American Idol: The Top 7 - How Do They Rank

(1) David Cook
Admittedly he did hit a bit of an awkward note with his rendition of "Innocent" by Our Lady Peace. I did have a chance to listen to it again on YouTube and it was not quite as unfortunate as I first thought. Add to that the infamous white jacket. While, I don't go as far as Simon to call it pompous, I do think it was a little self indulgent. Save the jacket for the finals. Even with the vocal and sartorial misstep I still think he has the stuff to be in the top spot. I believe that he has something new to bring to the musical landscape.

(2) David Archuleta
Though David A is still occupying the number 2 spot, he and David C are in a veritable dead heat toward the finish line. There's no doubt that Inspiration week belonged to David A. His version of Robbie Williams "Angels" was one of his best ever performances. He has proven that his youth is no hindrance for his musical capability.

(3) Jason Castro
Taking to the American Idol stage with a ukulele, especially one you just learned to play, now that's moxie. Jason Castro has it and he had a wonderful performance during Inspiration week. His version of Israel Kamakawiwo Ole's version of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow was pitch perfect and very pure. He seemed emotionally engaged. In fact he chose a song that appeared to be the very embodiment of his spirit.

(4) Syesha Mercado
Syesha's got brass ones. To take on Whitney one week and Fantasia the next. However, if you are going to sing Fantasia, just being able to sing is not enough. Fantasia brings a dearth of emotion to every song she sings. Her performances seem to be an expression of her gratitude and she imparts that in every song. If you are going to sing a song that she has put her stamp on then you have to emotionally connect to yourself and the material. While, Syesha delivered a pitch perfect piece, Fantasia moved me to tears.

(5) Kristy Lee Cook
Kristy Lee delivered a fantastic performance for inspiration night. Her version of Martina McBride's "Do It Anyway" was a perfect accompaniment to the timbre and tone of her voice. She also seemed completely connected to the message of the song. With several brilliant song choices under her shiny crystal belt, she's one to watch.

(6) Brooke White
Brooke White is tried and true. In the words of Paula, she is 'definitive'. Consistent and thoughtful, she knows herself and sticks to material that serves her voice and musical style. Singing Carol King's "You've Got a Friend", she stayed firmly entrenched in her comfort zone. The musical arrangement was particularly lovely and serviced Brooke's delivery. Though quite a nice performance it was not a stand out.

(7) Carly Smithson
Carly gets the last spot this week, not because I've lost faith in her, but it seems that she is losing faith in herself. Her version of Freddie Mercury's "The Show Must Go One" felt more like a chore than a joy. For tonight's show and in the coming weeks, I hope that Carly is able to redeem herself.