The Comet’s very own Idolholic, an industry insider who chooses to remain anonymous, offers us analysis and insight into the Michael Jackson tribute episode. Who will get sent home?

This week’s tribute to The King of Pop, the artist with the ultimate X Factor, had all the makings of a showstopping event.  We even had the emotion and drama of his mother and kids looking on proudly and offering some uncomfortably rehearsed commentary. But it actually took until the very final performance to deliver on that promise.

Josh Krajcik, “Dirty Diana”: Josh has been very consistent in vocal quality, but the choice of song has sometimes failed him, such as tonight. Attempting to see how he’ll fit into an arena show setting with dancers and pyrotechnics left me cold. Only when he brought out the guitar in the final seconds did he recapture the spark we have seen in prior weeks.

Astro, “Black Or White”: This little guy is the energizer rapper in this contest. No matter what comes his way, he just keeps coming back week after week with his original and captivating performances. I am rooting for him to stay in the hunt for the top prize.

Drew, “Billy Jean”: She did show some additional range with her interpretation of the song. But it cried out for something other than the frustrating inertia of her sitting motionless in a nebulous chair. Itlooked as though she was singing while waiting for a bus.

Rachel Crow, “Can You Feel It?”: After such terrific showings the past several weeks, this one missed the mark completely. Rachel was lost in the shuffle of the choreography with one of Michael’s least captivating lyrics. What a shame in a week where she could have shined even more brightly than she has so far.

Marcus Canty, “Pretty Young Thing”: Once again, Marcus’ pitch was off. Am I the only one hearing this? Or is it that because he has the looks and dancing ability, not to mention the back flip, that the audience and panel are willing to overlook his weakness. But wait, this is a singing competition!

Chris Rene, “I’ll Be There”: When we heard that Chris’ grandfather wrote the song “Rocking’ Robin,” which the Jackson 5 covered, it seemed obvious that it would be his choice. But instead, he went for a much simpler melody. The vocals were not good for most of the performance, but his freshly scrubbed and shaved look turned him into a teen magazine-ready cover boy. Let’s see who is driving the votes.

Melanie Amaro, “Earth Song (What About Us?)”: There is only one thing to say about this performance. Perfection! Unless she gets hits by the bus Drew was waiting for, a few weeks from now we should be hearing…“And the winner of X Factor Season 1 is…Melanie Amaro!”

Based on the quality of tonight’s performances, Marcus and Chris should be exiting stage right. But I have a funny feeling that Josh could be vulnerable having gone first with a less than stellar showing.