American Idol Top 2

"You've got to HATE your opponent."

Haha, they're funny. I love that they get to talk more today, it was nice to hear something more impromptu than those little interview clips. And the boxing robe thingamajigs were so cute!

David Cook~
First Song: The beginning of the song was a little awkward and nasally, but I love this song, a LOT. And his hair is out of his face, so I give him props. It's not really him, it didn't pack the same power - I think Clive messed him up.
Second Song: I'll be blunt - I REALLY liked that song, it's such a feel-good power song. A couple notes fell short, and I agree with Simon that it wasn't a knockout punch, but it was at least an above par performance that will carry Cook.
Third Song: Uhm. I'm actually somewhat neutral about this song. It sounds nice, but the beginning isn't catching me. The high note at the end kinda sounded like a howl. I'm just. Eh. Where's the power? Cookie let me down a litte tonight.

David Archuleta~
First Song: Clay Aiken did this song, so that's automatically a plus. The whole coming down the stairs bit was really nice, and his gaze was mega-intense. I don't know, it didn't feel completely like him either, but it was flawless. I just need a BAM factor from him tonight.
Second Song: Now that's more like it - it's a bit understated, not exactly a power ballad, it doesn't hit Archuleta's money notes until way toward the end, but it does the tempo change, a la "A Moment Like This." I actually did get chills from the final "from me" and I think this was a money performance.
Third Song: Aw, it's like back to the future, singing "Imagine" again! He's come so far as a performer, and I always thought this song would come off really well in front of a big audience. I'm so happy! I'm decided on Archuleta for the win - Cookie will get a record deal, no doubt, and he needs space for his individuality, but baby David deserves the title.

And oh dear! Ruben Studdard's here? He's been invisible for a really long time, and it's tough to be invisible with that figure. Haha, the "celebrate me Home" song is a bit annoying, with him getting all nasal.