I didn't think about that last night, but I bet you're right. Before he performed, Seacrest even said: "You think you know what to expect from Adam Lambert?"
G'morning, Jonny. Billboard's review was frank and honest. Had to have an impact because, after all, the ultimate goal of Sony-BMG/19 Entertainment is to make records that hit on Billboard charts.
I replayed Adam's performance at least half a dozen times. Aside from the fact that he reminded me strongly of Kurt Russell in the movie 'Elvis,' Lambert's understated performance was beautiful -- for a change. If all those backhanded references by the judges about clean face, classy look, no nail polish, straightening up the song, etc., get through to him, this guy is going to win the competition hands down.
There really isn't anyone even remotely close to him, talent wise, and there hasn't been for the last two or three seasons. But the question for me is this: is he marketable in pop-rock? I guess we'll see as he progresses through the competition.
One other thought. This is Lambert's one big chance to climb up out of the gutter. I'm hoping he does it.