They Got Rhythm, They Got Music

Glorious music, sung by talented youngsters—that was some enchanted evening, for sure.

I'm pretty much in agreement with Mrs. Cynicletary's overview, with some small exceptions.

Blake sang "Mac the Knife," a song for a cool cat, but Blake sang it more like a kitten. He can do better. Still, he's irresistably adorable and not going anywhere yet.

I truly believe that Phil is considered a mad fox on his home planet. I love his voice and thought he sounded great, but I'm not getting any more attached.

Melinda: I have no words for how awesome she was, nor how much I hated her hair.

Chris R gave a great performance and sounded better than usual. Still—he is just so very average to me. I don't get it all. Phil is to me as Chris R is to most everyone else, I think.

Jordin is indeed a magnet o' joy. I love every minute she's on stage. Loved her, loved the song, Simon can suck a lemon.

My girl Gina sounded great. I'm so happy that she's just letting us hear her voice now, and no longer tarting up her performances with the rocker-grrl nonsense.

(And like Mrs. C, I also teared up when Tony spoke of 9/11 and our soldiers in Iraq. A classy gent is our Tony. A true national treasure.)

Sanjaya, oh, Sanjaya, what else is there to say? Watching him is no longer painful for me, I giggle all the way through his performances—but it's like he's on a whole different show. He won't win—I expect he'll go home after Phil and Haley—but still. He doesn't belong on this show, and the producers have only themselves to blame. If it really were about finding the best singer and not a popularity contest, viewers would only be able to vote once per performer. Period. But they'll never do it that way, so . . . j'acccuse!

The whole time Haley sang I was on the phone (not with Brunie), so I got to enjoy the best of Haley (watching her) while totally missing what everyone seems to agree was an uninspired performance. The thing is: When she stripped down to her panties and sang "Tell Him," yes, she did look like a hot little minx, but she also sounded great! She can do better, and it's disappointing when she doesn't. But she had her moment in the sun, and I won't feel so bad for her when she goes home this week. (Not to jump ahead or anything.)

LaKisha looked very pretty (she has amazing skin) and sounded fabulous, playing to her strengths (big song, big notes). Clearly they've decided that her cleavage is her best accessory. I am dying to dress LaKisha. That was a beautiful dress, but I know she can look better.

All in all, a very good night.

Bottom three: Phil, Haley, and (simply because it won't be anyone else, not because she deserves to be there) Gina

Going home: Haley

Lady Chardonnay (today's look: My Mother Still Dresses Me) OUT.