It's getting down to the tense moments on "American Idol," as only six contestants remain. Tonight they will all sing the songs of Carole King before the cut to the top five.

After watching all year, I've got some impressions about both the judges and the contestants.

I started out absolutely loving the judges. But as a group my affection has waned a bit. I just don't hear enough criticism. They are too in love.

Randy and Jennifer are trying and Jennifer is as passionate and cute as a hot-blooded Latina could be. But Steven Tyler has been a disappointment. He just loves too much. As someone who knows about putting on a breathtaking show, he could bring a lot, but he's sitting on his hands.

Now, the singers.

My picks for the top three are Scotty McCreery, James Durbin and Casey Abrams.

Laura Alaina is too young and seems too stupid to win. The judges ask her, "Do you get what we are saying to you?" She nods her head like she has no idea what they said.

Jacob Lusk sings every song like he's at the pearly gates and is applying for admission. Not every song has to be overwrought with emotion, and fans are catching on to his act.

And poor Haley Reinhart, the only sex appeal left on the show. Great legs. Good singer. But suffers from a continuing identity crisis and she's going to pay the price.

I think Durbin is the most electrifying and Abrams makes me gasp with the depth and variety of his talent. McCreery is like Randy Travis, solid and down home. Going to be tough to choose a winner out of those three.