American Idol Coffee Bar

Top 8 Guys Go Acoustic

For their final performances before the Top 12 are announced, the top 8 guys on season 9 of American Idol relied on their security blankets: the guitar. Many of them pulled out a stool, took it easy and tried to just focus on the singing. Was it a good choice?

Lee Dewyze started off the night with "Fireflies" by Owl City, accompanying himself on his guitar, wearing a simple green plaid button down and jeans. This was a much better song for him than he's done before, though it wasn't that exciting. I think if he ever really brings it, he'll be a serious contender, though.

Randy Jackson noted some pitch problems but complimented Lee because "you made it your own." He thought the song was a little "soft for a big voice like yours." Ellen DeGeneres liked that he "made it a little rock." She also noted pitch problems, but said that "a lot of people like you." Kara DioGuardi told him, "You look confident tonight. That's what we've been waiting for: you to step up." She called it a "solid job." Simon Cowell agreed with me that it was "nothing to rave about." He didn't think he'd had a moment. Still, "I think you've got a great chance of making the top 12."

Next to take the stage was Alex Lambert, who went with "Trouble" by Ray Lamontagne, also with his guitar. He wore a black blazer over a violet button down and jeans. Alex is growing on me; maybe because he's also growing in confidence. His tone is very commercial; reminding me of a lot of artists who are recording today. This was a nice song for him.