American Idol 9 Top 6 - Recap + Poll + Roundup

Lee Dewyze opened the show Shania's most recognizable song of the evening with "You're Still The One". I thought he was sharp throughout, but as usual, they are going to fix that in the studio recording which is bound to be awesome. Go Dark Horse!

Michael Lynche gave a heartfelt performance of "It Only Hurts When I’m Breathing" which Simon Cowell described as "wet". He found it a bit too dramatic -- although I felt that Big Mike actually pulled back a little bit from his usual affected style of singing.

Casey James changed things up just a little bit with "Don't!" It was his most heartfelt performance so far, and all the judges loved it.

Crystal Bowersox sang a "country version" of 'No One Needs To Know" and all the judges were not wowed by it. Simon Cowell said "Shocker. We don't like Crystal this week." Shocker? Has he been reading Rickey.org lately? I thought that Crystal was performing with her unofficial touring band on stage.

Aaron Kelly sang the song for his mom! Awwww. Simon said it felt sincere and believable.

Siobhan Magnus brought out the big note again (finally) and nails it. Randy loved the punk country vibe that Siobhan brought to the stage. Punk country!

And now it's time to bring out the conspiracy theory hat for tomorrow's elimination:

Aaron Kelly is the odds on favorite to leave tomorrow. He sang at dreaded position #5 which is the kiss of death historically in the Top 6. Six out of the last 8 seasons, #5 has landed in the Bottom 3, and FOUR of those times, #5 was voted off. This included Carly Smithson and Constantine Maroulis.

The other conspiracy is the American Idol 9 Compilation CD track list spoiler. That list correctly placed Tim Urban at #7 last week -- and the person next on the list is Michael Lynche.

Will it be Aaron Kelly or Michael Lynche? Someone else?

Let's break the trend people - SAVE AARON KELLY! 1-866-IDOLS-05 or 11

So who was your favorite tonight?

Poll

Roundup

Tonight The Twain Shall Meet (Howard Stump)

'Idol' Shania Night: Man, They Feel Like Some Women (Lyndsey Parker)

Top 6 Recap - "It Sounded Almost Like You Were Giving Birth at the End There" (Vote for the Worst)