So Jason Castro sings once and Paula judges him for two songs. Better check that glass of Coca-Cola. Here's the order of how the five finalists performed last night, with the odds of winning it all in three weeks:
1. David Cook
Grinds out mean guitar version of "I'm Alive" and settles into an '80s-style rock ballad with "All I Really Need." Looking more like the American Idol with each performance as he establishes an image of professional unpredictably. Front-runner.
Odds of winning: 3-1
2. Syesha Mercado
New hairstyle and softer personality. Would have had her first as she delivers best performance of the night with "Hello Again," but loses points for throw-away gospel brunch version of "Thank the Lord for the Night Time." Should get through but there are no givens.
Odds of winning: 15-1
3. David Archuleta
The problem here is that he has been terrific since Day One. Unlike the others, there's little, if any, room for improvement. Visible growth draws votes. Delivers campy version of "Sweet Caroline" and superb patriotic arrangement of "America." Gearing up for a David-David final.
Odds of winning: 3-1
4. Jason Castro
At this stage, singers need to deliver "wow" moments. Does not have the ability to do anything exceptional. Sings cool, low-key versions of "Forever in Blue Jeans" and "September Morn." Teeny-bopper votes continue to roll in but he's no match for the front-runners.
Odds of winning: 25-1
5. Brooke White (bye, bye)
Night and day performances. Sings "I'm a Believer" karaoke-style but turns it around with passionate piano version of "I Am ... I Said." Admits to writing lyrics on her hand. Sweet voice but she must be pinching herself with the introspective question: "I'm actually still singing in this competition?"
Odds of winning: 35-1