Top Ten for the top ten
Australian Idol 
/ Chris Ryan / 26 September 2009 / Leave a comment Bet Now View Market
No surprises this week with the elimination of Casey Barnes, but what did surprise was the other contestants up for elimination. Is this a talent contest or a popularity contest is the question that springs to mind, writes Jayme Jenkins.
Sabrina Batshon is clearly the most talented girl in the contest, but her big mouth has made her one of the most hated idol contestants in history.
Kim Cooper also up for elimination hadn't performed badly in the previous week's Rock night and in fact was flying under the radar. Perhaps this was the wake up she needed to lift her game.
Top Ten night began with another great performance from Sabrina Batshon singing "When Love Takes Over". The judges loved her and here's hoping that translates into votes for her this week.
30-year-old Toby Moulton's version of "Take On Me" by A-Ha should maintain his place as a favourite amongst housewives and grandmothers for another week. But it was the contestants that were sitting at the top of the table that had a much shakier week.
Scott Newnham pushed his vocal ability this week and, even with coaching from guest judge Brian McFadden, his performance fell short. His first mistake was choosing "Kiss From A Rose" by Seal, a difficult song, outside his comfort zone and this was only the seventh time he had ever sung on stage in his life. The raw talent that initially drew the judges to him may also be his undoing in this competition.
Consistent Stan Walker was more than happy to step into that top spot singing "Straight Lines" by Silverchair. He made the mistake of taking on another Rock song this week, but if you are good at something why change?
The judge's favourite of the night was the country styling of Kate Cook. Even on Top Ten night she managed to sing "Landslide" by Stevie Nicks. Clearly country is where her talent lies, but I am not sure if that is what Australia wants their idols to be.
On the elimination stage this week, expect to see Tim Johnston, Sabrina Batshon and Kim Cooper again.
None of these contestants are new to the elimination stage and only two will go on to perform in 80s Night. Even with Australia's dislike of Sabrina Batshon, I think she will survive another week and send Tim Johnston home instead.
