We were treated to a handful of solid performances last night during American Idol auditions in San Diego. Here were our favorites:

• Perrie Cataldo

A single father, Cataldo had more than just a great backstory. He bellowed Boyz II Men's "I'll Make Love to You" as if it had been written for him. Combine the adorable son with the voice and this is Top 24 material.

• Michael Johns

Now, the controversy begins: Johns was great, if only for the accent alone. But news has broke that this Australian was the lead singer for two bands: The Rising and Film. Should that disqualify him from American Idol? Some believe so.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47Ug1-kA8zA&eurl=http://www.thehollywoodgossip.com/videos/michael-johns/[/youtube]

For now, Johns is simply an early favorite who has moved on to Hollywood.

• David Archuleta

Another great backstory and another contestant with a professional resume: the 16-year old won Star Search when he was 12 and has performed across the country ever since. He also suffered from paralysis of the vocal chords as a child.

• Carly Smithson

Formerly known as Carly Hennessy, the Irish singer tried out for American Idol in 2005. Visa problems caused her to drop out, however. She's also received attention for a failed album released a few years ago, "Ultimate High."

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.