JAKE THISTLE | Are we crazy for saying we got young Bruce Springsteen vibes from Thistle’s performance of Sam Fender’s “Seventeen Going Under”? There’s something so authentic about his delivery, singing his heart out with his guitar in hand. The guy’s got good energy. You can hear it and you can feel it. We’re big fans. TVLine grade: “B+”
CHRIS TUNGSETH | It took him a minute to get into gear, but once Tungseth locked into his performance of Labrinth’s “Jealous,” it was smooth sailing. We saw a more sensitive side of him this week, and it was nice. Just a guy singing from his heart, no bells and/or whistles necessary. TVLine’s grade: “B+”
CHLOE LAUREN | Lauren’s glorious rasp had us in a chokehold for the duration of her slowed-down take on Cyndi Lauper’s “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” which was a highlight of the night for us. Lauren is a little rough around the edges, but her voice is undeniable. She’ll refine her technique with experience, but for now, the gift is there. TVLine’s grade: B+
BRADEN RUMFELT | The judges were excited for Rumfelt’s return, and they were not disappointed. He came out strong and confident, with the vocal chops to back it up on Sam Smith’s “I’m Not the Only One.” He also felt totally in his element on that stage, without a hint of nerves. It was a perfect way to end the night. TVLine’s grade: “A”
OK, here’s where things get a little wacky. Monday’s episode ended with this final group standing in front of the judges, who asked three people to step forward: Thistle, Rumfelt, and Brianna Yancey, the last of whom we didn’t see perform this week. Lionel Richie told the three singers, “You should be very proud of how far you’ve come, but for now, your journey…” and that’s where it ended.
We’re assuming that this is a total fake-out, and that everyone from this group is being sent to the Gold Room. Thistle and Rumfelt (and we assume Yancey) were too good to get eliminated, which is also how we feel about Lauren. This whole group seemed pretty strong to us, and we’ve seen “American Idol” do this before. If this doesn’t end up being an everyone-goes-through thing, we’ll be shocked.
How do you think this cliffhanger will play out? Vote for the five (5) singers you’re most excited to see in the Gold Room next week, then drop a comment with your thoughts on this new version of “American Idol” Hollywood Week.