American Idol Top 13 Results: It's Not Right, But It's OK

Well, that hour went by fast, didn't it? I've never been a big fan of hour-long results shows on American Idol, but it seems like the producers are going to do a good job of keeping them entertaining this year, so I can't complain.

I found the language Ryan Seacrest used last night very interesting. He never used the words bottom two, and for all we know Elise may have been the bottom girl, but not necessarily in the bottom two. I only find this troubling because it pretty much seals Elise's fate as never going to win, because she has a large mountain to climb over, in terms of regaining fans and altering perceptions. I will defend Elise to no end, because I know what it's like to be so frustrated with things out of your control and not being able to express it in the right way. That said, I do hope she learns how to act graciously no matter what, or else she's going to be in a lot of trouble.

The group song was actually pretty good tonight. It was live, and the pitch problems probably came more from not having sung in a group than anything else. I can't say the same of how the contestants were styled, but it's a small thing, so I'll let it go. Although apparently Tommy Hilfiger has been hired as a style consultant, which perplexes me, but we'll see how that turns out as the weeks go on.

I hate when they force the judges to name names, but I do understand it makes for good television. I can't say that I'm unhappy with the bottom six they announced. I'm glad that Joshua and Erika were safe first, because I think they were simply victims of singing early and not too memorably. I also immediately knew Deandre and Colton were safe: maybe I've been watching American Idol too long to read Ryan that well.

I'm not surprised Shannon was safe, as she probably received a lot of sympathy votes. However, Shannon, it wasn't just one note. Go back and listen again. As far as the other bottom four contestant announced, Jermaine needs to learn that there's a fine line between confidence and happiness and coming off as arrogant. He is eminently likeable, but perception is key, and he has to be careful.

I think that's the most I've ever enjoyed a Lauren Alaina performance on that stage. She looked relaxed despite ear monitor problems, and she actually looked dressed her age. I can't say I'm a fan of the song, but it sounds catchy and right up Lauren's alley. Mary J Blige also looked like she was having monitor problems, but if the guest mentor performs that well every week, it's going to be a fun time until May.

Thank goodness the judges chose right. Jeremy seems like a sweet kid, and he has a lovely recording voice, but he just wasn't ready for Idol yet. So while I probably would have sent Jermaine or Shannon home, I'm okay with Jeremy leaving.

Ryan didn't announce a theme for next week, so I'm both excited and nervous for next week. Hopefully it's a fairer theme, and can provide for some variety in the performances.