As I feared, this group wasn't as strong as the last, and I find myself missing Christopher and Adriel even more. I have to agree with Simon: Justin is the X-Factor. Of all the contestants from the earlier rounds, he was the one I most wanted to see perform, and even though it wasn't "stellar" I was still very interested. It's tough because last week I had to choose between 4 incredible performances (only 2 of which made it), and now I have to choose between 6 or 7 above average performances, so it will be more arbitrary this time.

Kelly (style, confidence)
Jazmin (real, elegant)
Justin (X-Factor, performance in the last round was so good, I want to give him another shot)

But I really did like Alexis, A.J., and Gil. Kinda disappointed in Jamar, since my ATL guys have shined so far. Angela was too-oo-oooooooo-oo-ooooooooo-oooooooo-ooo mu-u-u-uuuuuuuuuu-ch -u-uuuuuuuu-uuuuuuuuuuu-ch, yeah. Alexandra and Tenia ... little out of their league.

das

I agree with everything you said, das, with two exceptions. One, I disliked A.J. and Gil's performances and singing styles, and two, I really liked Alexis.

I especially agree that I miss Adriel and Christopher more and more - and it really really really sucks that they both cannot go on (only one wildcard slot, so someone with true talent won't go on because of the Jim sympathy vote).

As long as Justin and Tamyra make it to the end, I'm ok with it. Imho, they are the best in every arena - Simon got it right when he said these two have the "x factor" - they're mesmerizing to watch. True charisma, true talent, and an inner beauty that just literally shines onstage.

Re: Predictions for 6/26 Winners
 

She was on a local rock station here this morning. I haven't been keeping up with the show but it would be nice to see someone from my area make it (even though her singing is average)