American Idol welcomed Victoria Beckham back as a guest judge last night, while also inviting 26 contestants to Hollywood.

A significant number of them have real potential, as well, from Haeley Vaughn and her dream to be a "black Carrie Underwood" to Casey James and his soulful voice. (Not to mention topless body, which Kara and Victoria might still be drooling over.)

Get a look at the singers that left the best impression on our staff in our recap of this week's Idol auditions. Sadly, they included this dude...

Tonight, the show airs its annual "Best of the Rest" episode. Then, it's finally off to Hollywood next week. We can't wait for consistently solid auditions and, of course, for Ellen DeGeneres.

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