American Idol Season 8: Adam vs. Kris

I couldn't be happier about the fact that we have a Adam vs. Kris showdown for next weeks American Idol season finale. I think that the two best contestants of the competition made it to the end, which is awesome (except perhaps with the exception of Allison Iraheta). What is even more awesome to me is that Adam and Kris are very different musically, almost at two completely opposite ends of the spectrum. They have really put a unique stamp on American Idol that none of the previous contestants have done.

Kris Allen is the classic underdog story. He came into the top 13 almost by what seemed like a fluke. I thought he was one of the weaker contestants selected for the top 13. But, week after week, he proved why he was in the competition and continually improved. He is unique to American Idol because of his superb song arrangements that have really made the songs he has performed his own. He may not have the most technical voice, but he infuses his performances with heart and always gives an honest, soulful performance. Kris knows what music he wants to play as an artist and has been showing america this each week int the competition. The judges basically called it as a Danny vs. Adam finale from the beginning, but Kris was able to slowly break up that pre-ordained finale and has provided for an interesting variable in what could be considered a predictable season.

Adam Lambert is the best technical singer American Idol has ever had. He has never hit a bad note throughout the whole competiton. He is able to reach high notes that seem impossible, and then hold them. His voice does not even seem human sometimes because of the way he is able to use it. He is also the season's most polarizing contestant- you either love him or hate him. I think it would be hard for even the haters to deny Adam's awesome vocal ability. The qualities that turn people away from Adam are mainly his high, screechy vocals- which to his fans are more proof of how amazing his voice is. His greatest strength though, aside from his voice, is his stage presence. No matter what, he is always able to give entertaining performances and to push the envelope. Whether it be a haunting ballad or a rock anthem, Adam commands the stage and leaves the fans wanting more. For many this season became more about "what will Adam do next?" then the actual competition itself.

So, there you have it. Two of the most unique and gifted vocalists to ever grace the Idol stage are going head to head next Tuesday night. I am really excited to witness their final performances and see who gains the edge and wins the Idol crown. I am definitely rooting for Adam because he has had no missteps in the competition as far as I'm concerned, and he has truly impressed me with his incredible voice. But, if Kris Allen does win (which I think is very possible), I will be happy for him and will really cheer for the underdog breaking up the preordained final two and going on to win. I don't think I've ever been this pleased with both contestants for an American Idol finale (I have strongly supported Kelly, Clay, Fantasia, Blake and David Cook and not really liked their top two competitors). Good luck to both, and hopefully, despite who is actually named the winner, they both have successful careers, because they both deserve it.