Top 8 Guys! - 80s Theme

Luke Menard - Okay, but the performance was a bit weak, and certainly no improvement over last week. He has some charisma, but seems slated to leave sooner rather than later. Simon agrees.

David Archuleta - Plays piano, which I think weakens his opening a bit due to distraction from his focus on singing. Not his best performance, but good. Simon encourages more liveliness, which is a good point.

Danny Noriega - Pitchy and off-timing make this performance depend almost entirely on looks and charisma. Randy agrees, but is encouraging. Paula has a crush and encourages him. Simon is straight and brutal with him, and didn't like it at all, but he's right, in my view.

David Hernandez - Strong start and good skillz, but he loses some power in the softer phrasing. Good song choice. Overall, very well done, and it should move him along. Randy agrees. Paula agrees. Simon liked last week better, but agrees he's through to the finals.

Michael Johns - Puts his own twist on this song with some success. Randy and Paula give him props. Simon likes him, didn't love the song, and is waiting for him to find just the right song.

David Cook - Puts a rock slant on this popular Lionel Ritchie ballad. Owns the stage, again. Gives me some chills. Another winning performance. The judges all loved it.

Jason Castro - The song is unknown to me. Poor timing, at times. Flubs the tender ending. Not so much, for me, but he has appeal and charisma, so will likely stick around. Randy and Paula are more forgiving. Simon loved it. I'm surprised.

Chikezie - Great power in the strong parts, a little weak on high and soft notes. Good song choice. Randy and Paula liked it. Simon disses it 'cuz Whitney Houston made it a girly song, never mind that males have sung it too.


Tops and Props: David C., A. and H., in that order.

Bottoms: For me, Danny and Luke.

Leaving: Luke Menard