by Jessica Blackwell

The Knockouts began this week, and there were some new twists added to the show. First, there was a senior mentor added to the show that helped coach all the teams on their knockout performances. Nate Ruess, lead singer from the group Fun. filled this role and it turns out he's not just a member of a pop group - he's an awesome songwriter with lots of good advice! For the second twist, the producers introduced the three way knockout battle where three artists compete against each other and only two get to stay! 

This week showcased some of the most amazing knockout performances I have ever seen on the show. Sonic, the funky soul singer with the awesome hair, performed "A Woman's Worth". She sang her heart out and Christina chose her to continue on to the live shows. Blaze Johnson, one of my favorites because of his life story, performed "You Found Me" but sadly he lost the round to Deanna who wowed the judges with her powerful rendition of "Listen to your Heart". Adam chose Deanna as the winner not only because she didn't a great job, but because he felt like she still hadn't had her breakthrough on the show and wanted to experience that with her. Poor Blaze - I'll miss him! 

One of my favorites in the competition, Caitlin Caporale, performed Demi Lovato's "Warrior" and reminded us all why she is one to beat. She really does remind me of a young Christina! She went up against Hannah who did an ok job, but after Caitlin's soulful ballad, her performance of "Higher Love" just seemed to fall flat. Sure enough, Pharrell chose Caitlin as the winner, but Hannah was stolen by Blake! 

The first three way knockout in The Voice history was between Mia, Paul, and Sawyer. Sawyer killed it with "Collide" and Mia hit some AMAZING Mariah Carey-esque notes during "Hold on I'm Coming". Paul was no match for those two, and he was sent home. 

Mehgan from Team Blake wowed her coach and the audience with "Natural Woman" and Sarah Potenza brought everyone to their feet with "Wasted Love". I wonder who would win in a battle between those two? Hard to tell! The best part of the knockouts so far was when Nathan finally came out of his shell and performed the vulnerable "Leave Your Love" - it looks like he has staying power! 

Next week as the Knockouts continue, Christina has last steal left in the entire competition! Stay tuned! 

The Voice airs Mondays and Tuesdays at 8pm EST on NBC. 

(Image Courtesy of NBC)