Latin heat on American Idol

I was really surprised by the performances this week, and not necessarily in a GOOD way. Some random thoughts on what is sure to become an infamous week...

Melinda Doolittle - well of COURSE she sounded good. The biggest shock here was her dress - for once I really liked it. Fit well, flattered her, and made her look like what she is - a star. Well done to whomever got her ready this week!

Lakisha Jones - Uh oh, kiki... that was not a good performance for you. We won't even discuss the dress, except to say that if you're going to be turning your back to the camera frequently, you should probably take a good look in the mirror from that direction. Being almost your size, this is just friendly advice from one 'lady of size' to another. Voice was ok, but honestly? Not in love with the song choice. My worry is that she will get eliminated since her fans may not have come out in record numbers for this week - which would be a shame since she is so talented.

Chris Richardson - sorry folks but I really liked him AGAIN this week! Could he be our dark horse for the final three?

Sanjaya Malakar - OK, now I'm sure of it - he's been orchestrating this whole persona all along just to get the votes - and it worked! He sounded great and honestly I think he is in no danger this week - the tween girls will go nuts for what was one of the better performances of the night. As Randy said - he's one of the smartest contestants they've ever had.

Haley Scarnato - man, oh man, I wish she was going to be out this week, but i have a feeling bottom two may just be her and Lakisha, with Lakisha going home. Please, PLEASE let me be wrong on this one.

Phil Stacey - Another not-so-good performance. I had to look it up just to remember it, which is not good... either he or Haley could be voted off and i'd be happy. However I think this will be the 'shocker' week.

Blake Lewis - Good performance, plenty of latin heat. I think he'll be here for a few weeks yet. And that Marc Antony song, which normally annoys the heck out of me, actually sounded good coming from him!

Jordin Sparks - perky, bright and charming. Good sound, great personality. My concern? Her fans may be so sure she's safe, they may not vote enough. Another possible 'shocker' removal in the next two weeks, but let's hope not.