The rumors were true--as a showcase for raw vocal chops, American Idol has gotten better every season. The good news for buyers of American Idol Season 5 Encores, then, is that to a one, each of the dozen tracks collected here is easy on the ears: Kellie Pickler's Patsy Cline re-do, "Walkin' After Midnight," clip-clops along with a pleasing North Carolina sweetness. Melissa McGhee proves she was voted off too early with the belt-a-holic opener "What About Love," and Kevin Covais makes a case for his inclusion on a future Disney soundtrack with the wistful "When I Fall in Love." If this disc launches thousands Web discussions, though--and it probably already has--it'll be for its final-fiver selections.

Paris Bennett's "Midnight Train to Georgia" singlehandedly snaps preconceived notions about the show's talent caliber, even if you're not familiar with the spunky 17-year-old singing it. Chris Daughtry's "Wanted Dead or Alive" may not have a lot on Bon Jovi's version, but it showcases his rock-god pipes to maximum benefit. By far the best vocal arrives on track nine, though: Elliott Yamin's "Moody's Mood for Love" outshines everything around it. If Taylor Hicks fans are pleased with his straightforward, husky-voiced rendition of "Takin' it to the Streets" here, chances are they're equally glad he was handed the crown. But for some, Elliott's track may be strong enough to incite cries for a first-ever AI recount. - Tammy La Gorce