The first real eliminations have taken place, taking us from an awkward 13 to a happy top 11. Somehow we have to eliminate another 10 before we get to the actual winner. That is if they don’t change the rules again and make it American Duo or something.

As for the new veto power unveiled tonight? I’m all for it. Since they only get one for the entire season, you have to believe it will be used wisely.

During which week will the American Idol judges invoke their voter override veto to save someone?

The Contenders

Danny Gokey - Talk about the total package: Sob story (young widower), Wholesome (Church music director) & Talented (take a listen). It doesn’t get much better than that. The only thing holding Danny back now is the inevitability of his win.

Adam Lambert - Seems to be far and above the most talented finalist this year. Adam has years of stage experience and an amazing vocal range.  I also found his choice of “Black or White” inspired given the press he’s been receiving regarding his sexuality lately. I’d be pretty unsurprised with an Adam vs Danny finale.

Alexis Grace - An early frontrunner, if she can keep up the momentum, she has a good chance to make the top 4, but her story doesn’t hold a candle to some of the others so she will need a Major Moment to proceed further.

Lil Rounds - After the auditions, I thought she was the best contestant of the season. After a couple episodes, I’m a little less impressed, but still place her firmly in the top 4. A Moment could make all the difference.

The Wild Cards

Kris Allen - One of my favorite contestants, with a smooth, Jason Mraz vibe. If he can last through the first couple of rounds as American gets a chance to know him I think he can go all the way.

Allison Iraheta - Like Kris, Allison was cursed with zero face time prior to the live shows. However, her amazing performance of Alone earned her spot. A slip by her in the early rounds will spell diasaster, but she has a good chance of going a long way this season.

Matt Giraud - The piano player. He’s talented and all, but I just can’t find myself caring enough. Unless he has a breakout performance soon, I think he’ll max out around the top 5.

The Also Rans

Anoop Desai - Anoop reminds me of a puppy dog. He may have just deystroyed your favorite pair of shoes but you want to pet him anyway. By far the least talented singer of the bunch, he’s just so darn likable that he’ll likely last at least another couple weeks before fading back into oblivion.

Megan Joy - Yes, she may be ‘different’ but different isn’t always better. She looks like a 6 year old with a bladder problem when she “dances” and her range seems completely nonexistent — although I do really hope she’s still around for country week just out of morbid curiousity. Update: Score! This week is Country week. Good, she can leave now.

Scott MacIntyre - I know he’s blind, but if I close *my* eyes when he sings, I can’t figure out why he’s still here. I will admit to a certain guilty fascination while watching the choreographed group numbers though.

Michael Sarver - Considered by many to be expendable, Michael came out swinging this first week. His suave voice and blue collar cred seems unlikely to save him past the early rounds, but he adds a great dimension to the finalists.

Who will win American Idol Season 8?

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