By now, everyone should have realized that American Idol is more of a popularity contest than a talent show. And while the judges (especially Simon Cowell) serve to swing the votes of the finalists' fans, it is inevitable for real talent to be the main qualification for an American Idol.

This week's another shocker, following the boot of Aussie finalist Michael Johns. Carly Smithson made her graceful exit from the show after Syesha Mercado was given yet another week to stay in the competition. Carly gave amazing performances such as her rendition of Mariah Carey's Without You. Unfortunately, her rock-infused performances went to the dogs this week. I hope she does well in her solo career after the show.

QUESTIONS HAUNT US RIGHT NOW.

Why the heck was Brooke White given another week when she made a major blunder on stage when she started on the wrong note and asked the musical director to start all over again?

When will the charming face of Jason Castro be left for the posters and not on the show?

At this point, if David Cook doesn't win, I'm gonna be very pissed. Good thing Leona Lewis was there to save the show with her live performance of the hit song Bleeding Love.

Wow, this is pretty exciting! Fortunately, Q-11 will have replays of the AI episodes for this week so I will be able to watch the Mariah Carey day on American Idol. Thank goodness for YouTube I have these videos. Which one's your fave rendition?



David Cook does 'Always be my baby'



Carly Smithson does 'Without You'



David Archuleta does 'When You Believe'

I was quickly looking for Ramiele's video then it suddenly occurred to me that she was already eliminated hehehe... Sayang! She would have done a phenomenal job. But with the remaining 7 finalists, I thought David Cook was the real winner. He added drama and a smidgen of rock effect to one of my Mariah favorites. It was so dramatic I almost cried while listening to the song... ewan! I heard kasi that he dedicated the song to his brother who is battling a serious disease. Dramz...

I thought Carly Smithson was also great. I have to agree with Simon that it's pretty predictable that David Archuleta picked 'When You Believe'. The kid's got the diva thing going! Haha!

As for the others: Jason Castro's number was charming as usual. He should thank his parents for his nice eyes. Without them, he would have been eliminated weeks ago. Charm baby charm. Brooke White was trying hard to be dramatic. The song is pretty dramatic but we didn't see that in the end. Syesha Mercado, on the other hand, did not quite pull off her inner Mariah. I was expecting more from this girl. She did hit the high notes but there was something missing there.

As for Kristie Lee Cook: YOU HAVE TO GO! NOW!