One-third of American Idol's 36 semifinalists took to the stage last night during the first round of fan voting.

While Jackie Tohn kicked the show off with an energetic performance of "A Little Less Conversation," and while Anoop Desai once again proved that his vocal talent belies his youthful, innocent appearance, two contestants truly separated themselves from the others.

• Fans were shown the original, awkward audition of Alexis Grace, during which Kara told her to go home and make love to her fiance. After her rendition of "Never Loved a Man" by Aretha Franklin, however, it seemed like the judges wanted to make love to Grace. Even Simon was impressed.

• Danny Gokey closed the show, meanwhile, and received a standing ovation for his version of Mariah Carey's "Hero." Paula already has him selling out arenas, while Simon said he wasn't buying all of the hype just yet... but was clearly impressed.

Who was your favorite contestant last night?

The top male and female will move on the final 12, along with the next highest vote-getter. We'd be shocked if Grace and Gokey aren't included in this group.

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