Idol Chatter & Voice Views

Right about now, I sure wish Nigel Lythgoe had stuck to his pledge to shorten these results shows to one-half hour.

Instead. we’re in for the usual group performance, a Ford video, probably lots of footage of that mansion all the Idols are living in and not nearly as much suspense as Idol managed to pack into last week’s final semifinal show.

At least I don’t expect anyone to be singing for their lives tonight, though no one’s explained whether a judges’ save is in play this year or not.

To get down to what? A final three that’s likely to include some combination of Ashthon Jones, Haley Reinhart, Karen Rodriguez and Naima Adedapo. Though Naima has the comfort of having performed last on Wednesday, and the last performer seldom heads home.

Notice there are no guys on that list.

Hey, remember, this is cute guy Idol.

One segment we have to look forward to this evening is the return of Adam Lambert. He’ll sing a new version of “Aftermath,” a song off his 2009 debut album.

The remix will be available for download, with proceeds going to the Trevor Project, which works for suicide prevention among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youths. You can head to Adam’s site to download the song.

By the way, preorders are also being taken for Adam’s upcoming Glam Nation Live release, due out March 22.

And now we know, the Idol save is back. But here’s betting it won’t be used in week one.

And another big announcement: Casey Abrams is back in the hospital. He was also hospitalized during the semifinals. Get better, Casey. An Idol crown is within your reach.

OK, 18 minutes in, after a couple of in-show commercials, we get some results. Jacob, Karen and Stefano are summoned center stage. Gotta admit, I’m rooting for Karen to go home tonight. And Karen is in the bottom three.

And, now, Adam Lambert, with an unplugged version of “Aftermath.” Don’t care what you think of Adam. No one can deny he’s got one of the best voices ever featured on American Idol. How did he ever miss out on winning Idol?

More results: Lauren, Ashthon and Haley hit center stage. Interesting trio.

Hmm, looks like Lauren was a little worried. Hey, gal, last night’s performance wasn’t that bad. Last year, it would have been a bright spot on nearly any episode. And Haley and Ashthon are both in the bottom three. Sorta figured.

And it’s time for the results: Karen Rodriguez is safe. Shame.

And Haley is safe, too.

Ashthon has to sing for her life on Idol. And the judges certainly aren’t going to use their save in week one.

And, sorry, Ashthon, but that vocal was way sharp in spots.

And we get to hear David Cook’s farewell song for the first time. Nice way to end a disappointing night.