Idol Chatter & Voice Views

I wonder how our remaining American Idol contestants reacted when told that this week’s theme is the songs of  Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.

Hey, the duo has plenty of hits songs to their credit. But many not only pre-date Idol’s final four, they probably pre-date the final four’s parents.

With so much at stake this week, it might have been nice for Idol to pick a theme that included songs that all these contestants grew up listening to.

But I guess it could have been worse. We’ve been subjected to Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack as a theme in recent years.

As for what’s at stake …

If Idol sticks to tradition, this is the week where the survivors will be treated to a triumphant trip home, where they’ll receive a hero’s welcome.

And they’ll be just one step shy of the Idol finale.

On with the ratings …

1. Scotty McCreery (2): If anyone can thrive rather than merely survive with this theme, it should be Scotty. An Elvis fan, he’ll be familiar with some of Leiber and Stoller’s biggest hits, including “Jailhouse Rock” and “Hound Dog.”  That said, Scotty sang an Elvis song in the second round last week, and it was a letdown after his spirited version of “Gone” earlier in the show.

2. Haley Reinhart (3): She was unfairly criticized for a song choice (Lady Gaga’s “You and I”) that really wasn’t hers (blame Jimmy Iovine).  That said, her performance was quite good. Then she blew everyone away with her rendition of “House of the Rising Sun.” Simply put, Haley ruled the Idol stage last week and seems to be peaking at the best possible time.

3. James Durbin (1):  So impressive two weeks ago with that a cappella opening of “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow,” James failed to maintain that momentum last week.  “Without You” might have been an emotional performance, but it wasn’t a good vocal. And, as Jimmy pointed out, an Idol should be able to deliver a powerful performance on an emotional song, not be derailed by that emotion.

4. Lauren Alaina (4): The last time we saw Idol’s pre-finals favorite, she was sobbing on stage, overcome by her first near elimination.  Truth be told, she’s been a mild disappointment throughout the competition.  Truth be told, this week should be her last, regardless of whether she rebounds Wednesday night.