Idol chat

I'm watching tonight's episode of American Idol right now, so I have to make this quick. Just a few thoughts on a few of the contestants. This is only the second season I've followed, so I'm not good at picking out the winners. But I do have a few favorites, and a few I can't wait to see go home.

Top 3

1. Syesha Mercado

SYESha, in my opinion, is currently the best female on the show. She's got great stage presence, a gorgeous, powerful voice, and cute hair. I don't know that she's MY number one, but I think if America had to vote on a female winner right now, she'd sweep it.

2. David Archuleta

As Randy says, this IS the "year of the young ones." This little tyke, age 16, is absolutely incredible. And I KNOW Simon is dreaming of the empire he could build with this guy--he would, indeed, be the next big thing in the circles of Hannah Montana, Mary Kate & Ashley, The OC, and the like. The Jonathan Taylor Thomas of today, if you will. I like him, though. A lot. Every song he sings is phenominal.

3. Banjin

Meet MY top contestant, Banjin. His high pitched bark and good grooming won me over immediately. His voice and tone have a real star quality, and I think he has America's musical sweetheart written ALL over his fur. His top performance: Celine Dion's "Power of Love" which he pulled off stunningly, though I'd pegged him as the indie rock type. Good luck, Banjin.

Bottom 2

1. Danny Noriega

This one bothers me, but really only because I don't think he realizes he's a man. It's one thing to be gay, but realize you're a gay MAN. This one, I think, actually believes he's a woman. And it irks me.

2. Jason Yeager

When I see him perform, I feel like I've literally just eaten an entire bowl of melted velveeta. To top it off, he ended what would be his final performance on AI by striking a pose reminiscent of Mary Katherine Gallagher on Saturday Night Live--but held it for an extra 8-count. Sianara, Mr. Yeager.

Personally, my favorites are Michael Johns and Brooke White, but I don't think either will win in the end, sadly.

A question: Do Ryan Seacrest and Simon absolutely HATE each other? Is it me, or is this season packed with far more sarcastically mean and awkward moments between the two of them?