‘American Idol’: Hollie Cavanagh peaking at right time

American Idol” trotted out 1960s songs first Wednesday night, then turned to British hits. The big surprise: Hollie Cavanagh, probably the most vulnerable contestant left, made the best impression.

Hollie ripped into “River Deep, Mountain High” with style and gusto. She was fearless, she looked lovely, and she wowed the judges. Steven Tyler praised her bluesy style. Jennifer Lopez appreciated the way she attacked the words. Randy Jackson confirmed that all three loved the performance.

Phillip Phillips changed up “The Letter” substantially and gave it a sound that was alternately bluesy and jazzy. Jackson said he made the song his own. Lopez didn’t know the song, but said he was compelling. Tyler said he missed the melody, but said Phillip got away with it.

Skylar Laine gave a peppy rendition of “Fortunate Son” that obscured the song’s anger. But the judges were generous. Lopez praised her energy. “Fabulous,” Tyler said.

Jessica Sanchez looked pretty but tried so hard on “Proud Mary” that the strain was evident. Lopez loved seeing her move. Jackson said the performance OK.Skylar put her country style on “You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me.” It was very nice, but it didn’t have the force of Hollie’s performances. Jackson said she, too, was peaking at the right time.

Jessica delivered a beautiful “You Are So Beautiful” effortlessly. It was probably her best moment on the show. Lopez said she captivated the audience. Jackson said she had rebounded in the second round.

Joshua went with the Bee Gees’ “To Love Somebody,” and he pushed too hard. He suffered in comparison to the restrained Jessica. The judges, however, gave him a standing ovation. “You’re one of the best singers ever on this show,” Jackson said. Lopez said he was one of the best singers in 50 years.

To fill out the two-hour running time, “Idol” split the contestants into groups. Joshua and Phillip were joined on a subdued “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’,” which went off-key a few times. Tyler, however, said it was perfect. The three girls joined forces for “(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher,” which was ragged but still better than the guys’ duet.

Carrie Underwood and Coldplay perform on the results show at 8 p.m. Thursday on Fox (WOFL-Channel 35 locally).

Who goes? It will be a shame if Hollie is out, but she would leave at her best. Joshua may have overdone it on the second song, and the judges’ lavish praise may have backfired with viewers. Phillip was the weakest singer, but it’s highly unlikely he’s leaving.