Review of American Idol, March 10, 2009, Show: Lil Rounds Awesome

The top 13 are now in place. It's down to business. Let the music begin!

Lil Rounds started off the night with an awesome performance. She received great reviews from all of the judges. Even though Simon did have something negative to say, as usual. All in all, it was a great way to start the night.

Scott was next on the performance list. I really do like Scott. I thought he had great vocals and he was terrific on the piano. He definitely comes alive when he is playing. Kara said he was being true to himself. Simon of course said he didn't like the song but that he loved his singing.

Danny Gokey was next. Oh, what can I say about Danny? I just love him too! I really think he has a shot of winning the whole thing and I am hoping that he does. Paula said the true mark of a singer is when you can close your eyes and know who is singing. Danny has that. Simon said his vocals were brilliant and that he is a heck of a singer. Randy said he danced with passion even though it wasn't choreographed.

From Jasper, Texas comes Michael Sarver. He sang You Are Not Alone. One of his best performances, in my opinion. Simon said that he gave 110%.

Jasmine Murray sang "I'll Be There". I thought it was a good song and she had great stage presence. Paula said she had poise. She received mostly good reviews from the judges. Simon said that big notes will always be trouble for her and that she sang a bit robotic. The judges want her to act her age. Pick songs that will fit her better.

Kris Allen got to play his guitar. We got to see just how talented he is. Paula commented on how he spent a lot of time that week helping other contestants. Simon called his performance clumsy and Randy told him, "job well done".

Sixteen year old Allison was next. She has strong vocals for someone so young. There are times when you can just tell what someone was born to do. Paula said as long as she stays authentic she will do fine. Simon said she knows who she is and told her to lighten up. Randy said she is the one to watch. I agree!

"Anoop Dog" as they like to call him, was next. He sang "Beat It". Not his best performance in my opinion, but was alright. Paula said the song is "untouchable" and that it belongs to the artist. She also said it sounded like karaoke. Simon called it "horrible" and "stupid". Randy said it was the wrong song choice for him. Simon actually said after hearing that song he thinks he made a wrong decision in choosing him for the Top 13. That is a low blow.

Jorge was up next. I like this guy. He seems really nice and genuine. He has some great vocals. Not too mention a very nice smile. Randy said the song choice was old fashioned for him. Kara said he needs to be more emotional when he sings. Paula wanted to know what drew him to sing that song. He said he thought the song fit his voice. Simon said he thought it was corny and that the arrangement was awful.

Megan Corkrey sang "Rockin' Robin". This girl really has a unique voice and style. I could personally do without the tattoo, but that was her choice not mine. Kara said Megan puts her signature on everything she sings. Paula said she felt a little disconnected. Simon used the words "stupid", "ridiculous", "clumsy" and "awkward" in his review of the song. Simon also said he thinks they have all gone nuts.

Adam Lambert totally owned the stage tonight. This guy has great range! Michael Jackson has gone heavy metal! The song did have a heavy metal ring to it every now and then. Kara said he hit notes she didn't even know existed. The crowd sounded like a concert crowd. Paula said that he is very comfortable on stage and that he has the whole package. Simon said that Adam is in a different league than everyone else they saw that night.

We got to see Matt Giraud play the piano. He really shines when he plays. I didn't like the ending too much, but thought his overall performance was great. He received good reviews from all of the judges.

Alexis Grace was the last contestant to "grace" the stage. No pun intended. Well, actually there was. Kara said that Alexis was a naughty girl. Simon commented on how it was over the top.

On tonight's show Ryan said that there will be changes to the rules. We will find those out tomorrow night. He also said Kanye West and Kelly Clarkson will be making an appearance on tomorrow's show.

One final note: I make this review as I am watching the show. I am always interested to know if the judges will agree with my opinions or not.

If you will allow me to be so bold I am going to call the final 3. Danny, Allison and Adam.