I know that the contestants on American Idol call the week of auditions in Hollywood “Hell Week.” But for those of us at home on our couches, well, it might just be the best part of the competition.

Even though the contestants hate it, Hollywood week really separates the good from the ok singers. So many of them went in with a big ego, only to find out that they just weren’t as good as they thought they were. They showed several guys like that – the guy who danced with Paula as he sang being a prime example. Yes, he was a good singer. But not anywhere near as good as some of the others. The younger of the two sets of twins were the same way.

Speaking of twins, the set that made it to the next round (the Brittenum twins) can’t make it but so much further. Did you hear that they were arrested for identity theft? I guess that they bought a car with a stolen identity. Fox is notorious for pulling contestants with questionable backgrounds, so even if they make it to the next stage (where the viewers get to vote) they probably will be replaced. But since Fox isn’t commenting, my guess is that they don’t make it to that round so it’s a non-issue.

Anyways, there were three real stand-outs tonight. Paris Bennett, who I truly believe will be in the final, was amazing again. When she was singing, not only did the other contestants applaud, many of them had that look in their eyes of “there’s no way I can beat this girl.” The other girl I really liked was Catherine McPhee. That’s the girl whose mother is a voice teacher. I would bet that they’re both in the top 10 – if nothing else, I saw an interview with Randy Jackson where he specifically mentioned both girls.

The other thing that Randy said in that interview (on The Daily Show, which might be the best non-reality show on television) was that he believed that this was the year of the guys. And, by far, the best guy tonight was Chris Daughtry. He auditioned in North Carolina, and my goodness was he good (and so good looking!). I would put money on him and Paris being the final two.

Next week is the group singing, which is always fun. So many of the contestants don’t know how to sing with a group, and really, there isn’t always enough room in the hotel rooms for three egos that size. My guess is that it will be worth a watch (and tivo the Olympics!).