Elimination Week 2 - Grand Ole Opry Week

Well, I must say this was an interesting set of performances. Many of the contestants opted to take the country out of country week and go their own way... and I say that's a good thing, even though I am a serious fan of country. It has always been the mantra of the judges to "make the song your own." Too bad, they didn't appreciate this aspect of a performance or two last night.

In general, I am tuned into the criticism by Simon Cowell, because he knows whereof he speaks. While I understand that some country fans may have been really turned off by the very un-country performance of Adam Lambert, I don't think Adam deserved Simon's comments. True, Adam's performance was decidedly different (perhaps even bizarre?), but I liked it! I REALLY liked it. Adam has a terrific voice and genuine musical talent, and it showed last night in his performance. I have been singing "Ring of Fire" all morning long and might even download it if I can find it for free (sorry, I-Tunes).

Adding to Adam Lambert's performance commentary is Victor Balta, who blogs over at Comcast. I read his American Idol commentary faithfully every week, and he didn't like Adam last night either....placing him at the bottom for the night.

Anoop definitely hit his stride and gave an impressive performance last night. For the first time this season, I attempted to vote, but got nothing but busy signals. Who did I try to vote for? Anoop and Matt.

Worst performance of the night: Michael Sarver. He sounded nervous and amateurish during his entire performance. Not a good song choice. Of course, I didn't agree with his selection during the first voting week anyway. He needs to go home and I hope he does tonight....that's my prediction too.

Paula - she needs to shut up. She is trying to provide more detailed "analysis" trying to compete with the far better analysis that has been delivered by Kara. I may be the only person who likes the addition of Kara, but I think her commentary since the start of the season has been more helpful than Paula has ever delivered. So now, in competitive mode, Paula has started to pile it on.. and she can't even say marginally big words... "authenticity" anyone?

WEEK THREE - Finally winding this segment down.
So, here's what they sang: (I can't believe I took this many notes) Please pardon my shorthand and inconsistency.
Von Smith – you’re all I need to get by --Soulful and strong. Good start to the night, but he was outclassed later in the evening.
Taylor V.-- If I aint’ got you -- okay. You have to have "it" to sing a Keyes song.
Alex W-T – I guess that's why they call it the blues -- weird…scratchy voice thing - Not Good, Man
Arianna -- The Winner takes it all – slightly above average, but shaky
Ju’Not Joyner – Hey there Delilah - Very good rendition.
Kristen McNamara - give me one reason to stay here – Great; Very cool version
Nathaniel M – Anything for Love -- does anyone else feel creeped out when he's on stage?
Felicia – No One - Okay, someone who CAN sing an Alicia Keyes song!! She's from Virginia too!
Scott – Mandolin Rain - Sorry, but "yawn." I hate that the judges are all PC around this guy. Be honest, like Simon!
Kendall – This one’s for the girls - She's a country girl, but she coulda picked a better song.
Jorge Nunez – Don’t let the sun go down on me - He's got a voice, but he does not have the classic latin handsome going.
Lil Rounds – Be without you -- Well, it's something to be "undiscovered" and sound a lot like Mary J. Blige. Very impressive. She should make the top 6 -- My first early prediction!!

Was this a stronger group performance-wise of all three?? Please let me know what you think.

I'll have a poll later this week. In the meantime, cast your votes for who might make the Wild Card Show. Poll is on the left!
Don't forget -- tomorrow night is results night. Thursday, March 5 is Wild Card night. I guess next week is a full version of the 12-Finalists-Show.