The house that built Kelly, Carrie, Fantasia, Adam and Jennifer is closing its doors. That feeling was strong in Thursday's audition show, the last ever episode of American Idol auditions (at least that’s what they say). But while I’m sad about Idol ending, I can also see the cracks showing. While I thought last year’s Per Blankens-helmed season was one of the best in its 15-year run, his departure has meant that Idol has taken a step backwards.

We still get supportive, smart judges and an inclusiveness that was missing for much of the show’s early history, but this season saw the return of showcasing bad auditions and mediocre talent. Where there’s been some very good auditions, I can’t think of anyone who blew me away in the way Adam Lambert did…or even Jax last season. That being said, auditions have never been the best part of Idol in my eyes. The show really takes off in the live shows when we see full performances and superstars begin to emerge. While none of the auditions truly wowed me, that doesn’t mean a big star can’t emerge. We’ll just have to wait and see.

I’ll write about the top five auditions in detail, in order of appearance, and list the others who got through as well. When it comes time for live shows, I’ll write and rate everything.

Jessica Cabral

It took a few measures for Jessica, the daughter of Brazilian musicians, to open up while singing a cover of “Brand New Me.” When she did, a gorgeous, velvety, nicely controlled voice emerged. The more she opens up vocally and emotionally, the farther she’ll go in the competition. And that could be very, very far.

Melanie Huber

I was ready to roll my eyes during Melanie’s sappy introductory package. After many years of watching reality competitions I can safety say that sob story packages rarely segue into amazing talent. But Melanie, a recent cancer survivor, has natural talent that would be evident even without the backstory. A born storyteller, Melanie drew me in instantly with her effortless Bruno Mars cover. Granted her voice had some technical flaws, but that can be worked on. She has the stuff you can’t teach.

Chynna Sherrod

My favorite audition of the night went to Chynna. Sweet and unassuming, she easily reinvented an Ariana Grande hit into a folk song I’d download today. There’s a chance Chynna will get lost in the shuffle of Hollywood Week, especially when pitted against bombastic singers with big, showy voices. That’d be a shame, though. She’s quiet but mighty.

Collette Lush

Despite her quirky intro, which threatened to go down Bad Contestant Lane, Collette showed real skill. Collete has a very solid, basic pop voice and, although that may sound harsh, I mean it as a compliment. It’s strong and pure and technically sound.

Manny Torres

Perhaps Manny has a little too much Latin Lover swagger. We all know Jennifer is gorgeous, but it was getting a little close to icky. That being said, this Puerto Rican brought an inventive interpretation of “This Love” that was full of gruff runs and tasteful back phrasing. He’s one to watch.

Others who got a golden ticket:

Brian Dale Brown had an endearing growl in his voice but was far too over the top and all over the place.

Rachel Karryn was fine but unremarkable.

Caroline Bryne brought a bluesy vibe to the song she sang with her brother.

Bianca Espinal got a little shouty on the high notes, but showed a clear pop tone.

Lillian Glanton's original song was cute – it felt like a very early Taylor Swift track – but I agree that her voice isn’t up to snuff.

Kacye Haynes sounds like a lot of emo pop singers in the late ‘90s early 2000s that we don’t remember anymore.

Zach Person had an inconsistent voice, poor breath support or occasional pitch problems, but a blues artist like Zach is about feeling the music in his bones, which is sometimes more important than technique.

Avalon Young successfully reinvented a Beyonce with her feathery pop but even she had some vocal hiccups along the way.

Usen Isong has an interesting tone but a frenetic style, overwrought runs and consistent flatness.

Jaci Butler, whom I was hoping could be the next Allison Iraheta or Jenna Irene, lacks the power or vocal finesse to get there.

Stephany Negrete has a pretty and technically sound voice but her Barbie Doll empty performance left me cold.