Elyjuh Rene's surprising 'Voice' victory

Sometimes, Pharrell seems like he’s playing a completely different game than the other coaches on “The Voice.”

However, he never seemed more next-level than Tuesday night, when he gave the nod to the talented, but slightly underperforming, Elyjuh Rene instead of the powerful Ricky Manning, who every other coach felt won the round.

“There’s more work to be done,” he said, picking Elyjuh.

The other coaches seem shocked, but Gwen Stefani wasted no time to steal Ricky. For Pharrell, though, different was better than polished. Time will tell if that strategy works for him.

Here’s how the night shook out:

TEAM GWEN: Taylor John Williams vs. Troy Ritchie

Troy’s serious-then-goofy version of Outkast’s “Hey Ya” was fun, but not necessarily the best showcase for his voice. Taylor’s dark, dramatic take on Tears for Fears’ “Mad World” was more emotional, but not more entertaining. However, it was a much better vehicle for his voice.

GWEN PICK: Taylor

SHOULD’VE PICKED: Taylor

TEAM ADAM: Alessandra Castronovo vs. Mia Pfirrman

Alessandra’s version of Emeli Sande’s “Next to Me” was the picture of control, as her pretty voice moved effortlessly around the stylish song. Mia’s take on Christina Perri’s “Human” was more a portrait of power, booming through every big note flawlessly. Adam said she had ice water in her veins and gave her the edge.

ADAM PICK: Mia

SHOULD’VE PICKED: Mia

TEAM PHARREL: Elyjuh Rene vs. Ricky Manning

The smoothness Elyjuh brought to Chris Brown’s “With You” made it seem deceptively simple, which drew a standing ovation from Pharrell. Ricky surprisingly gave Miley Cyrus’ “Wrecking Ball” a gorgeous reading, trading Miley’s vocal tics for pure passion. Blake said it was the best performance so far.

PHARRELL PICK: Elyjuh

SHOULD’VE PICKED: Ricky (Gwen steals Ricky)