Idol: Only 'Tears' Of Joy Shed For Rising Star Adam Lambert

Adam Lambert, turning back the clock a la Zac Efron in Hairspray, continued his torrid run on American Idol.

The well-coiffed Lambert -- clad in a form-fitting silvery suit, black shirt and matching handkerchief -- got instant positive feedback for his rendition of Tracks Of My Tears, in the form of thunderous audience applause and gushing praise from the panel of judges.

"I've got six words for you -- one of the best performances of the night." judge Kara DioGuardi told him. "You showed artistry on that stage -- awesome."

Paula Abdul chimed in, complimenting his cleaned-up look ("handsome and classy") and called him "completely in his own league."

And Simon Cowell, notoriously harsh at times crowned Lambert with the ultimate praise, telling him he "really emerged as a star" on Motown night.