The Top Nine Rock On

Most everyone did well this week, but for now, I think it's clear who are the top three:

1. James Durbin delivered a ballad on rock and roll week, and it was a risk that paid off. His performance of While my Guitar Gently Weeps proved that he has the best delivery and stagecraft of any contestant that I can remember including Adam Lambert. I like James better than Adam because he is less polished and seems more genuine.

2. Lauren Alaina was less annoying this week, but no matter how much she irritates me, her talent is undeniable. And I think men like her, which is a promising thing for a girl performer.

3. Scotty McCreery didn't do a slavish Elvis impersonation, but made the song his own, as they used to say every week on American Idol. But why did the stylists let him wear double denim?

4. Paul McDonald: Just going by tonight's performance, Paul went way up in the power ranking. He seemed so much at home with a little band, and he also showed great stagecraft.

5. Jacob Lusk sang beautifully this week, avoiding going over the top. But what was with those hip movements? And before his song when he said that America had better look in the mirror, was that a threat? And what did he mean about changing the world in his closing comments backstage? He's scaring me.

6. Casey Abrams: I want to like him more than I do. He did a great job on a beloved CCR song, but he still makes creepy faces.

7. Pia Toscano has a great voice, but she just can't bring it. She gets loud and shouty much too soon every time, she can't move, and tonight, her outfit made her look like a troll.

8. Stefano Langone has been taking lessons from Pia. He brought up the intensity much too soon (noted by Randy). Like Pia, great voice but flawed delivery.

9. Haley Reinhart: Janis? Really? Are you crazy? Maybe a lot of AI fans don't remember Janis Joplin, but all must admit that Haley's phrasing was ridiculous and her performance was sloppy. And delivered with a big smile throughout. Are you listening to the words? Just listen to the real thing: