Fantasia gives the single freakin’ coolest performance of the American Idol year. Hot, sexy, aggressive, rockin’ stuff. It was, to these old ears, far better than any of the other pro or AI alum performances. Ridiculously better. Most of those songs are lifeless little lumps with musicians that look like they would really rather be somewhere else. Bo Bice being one of the few exceptions. Fantasia, though, came full on with every ounce of energy that she had.

Loved it.

Then the moment was ruined by David Archuleta’s predictably weepy homecoming. When he said that the screaming throngs really made it all worth it, I found myself wondering what precisely he was talking about? Was it the sacrifice of becoming famous, the opportunity to make millions, or the chance to live his (or his dad’s) dreams that was particularly painful for him? Or did I miss something?

Stop crying, kid. Stand up, smile, and stop acting like such an unlikable twerp.

Just sayin’.

At least Syesha comports herself with some level of dignity. Where Archuleta gets on my nerves, Syesha charms. Except for the crying. Which, why the hell is there so much crying on this show?

I didn’t realize that David Cook was an accidental contestant--and, yes, I think that does explain much about his public persona. I personally like that he seems to take the whole experience in stride. Not arrogant at all, but he seems comfortable with himself. I like this guy.

Anyway, his crying moment was minimal. I approve of minimal crying.

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