No one deserves to leave tonight. We're down to pure talent. I don't blame the judges for finding it difficult to find flaws, but what was up with Steven Tyler's "how are the balls of your feet" comment to Ryan? Here's the order of how the nine finalists performed last night, with the odds of winning it all next month:
1. James Durbin
Once he gave America a "Mad World" moment, as he did last night with a passionate "While My Guitar Gently Weeps," his versatility was proven. Wild rocker who can sing at all speeds. Emotional performance and best of the night.
Odds of winning: 10-1
2. Lauren Alaina
Soft, velvety version of Aretha Franklin's "(You Make Me Feel Like) a Natural Woman" was excellent. Seems to be getting better each week. Hit every note perfectly with a polished stage presence. One of the favorites, but what was up with the '80s hair?
Odds of winning: 10-1
3. Pia Toscano
Kicked ass with a powerful version of Tina Turner's "River Deep, Mountain High." Just dived right into it, building on the chorus and finishing with a strong Broadway-calibre succession of notes. Hard to ignore her chances.
Odds of winning: 5-1
4. Stefano Langone (bottom 3)
His best performance to date with "When a Man Loves a Woman," but Randy's negative comments will hurt him. Thought he nailed this, with a groovy falsetto at the beginning before opening it up. Strong, strong vocal.
Odds of winning: 30-1
5. Scotty McCreery
Love the fact he sang Elvis, cranking it up with attitude on "That's All Right." This had a John Kay and Steppenwolf feel to it, a raw edge with plenty of bite. Gets better each week and would not be surprised to see him in the finale.
Odds of winning: 8-1
6. Casey Abrams
Loved his chances earlier in the competition, but art won't win over commerce. Think he's the best pure musician in the group, once again showing his stand-up bass talents on a CCR classic. Smiled a little more, which will earn him some votes.
Odds of winning: 15-1
7. Paul McDonald (bottom 3)
Thought for sure he would sing Rod Stewart, but instead tackles a Johnny Cash classic ("Folsom Prison Blues"). Thought the vocal was just OK, as he gave much too freedom to the musicians and crowd participation . Just sing, dude.
Odds of winning: 30-1
8. Haley Reinhart
Ah, Haley. Doesn't have the right voice to cover Janis, but did an admirable job with "Piece of My Heart." Thought it was a little forced, but loved the a capella toward the end. Bluesy singer who will likely stick around a few more weeks.
Odds of winning: 30-1
9. Jacob Lusk (bye, bye)
It sucks going first — you're forgotten by the end of the show. Leaving would be surprising since this kid has been one of the front-runners, but I think we've seen the best from him and others are getting better. Great talent.
Odds of winning: 30-1