Collingwood resident Drew Wright used his powerful pipes to advance to the top six of the Canadian Idol competition.

Wright was the first competitor to advance when the results were announced on Tuesday night's show. Mark Day of Newfoundland was voted off the show this week.

On a week when the competitors sang songs of the U.K. (United Kingdom) and were assisted by legendary Welsh crooner Tom Jones, Wright impressed all four judges with his rendition of Creep, by the band Radiohead.

Zack Werner, one of the judges who has been critical of the Collingwood singer, was pleased with Wright's attire, saying his clothes were better and shaving his beard made him look younger and hipper.

On his performance, Werner felt the verses could have been more "angst-ridden," but he liked his pipes on the big verses of the song.

Farley Flex felt it was Wright's best performance.

"I'll tell you what Drew. I'm going on record as saying that that was my favourite performance from you so far," he said. "I'll tell you why. Up until now I thought you were singing sort of thin. That was the richest, most heartfelt round performance you've done so far."

Even judge Jake Gold, who last week not only criticized Wright's song choice but also his clothes, was pleased with the performance.

"Drew I think that by far in my mind the most impassioned performance I've ever heard from you," said Gold.

Jones told Wright he can't shortchange the audience, as they're interested in seeing what songs he can do. He also said versatility is great but you still have to have a core.

On his blog after last week's show, Wright thanked those who continue to support him.

"This week I have the privilege of performing a top 10 U.K. hit for you all as well as meeting the legendary Tom Jones. I am looking forward to it greatly. I know I have said it before, but from my perspective it can not be said enough, thanks to everyone who has voted for me,  I cannot explain my gratitude.

"It's truly indescribable because despite the judges' comments you all hear something that you have put stock in as something you would like to continue to hear and that keeps me motivated," he wrote.