Crappy, Sappy, Who Cares?

What's worse, the choices we have for the next American Idol or the choices we have for the next American president? Vote in the poll on the upper left hand side of your screen.

Judges, producers and the contestants themselves were responsible for choosing tonight's songs.

Judges' Choice

David Archuleta
"And So It Goes"/Billy Joel/Chosen by Paula
This is, perhaps, my favorite Billy Joel composition. Archuleta gives us a pleasant delivery but it lacks the "soul" necessary to completely pull it off.

Syesha Mercado
"If I Ain't Got You"/Alicia Keys/Chosen by Randy
I may have stated on this blog before my dislike for Alicia Keys. However, Syesha starts out strong and my hopes get high until she leads into the chorus with weaknesses not even befitting of a backup singer. But then she comes back with a vocal home run. I'm not sure how to feel about that. During the judges' feedback, Syesha starts to display annoying diva-like behavior.

David Cook/Chosen by Simon
"First Time Ever I Saw Your Face"/Roberta Flack
I don't like this song at all. Will Cook change my mind? I'm almost disturbed by the way he's caressing the mike stand. I still don't like the song but David C. definitely brings his own personality to it and demonstrates his incredibly blessed vocal talents.

Contestant Choice

David A.
"With You"/Chris Brown
First note out of the gate is flawless. Definitely pop star quality. He sounds a little winded though. Doesn't matter. Girls are swooning. Smart song choice.

Syesha
"Fever"/Peggy Lee
Another good Syesha performance completely lacking in distinction.

David C.
"Dare You to Move"/Switchfoot
This song has so much exposure right now that I'm not sure I can make a sound judgment on Cook's performance. I can't tell if he's giving it the ol' Cook "twist" or if he's struggling with it vocally. Randy called it pitchy so maybe that's what I'm reaching for.

Producers' Choice

David A.
"Longer"/Dan Fogelberg
Looks like despite the PITA Archuleta's dad has supposedly been behind the scenes, the producers are pushing for him to win with such an perfect song to voice match here. That said, the arrangement sounds a tad odd. If I hear Randy Jackson say "You can sang the phone book again, I'm going to absolutely screech.

Syesha
"Hit Me Up"/Gia Farrell ("Happy Feet" soundtrack)
The least enjoyable performance from Syesha tonight. She's going home ... I hope.

David C.
"I Don't Want to Miss a Thing"/Aerosmith
He doesn't rock it out and his voice is starting to sound weak. What's up this year? Now it sounds like he's having to force it on the chorus. There's been no COOKing in my kitchen tonight. Is it the truncation of the songs tonight to squeeze three songs for each contestant tonight?

Overall, sucky showdown leading up to next week's finals. I think we all know who is going home - but should I bother voting?