1. Astro – The big winner in tonight’s performance show was LA Reid. All of his pupils were spectacular. Astro in particular delivered in outstanding fashion. It’s the second week in a row that I have placed him at the top and I don’t really see him moving from it. He is writing his own lyrics and LA is mentoring him beautifully. Easily the top contender.
2. Marcus Canty – The most improved contestant does it again. Perfect song choice and beautifully delivered. What I liked the most about it was how he did a ballad after doing well with uptempo last week. He is a fantastic performer.
3. Melanie Amaro – Even though she dropped a spot, I think she actually did a better job this week than she did last week. She’s good but doesn’t show any variety.
4. Chris Rene – Big jump as Chris Rene finally started to show signs of his prior brilliance. Gangsta’s Paradise was the right song choice and LA Reid showing why it is looking more and more likely that a boy will win the season.
5. Drew – There is no song that Drew can’t sing but I thought her dress was distracting. Her tone is great and that’s why she is still in the top five, but like Melanie Amaro, it’s time for her to do something different.
6. Josh Krajcik – I called Josh to win the entire thing, but I didn’t really like his work this week. I blame Nicole more than him. The gospel singers didn’t fit with his persona and Simon’s critique that he should just sing with a microphone was spot on. Let’s see him sing some rock for once.
7. Lakoda Rayne – Looked fantastic. Sounded okay. Major improvement.
8. Leroy Bell – Big improvement from Leroy Bell. The song choice fit his voice and showcased what he could do on a potential record. He also seemed much more comfortable. He almost put me to sleep last week so anything would have been an improvement.
9. Rachel Crow – Simon promised a big surprise. I honestly thought it was only marginally better than what she has done so far. Why does she always look so angry when she sings? I think she needs to lose the attitude and sing happier songs. She has done nothing for me to differentiate her from a member of InTENsity.
10. Stacy Francis – Was expecting more.
11. Stereo Hogzz – These guys are great dancers. And yes, I am not mentioning the singing intentionally. I paid way more attention to the background dancers.
