American Idol returned on Wednesday with Harry Connick Jr., Jennifer Lopez and Keith Urban narrowing down the field of talent to 30 – 15 boys and 15 girls.

'American Idol' Recap

Following the group round, the American Idol contestants got one last chance to sing before the judges. They had the option of choosing a song off a list and being accompanied by a live band or playing an original song. Aside from a select few, playing an original song proved to be a poor choice, as their song writing abilities didn’t match their singing talents.

Sam Woolf was an exception with his performance of his original song “I Tried,” which was inspired by the aftermath of his mom leaving his family behind. The heartfelt lyrics and his strong voice made him a shoe in for the top 15 guys. Jesse Meuse also sang an original song. Hers, called “Done,” was about an “idiot.” Though the judges weren’t 100% sure she should get through to the next round, a face off against the similar-voiced Jessica Roach saw her get the judges’ approval.

Maurice Townsend wowed the judges with his soulful version of Miley Cyrus’ “Wrecking Ball.” Mary J. Blige’s “I’m Goin’ Down was sung by both Malcolm Allen and Emmanuel Zidor, both of whom are going through. Singing Ed Sheeran’s “The A Team,” out lesbian M.K. Nobilette impressed with her unique vocals and also won the judges’ approval. Despite an off-key start to her performance of Fantasia’s “I Believe” Malaya Watson is going through as well.

American Idol closed the episode on a cliffhanger after Casey Thrasher and C.J Harris sang for their lives. Both Thrasher’s take on “Do Ya” and Harris’ version of “Whipping Post” seemed worthy of the top 30. Will the judges keep them both around?

American Idol returns to Fox on Thursday at 8/7c.

See Below For a List Of The Semifinalists So Far:

– Chelsea Regan

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Guys

1. Malcolm Allen
2. Jordan Brisbane
3. Spencer Lloyd
4. George Lovett
5. Alex Preston
6. Dexter Roberts
7. Maurice Townsend
8. Sam Woolf
9. Emmanual Zidor

Girls

1. Andrina Brogden
2. Jillian Jensen
3. Bria Anai Johnson
4. Jessica Meuse
5. M.K. Nobilette
6. Kristen O'Connor
7. Emily Piriz
8. Malaya Watson