In the workplace whenever I have application deadlines and not too many numbers in, I always pray that I’ll get a slew in the closing moments. I hoped the same tonight, and the voters did not disappoint- in a crazy, crazy way. Some sure wins got the tables turned last second, one back and forth bout went to the last punch of the 15th. I can already predict the angry comments in response to what I’m about to report, so let’s just get to it.

The top three high scorers were all separated by 0.5. But the winner with 108 points and defeating the second highest with 107.5 was “Killing Me Softly” by The Fugees eliminating Rufus Wainwright’s “Hallelujah.” With the win in this last round, Lauryn Hill, Pras, and Wyclef pick up the 7 seed jersey for the next round. Rufus replaces Dolly as the highest scoring loser but grabs a spot on the Wall of 10’s at the last minute from Mr. and Mrs. Adrock (KMS also on the Wall from AnneS and Isabel)- in fact, their last minute votes made this an exciting finish, but Hallelujah falls just short of a massive comeback.

The other song scoring 107.5 points had an easier time of things. “Mad World” eliminates “Rhythm of the Rain,” who only picked up 78.3 points. Another solid add to the seedings, as Gary Jules dons the 10 seed going forward.

Your wagon is not allowed on Sesame Street, says Marc Cohn.

These next results make me sad, as I gave the losing song a 10 and love it with all my heart. Unfortunately, however, it will not be advancing. After building a decent lead, things collapsed for Against Me! in the waning moments- Marc Cohn’s “New Speedway Boogie” upsets (yeah I’m calling it an upset) “Wagon Wheel,” 92.3-91.1. Cohn advances with no 10s, which is a generally solid indication if history predicts present- few people had qualms with that one.

Last and quantitatively least, “Wake Me When It’s Over” eliminates “All Tomorrow’s Parties,” 81.4-75.7. Jacob and I both think the lead singer from the Supersuckers sounds like a young Mick Jagger. Seriously, listen to an old recording of “Heart Of Stone” then listen to WMWIO. Dead on.

OK into the laboratory I go. Round of 64 seeding forthcoming.