From dramatic arguments on stage to contestants returning after being axed – this week’s X Factor was not short on drama.

Nick Grimshaw’s boys were the first on the stage, followed by Cheryl’s groups, who were all vying for one of six seats on offer to get a place at their judge’s house.

But it was Simon who got the last say over one contestant – ordering Mason Noise to leave the stage after an outburst about the short slot he received on the show.

Here is what we learned from this week’s show.

1. We’re all wondering where Caroline Flack has gone.

Caroline Flack arriving at the X Factor auditions
The absent host… (Daniel Leal-Olivas/PA)

2. Every contestant said they wanted a seat in the Six Chair Challenge, but did they understand what this really meant?

3. Despite taking Nick’s first seat, YouTube star Tom Bleasby’s performance – particularly its pitch – left some unconvinced.

Tom Bleasby performing on X Factor
Tom Squeaky? (Thames/Syco/Fremantle Media)

4. According to Cheryl, you shouldn’t sing with your eyes closed, but perhaps, for her, this rule doesn’t apply to every part of your face.

5. Zany outfits are always a talking point on X Factor

6. Simon’s weird attempt to raise the stakes after one song really gave us food for thought...

6. Mason Noise reminded everyone why you shouldn’t lock horns with the judges.

His nonsensical opening gambit didn’t get things off to a great start.

He then complained about the length of time his performance was given on the previous show, to the great annoyance of Simon.

He then dramatically marched off stage after dropping the mic.

7. Nick quickly filled all six of his seats with several performances remaining – which showed things can get VERY nervy for those already sitting down.

8. It’s not over until it’s over on this show – especially when Nick Grimshaw is in charge.

Nick Grimshaw talking to a contestant
Has Grimmy been too indecisive? (Thames/Syco/Fremantle Media)

To the great distress of the studio audience and the general public, Nick gave up Tom Bleasby’s seat.

But, like Lazarus, it appears X Factor contestants can return from the dead – after Grimmy responded to the crowd’s booing and brought Tom back.

People were not altogether impressed with the Radio 1 DJ’s decision-making.

9. Which meant things quickly turned into musical chairs as one contestant was chosen over another.

10. Then Cheryl’s groups hit the stage – and the first pair were on point.

11. You have to do something special to make it as a girl group these days – and Alien did that just that.

Alien performing on X Factor
An easy decision for Cheryl (Thames/Syco/Fremantle Media)

Their outfits left something to be desired, however.

13. And finally, Fourth Power, from the Philippines, had just about everyone agreeing with Cheryl that they were “phenomenal”.