Scotty McCreery actually gets criticized on 'American Idol'

Scotty McCreery is up first as "American Idol" sings songs from the 21st century (which sounds ridiculous).

There's a little surrpise before that as the finalists who've been kicked out already come out to sing  -- Pink's "So What" -- Thia Megia, Ashton Jones, Naima Adedapo, Karen Rodriguez, Pia Toscano and Paul McDonald. 

They've got 90 minutes to fill and just seven singers, so it makes sense. 

Scotty's singing "Swingin'" -- with a full-on band. He should just do it solo. It's a fun performance, his sly humor is on full display. And he's perfect for these story songs.

Totally overproduced, he's almost drowned out. But it's all fun to listen to. He's totally comfortable up there. For me, it's his most enjoyable performance of the year.

Steven Tyler loves it. Jennifer Lopez likes his "storytelling" ability, but wants him to do something more at this stage. Hmm, weird . . . actual criticism!

Randy Jackson uses the "this point in the competition" thing, too, calls it safe and boring.

Ha! After 6 weeks of telling them to do their thing, the judges change their tune!