American Idol: Season Seven; Final 12

March 11, 2088--As I sit on my couch watching this episode of "American Idol," it was surreal for me to see the set made up of more than just plastic, cardboard and flashlights. That was the case when I was on the show back in 2002, when no one had a single clue what "American Idol" was or what it would become. But, moving on--

Syesha Mercado opens the show, and although I enjoy her, tonight was a bit of a letdown. I expected her to sing, but she was a little disappointing. I'm not going to lie. She looked great and sounded great, but she just made me want to read a Babysitters Club book or something. She just didn't give me what I wanted, and I wanted a more vocally challenging performance. Period.

Chikezie was the surprise of this episode's competition. He took a total risk on a legendary Beatles song, made it his own, and it worked. He sounded fantastic, but the clothing needed some work. It was a little sloppy for my taste. It would've been great to see him in a more tailored look consisting of something like a dark blazer, collared shirt, jeans and good dress shoes. That's all I'm asking for, Chikezie! Give me something a little more put-together for cryin' out loud. You're in the Top 12!

The lovers' quarrel that Ryan and Simon are having distracts me. Did Simon use Ryan's toothbrush in the morning, or was Ryan insensitive to Simon's feelings about his chest hair? Either way, zip it ladies. It's getting old.

Ramiele Malubay serenades the audience with, "In My Life." I love her but the performance was a little too one-note for me. She's proven her vocal ability in previous episides: Give it to me harder, Ramiele! Danny Noriega would've said the same. Trust me on this one.

Jason Castro delivers a sweet and soft acoustic performance once again with "If I Fell." He reminds me exactly of Jason Mraz, but in a more emotionally connected way. I don't know why, but I like him. He brings something different and his eyes are pretty. He's definitely not one of the stronger vocalists, but he's unique and knows how to captivate the audience and get them to listen. That's something very challenging to do but Castro does it, and he does it well.

Ryan whispers sweet nothings into Simon's ear, or maybe reminds him of the promises they made to each other for when they get home. Since the camera is on them, Simon tells Ryan to get away.

Carly Smithson blows the audience away with her interpretation of "Come Together." It was amazing. This girl is consistently flawless. She chooses great songs and pushes herself. She's a rock star, and I'll buy her record when she gets her deal.

David Cook took it to new levels with "Eleanor Rigby." The lights did nothing but add to the fact that he's a star. Great performance. Enough said.

Brooke White, who I don't get and never will, chooses "Let It Be," and it's okay. It's times like these that I miss Danny Noriega, a.k.a. Sassy McSassypants. Brooke could actually use a hair flip or neck shake herself.

After I wake up from White's lullaby, I notice Ryan once again trying to put on her heels. They're not your size, Sweetheart, and open toes would do nothing for you.

David Hernandez does a very solid job with "I Saw Her Standing There." Yet I'm left feeling a little under-whelmed. It wasn't his vocal as much as it was his performance. It reminded me of Velveeta brand cheese. It was also reminiscent of Justin Guarini's bowlegged performances where he was nothing but cheese. I'm still a fan, and he'll be back next week to make me love him all over again. I'm sure.

I appreciate Amanda Overmyer's hair and styling tonight. It's nice to forget the Cruella DeVille-horror that Overmyer was a few weeks ago. She's authentic in this episide, and does a really solid job making "You Can't Do That" her own. I love it, even if she mumbles her words. I'd just prefer if she'd own-up to the bottle of Jack Daniels she downs backstage instead of trying to hide it.

Michael Johns does, "Across the Universe," and it was a decent performance. I just find his presence completely awkward. Whether it's an up-tempo song or a ballad, he just seems like he has to pee or something. He's a great vocalist, and seems like a nice guy, I'm just sort of bored of him. He's missing something. Maybe it's personality.

My little Pony, a.k.a. Kristy Lee Cook, tries to convince us that going Honky Tonk with, "Eight Days a Week" is the way to go. No Kristy, it's not. Honky Tonk anything is a mistake, and this performance, unfortunately, was a huge mistake. You look cute in your sparkly top and all, but this might just be your last week, Sweet Pea.

My little Davey ([David]) Archuleta is last, and I'm hoping for him to bring the house down with his choice of song. But I notice him forgetting the lyrics and acting stiff and awkward. Is it nerves? David, you've been doing this for years, why the nerves now? This performance wasn't his best, but I'm a fan of his voice. He'll find his way next week.