Based exclusively on performances from the show, it’s clear that American Idol actually can produce incredibly talented singers. Following in fellow Idol-winner Kelly Clarkson’s footsteps, Underwood’s understated rendition of “Blown Away” was vocally powerful. That said, her dress was crazy. As soon as she started singing “Two Black Cadillacs,” images were projected onto her white gown as she stood stock still, the result being that it occasionally looked like she had turned into an alien breeding ground. It was a nifty party trick, but ultimately distracting from the music.
GRADE: B