Countering this rather pitchy and awkward performance was Casey's. This was the most relaxed I've ever seen him. He showed a lot of confidence, and I could imagine hearing "Hold on, I'm Coming" sung by James on the radio. All the judges thought so as well; Randy exclaimed how this was a hot night for Casey. Michael was also well prepared for singing "Ready for Love." I'm ready for a less gloomy song choice too! I also disagreed with Usher's advice about connecting with the audience. Yes, singers need to connect with the audience a little bit, but that connection is not the primary reason why fans swarm to the concerts. Music stars, and all celebrities, are about the unattainable. That is part of the fun and glamor. The general public follows these celebrities because they want to get caught up in unattainable lifestyles. People wish they could be a part of it. If that unattainable and distant quality wasn't there, the fans wouldn't be so obsessed with the artist. Lynche also marked a ground breaking moment with his performance: This was the first time a contestant sang behind the judges to be in the middle of the audience. Ellen took the opportunity to make a joke about singing behind their backs. Little did Michael know, he would start a trend that would resurface in the following week's performances.
The "surprise of the night" award is given to Andrew Garcia with his rendition of "Forever." I've said this before, and I will say it again: Any singer that can reinvent a song to make you like it when you originally disliked or even hated it marks the true genius of an artist. That is what Andrew did for me. All of the judges loved it, and Simon said it was "one giant leap in the right direction." When Simon criticized Andrew for being boring, Momma Garcia began to talk and get really animated. It was a cute exchange between Mrs. Garcia and Simon, and the pair hugged at the end of it. After all the additional exposure and character defense, I was sure that Andrew was going to be safe. This was further reinforced when Andrew said "I love you, Mama" behind stage. It was an "AWWWW" moment! Unfortunately, the next performance was cold and flat.
The final two performances of the night were both disappointing and flat. I was devastated to see Crystal's surprise. Oh, Crystal...why? It was really unnecessary! The whole performance felt very cabaret, and Crystal was awkward behind the piano. I guess the two big female giants are entitled to "off days." Simon imparted more words of wisdom: "Don't let this process suck the identity out of you." Crystal's retaliation was a bit unnecessary. I don't always agree wit the contestants' decisions to "talk back" to the judges. Sometimes they come off as "high and mighty" or abrasive. The judges, although harsh, are trying to make the contestants better singers. They should really take the advice that is offered rather than make excuses or explain away a bad decision. The final performance of the night was Aaron Kelly. I simply hated this performance! It gets my "worst of the night" award...which is really pathetic considering how bad Tim's and Didi's songs were. I couldn't help myself. I kept comparing the song to Kris Allen's version, which is extremely poignant and memorable. I love his rendition. Aaron didn't have a chance to do the song justice considering Kris' version was just performed last year. Plus, his "I know" part was still weird and repetitive. Aaron could also be riding on his good looks rather than his singing talents at this point in the competition. 
Adrianna
"Like Swimming in Jelly"
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As far as I can tell, they are renewed for at least one more season after Simon leaves. They will have a slew of guest judges each night to replace him. Not sure how it will work, but I'm excited to try out the new dynamics without Simon. It will be interesting to see if the show "sinks or swims" after he's left.
Thanks for reading the review despite not being a fan of the show! I love reaching out to people who have open minds to new things!
I heartily disagree that watching "reality television" will turn your brains to jelly. And having jelly for brains can't be a good thing! If there is no substance, how do you critically assess life and all its variety?