It seemed as though the 'X Factor' mentors had a far better grasp of this week's nebulous theme of "songs that give thanks" than they did of "rock" or "songs from movies," but were you thankful for the performances?

Paula spent two hours in a perpetual state of teary-eyed incoherence (no change there), Astro was ... vaguely repentant over last week's "incident," and were it not for Paula and Nicole, I think Simon and L.A. would've started a slap-fight over Drew's performance. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

Hit the jump for our verdict on this week's especially tearful thankful installment, and weigh in on your favorite performances.

I kind of like the beginning of American Idol these days. The judges enter on the stage, so we get to see whatever awesome dress Paula is wearing. Not sure about last week's tutu, but I like her tulip-inspired red dress tonight.

Then Ryan descends from a big long stairway on the stage, like he's some old-time movie star or something. It's a little weird and cheesy, but also kind of fun. The theme this week is wide open, with the contestants choosing any song that's a popular download on iTunes. Let's get to it.

Anoop Desai started things off with Usher's "Caught Up." He cranked the pop factor up a few notches and showed that he's got the chops to switch it up a bit. Randy's a little torn and doesn't like the song choice. Kara thinks it's like a bunch of "frat guys dared you to get up and do Usher." Paula loves his more playful side, but says Anoop's stage presence needs a little work. Simon thinks it's "a complete and utter mess," saying, "It actually gave me a headache."