Pros and Cons of American Idol, Season 8, Top 13

Well, the finals begin this week, and we get a baker's dozen instead of the usual 12. Some folks start watching now, knowing that they've eliminated most of the inferior singers, leaving mostly the cream of the crop, although that remains to be seen.

Here is a rundown of the contestants and why they might win or lose:

Adam Lambert

Pro: He's a versatile singer with excellent range and great stage presence, after years of performing in musicals.

Con: Some perceive him as too theatrical, too flamboyant, and who knows if his homosexuality will be a factor with some voters.

Alexis Grace

Pro: Strong voice, likeable personality.

Con: Has not shown a ton of personality.

Allison Iraheta

Pro: Did a fantastic job with Heart's "Alone" and is fearless on stage.

Con: Her voice may be suited only for rock, making her somewhat of a one-trick pony.

Anoop Desai

Pro: Average vocalist but extremely likable personality.

Con: Too many weeks of mediocre performances will catch up to him, a la Ace Young.

Danny Gokey

Pro: Excellent voice, great stage presence, sympathetic story of his wife's sudden passing a few months ago.

Con: Some think he has been exploiting his wife's death for sympathy votes, which may lead to voters turning on him.

Jasmine Murray

Pro: Beautiful young lady, sweet personality, great potential.

Con: Since auditions, has not blown anyone away, and may be a tad too inexperienced to gain a huge following.

Jorge Nunez

Pro: Charming personality, nice voice, will get a lot of the Hispanic votes.

Con: Some may perceive him getting to the finals because the judges wanted diversity, which may lead them to resent him.

Kris Allen

Pro: Smooth vocalist, boyish good looks.

Con: Has not shown a great deal of charisma.

Lil Rounds

Pro: Fantastic vocals, great stage presence, likeable personality.

Con: If given the front runner treatment, might turn off fans a la David Archuleta.

Matt Giraud

Pro: Smooth, bluesy vocals, plays piano very well.

Con: May not be able to pull off other genres very well, as evidenced with Coldplay.

Megan Joy

Pro: Nice tone to her voice, seems to pick good songs.

Con: Quirky movements while performing will be disconcerting to many viewers.

Michael Sarver

Pro: Has the guy-next-door, blue-collar appeal, a la Scott Savol.

Con: Seems to have pedestrian vocals at best.

Scott MacIntyre

Pro: Blind, has great personality and sense of humor, will fight with Danny for sympathy votes.

Con: Fans might find it too cliché if he wins and may try to prevent that.