Well, Jacob made it through last night!
He was advised prior to performing this week by his "coaches" to hold back a bit this week, and he did, but the judges advised him afterwards to essentially be himself and don't hold back, which I suspect is good advice.
Randy also called his performance of GBTC the best ever on Idol! High praise whether true or not.
It seems pretty much everybody who made it through is quite talented and can really sing this year, inclduing a few who did not make it through already.
I'm very psyched for Idol this year at this point.
I think the new judges are coming off quite well also.
JL has mostly been an asset. Randy seems to be stepping up his game to help fill the shoes of Simon as the senior judge on the panel.
And Steven Tyler adds a new element that was missing prior. He seems to genuinely appreciate the talent and good performances when he hears it. He also comes across very well as a insightful and compassionate judge with just enough "rock star" flavor to perhaps attract some new viewers. He is presenting himself quite excellently in this role IMHO!
We'll see....