Hollywood Week

Okay, so there were a couple of surprises, good and bad, in last night's show, a couple of "inevitables", and a couple of "thank you, Lords". . .

It's too early and there are too many to know their actual names, so bear with me.

"Gang Family" kid blew me away with his performance; I knew he was good, but I didn't know how good. Hope this wasn't his peak. Definitely a Top 24 candidate in my book.

"Waitress Singing for Dead Friend" chick was also really good, but her voice reminds me of someone I've heard. Not sure she'll continue to succeed, as her sound might become repetitive. Also a Top 24 candidate, though I predict if she makes it to Top 24 she'll drop our early.

Surprised that they kept "Classic Beatle's Haircut" kid --- he barely made it to Hollywood and I don't think his performance last night was even as good as his audition.

Also surprised that they cut "Cancer Boy". I think they got stuck on how much they hated the SONG rather than judging him on his voice.

Another surprise: Ellen. I was really NOT looking forward to having her as a judge. Don't get me wrong, I love her daytime show. But she was so INCREDIBLY annoying on "So You Think You Can Dance" that I was really not looking forward to her being on AI. Thanks, Ellen, for keeping your humorous remarks short, although I LOVED what she did to those last four, making them step up, step back, move over, etc., before telling them all that they had made it to the next show.

The "Joizy Girls" sisters were a combination "not surprised" and a "thank you , Lord" in my book --- not surprised they got sent home and also really, really relieved.

The "inevitable" was "Backwoods Country" girl --- I didn't think she'd crash and burn that early, I knew that, even if she made it through a couple of cuts, she'd cave to the pressure OR the atmosphere. I would have liked to watch her discover more of the "outside world" though. Seems like she got such a little taste --- hope she tries again next year.

I kind of like the "new format" of the show --- seems they're not showing you ALL the best performers right away, keeping a few pleasant surprises for later in the season.

Can't wait for next week --- Group Week. Let the drama unfold!! Looks like there will be more tears, smack-talk and arguments than ever before. I'm always amazed watching what people do and say on camera.