Gene's Take on Neil Week

Oh. My. God. Who would have ever thought that Andrew Lloyd Weber week would be looked back upon as a highlight reel? Paula - who told you it was OK to mix the oxycontin with the ecstasy? All it does is make you forget who you love.

Contestants: Neil Diamond has approximately 500 songs in his catalog. And this is what you came up with? Some people are getting very lazy.

I'll keep this short and sweet.

Jason: Dude, who the hell is voting for you? If there were two songs in that entire catalog that I would have said NO ONE would do, it would be Forever In Blue Jeans and September Morn. Obviously you have never been to a Neil Diamond concert or you would have never, ever, done Blue Jeans. I was having flashbacks like a bad acid trip to the one time I went to a Neil Diamond show with my parents. September Morn? More like Late April Nightmare.

David C: OK, I don't like you or your attitude (this week: SMUG) but you seem to be the only one willing to work at this. Go out now and get arrested with drugs or something - you'll be kicked off the Idol tour and start your own career a year sooner.

Brooke: I Am I Said was OK. Believer was unbelievable atrocious. Stay behind the piano and please shut the f up.

David A: Annie hit it right on the head. You are starting to bore us. Bitch slap necessary.

Syesha: Again, it should not happen, it isn't right, but your luck just ran out.

Looks like the final four will be two Davids, a Dread and a Ditz.

Idol Top 5 Vs. Paula

Talk about stepping into the twilight zone this evening. Where do we even start? Ryan tells us all that the glare of exposure has already caused some to lose their cool (Brooke White), and wonders what might happen tonight. Who knew that the only one to flip out under the pressure would be Paula, but we’ll explore that scary place a little later. For anyone who wondered like me, if Idol was scripted, Paula sure answered that for all of us. Ryan reminds us to vote for our favorites because Carly is watching from home. After wasting a good five minutes, Ryan tells us that we have a tight show with two performances from each singer. Neil Diamond’s credits are run, and Neil tells us that he is glad for the chance to encourage the artists, and that they are all good and all bring something different. I am sure that he means it and that he isn’t just here to promote his new CD. Ryan says we will wait to critique everyone after they perform their second song. Let’s break it down:
Jason Castro- "Forever in Blue Jeans"
Neil isn’t given much time to comment on Jason, which annoys me. I can tell already I am NOT going to enjoy this hurried pace. Why not an hour and a half? It’s not like Idol has ever minded wasting time. I digress. Jason starts off low and then jumps an octave. It is a nice touch, and he gives a sweet performance that is on key, but I am missing the "Over the Rainbow" and "Hallelujah" days. I can’t put my finger on it, because I do love his voice and his charm. All and all I think he gives a nice performance, but not necessarily one that will stay with you. He is in the dreaded number one spot.
At the end of all 5 songs, Ryan switches it up and asks the judges to quickly run down the critiques with all of the idol hopefuls standing there. Randy thought Jason was just all right. Paula became extremely confused as she read her notes and said in the first song she liked how he started in the lower register, but on the second song she thought he had lost some of his charm and it didn’t seem like he was fighting to be there. At this point no one quite knows what to do. Randy says, "hey, uh, we are just judging the first song"(duh) and Ryan says "Paula you are reading the future". Paula looks at them all baffled and says, "I thought you sang twice". Thank God for Simon who takes the attention off of her and tells Jason that is was forgettable.
David Cook "I’m Alive"
Neil Diamond gets goose bumps from David. This song is unfamiliar to me, but David definitely captures the Neil vibe while still making the song sound like his own. He gives a pretty decent performance. He plays the electric guitar and there are some really cool lights. I am not sure that he did anything different than he normally does to push himself to the next level, but overall I enjoy it. I just don’t have goose bumps. Randy thought he was on fire. Paula never got to finish her critiques due to the time crunch and the amount of time it took her to realize we weren’t in dress rehearsal anymore. Simon thought it was just above average.
Brooke White "I’m a Believer"
Neil finds Brooke to be very genuine. She comes out with the guitar and looks beautiful in blue and with her hair all curly. She gets through the piece without starting over, and she seems to have fun, but why? Why the Smash Mouth version of an already overplayed song? How in the world did she think she was going to make that unique and her own? I am glad she seemed to get some of her confidence back as she performed, but the whole thing was so corny and awkward that I could hardly stand to watch. Randy said it was just ok. Again, we were blessedly spared Paula’s thoughts. Simon thought it was nightmarish and karaoke.
David Archuleta "Sweet Caroline"
Neil thinks of David as a kind of prodigy. My friend Lynda predicted that he would sing this song. He has a perfect vocal, and he managed, as he always does, to put that David A. spin on it. For the first time, however, I am kind of tired of his schtick. I think it sounds like a number in the Six Flags Palace Show, and for me it is forgettable. I guess I am a "Sweet Caroline" purist. I have this feeling that this is all we are going to get for the next four weeks. Then I guess David will put out a recording of twelve songs where he makes the exact same vocal decisions with every melody, and I will never buy it. I still think he has mad skills; I am just becoming bored with the same outfit, same performance and same vocal week after week. Randy thought it was the bomb. Paula stared confusedly ahead. Simon thought it was amateurish.
Syesha Mercado- "Hello Again"
Neil Diamond thought Syesha was wonderful. He actually asked her for a hug. Syesha looks gorgeous in a powder blue dress with her hair straightened. She starts singing, sitting on the steps. All I can see are the idiotic paid extras waving frantically and completely ahead of the beat. Syesha’s vocal is really nice, but in a KEZK-(for the out-of-towner’s-read easy listening) kind of way. It feels like Lionel Ritchie’s "Hello"-but the way he sang it before David Cook made it hip. Don’t get me wrong, I thought based on talent she did great. It just is not a song I really liked when Neil himself sang it. Randy thought it was good. Paula again, left speechless by her enormous gaffe, stared at her notes. Simon said it was old-fashioned.
After the embarrassment of the first half of the show, we come back from commercial break and catch a glimpse of Paula looking extremely stressed out and uncomfortable. Hmm. Is it because she doesn’t know what she should say after Jason’s real performance? And how will the negative comments based on the dress rehearsal affect his actual live performance?
Jason Castro- "September Morn"
I have to say, having heard the comments before the performance, I am simply waiting for him to tank. Paula never says anything negative, so I am figuring it has to be bad. Jason looks for the first time, to be completely out of sorts and like he doesn’t have a clue what he is doing on this show. The song is sung in key, but it is not the right kind of song for him, and I feel like we all kind of got cheated-Jason included. Randy says it was just ok. Paula looks sheepish and says that he took the same liberties with both songs and he needs to fight. Simon said he doesn’t recognize him these last two weeks and that he didn’t make either song his own. While they are commenting they are pushing Jason out of the way and rushing David Cook on stage. It is extremely annoying.
David Cook "All I Really Need is you"
This is a great fit for David. I don’t even recognize it as a Neil Diamond song, it sounds like David wrote it himself. He is passionate, professional and actually brings a little tenderness to the song before rocking it out in the middle. It feels like he reached much farther with this performance and I absolutely love it. After both of David’s appearances tonight, he has forged ahead of the other four by a pretty large margin. Randy says he is a huge fan and that he rocked the house, it was blazing. Paula was so proud of him and feels like he already is the idol. Simon thought it was brilliant.
Brooke White "I Am I Said"
Brooke starts this song at the piano and actually has a very heartfelt performance. This is a great song choice for Brooke, and her vocal, while not perfect, reminds me of why I liked her several weeks ago. I am not sure if I can see Brooke going much farther, but I am glad that she was able to come back from the embarrassment of last week and have a solid performance. I do think the girl has a future in music, but I am not sure how much longer she will survive in this type of competition. Randy thought she did a nice job. Paula thought she showed vulnerability and when she does that it works. Simon hated the first song, but said that this was the Brooke he liked. It was not incredible, but a million times better than the last song.
David Archuleta "America"
David pulls one of the smartest numbers out of the hat, and delivers an almost perfect vocal with a song that makes everyone think of fireworks and the fourth of July. I enjoy it, but am still feeling like I really want to see David stretch and do something unpredictable and amazing. This wasn’t it for me, but I did enjoy his take on the song. I know all you crazy David A. fans are going to diss me and and send me irate emails. Go ahead. David is fading into the woodwork, and he needs to find something to make him a little younger and quick! Randy said it was another great performance. Paula said it was a perfect song and his voice is on point. She also said "I love you" and "have fun". What the f ? Maybe it was the tranquilizer they gave Paula after the first half of the show taking effect. Simon says it was a smart choice, it was clever and that David checked all of his boxes.
Syesha Mercado- "Thank the Lord for the Nighttime"
Syesha pulls out all the stops on this performance. She is able to showcase her musical theatre side as she dances and claps along with her backup singers. It is a lot of fun, and it is pretty good vocal. Again, this is not the type of performance that I would expect at a pop concert, but I would pay to see her if she was in a Broadway play. Randy says nice job, and he loves when she does this musical theatre side. Paula calls her Brooke (the valium is talking) and then tells her she loved her texture from the first song and that she thought she sounded a little like Corinne Bailey. Simon said that she demonstrated that she is strongest as an actress/singer, but that he thinks she will be in trouble this week.
Quite honestly, I haven’t picked right in the last four weeks, so I am not sure how this week will play out. I definitely think that it is Jason’s time to go home, but usually when Idol goes this far out of their way to eliminate a contestant, it backfires. The kids who support Jason, who may feel he was at an unfair advantage, may jump to his defense in the way the Brooke fans did last week. They are all very different and talented singers, but if I am looking at superstar potential I can only see David Cook after tonight’s performances. I think the top 3 were the David’s and Syesha. I think America may send Syesha or Brooke home. As Simon said, this was the strangest night on Idol to date, and I am mildly apathetic about the outcome. Maybe they need to start getting younger mentors when we are to the point where the contestants are singing two songs. Surely somebody in their 20’s or 30’s has a CD they are trying to promote?

Latest Articles on the Idol Upset Last night

This article features interviews of Brooke's high school teachers, and their view on why she is still in the game.

http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/2008/04/24/20080424mr-brookefolo0425.html

This article is about Carly's early Idol exit.

http://uk.reuters.com/article/lifestyleMolt/idUKN2332799820080424

Idol Tour in St. Louis

For all those interested, mark your calendar for July 18th. Tickets go on sale on May 17th. This might be a fun one to see...

Goodbye to Carly

Well, I sure didn't see that coming. I am not sure what exactly it was about Carly that kept her from growing a large fan base, but there was definitely a problem that had nothing to do with talent. I have this feeling that the majority of the fans who are out there voting must have decided they were with Gene and couldn't care less about musical theatre. They must have shrugged, and based their voting on previous performances of songs that they liked. How else can you explain the best two of the evening ending up in the bottom?
I didn't think Carly would win, but I was sad to see her go in the same way I was sad when Michael Johns departed. Who can explain the reasons that certain some musicians develop such a huge devoted fan base, despite any mistakes they might make? Let's not forget that Taylor Hicks rode that wave all the way to the finale, and it sure didn't guarantee him any success.
Maybe idol needs to think about having a mentor work with the contestants within a genre, and not just their particular body of work. Just think what Carly or David Cook could have done with a song from Rent, and what David A. could have done with something from the Lion King. Now we have Neil Diamond's work ahead of us. What in the world is poor Syesha going to do with that if she couldn't get out of the bottom on her best performance?
The highlight of the evening for me was Leona Lewis, who at 23 has quite the career ahead of her. It was miles beyond that tortuous opening number that featured Webber cringing at the piano while the singers started in different keys and basically destroyed a beautiful song. (Maybe I am being harsh, but that was just awful. Even the hired extras in the mosh pit looked pained).
I hope that everyone is easily accessing this blog and enjoying the new format. Thanks to Gene, as always for breaking it down and dirty for us.
See you all next week.

Gene's Counter Blog (the one I know you are all really waiting for!)

Here you go for your response post:

Welcome to "What In The Hell Were The Producers Thinking?" Week. I for one could not care less if the American Idol can sing Andrew Lloyd Weber - they are shooting for Grammys not Tonys! By the way, when did Sir Andrew turn into a troll? Kind of spooky and dressed in typical Brit style ( in case you noticed). Anyway....

Syesha: Excellent boobage. Spot number 1 will land you in the bottom three but no worries this week.

Jason: Give me a major break. This is the only thing you could come up with? Loved the "Cats" tribute where you sang with seventy-eight cat's tails coming out of your head. How do you get the rings on them things? Bottom three.

Brooke: Bye Bye Brooke. Although I will right here begin a petition to get you a free pass on your upcoming ejection: When you pulled the same stunt on "Every Breath You Take" in an earlier week, one of the judges (I believe it was Randy) said it was "very professional" to stop and restart when you were uncomfortable with the beginning. And here you thought you were doing the professional thing. Ricky Minor should have walked over and bitch slapped you.

David A.: Speaking of being bitch slapped, chill out, you're safe another week. Sit down Dad A.

Carly: I was so sick of the whiney ballads by this time that your over the top version actually made me smile. The dress was great, but the brown leggings made your legs look like two live oaks. Another great shot of Ink Face and he was very happy. See you next week.

David C: Oh, please. "I was excited for ALW week because I grew up on musical theater..." Yeah right, if it was reggae week you would say you grew up in Jamaica. I don't buy your fake sincerity for one minute. You are a sleazy rocker dude dying for groupies and rehab.

By the way Anne, that long haired rocker dude was Paul Stanley from Kiss. See you next week for Neil Diamond

Idol Chat-Top 6 Perform Andrew Lloyd Webber

Hello fellow AI fans! Tonight was Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber week, which was interesting on many levels. First off, I couldn’t wait to see what the judges made of the contestants’ stab at musical theatre, since this style of music has been used to separate stars from Broadway people in almost every season. Second, these are some technically challenging pieces of music that are all about story. This could be a week that removes a less technical but more contemporary performer. I am a mega theatre geek. I have season tickets to the Fox, to the Rep, and will watch the occasional PBS special. I have very high expectations. We are down to six, and half will be in the bottom. Sir Andrew was impressive in his advice to the Idol hopefuls, and told them to remember, "words, words, words". He also humbled himself, saying that he was there to serve them and help them have the best performance that they could. For a composer of this caliber, I was so touched by the way that he worked with the contestants. His advice about words would become very relevant as the evening wore on, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Simon said that the singers needed to make themselves sound memorable and contemporary. Having seen every one of these musicals, some of them several times, I was ready to be wowed. Ricky Minor and the orchestra were placed on stage and after Ryan had a quick shot at conducting, we were ready to go. First up:

SYESHA MERCADO-"One Rock and Roll Too Many" Starlight Express
Syesha impresses Webber with her theatre skills and her performance of the song in rehearsal. He felt she could bring the house down. She began with her back to the audience on top of the piano. It was a total bummer that she started ahead of her music, but Ricky Minor directs the band quickly up to her tempo, and the awkward moment is ended quickly as she turns toward the audience. She is sexy, the performance is believable, but most importantly she has a pretty good vocal. There were a couple of notes that fell flat, but she looked great in that little red number and I enjoyed they way she worked the band. Randy said that it might surprise Syesha how awesome she did and that he thinks this is definitely her style of music. Paula said it wasn’t surprising to her at all; that everyone knows Syesha's heart is in musical theatre. Somehow Randy missed this. Simon said that she was very sexy and that it was her strongest performance to date. She showed great personality.

JASON CASTRO-"Memory" Cats
Andrew Lloyd Webber said it was a brave choice, but that he didn’t think Jason had a clue what the song was about. Even after explaining it, I still don’t think he had a clue. I am sorry, but I have seen Betty Buckley and Bernadette Peters belt the heck out of this ballad and I am still struggling over the why of the song choice after it is over. I am a huge Jason Castro fan, and I don’t think he had a bad vocal. I didn’t feel the song was believable when taken down a folk path, and it just didn’t work for me. He looked nervous and awkward throughout, and the only times he seemed able to emote was in his upper register. Randy thought it was a vocal train wreck. He thought it was too much melody for Jason. Paula said everyone is used to hearing a strong woman sing the song, but she thought Jason was smart to put a pop ballad influence into it and likened it to Joe Cocker’s "You are so Beautiful". (What?) Simon said it was the longest two minutes of both of their lives and that it was like a guy singing a song at a wedding that his mum and dad made him sing. I think that about sums it up. I still believe in him, and if he survives this week, hopefully he will get a chance to remind America what he is about.

BROOKE WHITE-"You Must Love Me" Evita
Andrew Lloyd Webber made her sing the song over to him after explaining the story. He felt that this could be a great performance for Brooke. I confess that I had high hopes after seeing her tender moment with Webber holding hands at the keyboard. The whole thing was blown for me the second she said, "I’m sorry" and had the orchestra start over. She did throw herself into her performance after she began again, but I was so worried that she was going to stop singing that I could hardly watch. For all of Brooke’s special talents and sweet delivery of songs, this restarting isn’t professional. Despite her claim that this is the first time she has lost a lyric on the show, she is the only contestant from 7 seasons of Idol who have restarted a song once, let alone twice ("Every Breath You Take". Remember?) Syesha got off on her music from the first beat, but you never saw it in her face or her performance, and she sure didn’t punish her audience by dramatically starting over. Randy thought it was not great, it was vocally tough. Paula liked that she didn’t overact, but called her out, saying "you can’t stop and start again". Simon thought it was so tense that it became uncomfortable, but said that is the drama of live television. I really like Brooke, but she should go home for that performance.

DAVID ARCHULETA-"Think of Me" Phantom of the Opera
Andrew Lloyd Webber applauded David’s unique take on the song and I have to say the same. Who would have thought you could take that operatic little song written for a first soprano and incorporate an r & b vibe? His vocal was great; he followed Sir Andrew’s advice and kept his eyes open (which was pretty hard for him by the looks of it), and it actually sounded current. There was a moment in the second verse that he dropped a couple of the lyrics, but unlike Brooke he faked his way back to it and it wasn’t hugely noticeable. I have to stay real, I wouldn’t buy this single, (I didn’t like it that much) but it was a great performance. Randy said for the 20th time this season "if you can sing, you can sing anything" and told David it was the bomb. Paula thought it was perfect, that his risk with the pop ballad paid off. Simon thought it was pleasant, but that it was one of his weaker performances. He thought it was enough to move on to the next round, but that it was forgettable.

CARLY SMITHSON-"Jesus Christ Superstar" Jesus Christ Superstar
Carly starts singing "All I ask of you" from the Phantom of the Opera in rehearsal and Sir Andrew stops her and asks her to try her second choice. Immediately you can see there is a better connection. She actually looks happy on stage, and she has a strong performance, with only one tiny goof with the lyrics that she covers well and performs right through. I found her to be the most entertaining she has been this entire season, and her smile was contagious. I loved that she danced and played off of her background singers and thought she looked great. Randy thought it was not her best, but definitely good. Paula loved it because it was unexpected and she loved what she did with the chorus. Simon thought she got a little shouty, but it was one of his favorites of the night. Carly then whips out a "Simon loves me (this week)" t-shirt, and has a rare laugh with her audience that I think will earn some phone calls for her this week.

DAVID COOK-"Music of the Night" Phantom of the Opera
Immediately I am worried when David says this is choice, it is such a huge departure from his style. He actually has a really strong vocal, but for me this song is nothing without the dungeon, the mask, and the evil/tragic overtones. That being said David took a risk with this, and I am impressed that he sings it so well. Maybe if he at least would have dressed up some, I could have pretended it was a PBS special. At any rate, David surprised us by relying strictly on his voice, and given the other performances, I am sure that he will be fine. Randy repeated "if you can sing, you can sing anything" and said it was molten hot. Paula said that David was so well rounded and had a beautiful instrument. Simon said that he made the most of the song, but that he enjoys David’s grittier performances more.

It was certainly a star-studded audience with David Duchovny, Alison Chaney, and some really familiar long haired older rock guy that I can’t for the life of me remember, just to name a few. My top three performances for the evening were the David’s and Carly, but only because she sang such a familiar song. It could be her or Syesha in that spot. In the bottom should be Brooke and Jason for sure, and probably Syesha given the dreaded number one spot and a less well-known song. I think that Brooke will go home this week. She has been given a lot of chances, but she doesn’t seem to be getting any better at dealing with the stress, and since "Let it Be" in week one, she hasn’t seem to grow. It will be hard from here on out, as the best singers (minus my Aussie) are left and it will come down to each genre and how well each person copes.
On a side note, it has been reported this week that the arm waving (by extras) is choreographed, which cracks me up because I think that they look idiotic and completely off rhythm at all times. The standing O’s are apparently by cue card as well? Tune in tomorrow….

Thanks to my good friend Caitlin (my Wednesday night Idol buddy) I now have a blogspot! No longer will you have to wait for my email to come, but you can check the blogspot and I will promise to try and update in a timely manner! You can leave comments, counter blogs (Gene), and links if you find something interesting about Idol that you want to share.
Thanks Caitlin, for setting me up!

As far as Kristy Lee's departure, I thought she went out as darling as she came in. Brooke will have to step up her game and get a firm hold on those nerves if she wants to last another week. I did read an article about David's Cook's brother.
http://www.vh1.com/artists/news/1585400/20080414/index.jhtml?rsspartner=rssPresale
Hopefully you will be able to access the article through this link. It is pretty amazing that David is keeping it as together as he is given this story.

The Final 7 Response

OK, here we go.....welcome to Nice Boobs and What in the Hell Did Paula Just Say Night.  Although the lead in stated that Mariah has had more number 1 singles than any other solo act, why did it seem that I had only heard two of these songs before, and you are right Anne, one of them wasn't even a Mariah song.

 

 

David A:  Mariah, nice boobs.  David, nice job, daddy won't beat you this week.  I still see you sneaking those lip-licks in though.

 

Carly:  Mariah, nice boobs.  Carly, the first time you've taken my attention away from the geisha girl on your shoulder - nice boobs too.  Sorry, the BADFINGER (yes, Badfinger, not Harry Nilsson) song may get you booted.

 

Syesha:  Mariah, nice boobs.  Syesha, nice boobs too, show us more.  Song was OK.

 

Brooke:  Mariah, nice boobs.  Brooke, I know we won't see your boobs - ever.  Had it going on, lost it.  Maybe bye bye.....

 

Kristy Lee:  Mariah, nice boobs.  Kristy, we asked for more boobs last week, you did not come through, hope it doesn't cost you.  Song, OK, sounded like Patsy Cline or LeeAnn Rimes.

 

David C:  Mariah, nice boobs.  David still don't really like you or your attitude but I'm starting to think you might win this thing.  Please stop looking like you are praying when you are thanking someone.

 

Jason:  Mariah, nice boobs - why did you go and touch those dreads?  Hope you washed yourself immediately.  I agreed with Randy - sounded like Jack Johnson doing Mariah.  Good enough to stay though.

 

Bottom three:  Carly, Brooke, Kristy.  Any of them could go, but I think it will be Carly:

The Final 7

I know that everyone had a good chuckle over my husband’s Idol Chat revisited last week, but please be assured that I am well and not psychologically damaged from the untimely departure of Michael Johns. I will confess to getting a little misty, but Idol is nothing if not dramatic and unpredictable, and he would have gone sometime. I think there are many who have underestimated Syesha’s fan base. When the word broke that tivo had predicted Syesha would go home, I had this feeling we were in for one of those major Idol upsets. I hope Aussie boy does well in the same way that Daughtry and Jennifer Hudson have done after their early exits. Moving on. Tonight was Mariah Carey night, and I will confess to approaching this with some dread. Others may be wowed by her five-octave range, but all of that squealing like a pig gives me a headache. That being said, I was completely impressed with her candor, advice and support of the contestants, and I actually enjoyed the evening.When you take all of the obnoxious runs out of her songs, she actually has written some beautiful lyrics. Let’s break it down:

DAVID ARCHULETA "When You Believe"

This was a fantastic arrangement of the song, and I enjoyed it more than when Mariah originally sang it. David always delivers a sincere performance, and he actually took some risks while showing off his range. It was a really professional performance. Randy thought it was the bomb. Paula thought he made Mariah proud. Simon said it was very, very good. He also said "we aren’t in for a lot of laughs this evening" and delcared that David had set the benchmark for the night. He will definitely survive the cursed first position.

CARLY SMITHSON "Without You"

Since when is this song Mariah Carey’s? Carly starts out in the chair with Ryan and tells the audience how much everyone misses MJ. I am impressed by how much more beautiful the girl looks when her arms are covered. She has a great voice, and she sings well, but there was something unsure in her delivery of one of the key runs, and it didn't quite hit me with the wow that I expected. Randy thought that Carly needed to believe in herself, but that it was pretty good overall. Paula liked her vocal restraint and thought she made the song her own. Simon didn’t think she quite got where she wanted to go with it, and that it was just an ok version of the song. I thought things were going along pretty well, until they had to focus the camera on her husband and for longer than usual. Freddie Kruger doesn’t have anything on that guy. Unfortunately for Carly, even after covering her ink, I am not sure she did enough.

SYESHA MERCADO "Vanishing"

I can’t criticize one choice Syesha made with this song. I thought it was a beautiful vocal, and despite Randy insisting it was pitchy in spots, he is crazy because it was dead on. Syesha should avoid being in the bottom three after this performance. Randy thought it was bold, but pitchy in spots (wrong) but that she did a good job. Paula thought she was smart to pick a song that was less well known. Simon did not think that was smart, and thought she ran a huge risk in picking that song. Ok, which is it Simon? If she picks a song you know then you tell the poor girl that she pales in comparison or she is a wannabe. At this point I think you are picking at this girl. Give the poor thing one night where you acknowledge her talents for goodness sake! Ok, I am off my soapbox.

BROOK WHITE "Hero"

Brooke impressed Mariah with her genuine delivery of her song. It started off very promising, with Brooke at the piano, but somewhere halfway through the song Brooke looked liked she was dissolving into a fit of nerves. Every part of her face was trembling and twitching, and the more nervous she became the less in tune she was and the quicker the tempo. There were a couple of times that she seemed to struggle to play the melody. I thought she looked beautiful, but that performance totally stressed me out. Randy was really digging it until the bridge. Paula thought she was authentic to who she is (?) and told her to avoid letting bad notes speed her up. At this point Simon is trying to speed Paula up, and mercifully she wraps up her disjointed observations. Simon thought it was like ordering a hamburger without the beef. The vital ingredient was missing. I am thinking, who writes Simon's stuff? Regardless, the rose is off the bloom as far as Brooke’s concerned.

KRISTY LEE COOK "Forever"

Kristy Lee gave Mariah Carey chills when she sang this song for her in rehearsal. She looks absolutely gorgeous and she sounds pretty good. I don’t think this was as good a performance as her last couple ones have been, but her stage presence has grown and I think she managed to stay true to her style, which is saying something this week. I actually thought she had some great moments in the chorus, but that she lost the melody a few times on the verses and overall it wasn't memorable. Randy thought it was not amazing but she stepped it up at the end. Paula thought she was smart and she was blown away by the arrangement. Simon was quick to tell her it didn’t give him chills but thought she managed with what she could. I think given the other songs tonight, this performance will land her back in the bottom three.

DAVID COOK "Always Be My Baby"

I was really impressed with David's arrangement of this, and given that I loathe the radio version, I really enjoyed it. It was an original interpretation, a solid vocal and an engaging performance. It was a little like teen feel good song turned into a rock stalker, and it left me wanting to play it again.  I just wish they would change up the guys' wardrobe a little. Randy stood up for the first time this season and said David is ready to cut a cd. Paula thought it could be on a movie soundtrack. Paula, half the time I don’t even think you know what you are talking about. Simon likened it to a breath of fresh air after Karaoke hell (Kristy Lee, I presume?) and said it was original and really great. David is moved to tears.

JASON CASTRO "I Don’t Want to Cry"

I love the ensemble on stage and I am blown away that Jason is able to turn this ballad into a folk song that completely fits his vibe.His vocal was great and I actually played this one a second time. I would buy this as an I-Tunes download in a heartbeat, it was my favorite song of the evening. Randy didn’t get it, he thought it was like a luau on a beach. Paula said she would love to be at that beach all night long. Simon agreed with Paula and said what is apparent to all, the guys won the night.

The top three are the David’s and Jason. The bottom three are Kristy Lee, Brooke and Carly. Based on vocals, Brooke should go home. If the kids became too terrified after their long look at the boogieman, it could be the end for Carly instead. I truly enjoyed Syesha this week, and I hope that she enjoys a week of safety. Tune in tomorrow.....

No Aussie = sad Annie

Please stop calling!  Anne will be all right.  She is a big girl.  Last time I checked, she has been out of diapers for about 40 years.

 

Anne has such wonderful friends.  Several called to see how surprised she was, if she was in shock, if she was okay but Anne is not here.  She is out seeing Ella at the Repertory Theater.  She has no idea what has happened.  Boy will she be shocked!  She won’t find out till about 11:00 CST.  I will have to hide all of the knives so she doesn’t slit her wrists.  Thank God we don’t have any guns!

 

Yes it is true, Aussie Boy is gone.  Michael Johns had a great ride but the ride has ended.  Now Anne can focus on the true man in her life, American Boy Gary!  I will serenade her with my own version of Dream On over and over.  There will be tears of joy or pain, I am not sure.  Soon she will not even remember what’s his name.

 

I like how everyone is concerned over Anne and if she will be all right but were they concerned for Gene and me when Kristy Lee Cook was in the bottom 3 all those weeks?  I think not!  Gene and I agonized over not seeing those long legs and sexy shape.  We even clamored for cleavage!  We were very much traumatized thinking she could go home but not one of you cared about our feelings.  We are men of the 2000’s and we do have feelings.  We are in touch with our inner feelings, hell we watch American Idol.

 

I will take care of Anne this weekend so you can all rest and relax.  I hope she has the strength to carry on with Idol Chat next week.  If not, Gene will have to provide you with the critiques.  Have a good week and let’s all hope Anne can survive this and come back to chat with us next week.  One good thing to come from this is we will shave on cold water from her cold showers. 

 

With Idol Gives Back, we give to the world.  With Gary Gives Back, I give Aussie Boy back to Australia.

 

We are the World, we are the Children ………………..Kum Ba Yah…………

Top 8 Response

After careful deliberation with Gary, he told me to go ahead and break this down......

 

Michael Johns:  "Dream On" is inspirational?  Did you bother to read the lyrics?  The only thing Steven Tyler was dreaming about was kicking his heroin habit.  You are lucky the Chihuahuas liked it, I'm sure the dog pound will vote you back.

 

Syesha:  Girl, you just don't learn do you?  There are certain artists that these judges do NOT want to hear you cover.  You sounded ok, but I could still picture that nasty skank Fantasia singing it.  Bottom three.

 

Jason Castro:  I kept trying to find something wrong with it, thought you butchered the lyrics, but went back this morning and watched a couple versions of Iz doing it and I believe you had it all right.  Perfect.

 

Kristy Lee:  You finally looked the way you did during your audition. HOT HOT HOT.  Next week, show us some cleavage.  By the way, did you sing?

 

David Cook:  Nice get-up, Prince.  There is a big diff in doing a song that might be a little obscure (see "Hallelujah" or "Angels") but is a great song, versus doing one that only you (and by the way, the fact that Our Lady Peace is your fav band makes you REALLY cool to us) and three other people have ever heard.  Also, what's with the "Give Back" on your palm and that really cool stare at the end?  You are NOT, I repeat NOT Bono.  Bottom three.

 

Carly:  Horrible, horrible song.  You looked great though.  Ask them to quit showing your husband's tattooed face - I guarantee it is costing you votes.  This is American Idol, not LA Ink.  Bottom three.

 

David Archuleta:  Just as I was dissing you and saying I thought people might be getting tired of your "aw, shucks" thing, you pull off another gem.  Nice touch with the piano, correct choice in staying seated and playing rather than getting up and working the stage half-way through. Fantastic song, fantastic performance. 

 

Brooke White:  Decent, nothing spectacular.  Good job on keeping your mouth shut during the judges comments.  Is it just me, or does she look like she is ready to break down at every moment?  I think this one might be a little on the nutty side.....

 

All that said I think it will Syesha going home on Thursday - the WRONG person, but that's the way it will shake out, I think.

Top 8

It was an interesting night on Idol. Once again, some of the better singers are still struggling to define themselves as artists, and it is getting late in the game for that. The theme was "Inspirational Songs" in an attempt to get everyone in the spirit of possibility for Idol Gives Back tomorrow night. Ryan jumps right into the show, as there is only an hour to get all the singing in, plus all the plugs for tomorrow evening. Let’s begin:

Michael Johns "Dream On"

Michael explains that he picked this song because his dream to come to this country and make it in the music industry are becoming possible, and he thought it was the perfect pick for Idol Gives Back. He sounds great, almost exactly like the recording, and I am loving it all the way up to the scream. It isn’t that he sang it off-key, but let's face it, nobody wails like Stephen Tyler. Randy said he didn’t believe that he was that type of rocker, and it was just okay for him. Paula thought Randy couldn’t be more wrong, and she loved it and so did her Chihuahua. Right off the bat Paula is making no sense. Simon thought it was a good performance, but that he prefers Michael when he doesn’t imitate others and when he stays with that r & b feel which feels more authentic and not wannabe. He is in the dreaded first position, which has been the kiss of death for many in this competition, but I thought he did well enough to not have to worry.

Syesha Mercada "I Believe"

Syesha chose this Fantasia song that she performed when she won Idol in season 3. She says it is her favorite and it has a great message in light of what Idol is trying to achieve tomorrow evening. She sings it really well. I am worried about her though, because I have seen multiple interviews in the last year with Paula and Simon, and they have said when asked, that all three judges still feel that Fantasia is the best Idol to ever come from this show by a mile. I know, I don’t get it either. While I can’t find much to say to criticize Syesha’s vocal, because I think she did great, her performance still looks too rehearsed and not believable. Randy immediately says that Fantasia’s version was better. Paula reminds everyone that she did a great job with the song, if you don’t compare her. Simon thought she technically did fine with the song but the huge emotional connection was missing. I feel really bad for Syesha, because she is a good singer, but week after week it seems she struggles to understand what the judges are saying to her.

Jason Castro "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"

Jason gives his first really polished interview, where he not only sounds intelligent, but sincere. He comes out with only his ukulele and absolutely catches the essence of the song, as arranged by Israel "Iz" Ka'ano'i Kamakawiwo'ole. For me, this was the best of the evening. It almost seemed as if he could have wrote this song himself. His vocal was really clear and on key, and once again, he seemed completely at home on stage. Randy said it was blazing hot and that Jason was back. Paula said it was the perfect song choice and he did a great job. Simon said it was fantastic. I think blue eyes will be just fine this week.

Kristy Lee Cook "Anyway"

Kristy Lee picks this song because not only does it fit the occasion, but because it tells the story of her journey on Idol. She actually sings it pretty well, and it is heartfelt. I think if for some reason she is the one to go home Thursday night, she can be very proud of herself. She is a smart contestant and understands her niche and how to reach out to the heartland where her fan base is. She has grown with each performance, and despite adversity, the girl is always cheerful and has a great attitude. Randy thought she had a couple of pitch problems but he loved that song on her. Paula thought she outdid herself and this was her best performance by far. Simon thought she did very well. He felt she did pick the best song for her, and that she looked like a star.

David Cook "Innocent"

David feels like he picked a really great song for the occasion and that the song let’s people know that there is good in everyone. I am not sure he presents himself well in the interview, he seems very distracted, although I love the normal haircut on him. I have to confess of having no knowledge of this song or the band Our Lady Peace. When he starts to sing, I don’t care for how low it is, and I am just not getting the performance or the song. I also am hyper aware that he is pale. He does put out his hand at the end with the words "Give Back" which was a nice touch, but the song feels all weird for me. His voice is great as always, but I know I won’t remember anything about this song tomorrow. Randy didn’t get it. Paula thought he was the whole package and did a great job. Simon thought he gave a bit of a pompous performance and didn’t like the white jacket. I don’t know if he was pompous, but he definitely didn’t look like he felt well, or like he was completely focused as he usually does. It is the first performance that hasn’t blown me away, but I have every confidence he will be back, bigger and better next week.

Carly Smithson. "The Show Must Go On"

Carly saw Freddie Mercury sing this song on Live Aid when she was young and was thrilled to get to sing this song for Idol Gives Back. I think she looks better, but I am not quite getting the song in the context of inspiring people to take on an issue like world hunger and poverty. I also think she needs to stop with the big notes. A couple of them got away from her. I am really worried about her after this performance. It was not memorable. Randy thought it was just okay. Paula thinks she has a pretty perfect voice, but she didn’t feel engaged by this performance, she felt there was a total disconnect. Simon said she looked good, but he found the song choice unusual and thought that she lost control of the song toward the end. He felt the performance came off as angry. It wasn’t my favorite. I think she just blew her chances with that choice.

David Archuleta "Angels"

David takes such care with his song picks, and you can tell in his interview that he will be completely committed to the performance. He selects Angels by Robbie Williams, which really showcases his voice. He plays the piano and he delivers a gorgeous vocal, getting better as it goes. David blows me away each week with his talent and with his sincerity. I am glad he accompanied himself because it is good to remind the fans of just how talented he is. Randy thought it was his hottest the entire season. Paula said "that sums it up, fantastic". Simon didn’t think it was his best vocal, but it was definitely the best song choice of the evening. He also said he is only nitpicking, because David will sail through to the next round.

Brooke White "You’ve Got a Friend"

Brooke did this song at a talent show years ago, and thought it was the ultimate feel good song for the occasion of Idol Gives Back. She seems really nervous to me. She sings the song very well, but she doesn’t really bring anything unique or different to it from the Carol King version. The performance is sweet, but she comes over as stiff and nervous. Randy liked it, but it was just ok. He wasn’t jumping up and down. Paula said it was definitive of who Brooke is. Simon thought it was pleasant, but unoriginal. Brooke is noticeably quieter during the comments, but still can’t help herself from chatting back a little. Maybe she read Gene’s blog?

Overall, the show seemed to have as many highs as it did lows. It is really interesting to me that a singer as talented as Carly can’t seem to make a song choice that allows her to grab the audience. As far as tonight goes, my top three performances were Jason Castro, David Archuleta, and Michael Johns. My bottom three singers are Syesha Mercado, Brooke White, and Carly Smithson, and I have a feeling that Carly could bring an upset and be the one to go home. David Cook will be able to hold onto his fan base for another week, and I think Kristy Lee may have sold herself to a whole new group of fans with her spin on a very popular Martina McBride song. It will be interesting Thursday night. Enjoy Idol Gives Back, and tune in the next two nights….

Top 9 Response

Thanks Anne, but I think I miss Gary's take on the evening.  I bet it would be something like:

 

Dolly Parton - nice boobs for 62.

Ramiele - you're high waisted outfits make your legs look like tree stumps.

Carly - Simon was right.  You look a bit thick.

Jason - I can't believe Dolly actually touched your disgusting dreadlocks.

Brooke - shut the f up and let the judges talk.

David C - you're good, but not quite as good as you think you are.

David A - Ditto, you're just afraid of your Daddy.  Great song though.

 

Bye bye Ramiele.

 

 

 

See, Gary & I should do this chat thing.

 

Gene

Top 9

Hello my Idol Watching friends! Did you miss me? For anyone who was completely confused last week, my clever husband Gary took the wheel, while I was out in California on a little vacation. So no, I have not started taking prescription drugs, and I have not "snapped". Thank you for your concern. I did, however, watch the performances from my gorgeous room at the Grand Californian Hotel in Disneyland, but tragically my daughter’s laptop died halfway through the chat. By the time I was near a computer again, Chikezie was already long gone (although that apparently didn’t stop Gary). As my friend Beth said, it is always dangerous when you let an engineer loose behind the keyboard. Moving ahead to the top nine performing Dolly Parton’s songs this week, I surprisingly enjoyed the evening. I would not call myself a huge Dolly Parton fan, but I found her song writing allowed the singers to take her music in whatever direction they needed to take it to make the performances original. On a side note, was anyone else fooled by Ryan’s April Fool’s joke? I totally was. I was working myself up into a real tantrum.

Let’s begin:

Brook White "Jolene"

Dolly thought Brooke had an honesty about her that worked in her performance. I thought vocally that she did a pretty good job. It was much better than the last couple of weeks, anyway. I kind of have to agree with Simon, not about the ensemble-I actually really enjoyed that, but about the lack of emotion. I felt like she was telling this story about possibly losing the love of her life and she had a goofy grin plastered on her face through much of the song. She also drives me a little crazy that she can’t just listen to the judges without interjecting comments. Randy thought it was not a stellar performance, but it was all right. He of course heard pitch problems. I think there were maybe 2 or 3, but overall that wasn’t the issue. Paula was incredibly deep. She said "you are who you are" and "you are Brooke White". ? Simon said Brooke had no emotion and he didn’t like the ensemble on stage with her, he thought it all looked odd. I disagree with that comment, but didn’t think she really connected with the emotion of that song. Sorry.

David Cook "Little Sparrow"

David, like Chris Daughtry before him, had an interview with Ryan prior to singing to explain where he is getting the arrangements for his music, lest there be any controversy that he is claiming they are his own. He did however work out the arrangement of this particular song, and Dolly was impressed by his vocals. David is not only extremely talented, but he is a smart contestant. He made sure that he was able to show off his range and versatility without sacrificing who he is as an artist. It isn’t like I would run out and buy this song on I-tunes, but he was remarkable and proved that he is able to take whatever genre they are working in, and make it his own unique style.

Randy thought he was hot and consistent. Paula loved his haircut and thought it was fantastic, he showed how well rounded he is. Simon said that it wasn’t as good as last week, but if he could make a song about sparrows good, which he did, then congratulations.

Ramiele Malubay "Do I Ever Cross Your Mind"

Ramiele became very shy and goofy when performing for Dolly due to being "star-struck". Dolly thought she was darling. I thought she gave more in the performance than she has in the past, but the song choice was strange and had equal moments of greatness and off-key hideousness. Randy thought it was pretty good, not great. He said, "I’m not mad at you" which I found strange and gave her a 6-1/2 out of 10 on the performance. Paula thought that she connected well in her minute and thirty seconds on stage. Simon said, plainly "well, we’re not going to remember that in 10 years time, now are we?" He felt it was cruise ship forgettable. Ramiele is out of her league in this grouping of singers. I think she will go home for this one.

Jason Castro "Traveling Through"

Dolly thought the song suited Jason perfectly, and I would have to agree. I have never heard it before, but I thought he was believable and relaxed, and I liked him telling a story. I can totally see Jason sitting on a stool doing folk songs like this one and being completely at home with his audience. He listened to his criticism from last week and stepped it up a notch, and he put more effort into his performance. Randy thought it was a good performance, and Paula went one step further and said it was one of his best. Simon didn’t like it at all, and he didn’t get it. I usually am with Simon, but I disagree on this one. That being said, I don’t know too many folk singers that could win American Idol, but being one of my favorite genres of music, I think he would have a following for sure. My sister Jenny thinks Jason looks too much like Bernard the elf from the Santa Claus movies (Tim Allen) to be taken seriously. Chris S. thinks he looks too much like Tiny Tim. Adam D. thinks he has John Travolta’s face. I really still like this guy, despite all the odd comments I get about him and I am still interested to see what else he can do.

Carly Smithson "Here You Come Again"

This song was actually written for, not by Dolly, but she thought it suited Carly’s voice even better than her own voice. I think Carly has been sort of lost in the middle of the group all of these weeks, but tonight she showcased her voice very well. I enjoyed everything up to the Idol power note that keeps happening at the end of every one of Carly’s performances. It isn’t that she sings them poorly, but they are unnecessary, and cause her to make that excruciating face. Overall I really liked it. Randy thinks it is one of the best of the night. Paula things she is glorious and an amazing talent. Simon thought it was good, not great, and people at home expect great. He also told her what I am sure everyone has been thinking, and that is to have a sit down with her wardrobe person. That outfit did not flatter her at all. Ryan asks Simon what his problem is, and Simon says "I am not going to lie, if I don’t think it is great, I’m not going to say it is great".

David Archuleta "Smokey Mountain Memories"

Poor David has spent some time in the press over the leaks that his father is driving him so hard it is going to ruin the poor kid. He actually brings Dolly to fighting tears (she doesn’t want her eyelashes to fall off) during his performance for her. I think he gives a credible, heartfelt, powerful vocal. Someone must have had a talk with him about the lip licking, because it is getting better. David sings beautifully and despite what happens on this show, the young man should achieve greatness. Randy thought it was the best of the night. Paula loved his amazing beautiful aura. (?) Simon thought his song choice this week was "right on the money".

Kristy Lee Cook "Coat of Many Colors"

Dolly thought Kristy Lee would make her mom proud with her song choice. She definitely looks great, and delivers one of her best vocals to date. She captured the essence of Dolly better than anyone else did. I can’t say that I ever care to hear that song again, but in trying to give her an objective ear, I can’t find too many faults with the performance. I just didn’t like the song. The problem isn’t really Kristy Lee, but the company she keeps this season. When you put her up against the David’s, or Carly or even Syesha, I think she pales in comparison. That doesn’t mean she couldn’t have a successful country music career. Look at Kelly Pickler. Randy thought it was her wheelhouse. Paula thought she looked stunning. Simon thought that last week was better, and that this song was pleasant but forgettable. I think she could land in the bottom three again.

Syesha Mercado "I Will Always Love You"

Dolly really likes the way the Syesha combines her version of the song with Whitney Houston’s. She is in a gorgeous yellow dress sitting on the edge of a Grand Piano. She starts off pretty strong, but in the end when she hits the way too long power note, I think she is a hair sharp and it about sends me off my seat. My problem with Syesha is that everything feels very rehearsed and manipulative and I even get the feeling she is practicing her facials in the mirror. I think she would do fantastic on Broadway where that kind of acting is necessary, but in this venue it feels false. Randy thought it was pretty good. Paula thought she looked beautiful and loved the velvety quality to her voice. Simon thought the first half was good and the second half paled in comparison to Whitney. He didn’t think the song choice helped her and went so far as to say he wished she hadn’t gotten it. I wouldn’t go that far. I do think she could land in the bottom again, but she shouldn’t go home after that performance.

Michael Johns "It’s All Wrong, but It’s All Right"

Dolly hopes Michael becomes a star so she can write some songs for him. Thank you for bringing the blues back! I loved, loved, and loved it. This was my favorite of the night. What else can I say about it? I enjoyed the ensemble playing with him on stage. I loved the vocal, and thought the performance was fantastic. Randy thought it was blazing hot. Paula said "you are a rock star, a blues star" and Simon said it was the best he had heard him sing. Good for you, you hot sexy Aussie!

I thought the best of the evening were Michael Johns, David Archuleta, Carly Smithson, and David Cook. I think the bottom three will be Ramiele Malubay, Kristy Lee Cook, and Syesha Mercado, with Ramiele going home. Of course, don’t take my word for it, tune in tonight…

TOP 10

All,

 

I am going to go out on a limb and guess Chickezie is going home tonight!  Guess what, the show is over and I am right.  I’m good, I’m good!

 

The bottom 3 will be Jason, Chickezie and Shyesha!  Guess what, I am right.  I am so smart!

 

Gary said this, Gary said that and I almost peed in my pants.  He is so funny, so good looking too!

 

I am tired of doing the Idol Chat.  Why doesn’t someone else do it?  Gary can do and it has to be better than what I write.

 

See what happens when IDOL CAT GIRL goes to California and let’s her audience down!  Gary gets control!

 

We can talk about long legs, sexy girls and whatever I want.  YOU GO BOY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!