American Idol said goodbye to four of its contestants Thursday night: Colton Berry, Garrett Haley, Joanne Borgella and Amy Davis.

I’ve been watching American Idol since the beginning, and even auditioned for Season 3 in Atlanta. And even it is merely a matter of luck when it comes to picking the top 24, it’s still entertaining to see who can handle the pressure of performing for 33 million viewers.

The word is this year’s Season 7 has the best talent yet, but it’s hard to believe after watching the hideous performance of 17-year-old Peter Frampton—oh, I mean Garrett Haley (see below). “Breaking Up is Hard to Do” was a boring song choice, and Randy emphasized that he “didn’t do anything with” the song. The best comment was from Simon, who mentioned the boy’s paleness, saying that it looked as if he’d been locked up in his bedroom for a month. I just get the creeps when I look at the kid. Throughout the whole performance, I couldn’t stop staring at his faux-stache.

18-year-old Colton Berry made the not-so-wise choice to tell the world that from certain angles he looks like Ellen DeGeneres. I’m fairly sure that statement couldn’t have helped him get any votes. The musical theatre enthusiast sang “Suspicious Minds” and had Simon saying that he had no relevance in the recording industry.

25-year-old Amy Davis is beautiful and even Paula admitted that the camera loves her. But her agonizing performance of “Where the Boys Are” had me cringing the entire time. Joanne Borgella’s performance was just as bad.

So, who are my favorites? Right now, I have my eye on Jason Castro. He was the only performer who actually played an instrument, and as a musician, I am thankful that American Idol is finally allowing contestants to do this.

I also really dig Amanda Overmyer and her Janis Joplin-esque voice. This woman seems truly genuine to me and it doesn’t appear as though she’s trying to be anyone but herself. I’m also supporting Carly Smithson, another “rocker” chick on the show. Plus, she’s got a half-sleeve, so it doesn’t get much better than that.

What did you think of the first week’s performances? Did the American people send home the right people?



Uber-creepy Garrett



Oooh, baby I love your way...

And here's my girl Amanda Overmyer...