Writers say Johns is ‘Idol’ favorite

The Final 12 are set and “American Idol” gets down to business tonight on Fox (8 p.m.). Staff writers of the Times Free Press pick the singers they believe are contenders for the title of Season 7 “American Idol.”

Anne Braly: Unlike Paula Abdul, I don’t think this is the best group of singers “American Idol” has ever seen. But, there are a few bright spots. Jason Castro’s version of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” was haunting and beautiful. Rocker chick Amanda Overmyer also can belt out a song. I would love to hear her sing some Joan Armatrading songs. My vote for this year’s winner, though, goes to Michael Johns. He’s got the goods.

Clint Cooper: Although David Archuleta is only 17, he may be the best teenage singer the show has ever had and is my pick to win. He may lack a little in confidence, but that will improve as the show continues. His voice is smooth and pure and should be able to handle a wide variety of genres. I would be interested to hear him try a few of Elton John’s older ballads.

Karen Nazor Hill: Johns is, by far, my choice. His talent, paired with his maturity, charisma, good looks and charming accent makes him a winner in my book. He has nailed each performance. Archuleta is hugely talented but too immature to hold the title “American Idol.” His stage presence is awkward and sometimes hard to watch, particularly when he licks his lips during performances. Johns will win with Archuleta second.

Susan Pierce: Although Archuleta seems the obvious choice, I’m putting my money on Johns. The Aussie-Atlantan may not have the strongest voice, but he has charisma, looks and the stage presence of a great pop singer. He’s proven he can channel Jim Morrison, now he just needs to prove himself with something more current. I’d love to hear him try Rob Thomas — maybe “Streetcorner Symphony.”

Christine Simmons: I’m going to go out on a limb and say Overmyer will win. She dares to be different, and that’s refreshing. She’s got looks, stage presence and confidence, which I believe will be a winning combination. I’m not sure how far she’ll actually make it because I don’t think the voting demographic is on her side, but I hope she stays around for a while to spice things up.

Amy Williams: After her stripped-down version of Pat Benatar’s “Love Is a Battlefield,” I think Brooke White proved she has what it takes to win it all. She’s not afraid to put her pure voice out there without the safety net of the band. I also loved Castro’s “Hallelujah.” It was beautiful and shows he is a versatile singer. I could do without the dreadlocks, but without them he probably wouldn’t stand out as much. I can’t wait to see what he sings next week.