I have to say 2 of the contestants who were eliminated were completely shocking to me. Katelyn Epperly and Lilly Scott – when each was announced I literally gasped and could not believe my ears. I thought for certain Paige and Katie would go home tonight. Granted Lilly’s country song this week did not showcase her well and was a poor choice, but it was a total surprise to me.

I wasn’t surprised that Alex Lambert did not make the top 12 nor Todrick, but I did think they both performed well last night.

So now we’re down to the top 12 contestants on American Idol and the fun really begins.

Matt Giraud did a great job in his performance and I felt he had become so much more refined and comfortable performing – it reminded me of why I liked him so much last season. And Scott McIntyre was about the same as when he was on Idol – just not my favorite performer.

Anyway, I’d be curious to know if anyone else was taken off guard by tonight’s elimination vote… let me know your thoughts.

My problem with the American Idol girls this year is that most of them seem to be choosing slow, boring, and dragging songs. I haven’t seen many performances that have left me tapping my toes or with a big smile on my face. Most are “nice” or “good” but not many “incredibles” yet.

Crystal Bowersox seems to be a favorite this season – and I have to say I think she is incredibly talented. I like that she knows who she is – and stays true to that. I’m still missing a little “connection” between her and the audience though. I’m not sure if she’s just really reserved, or a little too much into her own groove to “get me” with her music – even though she’s really super talented. Anyone else feel the same way?

Siobhan Magnus. Actually she’s my favorite of the girls. She stays true to her own style and I love that she picks songs where she can showcase not only her vocals, but also her personality a bit. I’m curious about her styling and wonder what the stylists will do when they get a hold of her – but I like her the best. 

Didi Benami is one who is talented and has quite a unique voice actually. I think with the right songs she could really shine. Unfortunately I think her voice tone is so limited that an album would get a bit monotonous for me and I wouldn’t be buying it – maybe a song or two – but not a whole album.

Katelyn Epperly is darling. I really think she’s genuine and feels her music. I think she’s done great so far and I hope she shines more and more each week.

Katie Stevens. She is so cute. But very young and inexperienced. I felt bad for her this week as it just wasn’t very good. I think she’s at risk this week. If she does stay I hope her song is upbeat and has tons of energy – to showcase that she can be a pop star rather than only choosing ballads. But I’m not sure she’ll be around long enough to let us hear that type of song from her.

Lacey Brown. I really liked Lacey during Hollywood week but she hasn’t impressed me as much during the competition. Again it may be the song choices and like the others, she is talented, but I actually don’t remember much.

Lilly Scott. During Hollywood week I thought she would be one to watch. Although I have a hard time getting past her hair – as it’s so colorless white that it feels gray to me – her eyes are gorgeous and her voice is unique. I hope she’ll do better next week as I think she has a star quality about her.

Paige Miles. Oh I felt bad for her this week – it just wasn’t good. I think she’ll be going home.

I know the judges have said many times they think the girls on American Idol this season are stronger than the guys. Do you agree? I actually don’t agree this year – I think the guys are much stronger as a whole, with a few standout girls.