Simon Cowell called White’s first performance “a nightmare,” then heaped praise on her after her second act.

“This is the Brooke we like. Sitting behind the piano, singing a very good song,” the snarky judge said. “It wasn’t incredible, but it was a million times better than the first song. Well done.”

The remaining “Idol” candidates — David Archuleta, David Cook, Jason Castro and Syesha Mercado (Wednesday night’s other low vote-getter) — surrounded White on stage.

By the way–not only was Brooke a nightmare yesterday–but the show was too. Every time the show tries to switch it up the just make it worse. An hour to tell us who is going home? Give me a break. It’s freaking boring! Thank God for Tivo!