go girl! Do I think it was enough to keep her safe this week? That remains to be seen. We have seen it before, a contestant struggles a couple weeks and survives then has a good night and goes home that week. This could be the case for Paige, although the health issues will certainly boost the efforts of her fan base who has already proven to be strong, thus her in the Final 12.

Lacey Brown ♪♪♪ – Lacey definitely has a niche voice and I believe she has to be more careful than others with her song choices. Tonight was the best I have heard her sing. She did a good job and chose a good song for her voice. I love her style and she is sweet and finding out she is a Christian will definitely help her pull a fan base too. Also, her eyes are captivating and that don't hurt none! haha

Tim Urban ♪♪ ½ - Not a terrible performance, but not on par with some of the others in any way. I do not know the original version so this take on it did not freak me out like it did the judges. I was too busy thinking to myself, “Tim has decided to be the new Alex Lambert…smart move my friend”! I mean, come on, this performance had Alex written all over it, but with not as good singing. However, Tim’s vocal styling and the whole vibe was completely unlike something he has done before, BUT something I have no doubt we would have seen from Alex. I’m just saying, the kid might be smart enough to devise such a plan. Either way, it was solid enough and combined with the fact that the kid is being voted through by teenage girls with huge crushes on him, I have no doubt he will be safe this week.

Aaron Kelly ♪♪ ½ - Aaron wised up and did not try to do a song with power vocals..good move, because he is not a power vocalist. He kept it in the pocket and his voice sounded steady. There were moments when I actually really liked the tone of his voice. However, what in the world was up with his hair? Total distraction…anyway, not sure it was strong enough to keep him out of danger this week though.

Andrew Garcia - ♪♪ - Yikes, this is not how Andrew should have started his run in the Finals. This was boring and uninspired and he struggled with pitch. I’m really rooting for this guy because I liked him in the very beginning but he seems to be going backwards. We need to see his creativity. I love Ellen, but seriously, his “best performance to date”? Ummmm..better than the infamous “Straight Up”…no no no Ellen, tonight was a total let down. I think Andrew is in trouble.

Katie Stevens ♪♪ – I love this song but I was not a fan of Katie’s interpretation. It was rough in the beginning because it was too low for her, but once she got into her upper register it got better; not great, but better. It was an improvement from her previous weeks during the Semi Finals, so kudos for that, but she REALLY needs to do a fun song if she is around next week. However, this was one of the most forgettable performances of the night for me. Will America agree?

This season is already proving to be a difficult on to make predictions. Based on my ranking, Aaron, Andrew and Katie should be the bottom 3. I also made a case above for how Paige could be a "surprise" elimination this week. The same could also apply to Lacey. However, I am going to go out on a limb here and say we see our first "shocker" elimination the first week of the finals and say good bye to Andrew. I just think his "Straight Up" fuel has run out and I think he might get lost in the awesomeness of some and forgotten by those who are voting to "save" other people they feel are in trouble. We will see!

Semi Finals: Top 8 Guys

So, the guys performances could be titled "Guy & Guitar Night". I wonder if Mike Lynch feels left out? Anyway, despite all the hype of the girls being the champs this year, I am finding that overall the guys are a little stronger, especially this week. This is going to be a tough week to make 2 cuts! Well, let's get on to my ranking of the guys attempts at a spot in the Finals.

Michael Lynce ♪♪♪♪ - Although I am giving Big Mike top honors this week, I am still missing something from him that makes me really root for him. His performance tonight was on point and it showed range and personality, but I just don't find myself excited to see him each week. I don't know what it is, but I will give the man his props for a job well done this week!

Alex Lambert ♪♪♪ 1/2 - Alex has one of the most unique voices of the guys, and I really dig it! I thought this week was really good although he seemed to take a step back in the confidence level from last week. Originally, I figured he and Tim would be the ones going home this week, but I am second guessing that after hearing him tonight. I hope he gets a spot in the Finals.

Lee Dewyze ♪♪♪ 1/2 - Lee continues to impress me with his style and choosing "Fireflies" was huge brownie points cause i love that song. He struggled with pitch in a few spots, but his style of singing does not have to always be to pitch perfect, it is about the sound and stylization of his vocals more than the technicality.

Andrew Garcia ♪♪♪  - I am giving Andrew credit for doing something like he has been directed to do from Hollywood week. However, I think it was a bit trite and too similar to his version of "Straight Up". I am getting nervous for this guy. He was one of my top picks after his initial audition, but he seems to have set a bar too early that he is not able to meet. He will no doubt be in the Finals, but not sure how much longer he can survive off of his Hollywood week performance.

Casey James ♪♪♪ - Good job, nothing stellar, but he showed his voice well and I really like this song. He has a style all of his own and I have no doubt he has a decent fan base that will put him into the Finals. Not much else to say really.

Todrick Hall ♪♪♪ - I have slowly become a fan of Todrick. I just like what he does musically and he brings some entertainment to his performances. I think he did a good job again tonight and I think he would be a great addition to the Final 12 this season. I think he will do very well on the "big stage".

Aaron Kelly ♪♪ 1/2 - Aaron has a potentially good voice, but I think he is choosing songs that are too big for him at this stage in his vocal experience. He seems to not know how to fully support his vocals and that causes him to sound shaky and go off pitch. I think there is some honing that needs to be done with Aaron and in turn he could become a really great singer. He's young, that's all I am saying, and it showed with this song choice that there is NO way he could connect with on an emotional level at his age.

Tim Urban ♪♪ 1/2 - Tim took a step back this week, in my opinion. I mean, it was not terrible, but not as solid as last week. At times he looked like a deer in the headlights. I don't think that he is up to par stylistically or vocally with the other guys. The only hope he has on making the cut this week is that his young girl fan base is strong enough to vote him through. I truly believe that is his only hope.

Overall, a solid night from the guys. They obviously all want to be here and put forth every effort to show that. It's going to be tough to see who gets cut, I believe each of these guys have a definite fan base of some sort, it is just going to be about whose is stronger and more dedicated. I could totally see this elimination night being a shocker. I think any of my bottom 3 ranked guys are the most likely to say goodbye this week. I am scared for Lee since he went first too. I hope his fan base is strong enough to not let that be his downfall as it has for others in the past. Results night will definitely be interesting, without a doubt.

Semi Finals: Top 8 Girls

This is the final week of Semi Finals and after the girls and guys perform we will have our 12 Finalists for Season 9! Then they will take on "the big stage" starting next week; THAT is when the real fun begins! So, let's see how the girls did this week.

Crystal Bowersox ♪♪♪♪ - Crystal continues to prove why she is the favorite to take the whole show. Stellar vocals! She is an artist. What else can I say? Best of the night. However, word of advice for Crystal is not to become stagnant and have the same sound every week. She needs to be able to bring something new and keep her performances fresh. Just a bit of advice for my girl.

Siobhan Magnus ♪♪♪♪ - Siobhan is quickly becoming another of my favorites. I love her quirkiness in interviews (and in her clothing choices at times) but when she steps up to sing it is game on! She will be a fun one to watch in the Finals to see what she brings each week. She is full of surprises, and I like it.

Didi Benami ♪♪♪ 1/2 - As you may recall, I did not think Didi's performance last week was as awful as the judges did; however, tonight Didi was magical! Her voice is entrancing. It's obvious that this season we have a crop of girls who are not the cookie-cutter pop diva's, which is refreshing. I would say out of the "Indie Trio" (Lilly, Lacey and Didi), Didi is the most polished vocally.

Lacey Brown ♪♪♪ - Finally Lacey had a solid performance in which she showcased her abilities and did not come off sounding immature or shaky. I agree with the judges, this is the best we have seen her. She pulled this performance out at JUST the right time! Combined with her obvious fan base she already has which has kept her safe thus far, I think this performance will ensure her spot in the Finals.

Lilly Scott ♪♪♪ - Lilly is another artist this season. She has her own style and while it is not always technically the best vocal, it is true to who she is and there is a market for her in the music world. I really like Lilly, but this was not my most favorite performance by her. Still, good stuff though. 

Katelyn Epperly ♪♪ 1/2 - I really like Katelyn, and I do not think this performance was bad vocally, but like Kara said, it was disconnected. It came off to me very 1980's but not in a stylish was, more of a one hit wonder kind of way. Katelyn is much better than this performance and I hope people remember what she is capable of and vote for her, I believe she deserves a spot in the Finals.

Katie Stevens ♪♪ - I really like Katie and was rooting for her but she has faltered in the Semi's and this week was no better. Ultimately, she needs to take some time, get some experience and hone that raw talent she has and figure out what kind of music/style she wants to be and then come back and try again. It's a shame because I had high hopes for her.

Paige Miles - I could not even give her 1/2 a note for this performance. Wow, completely terrible? It almost feels like she threw this one. I mean, what in the world?? THIS is who Simon calls "the best female singer" of the bunch? I have no words. If this is a tactic for sympathy votes to get into the top 12, then I would call her brilliant. Otherwise, ouch.

Tonight is going to be a tough night, because obviously these people left have a fan base, the question is how strong is their individual fan bases? Paige has been kept around without having any previous exposure on the show prior to the Finals and I think that is partly due to Simon's praise. Tonight, though, she fell slat on her face and sang the most painful version of "Smile" I have ever heard...and without a glimpse of a smile on her face. Does she understand emotions? Just curious. Katie has sort of been a favorite with the younger people and grandparents, but I think her lack of vision has become evident and she cannot continue to simply be a puppet for the judges critiques. Here is another spin...Lacey. History has shown that people who have struggled one week and been kept safe and then come back the next week and do well get the boot that week. Could Lacey's solid performance this week cause people to stop voting to save her? That is a great possibility this week! Based on my analysis though, Katie and Paige should be the 2 ladies who say goodbye on results night; however, you NEVER know what America will decide. If my theory regarding Lacey is true...then I think Paige will benefit from that and we could see Katie and Lacey go. Will be interesting to see whose fan base is stronger.

Semi Finals: Top 10 Girls

So, I was sick as a dog yesterday but still wanted to give my input on the girls performances from last night. Also, given that it was another lack-luster night for the most part, this blog is going to be short, sweet and to the point.

Crystal Bowersox ♪♪♪♪ - What can I say, this girl is incredible.She definitely showed off her powerful voice tonight and it went off without a hitch! She is great!

Katelyn Epperly ♪♪♪♪ - Once again, she tops the night for me. I loved her stripped down performance that simply allowed her vocals to shine through. There were moments when the tone of her voice reminded me a lot of Lady Gaga, when Lady Gaga is just sitting at a piano and singing. I really like Katelyn and unlike Kara, I think versatility is a good thing.


Siobhan Magnus - ♪♪♪♪ - Another incredible performance. Yes, she had a couple pitchy moments but overall she dominated that song, especially when she hit that incredible money note. I am liking Siobhan more and more each week. She is different and she makes me laugh during her interview times and video packages.

Lilly Scott ♪♪♪ 1/2 - She is so unique and funky and brings something so fresh to Idol, I love it. I wasn;t totally sold on her performance this week compared to last, but she did her thing and it worked.

Didi Benami ♪♪♪ - I don't know why the judges were so harsh, I thought she did a good job with the song. Poor girl got ripped apart and I think she was leaps and bounds better than Michelle Delamor (see below) who got rave reviews from the judges. I don't know what they are trying to do this year, but I do not agree with their assessment of Didi at all. Randy, get a grip on yourself homie.

Katie Stevens ♪♪♪ - Katie had another solid performance, but I agree with Kara, I am waiting for her to have her "moment" and the right song choice will do that for her. She seems like quiet a character too based on her video package. Too funny.

Paige Miles ♪♪ 1/2 - I saw a little more of a glimpse into Paige's voice, but still not doing it for me. I did not like her take on Kelly's song either.

Lacey Brown ♪♪ - Oh Lacey, I want to like you and I want to see you do well, but your not bringing it. I find myself nervous for you during the entire performance. I just don't know...

Haeley Vaughn ♪♪ - Still don't get why she is here. She is all over the place with her pitch and there is no connection between herself and the music. Bleh.

Michelle Delamore ♪ 1/2 - I did not like anything about this performance. I am shocked the judges gave her such good reviews. I could not get into her take on this song and it just sounded all over the place. It seemed like she never settled in on the pitch and I could not wait for it to be over! Expected more from her.

So based on my ranking Lacey, Haeley and Michelle are in trouble and Paige isn't out of the dark either. Ultimately though, I think Lacey and Haeley will be the ones to say goodbye. What do you all think? We will find out for sure tonight!

Semi Finals: Top 10 Guys

So tonight we have the Top 10 guys due to some sudden illness that put Crystal Bowersox in the hospital and prevented her from performing. Let's hope whatever the issue is gets resolved so she can sing tomorrow! After a weak 1st round of performances from both the girls and guys last week, I go into tonight with hopes that everyone steps up their game. Let's see how everyone did. Again, I rate the performances from 1 note to 5 notes with 5 being the best then rank the guys here from best to worst based on that rating system. So, here we go...

Alex Lambert ♪♪♪♪ - 1 million times better from last week (I said this about 2 minutes before Simon did!). Now I see why he made the Top 24! Also, the extended video package of him discussing his nerves will DEFINITELY endear him to people and help him in the votes too. Aside from that, Alex did a complete turn around and picked a song that showcased his unique vocals perfectly. He definitely earned top honors in my book tonight. Let’s hope he keeps this train going because he is definitely unique among the guys. I really enjoyed his performance tonight. I still think he needs to work on connecting with the audience, but tonight was a BIG step in the right direction. 

Lee DeWyze ♪♪♪ ½ - Much better than last week except for the completely obvious nervousness he had without his guitar. However, Lee has found his niche, the "bad boy rocker", which we established thanks to his video package. That, I believe, will help carry him through to the Finals. I know quite a few women who have said he is their favorite, and after last week’s performance we all know it is not because of his performance. However, I love his gravelly voice which also makes him stand out from the other guys and this week he showcased that much better. Lee is becoming my 2nd favorite guy this season and with continued improvement he could become my favorite (especially if my current favorite does not step up his game). It also did not hurt to have the “pimp spot” of going last tonight. I will agree with Simon though, Lee needs to let go and just connect with the song and the moment he does that is the moment Lee will take the competition by the horns.

Mike Lynch ♪♪♪ ½ - Mike definitely has a solid voice and has been the most consistent of the guys and probably the best stage presence of all the guys too. But he is just not wowing me. I do not know what Randy is raving about. Yes, it was better than last week for sure, but I would not be getting out of my chair for this performance. That aside, Mike is definitely moving in the right direction, this is the type of music he should stick with, it fits his voice nicely. I'm just waiting for a "wow moment" from Mike.

Todrick Hall ♪♪♪ - I liked it, he made it his own without going overboard, I thought he owned it. I have no idea why the judges spit so much venom at him. I will be honest, I did not have high hopes for Todrick going into the Semi Finals, I actually was more of a Jermaine fan, but each week my opinion is changing. I have no doubt that Todrick and Jermaine are so similar that eventually one will cancel out the other in votes and I think when that happens (maybe this week?) Todrick will be the one left standing.I enjoy the fact that Todrick takes songs and changes them up, which is what the judges say they want, yet they turn around and tell him he does it TOO much. Poor Todrick, I felt his pain as the judges talked out both sides of their mouth to him.

Tim Urban ♪♪♪ - Much better performance this week, not as if that is saying much though since I predicted he would go home last week, but I was proud to see him step up. He definitely chose a better song for his voice this week which was nice to see. The other thing Tim has going for him is the latest submission of shirtless pictures that surfaced on the internet today (talk about perfect timing). As if it was not obvious last week that his looks carried him through a terrible performance, this will only fuel that fire. I predict another week’s pass for Mr. Urban due to the “Hunk Factor” that will have young ladies voting like mad to keep him around no matter what he sounds like. I will agree with Ellen though, I could totally see him on “Glee”.

Andrew Garcia ♪♪ ½ - This is NOT the Andrew Garcia I picked as a front runner in his initial audition. The vibe was weird and he was pitchy and dropping notes all over. I agree with Ellen, he set the bar SO HIGH with his rendition of “Straight Up” and he is not showing he can maintain that. I was ready to call him the winner in the beginning of this competition but now I am starting to worry about him. He has greatness in him, I hope he can find it and bring it out next week! We need another "wow moment" from him!

Aaron Kelly ♪♪ ½ - I liked it for the most part up until the end. The falsetto note was rough and it seemed to go downhill from there. He definitely has the country singer voice and he showed that in this version, even though there was not much else to it. The version was a little on the boring side and the only noteable change was the country twang Aaron added vocally. He needs to work on his vocal control too because at times his notes sound shaky, but nerves are probably contributing to that right now too. Along with being the youngest guy, he is green in regards to performing, so he has the most catching up to do. Not much else to say about this one.

Casey James ♪♪ ½ - I wish the Idol stylists would stop making Casey look like Bucky Covington, because in my opinion that hairstyle is making him lose cred. It’s awful, make it stop. In regards to his vocal performance, not much better. I want the bluesy-rocker I saw in Hollywood to come back. I was not thrilled when Casey said he was performing this song, it has never gone over well with any contestant except Elliott Yamin in Season 5. Casey’s vocals were choppy and did not flow well, I just did not get it at all. His stage presence did not match up with the song either. You cannot sing “I don’t wanna be” and have a big smile on your face the whole time. That song has spunk and grit in the lyrics, but it did not show in Casey’s stage presence. Disappointing. I am holding out hope for the Casey we saw in the beginning.

John Park ♪♪ ½ - Again, John has a decent voice, but he is very boring on stage. He seemed vacant while singing. When he is looking at the camera it is like a blank stare in his eyes. I scored John the same this week as I did last week, but I feel this performance was actually of lesser quality then last week. I am waiting for something to click with John and for him to make a connection with us as the audience. He apparently has a large fan base, so we will see if they keep him around another week.

Jermaine Sellers ♪♪ - Too much once again. We get it, you sing high, but can you do anything else? To me it was just all over the place. Like I said last week…"settle down Jermaine”. He also went overboard with the whole “I got God” thing and came off cocky. Eh. I got God too Jermaine, and I am hoping He sides with me and sends you back to your church for this Sunday’s service. Sorry to be harsh, but your attitude has proven to be much to lofty for you to back up. I think being knocked back a couple notches will prove the best thing for you and any chance of a future career you might have.

So, there is my take on tonight. Based on my ranking Jermaine and John should be going home Thursday. However, I have this funny feeling that Mike Lynch may be in some trouble this week based on a few factors. First, he has been just ok for the last 2 weeks and sometimes consistency equals complacency with voters. Add to that the fact that Randy and the other judges RAVED about him tonight, which may cause the voters to assume he is safe and spend time voting on others they think are in trouble. But, I only got 1 out of 4 predictions right last week, so we will see how well I do this go around. My preference would be Jermaine and John this week, but we will see if my theory about Mike proves true.

Tomorrow night we have the girls. Let's hope Crystal is better and can perform! I will be back after the girls perform tomorrow night to give my thoughts and predictions so check back! See you then!