When the story of this season is recorded in history books, the rise of Cook will be its great tale. Coming out of what seemed too obscure a niche to become a credible contender, Cook has steadily broadened his appeal far beyond the indie demo. In the Idoldome each week now, grandmothers and, more ominously for Archuleta, children, identify themselves as his fans. Throughout the long season, Cook’s performances –- often surprising and always seemingly carefully considered –- became the most anticipated of each night. Of all the contestants, Cook seemed the most comfortable on stage, singing apparently without fear and behaving in his interview segments in a low-key but self-assured manner that conveyed both humility and a strong sense of self. In the early weeks of the Top 24, Cook appeared almost bratty on stage, snapping at the judges, and was informed by judge Simon Cowell that he was entirely without charisma. But he quickly seemed to bring himself under control at once, restraining what flashes of anger he may have felt and projecting a very likable, unaffected personality.
Finally on Mariah Carey night, a month back, Cook broke through. His performance of “Always Be My Baby,” sung with his ailing brother in the audience, was the most dramatic of the season, producing an ovation that lasted through the break as Cook waded into the crowd to visit his sibling. That applause held the season’s record, until tonight, when Cook’s final song produced an ovation so thunderous and unrelenting across the Idoldome, the night almost felt like a coronation.
from the LA times blog
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