American Idol is down to the top 6 contestants. How did your favorite perform tonight? I’m glad for TiVo because I’ve been gone all day – so my review tonight is a bit late – but here is how I would assess tonight’s performances.

Taking on the songs of Carole King – our Idol’s had a lot of great hits to choose from – but what did they pick?

We began with Jacob Lusk singing “Oh No Not My Baby”. Maybe I’m just tired but I just wish contestants would wear clothes that did not distract me – I mean, I just didn’t get the bright yellow shirt, with royal blue sweater vest, followed by a navy blue and white plaid suit jacket. And strange looking bow tie. Nope, I did not get it at all. Every time they came in for a close-up – I didn’t even see Jacob – I just saw this strange ensemble. Even Ryan seemed distracted as he attempted to straighten Jacob’s tie before the judges began their critique. Now I do actually think Jacob will be going home, not just for the outfit, but the performance was not my favorite. It was a lesser-known song and not one that resonated with me. There were a few iffy notes as well, but at least he did seem to have some of the joy back – which I had been missing for the past few weeks. Jennifer mentioned a few of the misses, but still complimented him. Steven and Randy both raved about him. I like that the judges are not brutal this season – but I do wish they would have a little more specific constructive feedback for the contestants. I think Jacob will have a great career on Broadway, but I just don’t see him going much further on American Idol.

Lauren Alaina selected “Where You Lead.” Lauren was surprised by a visit by Miley Cyrus. It was good to hear Miley’s advice to Lauren to not pay attention to any criticism given by America – as there will always be criticism. She just needs to focus on singing because she loves to sing. I look at Lauren as a young Carrie Underwood – and I look forward to her styling catching up with her vocals. She still hasn’t quite found the look that is flattering, grown-up, and star-quality. There was an awkward moment when she brought a guy from the audience up on stage and sang to him – it felt so awkward to me and distracted me from the song. But what I actually heard and paid attention to I thought sounded good. She’s a darling girl and I think America will be rooting for her to do well because she’s learning to overcome her fears and we want her to succeed. Now with that said – the whole season I have predicted a guy to win the overall season, but I’m coming to think that Lauren really has a shot at winning.

Scotty McCreery chose to sing “You’ve Got a Friend.” He began singing it in a higher, gentle, soft way that we haven’t heard from him before. I loved it. It made me see him in an even better light – that he has the capability to sing more tender songs and not just his typical deep country style. I actually liked that his facial expressions seemed a bit more genuine this week as well. I’ve always liked Scotty and hope he keeps going. I think he has a huge fan base and even if he doesn’t win the overall competition – I completely see him being successful in the industry.

James Durbin also chose a more tender song. “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow.” Okay – I can’t help it but every time James sings I have a smile on my face. Even if he has a few note issues, I still am drawn into his world and the joy he exudes when he’s performing. Yes, I have had a few negative comments from non-James fans – and I believe everyone has a right to their own opinion. But I simply like James. I like his personality – his wit – his smile – his enthusiasm – his confidence – his love and dedication to his family. And no, I don’t love some of the notes and some of the songs he chooses, and some of the rocker screaming he has done – but I can’t help it – I like James. The judges all loved him as well and Randy predicted James as the potential overall winner – even gave James a hug. I love seeing James coming from nothing – hearing his story – and watching him shine.

Casey Abrams selected “Hi-De-Ho.” As soon as I heard that Casey was going to sing this song, I felt that it fit him completely and was looking forward to hearing what he would do with it. It was not my favorite song choice, but I did like how he performed it. He has a tendency to choose songs that are a bit different, very stylized, not quite main-stream, and unique. But that’s Casey. I really like Casey. I hope he continues to do well and I think he is going to have a huge career ahead of him. But I am worried for him that he is so stylized he might lose some of the main-stream voters. However, this season has contestants that are so completely unique and different from each other – it’s a bit of a toss-up as to who will capture America’s heart.

And then Haley Reinhart sang “Beautiful.” Last week I was pleasantly surprised that I liked Haley’s performance – probably more than any other she had done. She does a good job but I still do not feel any type of emotional connection to her. I thought Haley sang the song well, but I did find myself getting a little bored. (Side Note: How can any performer wear such short skirts when they are up on a high stage – aren’t they worried that they will be flashing the audience?) The judges loved Haley and said she has one of the best voices in the competition. Just not my favorite.

The talent this season is truly better than any season in the past. I used to be able to make a clear prediction – it was easy. But this year there is a lot more guess work for me – as everyone is really talented and has their own unique style.

My prediction this week is that Jacob Lusk will go home. Haley Reinhart will be in the bottom three. And I’m guessing, but I think Casey Abrams might be in the bottom as well. Do you differ in your opinion?

Who do you think did the best this week?

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