Top Boys

Editor's Intro: Jim's been busy putting together an album in L.A., but he quickly raced back to the Midwest to share his review and recap of an Idol Boys' episode aired on Fox, February 26, 2008, with ChicagoPride.com

Michael Johns' tennis montage was borderline interesting but I don't think his choice of song was the best way to open the show. He seemed a little awkward, not knowing whether to move a lot, a little, or move at all. Any sort of emotion wasn't felt from him. Usually, I get an immediate reaction from a performance, and with him, I had to think about what my impression was. Therefore, to me, it was just
kind of ok.

One of the most enjoyable things about Jason Castro is that he comes off as likable. He's clearly not used to the interview process as shown in his footage, but more than that, he's all about the music. You can tell this by the way he incorporates artistry by playing guitar into his performances. I think that if I had to compare him to another artist's sound, it'd be similar to that of Jason Mraz. Basically, he's Mr. A-Z with dreads.

Luke Menard had previous experience touring with an Acapella group and he's got a case of the "McDreamy"—I'm not going to lie. However, his performance tonight was nothing out of a dream. Very average, a little on the awkward side, and didn't really go anywhere for me. He just doesn't have that "it" factor that some of the other contestants do.

I'm kind of over Robbie Carrico to be honest. It's interesting how viewers can tell that someone's not being their authentic self. He sang, "Hot Blooded," and it was almost as if it was forced upon us, like he was yelling at us, saying, "Look at me! I'm edgy and I like rock and ... I'm edgy!" Yeah, okay, you're as edgy as Martha Stewart, Dude. I just didn't buy it. It wasn't believable and it's clear that he isn't quite sure of whom he is as an artist.

Danny Noriega is a sassy one. He's authentic, and he possesses everything I wish I did while I was on the show. He owns whoever he is. That's something I was scared to do six years ago, so major credit goes to him. I'm a fan of his voice, but agree with the judges that it wasn't his absolute best; neither his worst. Danny sort of coasted through tonight's performance, and with no doubt, he'll be back next week. I have a feeling he's going to get better and better as the show progresses. Danny is definitely one of the ones I'm rooting for.

David Hernandez spells amazing: A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. This was a completely flawless performance that had everything from stage presence, vocal ability and pure confidence. It's one of those auditions that will be remembered because of how well he performed. David H is not only Top 12 material, but Top Five. Mark my words: this guy is going far. Excellent. Excellent. Excellent.

It may be time for Jason Yeager's elimination. It's not that I don't think he's talented per se, it's more of a preference thing, and, unfortunately, that won't help him. He doesn't stand out compared to the three Davids, and he's got a case of the cheesy, not-so-polished stage presence. Recording Artist? Not so much. Bat Mitzvah Singer? Maybe.

I didn't care for Chikezie last week, but he definitely won me over this week. Great vocal, and did a really great job of taking us all back to the '70s. The only thing I really didn't care for (but mostly overlooked) was the double polo shirt deal he had going on. Lime green and navy blue? Not a fan. Not to mention, it just looked a little "less put together" than the other contestants. Then again, I reminded myself that the makeovers really start to happen when the Top 12 comes together, so we'll see. Chikezie had a great delivery and I'm really excited for him in the coming episodes.

David Cook also spells amazing: A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. He is pure authenticity at its best. He had a great song choice, excellent incorporation of his musician-ship with the guitar playing, and flawless vocals. The only thing that may hurt him in this competition is the obvious comparison to Chris Daughtry. Are people sick of Daughtry, or are we ready for another rocker Idol? We'll see, but I think David's going to be sticking around for quite sometime and sail right into the Top 12.

David Archuleta is my absolute favorite contestant of the entire season. If you caught tonight's episode, you'll notice they actually used footage of when Kelly Clarkson, Justin Guarini and I (along with the rest of the Top 10) met him when he was just 11-years-old. He sang, Jennifer Holiday's, "And I Am Telling You," in front of all us. We knew even then this kid was going to do some major things in music. We were so right. His performance tonight of John Lennon's, "Imagine," was amazing. So passionate, so perfectly delivered, it honestly brought tears to my eyes. That may sound so ridiculous, but when an artist (who is just 17) can sell a Lennon song, you know he's got something incredibly special. David Archuleta will be in the Final three, if not win this entire competition. If you're missing out on Idol this season, search David Archuleta on YouTube. You'll know what I'm talking about.