How did the FOX43 Idol Experts do on their Week 2 predictions?

Off the top, an apology to our dear, sweet, attractive and spunky Idol Expert, Julie. Somehow, her predictions for Ladies' Night were not properly posted, and the Wednesday show post went live with her predictions from Guys' Night, instead.

This was CLEARLY an error, and we'll blame Clyde for that.

Our apologies to Ms. Heart for the mix-up, and the necessary corrections have been made. Check it out before reading these results if you want to see her predictions before you find out whether she was right or wrong.

So...let's get to it!

4 had to go home...but few potential shockers were in that unlucky group! Who was sent packing?

4 contestants (Jason Yeager, Alexandrea Lushington, Alaina Whitaker, and Robbie Carrico) went home, and our Idol Experts made their calls before Thursday's Week 2 Results Show.

How did they do?

Artie Funk

Artie picked Amanda Overmyer, Alaina Whitaker, Jason Yeager and Luke Menard to go home this week. Well, he was a bit off, as America threw a few curveballs with this week's voting.

That's 2 out of 4, which is .500, but what does Mr. Funk have to say about the results?

Funk: 2 for 4 this week, huh? HIGHLY disappointed in you, America! SHAME ON YOU, America! BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! Alexandrea was not supposed to go home this week AT ALL. I thought she had REAL potential, but...America forced her to struggle for her OWN contract, now. I thought it was really funny and sad when Alaina sobbed, "I CAN'T SING!" It was cute, and she did a good job, considering! I'm glad Skunkhead's gone, and the faux-rocker...can't say I'm sad to see him go, at all. I was more okay with the male choices than the ladies choices. I noticed that Amanda Overmyer's not a "hugger." When the rest of the group is hugging, she's kind of off on the fringe...

Julie Heart

Julie chose Amanda Overmyer, Alaina Whitaker, Jason Yeager and Danny Norriega. That puts her squarely in the middle...

...2 out of 4!

Heart: Jason leaving was no big surprise, even to him! I actually liked his singing better when he was upset, rather than with the big, goofy smile he flashed Tuesday night. I would have thought Idol would have made sure his son was there to fully cash in on the emotion. Alexandrea, on the other hand, was a big surprise! Especially next to Amanda, who I thought for sure would be out. Overmyer was horrible AGAIN in the Results Show intro song, by the way. It was sweet that Alexandrea hugged David at the end...they know each other from a Starsearch when they were kids. Alaina went home...didn't Simon call her the "dark horse" of the girls, this year? The Battle of the Blondes in the bottom spot didn't work out for Alaina! It was a REAL moment of breakdown, trying to make her sing her final song...but she got through a song about CRYING on the way out, so...aww! And holy COW! Robbie out and Luke IN?! I never would have thought that! I mean, I thought Luke's looks might float him through a nother week, but...not at the expense of Robbie! Man, definitely some emotional and shocking moments, this time!

Clyde Collins

Clyde chose Amanda Overmyer, Alaina Whitaker, Jason Yeager and Luke Menard to leave, this week. Well...2 of them didn't!

2 out of 4 for Clyde, once again. Here was his reaction:

Collins: America, you're absolutely mentally challenged if you think keeping Amanda Overmyer in this competition is a good idea. Pathetic, completely wrong and careless. I mean...sure, I've been saying Alexandrea's going to be sent home before long, anyway. So, I'm not that upset over losing her. I think Robbie Carrico was a phony, as well, so...no loss, there. But, based on ACTUAL PERFORMANCE...Amanda should've left, and Luke Menard is still a completely vanilla waste of airtime. They. Will. Go. Soon. Days are numbered. Oh, and Jason Yeager's been lousy since we first heard him. Good riddance, Skunkboy.

There it is! Straight from the FOX43 Idol Experts' lips!

What did YOU think of the Week 2 results? Leave your thoughts below, and we'll see you next week for another round of songs and surprises!

***** DISCLAIMER *****
The opinions expressed by the three "FOX43 Idol Experts" do not necessarily reflect the opinions of FOX43, Tribune Broadcasting or FOX.
***************************

Posted by Prisoner No. 24601 at 9:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
TAGS: American Idol, Artie Funk, Clyde Collins, Idol Chatter, Idol Experts, Julie Heart, Results

A full recap of Ladies' Night, predictions and some enjoyable bickering. Wipe your feet and step inside.

Heart: The girls did a good job last night, overall. I think they were better than the guys last week, but this week's a little more even!

Collins: The show peaked with the third performance. That's NOT a good sign. I was disappointed, and a lot of it was due to poor song choices.

Funk: Disappointing is RIGHT. Let down. Crushed! Only TWO great performances, and a few a'ight ones. I hope they step it up next week...

Heart: Let's talk more about THIS week. Who did well, and what went wrong with the others!

THE IDOL EXPERTS ON...THE TOP 10 GIRLS

Carly Smithson
Performed: "Crazy on You" by Heart

Funk: It was really good! I liked it a lot. I <3 Carly.

Collins: Heh. A Heart joke. I get it. Anyway...this is a much-needed change of style for her, I think. Started off okay, got rough, then got better in the end. She can hit the notes, but you can tell the whole "rock" thing isn't easy or natural for her. Took a risk, and I think it paid off by giving her some spunk. Not the best vocal, but kind of fun. She continues to be, as Simon said, one killer song away from being The One to Beat (TM)..

Heart: I loved Carly singing Heart! I think she did a great job, and really showed she can sing.

Syesha Mercado
Performed: "Me and Mr(s). Jones" by Billy Paul

Collins: "Mr. Jones," eh? He apparently went through some big changes since the 70s! It was bluesy, soulful...perfectly fine, but I wish she'd chosen a bigger song. That last note was a doozy, but...didn't knock me out. Good performance of the wrong song. Still cute and great, though.

Funk: Sounded really good, but I didn't recognize or care about the song! I wanted to hear an AWESOME song from her, but...yeah. Other than a really bad song choice, her voice is still awesome.

Heart: It wasn't my favorite song for her...but I still loved her singing! She has an amazing voice...and her fake "baby cry" was freakily good.

Brooke White
Performed: "You're So Vain" by Carly Simon

Heart: Aww, she's a beauty school dropout! I was WOWed by her. It was the perfect song for her voice, and I loved her with the guitar! Ha ha, and yes, it was great that she was looking at Simon!

Collins: I've got a good one. If Brooke believes doing hair is an artform, then working on David Cook's hair would have to be Minimalism -- BA-ZING!!!

Heart: Ooooooh! Harsh! Clyde, why don't you leave David alone! He's a great singer, and you couldn't hold a candle to him! He's THE rocker of the group, and his hairstyle is just fine! Maybe he's balding...but he knows how to handle it. He doesn't look like Donald Trump or anything.

Collins: Couldn't resist! Carly Simon's "You're So Vain," huh? Good choice. She's perfect in that folky, earthy kind of 70s-sounding way. I think she boned a note here and there...but she had a great time singing it, and did a fine job with a tough song. I'm in, she's great. I want her here to the end...

Funk: Yo, it was HOT, dogg! I liked it a LOT, and the judges were pretty right on, good song choice. It was good, it was good. And she gave a shout-out to the band, that's classy!

Ramiele Malubay
Performed: "Don't Leave Me This Way" by Thelma Houston

Funk: Yo, HULA, baby! Hula!

Collins: Adorable as usual! She's got a great voice, and I'm once again in love. A rough note or two, but a fun, above-average performance, overall. She's yet another lady looking for that Skyrocket Song. She'll be fine, she's a potential star...and people HAVE to know it, by now.

Funk: You know, it didn't blow me away. That's disappointing, because I like her. Felt like the vocal was decent, but the performance could've been better.

Heart: It's so cute that she's a little hula girl! I almost didn't recognize the song at first, and it was a pretty bad song choice. I love when she shows off how big her voice is, but it's not QUITE as good on the quiet parts.

Kristy Lee Cook
Performed: "You're No Good" by Linda Ronstadt

Collins: Okay, so it was do-or-die time for Ms. Cook. "You're No Good" is, perhaps, the most-appropriate song choice she could've made. Better than last week, definitely, I just don't know whether to let myself love her or not, anymore. She's hurt me, and I don't know if I can take it. A fine performance, with a lot of 'tude. Is she the next American Idol? I don't think so, anymore. She needs to stick around, but is "potential" good enough at this point, when there are clearly stars poised to burst all surrounding her? I'm so torn over her, now. We'll see. She should be back next week.!

Heart: Huge improvement from last week! She's one of the only girls that really moves around the stage...I love that she's an all-American tomboy, and the only thing I'd caution her against is, like Clyde pointed out, singing a song with the lyric "You're no good" when you were in the Bottom 3 last week! And, who knows? Maybe Country WOULD suit her voice better?

Collins: If she goes Country, I withdraw all that remains of my original support immediately. Enough with the pigeon-holed, Country-singing blondes! She boxes herself in and immediately compares herself to Carrie Underwood...and I don't think that's a favorable comparison for Ms. Cook...

Funk: She just seemed so nervous and unnatural in her performance. The vocal was good, and she looked hot, but...she was decent. Not amazing, just good.

Amanda Overmyer
Performed: "Carry on My Wayward Son" by Kansas

Collins: She's done. I repeat. It's over. This was a basket of clams. I actually cringed a few times, and that was just at her Bride of Frankenstein/Rogue hair thing. A mess from top to bottom.

Funk: Like she hit a giant bug on her bike and it splattered into her hair...not feelin' the 'do, dogg! That song was just...ugly, man. I think I threw up a little listening to her. And I don't LIKE throwing up.

Heart: I LOVE that song...but I HATED her doing it! Her voice was way too scratchy, and her dancing was...well...interesting? She could definitely be going home after that.

Alaina Whitaker
Performed: "Hopelessly Devoted to You" by Olivia Newton John

Heart: It was alright. Not her best, not her worst. I think her staying or going is based on whether or not someone does worse than her, at this point in the show...and I really don't think anyone was worse after she performed.

Collins: She's OCD about her food touching! Aww, endearing. Anyway, it was another schmaltzy ballad in "Hopelessly Devoted." A decent-if-boring vocal early on, missed the big notes by a mile, though. Weak finish, could've been much better. I think it was a good song for who she THINKS she is as a singer, but...didn't work for me. She needs to get a little messed-up, show she's got an evil side or something. But, otherwise, she's just going to get swallowed up because she doesn't stand out.

Funk: It was okay. I didn't care about the song, but she's got a good voice. Didn't really have to do much performing with this song, so...didn't really FAIL, just needs to pick better songs. I think she'll be around next week. Not a bad vocal, just a little forgettable.

Alexandrea Lushington
Performed: "If You Leave Me Now" by Chicago

Collins: She chose an interesting and unexpected song, I have to say. Really made it more modern, I thought. Nice cover, not as strong as last week. I didn't like the end, I thought it was a little sloppy when she broke it down. I REALLY think she's in trouble, because, frankly, compare her to Syesha, our current frontrunner. Or even Ramiele or Asia'h! She's not as engaging! I don't know. Not bad, but I don't know how to feel about her. I think she's going to fall, eventually.

Heart: You know, she's a good singer, and hopefully she'll be around longer to prove it by singing a better, more memorable song. It just wasn't a good choice for her.

Funk: It was kinda' boring. It was, like, the third of the night that was a bad song choice with a good vocal. I don't like this trend! She did make it her own, though. I mean, she SOMEHOW made CHICAGO sound more relevant. That's skill!

Kady Malloy
Performed: "Magic Man" by Heart

Collins: Can I make the "Heart hearts Heart" joke, here? I'm sure you liked the song, Julie.

Heart: Yes, because I do heart Heart! The first thing I thought watching her was be careful going down stairs in heels, Kady. You don't want to fall down a flight of fake stairs on national television!

Collins: Might've made her more memorable if she HAD, ha ha.

Heart: It was an OK performance. Her singing was good, and I liked the song...but it wasn't quite her. I almost would have rather seen her sing opera!

Collins: I'm sure that'll come in handy when we get around to Opera Week...(cough).

Funk: Hey, I gotta' be honest...it wasn't that good. Lacking, disappointing...meh.

Collins: She picked a rock-y kind of song, but I don't think it was very convincing. She was trying to show a different side of her personality, which is good...but it didn't click with me. I think she's doomed, now. I like her, and I WANT her to be great. She just isn't. Maybe she'd shine on a Britney Spears Week? Just an awkward segment, from the time she started singing to the commercial break.

Asia'h Epperson
Performed: "All By Myself" by Celine Dion

Collins: She was a cheerleader. And an Eagles fan? (Cough.) Anyway, she chose to sing a really big song, and it beat her, a bit. She got a little better at the end, but it still wasn't the show-stopper I was hoping for going in. It was a solid performance with a better ending...but she needed to destroy it if she was going to try to take on such a Monster Ballad. She didn't. How do you grade "coming really close to a good performance of a difficult song?" She should be safe, but I hope she gets back in the game next week. Don't overreach, especially if you're SICK!

Heart: Wow, she looks different with straight hair! I liked that look on her. I liked her last night, Clyde! It was a super-hard song, and she really nailed the ending! I think it was a risk worth taking!

Funk: No, I disagree...it pretty much sucked. I didn't enjoy it at all. I hate Celine Dion, and she didn't even do a good job...sorry.

Heart: Overall, I think Carly really reminded us that she's a force to reckon with! She was the best of the night, in my opinion, but the first three girls started off the show with a bang...the show fizzled a little in the middle...but ended on a strong note. LITERALLY, sorry Artie!

Collins: I wouldn't say it was a BAD night...but I'm left confused by the ladies, again. I don't know how to feel about some of them, still. I want to love them, but they keep falling short of expectations. I'm looking for the next winner, and I keep waiting for that moment when it becomes absolutely clear who should (and will) win. Artie, why don't you take the lead in our predictions, today?

THE NIGHT'S BEST

Funk: I liked Brook White and Carly Smithson the best. If I HAD to choose, I'd go with Brooke, because I like the underdog aspect!

Heart: Carly Smithson and Syesha Mercado were tops, once again. But honorable mention to Brooke White! She's gaining on 'em, and I hope she sticks around for a while!

Collins: I'll go with Brooke White, because Carly has more to prove, and her performance, while good, wasn't enough to put her over the top.

THE NIGHT'S WORST

Funk: Amanda Overmyer was abyssmal.

Collins: I'm with Artie. She was a nightmare.

Heart: Yup. Amanda. Boo!

WHO'S GOING HOME THIS WEEK?

Funk: Amanda Overmyer and, probably, Alaina Whitaker...because everyone else did at least "safe" performances, if not decent.

Heart: Amanda Overmyer is probably out...and I think Alaina Whitaker is gonna' be the other one to get sent home. It's a tough call, but I can see her leaving. I think they said it was her birthday last week...but, that's not the case in Week 2, so she may not be able to count on that birthday luck to keep her around!

Collins: Amanda Overmyer and Alaina Whitaker, unless there's some shocking and unjust coup. If Amanda Overmyer is still around next week, I may start changing channels...

OVERALL STANDINGS

TOP GAL/MOST LIKEY TO WIN RIGHT NOW

Funk: Carly's on top, now...because Syesha had kind of a rough week.

Collins: Carly Smithson is the one to beat, because Syesha, Asia'h and Ramiele - the other BIG voices - were unable to knock her off, this week. Brook White is the dark horse, definitely. She's not the traditional Pop sensation, and I think she could steadily build a fanbase and sneak up on everyone.

Heart:I'll have to go with Carly, right now!

GAL ON THE RISE

Funk: Brook White has always been good, but this week shot her up to the top tier, I thnk.

Heart: Brooke White is winning all of us over! And Kristy Lee Cook was MUCH better this week. Not that she was so great last week, but I think she's got plenty of potential, so I'll say she's going to capitalize on it and stick around for a while.

Collins:Brooke White continues to impress!

SLIPPING

Funk: Asia'h, man...and Ramiele. They both took a bit of a tumble this week!

Collins: Kady Malloy is now known as the likeable-but-not-so-great singer of the group.

Heart: Amanda Overmyer, obviously. I'm sure you all got that point, by now! I also think Alexandrea slid a bit. I didn't think her song choice was very memorable, and I hope she gets a chance to bounce back...

Collins: That's that! We'll have our take on the Results Show tomorrow.

Heart: Bye, everyone! Thanks for reading!

Funk: Let's hurry up and get to Week 3, so we can forget last night ever happened!

***** DISCLAIMER *****
The opinions expressed by the three "FOX43 Idol Experts" do not necessarily reflect the opinions of FOX43, Tribune Broadcasting or FOX.
***************************

Posted by Prisoner No. 24601 at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
TAGS: American Idol, Artie Funk, Clyde Collins, Idol Chatter, Idol Experts, Julie Heart

A full recap of Guys Night, predictions and the usual craziness. Jump in!

Collins: I actually thought the fellas were a bit stronger, this week. It'd be hard for a few of them to be WORSE, but...overall, a fine night.

Heart: I absolutely agree! They were better this week, and I think we finally had our first "Wow Moment" out of the top guys, this season!

Collins: Though, I'm SURE we'll disagree on which moment that was, Julie...

Funk: There were THREE really good performances, I thought. But, hey...let's get to it. There's a lot to say about these cats!

THE IDOL EXPERTS ON...THE TOP 10 GUYS

Michael Johns
Performed: "You Can Go Your Own Way" by Fleetwood Mac

Collins: I thought he was pretty horrible, actually. Shaky, shouting, off-key. If the biggest argument for him being frontrunner is that he's dependable, I can turn it around and say that it's his biggest FLAW. I know exactly what I'm going to get from him every week, and it's going to be hard for Mr. Johns to TRULY wow us. Covering Fleetwood Mac was a fine idea, but he SUCKED it up, in my opinion...he'll be safe, even if it was a tad mediocre. He's probably got enough fans by this point where it just won't matter.

Heart: He's ALWAYS good, Clyde. You can really count on him for a good performance, and you can really see age making a difference in his case. That consistency comes with maturity.

Collins: Does maturity also bring sub-par vocals? He was off, admit it. The judges are SO SCARED to badmouth him that the worst they could do was Simon calling it "coasting." Come on. He was bad, tonight.

Funk: It was...alright. Didn't do much for me, didn't make me hate him.

Jason Castro
Performed: "I Just Want to Be Your Everything" by Andy Gibb

Collins: These two going first will hurt Castro more, but...anyway, I think he did a much better job with his song than the judges did. I still don't expect the world from him, and a solid performance is forgiveable! I agree that we SHOULD see him without the guitar next week, just for fun. But, yes...he was just fine. Nothing that will blow the roof off the building, but to the right people, this will stand out. Andy Gibb is wonderfully ironic, and he made a potentially disastrous song choice work. I mean, the Gibb boys are hard to pull off, convincingly! It was a GOOD choice. THERE, I said it.

Funk: I'm a huge BeeGees fan...and by huge, I mean...moderate. I still like him! He's a little "squeaky," but I don't think it was a Go Home Performance.

Heart: Aww, I loved seeing his awkward interviews! It makes him so REAL. He was alright, and he's getting more likeable, but his vocals weren't as strong as last week. Ditto on the guitar thing...IF he's here next week.

Luke Menard
Performed: "Killer Queen" by Queen

Heart: Much better song choice than last week, and definitely one people will remember. But he had a little trouble with the high notes. Face it, he's no Mr. Mercury! I love that he TRIED, though...and it's cool that he's in an a capella group!

Collins: I would say that it was better, but mainly because he picked the WORST possible song last week. On that level, he's improved by leaps and bounds. The problem is, he's just still so BLAND. He tried, sure...but there's nothing more to Luke Menard than a pretty face, and I think he's, once again, in danger of being sent back to Dawson's Creek. The little girls HAVE to catch on that he's lame at some point, right? It really wasn't good.

Funk: Menard's performance was more...fulfilling, this time. I'd say a step up, but it's not enough to save him. I didn't like his interpretation of the song...but, he did alright. Hard to make Queen sound awesome and different at the same time, which is kind of what you have to do on this show.

Robbie Carrico
Performed: "Hot Blooded" by Foreigner

Collins: He's a phony. David Cook's a better rocker than this guy, and Cook's BALD under those giant, comb-forward bangs!

Heart: That is WAY harsh on David Cook...he's an awesome singer. And he's NOT bald, Clyde! Maybe...bald-ING, but...this competition isn't about HAIR, anyway!

Collins: Lucky for these two. Anyway...back to Robbie. He was fine, I suppose, but only for his established fanbase. He didn't win any converts with that. What did he bring to it, and how did that performance set him apart from the pack? Lukewarm-blooded, more like it.

Heart: He did a pretty good job, and I love Foreigner. So...I don't think he'll be voted off the island quite yet!

Funk: I thought it was pretty good. Probably, sadly, his BEST so far...it was good, but not awesome. I got that vibe early on, last night...

Danny Noriega
Performed: "Superstar" by the Carpenters

Collins: Wow, the Carpenters. There's a helluva' way to get the fans jumping...sheeeeeesh!

Heart: I was really hoping he'd out himself or something in his setup video...but, no...just a kiddie punk band. Yawn! Anyway...this song fit him better than Elvis, but he's not doing good enough to get into the top 10 at this point.

Collins: He was better, but a little dreary. That's just a song choice thing, maybe other people felt differently...but, not bad. It's obvious he's an engaging personality and that he's got some talent...but we're not seeing him let it all hang out and win the audience over on charm. If he's still around next week, he has GOT to bring it.

Funk: Actually, it was pretty good! Showed a little different range than in the past...it was okay!

David Hernandez
Performed: "Papa was a Rollin' Stone" by the Temptations

Collins: GREAT performance, great vocal...I, personally, believe he KILLED last night. He's slowly but surely establishing himself as a dependable, but not over-hyped performer. He's the Michael Johns of the "second-tier" guys. He had charisma, and what could've come off as very cheesy actually turned out to be quite good. He's safe, and we're lucky he's still here, quietly bringing up the average on the male side.

Heart: I'm sorry...but I have so much trouble believing him when he sings! He looks a little crazy! I mean, he can SING...but I don't think I'll ever get over his weird looks. Simon said it was the best of the night so far, so...he'll be back again, probably.

Funk: HOT. That blew everyone else out of the water! He did EVERYTHING right. He was on-pitch, awesome song choice that showcased his range...and he BELTED without sounding horrible! Know what I'm sayin'? Best of the night, so far!

Jason Yeager
Performed: "Long Train Runnin'" by the Doobie Brothers

Heart: The lesser of the two Jasons was easier to understand this week, but the singing still wasn't much better. Simon was harsh on him, and it seemed like Seacrest was trying to see if he could get him to cry...

Funk: It was bad. You KNOW it's bad when even RANDY doesn't know how to speak his mind without absolutely crushing the singer.

Collins: It was better, because he couldn't get WORSE, again. He should NOT be here, and deserved to leave last week. He's on borrowed time already, if you ask me...and this performance was as lame and forgettable as we'll EVER see out of Skunkhair. And his little wing-flapping, arm-pump dance at the end was pretty terrible, too. I think my bottom two guys may be the same again, this week...SPOILER alert...

Chikezie
Performed: "I Believe to My Soul" by Ray Charles or Donny Hathaway (depends who you ask)

Heart: See, now...HIS performance was believable! Great singing, fun to watch...if only he would learn to dress himself in something between orange suit and polo shirt. Get a style coach on this guy, people!!

Collins: He was MUCH better this week, and I loved his song choice. It was fun that they made light of Simon not being able to remember his name by reffing it in the song. He'll be safe, but I still think he's got a bit of work to do if he's going to hang with the male frontrunners, this season. And, yes, two polo shirts is always stupid. I know the mannequins at the Gap are wearing two, but that doesn't mean it's ACTUALLY cool. One shirt on top of a different shirt is called layering. The SAME shirt on top of another is just an extra shirt. I'm not into that at all.

Funk: That was GOOD! I liked that he worked his name into the song...he LITERALLY made it h is own! Sounded good, too. Nice work, man!

David Cook
Performed: "All Right Now" by Free

Collins: Much better than last week, which I thought was a wreck. He walked away from the mic at one point! This is about singing, not showmanship. You've got to have both to connect, obviously, but THAT bothered me. Nice that he tried to use the guitar to prove he can rock, but it overpowered his voice a bit. I'm just not a fan! I don't think I ever WILL be. He's going to be safe, I think...but, come on...would you EVER buy one of this guy's albums? Seriously, he's just not special! If you're going to be The Rocker (TM), you need to stand out and be an absolute GOD if you ever hope to win American Idol, let alone the respect of jaded rock music fans. He's doomed, but not out yet.

Heart: Shut up, Clyde! I LOVE this song! He had GREAT energy, and knows how to handle a stage! He'll be here next week, and the week after that!

Collins: Well, hopefully it stops THERE, because 2 more performances is about all the more I'm willing to sit through out of Mr. Cook...

Funk: Vocal was alright, you're being a little hard on him, Clyde. I'd put him at the top of the middle, for the night...but, I do agree that he shouldn't have walked away and not sung the first whole line of the chorus. Kind of annoyed about that! But, not terrible.

David Archuleta
Performed: "Imagine" by John Lennon

Heart: Wow...wow. Best of the night, and he looked and sounded so much older than 16. He earned himself a spot in the Top 10, maybe even Top 5, with that. Awesome!

Collins: He put a twist on it, made it his own...and that's why it worked. Singing this song too similarly to the way John sang it is a comparison you will LOSE EVERY TIME. But, yeah...he did a fine job, and is still one of the top guys, this season. Speaks to the feeling a lot of Americans have toward the country right now, I think, which helps take Lennon's song from "immortal" to "relevant" again.

Funk: AMAZING. That's an awesome song, and he did it really, really well. That was tops for the night, pretty easily! Good stuff!

Collins: Well, it was an interesting night, and the performances were stronger, overall. But, we still have to send 2 guys home. Who will it be? Let's get to our predictions!

THE NIGHT'S BEST

Collins: This was the Night of David, as Mr. Archuleta and Mr. Hernandez were dominant. I'd give Archuleta the SLIGHT edge, because his will be the more memorable performance.

Funk: David Archuleta edges out Hernandez, I think. That cover of "Imagine" was hot!

Heart: I agree that it's the Night of Davids, Clyde...but, with one difference. My Davids include Archuleta and COOK, not Hernandez with his crazy eyes. But David Archuleta wins, totally.

THE NIGHT'S WORST

Collins: Jason Yeager, once again, proved himself to be an absolute waste of space. Luke Menard is a milquetoast old man who needs to leave, as well.

Funk: Jason Yeager. Bleeeech...

Heart: Jason Yeager and Danny Noriega were the weakest, I thought.

WHO'S GOING HOME THIS WEEK?

Heart: Jason Yeager...and Danny Noriega.

Collins: Jason Yeager and Luke Menard. I may continue to pick them UNTIL they leave, because they DESERVE TO LEAVE.

Funk: Jason Yeager...and I'll go with Clyde. Luke Menard, I guess.

OVERALL STANDINGS

TOP GUY/MOST LIKEY TO WIN RIGHT NOW

Collins: David Archuleta is the new frontrunner, but don't count Michael Johns out, just yet. I'm not a fan, but he might be overrated enough to stick around the entire way.

Heart: David Archuleta!

Funk: After tonight...probably David Archuleta, because Michael Johns did not perform to the best of his ability.

GUY ON THE RISE

Collins: David Hernandez, folks...and Chikezie proved that he's got something worth watching. I dont' think last night's performance cooled off Jason Castro, either.

Funk: David Hernandez was great, he's moving up. SHOCKINGLY good this week. And honorable mention to Chikezie. Gladly, he bounced back. Happily. Whatever.

Heart: Chikezie and David Hernandez had a great night, and I think they're on the way up! I hate to admit it, because I don't really like Hernandez...

SLIPPING

Collins: Robbie Carrico and Michael Johns. If the latter is a surprise to you, this is the second week in a row that made me realize he peaked during the audition stage with "Bohemian Rhapsody." Prove me wrong or start swimming, Michaels, because it's a long way back to Australia.

Funk: Jason Castro slipped a bit, I thought. Which makes me sad!

Heart: Michaels Johns took a LITTLE bit of a hit. And Jason Castro fell down a bit, too. I had a lot of hope for him after Week 1!

Collins: There you have it. The ladies perform tonight, and we'll be back tomorrow with more of our thoughts from 70s Week.

Funk: Peace out, dogg!

Heart: See ya' tomorrow, Chatterheads!

***** DISCLAIMER *****
The opinions expressed by the three "FOX43 Idol Experts" do not necessarily reflect the opinions of FOX43, Tribune Broadcasting or FOX.
***************************

Posted by Prisoner No. 24601 at 9:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
TAGS: American Idol, Idol Chatter, Idol Experts

As we get set to send home more superstar hopefuls on American Idol this week, producers are already looking ahead to next season. And one of the big topics is how to shake up the audition stage of the competition a bit so it doesn't get...well, it's already stale. (Maybe rotten?)

Check out the details we have so far from Ben Grossman's article in Broadcasting & Cable:

There are still 20 contestants remaining in this season’s cycle of American Idol, but Fox executives are already looking ahead to changes for next year.

Preston Beckman, the network’s executive vice president of strategic program planning and research, said he wants to see adjustments to the audition shows that kick off the ratings behemoth every year.

“The good news is that there is still enormous sentiment for the show,” he said. “If you listen to the audience, you will generally be fine.”

So, what's all that mean for us fans?

Idol is going to continue to evolve to meet the changing tastes of the audience. Producers will do what they can to make it bigger and better! Every year, it's both different and completely familiar...but that's part of the fun!

We look for the singers - good and bad - who catch us offguard and truly offer something unique we can laugh at or feel good about.

In the end, it all comes down to the people who audition.

Although, all three FOX43 Idol Experts agree that the audition stage dragged out a bit this season...and you don't cross them, FOX!

Collins: Here's to spicing things up! And, hey...while we're at it, is anyone thinking the judges are becoming a bit stale, too? If Paula suddenly disappeared after the end of Season 7, would it be that horrible a thing? I'm just saying, is all. She's incoherent most of the time, anyway.

Don't forget to check out American Idol, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights on FOX43 -- and look for our Idol Experts' thoughts and predictions right here in the "Idol Chatter" feature!

Posted by Prisoner No. 24601 at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
TAGS: American Idol, changes, Idol Experts

How did the FOX43 Idol Experts do on their Week 1 predictions?

2 nights of singing, 1 night of cuts...and we're down to the Top 20, already!

4 contestants (Garrett Haley, Colton Berry, Amy Davis and Joanne Borgella) went home, and our Idol Experts made their calls before Thursday's Week 1 Results Show.

How did they stack up?

Artie Funk

Our boy Artie picked Amy Davis and Joanne Borgella to go, for the girls...and was spot-on! His prediction for the guys was that Garrett Haley and Jason Yeager would leave. He was half-right, as Jason Yeager survived a dismal performance of "Moonriver" and goes on to Week 2.

That's 3 out of 4! Nice work, Artie!

Funk: Yeah! I was surprised, but not disappointed, that Colton Berry left so early. I had a feeling he wasn't gonna' last very long, anyway!

Julie Heart

The lovely Julie Heart admitted to having a tougher time choosing which girls would go home, this week. She selected Amy Davis and Kristy Lee Cook as her personal Bottom 2, and went with Garrett Haley and Jason Yeager for the guys. She was right in calling that Luke Menard would not go home, despite a lackluster performance...perhaps, she suggested, simply because "he's cute." Overall, 2 out of 4 for her.

Heart: I think Amy and Garrett were obvious...there was no reason to keep them! We didn't know them very well, and they didn't wow us, which they needed to do! It's no loss with Garrett, but I was sad to see Amy go. I think he was just a bit too weird for me. Colton, the second I saw him in the opening singing number on the Results Show...I thought he looked like Mini-Donald Trump. What was that COMBOVER called?! Still, his departure really surprised me. He had the better of the 2 Elvis performances, but I guess that wasn't enough! I really thought Jason or someone else may have deserved to go sooner than Colton...and his performance on the way out was actually a bit BETTER! Unlike Amy, who was much worse on her way off the Idol stage forever. Joanne wasn't a surprise, but Kristy Lee Cook may have benefitted from being, first of all, CUTE, and second, the first one they ALWAYS show in that dance montage! She pops up ALL the time. But she needs to step up her game to stick around. Colton and Joanne deserved another week, so we could get to know them better, but...the other two...sorry! Bye.

Clyde Collins

FOX43's most miserable and surly Idol Expert has at least 2 more reasons to be miserable and surly...he was WRONG on both of his calls for the guys, this week! He was certain that Jason Yeager would go, and went with Luke Menard over Garrett Haley. Oops. He was 100% on the girls, though, picking Amy Davis and Joanne Borgella.

2 out of 4 for Clyde. Now, what does he have to say for himself?

Collins: I should've stuck to my original gut feeling about Colton Berry having the stink of being "the guy who knocked off loveable dork Kyle Ensley" all over him. And, clearly, I thought Garrett would stick around to annoy people a bit longer this season...while I thought Luke, on performance and song choice, was completely out of touch with the audience and out of place in the competition. He'll get another week to prove me wrong...again. Overall, though, I'm not unhappy about the results. Garrett and Colton probably would've gone home next week, had they not been eliminated, yet. The clock was ticking for the two of them, and I maintain that it's STILL ticking for Mr. Yeager and Mr. Menard. On the ladies' side, the choice was obvious and simple, in my opinion. I even called Amanda Overmyer being on the bubble. The fans made the RIGHT choice, sending home the worst singers of the night, rather than voting for "cute boys," like they did on the other side. I'll have to take inherent female irrationality into account to a greater extent for Week 2, clearly. Ha ha.

There you have it! Good calls, overall, by our Experts, but Clyde's going to have to get in touch with his MASCULINE side, next week, and make some correct calls on the guys' side!

Leave your thoughts on Week 1's results, and let us know if you agree with who got sent packing!

***** DISCLAIMER *****
The opinions expressed by the three "FOX43 Idol Experts" do not necessarily reflect the opinions of FOX43, Tribune Broadcasting or FOX.
***************************

Posted by Prisoner No. 24601 at 10:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
TAGS: American Idol, Artie Funk, Clyde Collins, Idol Chatter, Julie Heart, Results

The Top 12 Girls performed Wednesday night, and our Idol Experts are going to town with their recap and predictions!

Heart: YAY, Girls Night! It was much better than the guys, I thought, and I really think a girl will win this season.

Collins: You know, I was kind of let-down!

Funk: I liked it, dude. Better than the guys, but only by a LITTLE. The girls are capable of better, I think, and they'll start bringin' it as the season goes on!

Collins: Some weak, some okay, some quite good...but no one really made me a fan for life. The frontrunners have a lot to live up to, because we hold them to a higher standard. They coasted, didn't really knock anything out of the park. This is good for the show, because it's not a runaway for anyone, just yet. It's bad for the early favorite singers, because they become commoners quickly. Next week, we had better see some REAL standout moments, though! Anyway, let's get started...

THE IDOL EXPERTS ON...THE TOP 12 GIRLS

KristyLeeCook
Performed: "Rescue Me"

Heart: I loved her confidence and dancing, but I felt like it was kind of a safe song. She could have SHINED with a different song! And she's so sweet...I want her to stick around, and get her horse back!

Collins: It was definitely kind of safe and same-y. Nothing special to it. Look, too many performances like this, and that horse is as good as glue. They answered the question of whether or not she can sing anything that isn't "Amazing Grace" early on in the night...but, sadly, the answer was "sort of." She was only mediocre, tonight. Not bad, not great, just middlish. Shame, I liked her early on. Didn't live up to her potential.

Funk: I thought Kristy Lee was gonna hit the roof after the start she had with this song, but she tapered off and lost it. I didn't notice the pitch problems Randy did. I did notice the weird eyelid-popping she did throughout the song, though...get a hold of that and quit it, or I'll be annoyed by it soon!

Joanna Borgella
Performed: "I Say a Little Prayer"

Collins: 20 seconds into her backstory, and we'd already heard the phrase "plus-sized" twice. Ugh. I'd get over that quickly, dear. Make sure they know you for being good, not being fat. We're only proud of you for so long before we become annoyed. Anyway, her song was okay. She's not the greatest singer ever, so...fine, not spectacular. Joanne's voice was actually a bit sloppy at times...so, by process of elimination, she may well be one of the two going home, this week.

Funk: Joanne was awful last night, man! She just got through saying she's "not a soul singer," and then what does she do? Sings a soul song! Were there pitch problems everywhere, or is it just me? Blegh.

Heart: She has such an interesting voice and so much emotion when she sings...I think she was just nervous, and Simon was WAY too mean to her.

Alaina Whitaker
Performed: "More Today Than Yesterday"

Heart: I liked the slow start, and she has a bigger voice than I remember. I just noticed that she's slightly gap-toothed, not that that should matter...but she did do a really great job singing and Simon liked the song! He was tough to win over last night, so good for her!

Funk: I don't know, man...Alaina is every high school Junior I know. One of the dudes sang this Tuesday night, like Clyde said...but, you know what? She stumbled at the start, but pulled through by the end. Nice pipes! Best of the night so far.

Collins: Problem for HER is, the night got a LOT better after that! Ha ha. Anyway, she's got that big, belting kind of voice. Very pure, clean sound. Not a bad take on this song...again, not blown away, yet. The best so far, and something to help people recognize her. She did that "start slow, then bust out fast and loud" thing...it was good. They apparently forgot they'd just heard the song the night before from Chikezie, as Simon didn't recognize it at all. Maybe that's worse news for Mr. Eze than Ms. Whitaker, though...

Amanda Overmyer
Performed: "Baby, Please Don't Go"

Collins: I realized while watching the performance that she looks a bit like Kelly Clarkson's evil twin, for one thing. And she's exactly as unspectacular as Kelly is talented. Uncanny. Look, it was more nasal screaming from the Biker-Nurse, which is all we'll EVER hear from her. Exciting in the confines of Idol, but the scat was lousy, the guitarist overshadowed her, and she's going to have to get by on personality alone. She's authentic, alright. Kind of a fun, natural person...I just don't think she's that great a singer, and she'll be out of the picture, eventually. She'll survive this week's cuts, though. Lady Morgue is voting for her. And it's only a matter of time before we hear Overmyer cover Melissa Etheridge, I'm sure.

Heart: I liked the song, but I don't really know if it showcased her voice well. She had lots of energy, but It was a little weird for me - I wanted to hear more...well, SINGING!

Funk: Ok. I get it. You're a rocker. Layin' it on a bit thick, tho, huh? Already. So, you can grunt and show attitude in your performance, but can you SING? You say you can...prove it, please. Soon. The fans like her and will keep her around, but she doesn't get my vote.

Amy Davis
Performed: "Where the Boys Are"

Heart: Wow, she's gorgeous! It wasn't the best song for her, though...but I still love the lip-quiver!

Collins: Well, Julie's in love...but, I'm not sure she's the best one to get attached to! Very weak start, kind of "wobbly"-sounding. She's most-likely headed home. Flat vocals, just not good.

Funk: There were serious PITCH problems, and it was WAY too slow. Yuck. Say goodbye, chicky!

Brooke White
Performed: "Happy Together"

Collins: She's made a true fan out of me. This was tonight's Jason Castro performance, in that she came out of the audition stage as a bit of an enigma...and proved to be refreshingly unique. Her cover of The Turtles hit - which is only one song out of a vast and VARIED collection of music, by the way, look into them - was FOLK-Y, and she's a bit Stevie Nicks. I liked this a lot. Hers was MUCH better than David Cook's awful, shouted version, Tuesday night. The banjo made it a nice, clever cover. I liked her, she deserves to stick around for a long while, based on what we saw here. Forget Amanda Overmyer...Brooke's the original, here.

Heart: I thought she sounded nervous early on, but she sounded better as the song went on. It was pretty good.

Funk: I wanted her to be good SO BAD...and she wasn't bad, thank goodness! It needed to be a bit more unique, I think. She's safe, but she needs to kick it up to make it further.

Collins: For the record, Artie, you tend to listen to slightly more Indie, piano-lady music than I do. You may be thinking she'll go in a different direction than I am...but, I thought she exceeded expectations, and gave herself an image that sets her apart from the others. I don't know if she'll win, because the big-voice girls tend to take the crown...but, I'm pulling for her, now. She's converted me, just as Kristy Lee Cook is pushing me away.

Alexandrea Lushington
Performed: "Spinning Wheel"

Heart: This was the perfect song for her! She was confident, energetic, and made it sound current! She'll be here next week, no question.

Funk: You know what? I thought the vocal was off a bit here and there, but I loved the energy and song choice. Diggin' her so far!

Collins: Not terrific, actually! Very early '90s voice, I don't think she was nearly as good as the judges claimed. Just okay. Decent PERFORMANCE, not great singing.

Kady Malloy
Performed: "Groovy Kind of Love"

Heart: Is this the "WOW VOCAL" Simon was waiting all night for? No! But, you have to admit, she has the control. It wasn't the best song choice, though. The judges need to start shutting up and moving on! Their bickering is getting REALLY old.

Collins: A good vocal, until the end. She hit a few clams near the big finish, which is a SHAME. She's a fun personality, and I like her. I want her to stick around and show her fun side more in her singing. Simon was right in calling it "old," but it wasn't the worst. A bit forgettable, if anything. She'll be back.

Funk: She's very "middle of the road." I think she should have busted out upbeat halfway through, and that would have been "her", I think.

Asia'h Epperson
Performed: "Piece of My Heart"

Funk: She put some heart into it and it worked! Not sure I like the little GRUNTY thing she does sometimes, but I can get over that, personally. The judges don't seem to mind, so why should I?

Collins: She took on Janis, and completely schooled Biker-Nurse! She made it her own, and I as feeling her 'tude. Her voice has a lovely natural rasp, and she can "blow," as Randy says. Impressive.

Heart: She really made the song her own, and she pulled off the impossible - impressing Simon!

Ramiele Malubay
Performed: "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me"

Heart: I was surprised she picked this song...but I loved the buildup! Very professional.

Collins: Smoky, slick...pretty good. Not a song that shows off someone's vocal range well, but not bad. I don't think she's cemented herself into our hearts and minds as a great talent for the ages, but she's cute and didn't screw up...so, she'll stick around. She can flirt with the camera, I know that.

Funk: She was like...WOW, dogg! Huge! I really liked her...flawless victory!

Syesha Mercado
Performed: "Tobacco Road"

Heart: I love this girl! I'm glad she picked a faster, upbeat song. Not her BEST performance, but still great. She IS the total package!

Collins: Didn't recognize the song, but she did a pretty smokin' vocal on it. Syesha was as strong as she was expected to be, very nice. Compared to most of the others, great performance. Not her best, but one of the best of the night, if not THE best.

Funk: I have a huge crush on this girl! Really...not her best, but it had its powerful moments, as usual. And Simon was right when he said it doesn't really matter, though, because she's a serious contender and her "worst performance so far" already has more than half of these other singers' best performances beaten, easily!

Carly Smithson
Performed: "The Shadow of Your Smile"

Collins: This show was STACKED. The last few singers were, clearly, the favorites. But, anyway...on tonight's Irish singer performance. Clearly, she's a seasoned pro with a good voice. But she's a bit Celine Dion at times, in a weird way. It was a little dull...but, overall, a solid performer and a strong vocal, despite illness.

Heart: The singing was good, but the song choice WAS a little boring, like you were saying, Clyde. She really was sick, though...and pulled off a good vocal. That's impressive!

Funk: I watched this and was like, "Really?" She sung very well, but who cares about that song? The mic movement was distracting, too. But...a solid showing, nonetheless.

Collins: Of COURSE it was! That's to be expected. But, like I said with Michael Johns, Tuesday, we hold a few of them to higher standards, and they'd better live up to the hype!

Heart: I thought the girls did SO much better. As I expected, I had a much harder time picking my Bottom 2!

Collins: I was actually a bit disappointed, to be honest. I expected more, and really got no big surprises or revelations out of this show. It was, overall, kind of dull.

Funk: I'm with Julie, KIND of. They were better than the guys, but only by a little. There were plenty of weak performances, and the girls that are really good didn't really step up. Overall, the female talent is better, but they didn't PROVE it.

Heart: Interesting, guys. If we disagree on this, our predictions are probably pretty different. Let's get to the part we've all been waiting for!

THE NIGHT'S BEST

Collins: Asia'h Epperson was the night's best, because I wasn't in love with Syesha's song choice and Carly was boring.

Funk: For me, it was Ramiele. She did that song so well that I don't think anyone else touched her spot-on performance all night...not even Carly!

Heart: Ramiele Malubay was my favorite. She's adorable, and that big voice and her professionalism put her over the edge. I really liked Syesha, too, though. Tough call!

THE NIGHT'S WORST

Collins: Amy Davis' performance was a sickening, offensive waste of my life.

Funk: Amy Jean was not good. Nuff said...

Heart: Amy Davis, to make this category a clean sweep for us! Hard to deny she was the worst. Kristy Lee Cook was weak, but I don't think she'll go home.

WHO'S GOING HOME THIS WEEK?

Funk: Yo, me first! Amy and Joanne, if it were up to me, would be packin' their seemingly tone-deaf and plus-sized bags, respectively.

Heart: Amy, definitely. The other girl in the Bottom 2...hmm...Kristy Lee Cook, maybe? She wasn't very strong, and went in that awful first spot of the night.

Collins: I think voters will be willing to give Kristy another chance, but you could be right, Julie. The first singers are always at a disadvantage. I think, however, that Amy Davis and Joanne Borgella should both go home. Quite simple, really. Honorable mention to Amanda Overmyer, who would be gone if I had my way. Her brand of "refreshing" is already quite tired.

OVERALL STANDINGS

TOP GIRL/MOST LIKEY TO WIN RIGHT NOW

Collins: Syesha, it's undeniable. She's the current frontrunner. I think this will change, or go back and forth as the season goes on, though.

Heart: Syesha's the one to beat! It's tough, because so many are good.

Funk: Syesha and Carly seem to be judge favorites, and probably fan faves as well!

GIRL ON THE RISE

Collins: Brooke White, you're the ladies' Dark Horse. Ramiele Malubay, also, definitely made a lot of fans. I think those two are on the move, but I don't know if either can actually win it all.

Funk: Alaina Whitaker kicked some SERIOUS butt, last night. HARD. She's movin' on up!

Heart: Alexandrea Lushington and Asia'h Epperson both had strong nights, and I think exceeded expectations. We knew they were good, but...I think they stood out as two who could make serious runs at becoming this season's winner.

SLIPPING

Collins: Amanda Overmyer, it's a matter of time. Also, Carly Smithson. I know she's great, but she's BORING so far, and, given her song choices from the start up to last night, she isn't going to do anything very different. I predict the mighty Carly will fall before this season ends.

Funk: Kady needs to heed the "be yourself" advice and let her fun side show, especially with her future song choices. I hope we see more of her past this week!

Heart: Amanda Overmyer is definitely slipping a bit. I thought Carly, a little bit, but she'll probably bounce back. Her performance was still good, but I think song choice was the real problem. It's obvious she's really good, still.

Collins: That's all for this Top 12 Girls Recap. Leave your thoughts, predictions and comments...and we'll be back with our thoughts on who went home and how the show shapes up after the first 4 cuts!

Heart: See ya'!

Funk: Peace out, peepz!

***** DISCLAIMER *****
The opinions expressed by the three "FOX43 Idol Experts" do not necessarily reflect the opinions of FOX43, Tribune Broadcasting or FOX.
***************************

Posted by Prisoner No. 24601 at 9:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
TAGS: American Idol, Artie Funk, Clyde Collins, Idol Chatter, Julie Heart

Tuesday was Boys' Night on Idol! Get a recap and our predictions, right here.

Heart: It's so exciting that the competition is finally starting for real! Voting for the Top 12 guys was last night, and the Top 12 girls will be singing to impress the viewers and win your votes tonight!

Collins: From this point, we start to pick off the weaker singers, one by one, and every week, the stakes are higher. And it's '60s night, whoopee.

Funk: We got our first look at a few of the guys last night. A few weren't really featured in the auditions or in Hollywood...and this was their first chance to win some fans.

Collins: It's an uphill battle for those people, and a few of them may be going home tonight, as a result of that fact and uninspired performances. Let's start off at the beginning, with David Hernandez. Julie, what did you think?

THE IDOL EXPERTS ON...THE TOP 12 GUYS

David Hernandez
Performed: "In the Midnight Hour"

Heart: I think he's a great singer, based on what we saw from him before...but it fell apart after a strong start! He was definitely nervous, and that's natural. But he's almost TOO expressive, and the beginning of the song was better than the end.

Collins: He did start strong, but he crashed and burned. He tends to start off slow, then bust into a faster, stronger, up-tempo take on a song...it's a pattern, officially, he did it in Hollywood, too. Ending on a sour note can really hurt you as the competition goes on. The first singer of the night is usually at a disadvantage in terms of being shown-up or even completely ERASED by all the others. David, probably has some fans, already, and he should survive Week 1. Not great, but not horrible.

Funk: That is NOT the note you want to finish on! Man, that was ROUGH...that's what people are gonna' remember. You gotta' finish strong. It was pretty good, but...fell apart.

Chikezie
Performed: "I Love You More Today Than Yesterday"

Collins: Chikezie has dropped his last name, which is kind of smart. Becoming a "brand," like Jay-Z or Kanye or Prince or Madonna...that's vital to success, sometimes. His performance was a bit lackluster. He NEEDS to be part of this show for a while longer, but...I think he's more fizzle than sizzle, based on his performances so far. I wasn't feeling the soul I should've felt, and that I think he was going for...

Funk: DIG the duds, dogg! That rusty salmon kinda' suit he had on, that was WILD. Not as strong as I thought it'd be, but decent. More of an interpretation of the song than David did...he mixed it up a little.

Heart: It was a little lounge-y, but he made it his own, like Artie said. It got better in the end. I wonder if it's smart fighting with Simon ALREADY. And Simon said "Jacuzzi!" We'll see if it translates to fans.

David Cook
Performed: "Happy Together"

Heart: I like his little looks at the camera, it makes me smile. He's just a really nice guy, and knows how to draw in the crowd - a pretty original version of the song, too!

Funk: It WASN'T crazy, as Randy said. It was crazy-BAD! It had potential, but...eh, totally squandered it.

Collins: I don't like him. I can't really say why, but he rubs me the wrong me. I think it's the pretentious hair and that faux-rocker attitude...I'm not into it. He's got an okay voice, but I think he took the heart out of a very pleasant song, all in the name of establishing an image for himself. He'll win a fanbase, sure...but he hasn't won me over.

Jason Yeager
Performed: "Moonriver"

Collins: What a mess. Boring, uninspired, forgettable...we didn't know Skunk-Hair coming in, and we probably won't be seeing him again after this week. He did himself NO favors with this dreadful, dreary song choice.

Heart: He was either too quiet or mumbling, but I didn't catch a lot of the song. His smile's kind of goofy, and Randy and Paula were a little too nice. Glad Simon was honest and put him in his place!

Funk: HA HA HA HA HA HA HA!!! "MOONRIVER?!!!!" GO HOME! Simon's right -- he'd sound EXACTLY the same every week, and always be completely boring!

Robbie Carrico
Performed: "One (Is the Loneliest Number)"

Heart: He toured with Britney as a kid?!

Collins: That's not going to do his rocker persona any favors!

Heart: Ha ha. But I was expecting a bit more from him. He was still okay, just nothing spectactular.

Collins: Every season, we go through this. Robbie Carrico is this season's "rocker," taking song and giving them "Edge (TM)" in hopes of cementing his image as a rock god and defeating Pop Music once and for all. He simply will not last! There was NOTHING new or original about him. He's cover band material, and will be sent packing, just not for many weeks after doing the same things over and over.

Funk: That was the best middle-of-the-road rock performance of the night...it was okay.

David Archuleta
Performed: "Shop Around"

Collins: I think he was energetic, did what he could...he'll coast through to Week 2, no problem. He DOES have a lot of potential. I wasn't blown away, and I'm not sure his gawky, awkward interview with Seacrest after the performance was a plus or minus to the voters. But, luckily for him, he's anything but forgettable.

Heart: The song seemed a little too BIG for him, and he was just a little unsure of himself. But, great for his age - I still think he did a good job, and he's a cute kid. The judges were a little easy on him!

Funk: I was disappointed, because I thought he was really awesome before...it wasn't as good as I was expecting.

Danny Norriega
Performed: "Jailhouse Rock"