Local 'Idol' contestant Haley puts it all together

It was the night Haley Reinhart and her fans have been waiting for.

All season, the “American Idol” judges have been pushing the Wheeling native to put her moves, her voice and her style together.

She gave them what they were asking for on Wednesday, closing the show with a growly, sexy take on Elton John's “Bennie and the Jets.”

Reinhart started the number atop a piano and slinked her way through the song, letting the bluesy elements of her voice shine.

All three judges were ecstatic.

“That was it, Haley,” Judge Jennifer Lopez said. “It all came together. It was a great way to end the show. Amazing.”

Judge Randy Jackson, who has been tough on Reinhart in the past, had nothing but raves.

“Best performance of the night,” he said. “You gave it up.”

Reinhart should be able to breathe easy tonight for a change.

Idol will send two contestants home as Wilmette native Casey Abrams was saved by the judges last week. Still, based on the judges' comments and her solid performance, Reinhart should be sent to safety early.

Most of the top 11 turned in strong performances during Elton John week. Particularly compelling were Lauren Alaina's cover of “Candle in the Wind” and Abrams, who bounced back with a tender take on “Your Song.” He toned down the rasp in his voice so it didn't overshadow the melody the way it had the past couple of weeks.

So who goes home?

Naima Adedapo didn't fare well with a reggae twist on “I'm Still Standing,” and Jacob Lusk oversang the back half of “Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word.” But it's anyone's guess.

The eliminations start at 7 tonight on Fox.