‘X Factor’ Finale Recap: Alex & Sierra Secure Their Victory On Night 1

‘X Factor’ Finale Recap: Alex & Sierra Secure Their Victory On Night 1

Who do YOU want to win ‘The X Factor’? Cast your vote, then weigh in with your review of the finale (so far)!

Well, kids, it’s all come down to this: The X Factor officially kicked off its two-night finale Dec. 18, giving its three remaining acts – Alex & Sierra, Carlito Olivero and Jeff Gutt – one last chance to steal America’s hearts, and more importantly, its votes. Despite terrific performances from Carlito and Jeff, HollywoodLife.com is still declaring Alex & Sierra the competition’s frontrunners after one final night of unforgettable songs.

‘X Factor’ Finale: Alex & Sierra Use Their ‘Love’ To Win Round 1

Carlito kicked off the first round of solos with an English-Spanish fusion of Shontelle‘s “Impossible.” It wasn’t bad, but it definitely left the judges wanting more. “You need to let go,” Demi Lovato told him, possibly subtly promoting her Frozen song “Let It Go.” Still, she called his performance “passionate” and added that she believes he still has a shot at winning.

Then came Alex & Sierra, who earned a standing ovation with their beautiful version of Ed Sheeran‘s “Give Me Love.” Noting how much Sierra has “evolved” during the competition, Simon Cowell told the couple, “You have that ‘x’ factor.” (Seriously, can we just give them the recording contract already?)

Jeff ended the first round with a classic, Aerosmith‘s “Dream On,” and it was pretty fantastic. Jeff is clearly the strongest solo performer in the competition, but I still think Alex & Sierra won this round with their heartfelt duet. Still, the judges loved Jeff’s performance; Paulina Rubio even said, “I can’t imagine a record company not signing you after that.” (Go Jeff!)

‘X Factor’ Finale: Carlito Olivero & Jeff Gutt Rock Round 2

Round two paired the finalists with major musicians, beginning with Prince Royce, who made sweet music with Carlito. Their duet of “Stand By Me” wowed the judges, inspiring Demi to tell him, “You showed America you have what it takes to become a Latino pop star.” As Kelly Rowland said, “Handclaps all around!”

As a little treat for the ’90s alt-rock lovers out there, Goo Goo Dolls frontman John Rzeznik took the stage for a duet with Jeff. Simon called it the “perfect collaboration and perfect song,” and I can’t say I disagree. John and Jeff absolutely killed it!

Now for the sad part: Alex & Sierra were joined by Leona Lewis, and while all three singers did a great job, their voices didn’t exactly meet in perfect harmony. When the trio was done with “Bleeding Love,” Demi told Alex & Sierra it wasn’t their best performance. “I think Leona outshined you a little bit, but I still feel like you have what it takes to win,” she said. Once again, I agree.

‘X Factor’ Finale: Alex & Sierra Make A Major Comeback

The final round is where each act really got a chance to shine, beginning with Carlito, who put on a phenomenal performance of Carlos Santana‘s “Maria Maria.” Carlito may be considered the underdog, but as the judges pointed out, this dog’s definitely got some bite!

More than making up for their round-two fumble, Alex & Sierra returned to the stage for a glorious performance of “Say Something.” And here’s what I’m saying: Alex & Sierra are absolutely going to win tomorrow night. Simon even told them, “You are exactly what a talent show in America needs.” (Need we “Say” more?)

Jeff closed the night with Radiohead‘s “Creep,” a song that’s certainly gotten its fair share of covers in recent years. Still, Jeff added his own unique flair to it, and the performance was pretty terrific. But is it enough to help Jeff conquer front-runners Alex & Sierra? I guess we’ll find out tomorrow night!

HollywoodLifers, which performance did you enjoy most tonight? And which act do you hope will win The X Factor? Cast your vote above, then drop a comment below with more of your thoughts on the finale.

â€" Andy Swift
Follow @AndySwift

More ‘X Factor’:

1. Demi Lovato Leaving ‘The X Factor’ After Season 3 â€" Report
2. Restless Road: How They’re Sticking Together After ‘X Factor’ Elimination
3. ‘X Factor’ Recap : Final 3 Acts Revealed After Shocking Elimination

Hollywood Life