This week’s mentor is the Jazz Singer himself, Neil Diamond. And everyone is doing two songs tonight. I think I’m gonna like this week!

Jason Castro
Forever in Blue Jeans; September Morn

1. This is actually the perfect type of music for Jason. I mean, really, who better to sing about being forever in blue jeans than Jason? It was a little laid back, but a very good performance vocally.

2. This was a good performance vocally, but it was overall kind of boring unfortunately. Jason is just so laid back which is what I like about him, but sometimes he’s a little too laid back.

David Cook
I’m Alive; All I Really Need Is You

1. I really love I’m Alive. One of my favorite Neil Diamond songs. And a perfect choice for David. I think the rocker and the two folkies are going to have the easiest time with the music this week. Loved this performance. He brought an edge to the song and it was terrific.

2. I love when David shows his softer side and then rocks out. And I loved this performance. It gave me goosebumps. And that doesn’t happen all the time. He just really has something special and he is a star. And he needs to be the first guy to win since Taylor.

Brooke White
I’m a Believer; I Am, I Said

1. I LOVE this song. I remember the Monkees doing it before Shrek ever came along. She was a little pitchy, but it was nice to see Brooke doing something fun and upbeat and I like what she did with the melody. It was good to see her cut loose after the tough break she had last week.

2. I love Brooke the most when she plays the piano. Somehow it just suits her to be sit at the piano and play and sing. And this is the best she’s sung in a few weeks. You go Brookie!

David Archuleta
Sweet Caroline/Comin’ to America

1. *sigh* Why did he have to pick two of my favorite songs? I didn’t really care for his arrangement of Sweet Caroline. It doesn’t need all that fluff. It’s a simple song and that’s what it needs to be. He sang well I guess. But here’s the thing with this song. My husband’s old old band used to do this and the reason I love this song is the because of the leader of the band and his love of the song and his performance. He would never have made it on American Idol, because he’s not a super duper singer, but he is an awesome entertainer, and I hate to hear anyone destroy the song he made me love.

2. I don’t know what key he was singing in, but it wasn’t exactly the key the band was playing in. This song needs a little grit in your voice, which he doesn’t have. And I just didn’t believe him. I didn’t believe he knew what he was singing about or got the real meaning of the song. And I just didn’t really care for it. And the tempo was too slow. It just didn’t work for me. Can he go home already? Seriously?

Syesha Mercado
Hello Again; Thank the Lord for the Nighttime

1. I think this was a good song choice for her, although it felt like she got a little screamy during the high part.

2. She was a bit flat at the beginning of the song and that’s too bad because it marred what was otherwise a really good performance. I think she made good song choices. And I think Neil Diamond is a brilliant songwriter.

My ranking:
1. David Cook
2. Syesha Mercado
3. Brooke White
4. Jason Castro
5. David Archuleta (because he killed two of my favorite songs)