Usually I would babble on about Cat’s fabulous clothes and shoes, but with each couple dancing twice and ten different solos; we have way too much to cover. Let’s get to the dancing, shall we?
THE NEW PAIRINGS
Noelle & Ryan
"Give It to Me Right," Melanie Fiona (Hip-Hop w/ Tabitha & Napoleon D'umo)
I was shocked when, after a brief introduction, we launched right into this dance. Noelle straight up out danced Ryan this time, although I did think they were able to get the chemistry going once they abandoned the desk and got out on the floor. The judges thought Noelle was smoking hot and that Ryan did a respectable job outside of his genre. There were a couple of moments for me where I found Ryan to be a little awkward, but Noelle was so distracting in a good way, that she pulled most of the attention away from him.
"Jeux D'eau," Cirque du Soleil (Smooth Waltz w/ JT Thomas & Tomas Mielnicki)
Everyone who reads my blog knows that I normally hate the waltz in whatever form they are calling it each week. Maybe it was because Ryan is a ballroom dancer or maybe because Noelle looked so gorgeous, but I really enjoyed this Waltz. At times they looked regal and the entire performance floated and made you hold your breath. I have decided that I haven’t seen enough of Noelle yet.
Ashleigh & Legacy
"Poison," The Prodigy (Contemporary w/ Garry Stewart)
I have seen Garry Stewart’s company do this style of dancing and it is pretty unique and amazing. It was way too much of technical dance for these two to pull off. It felt like a lot of hard work which I found exhausting to watch, and they weren’t completing their movements. I will give them a huge E for effort, but I did not feel that this piece was right for this show. It did nothing to make you root for them as a couple, and reminded me more of a company piece that should be part of a larger work. Adam tried to be kind by saying “best ending ever” and that probably was the best part, but not just because Legacy was in a head stand.
"Slow Down," Bobby Valentino (Hip-Hop w/ Dave Scott)
Although the judges hated it, I did not mind Ashleigh in this piece. I thought she had the humor and the movement that Dave Scott wanted from her. Unfortunately, it did not work with Legacy. Dave Scott let these dancers down. He used the cape as a gimmick when he could have utilized Legacy’s b-boy style. Legacy was given a lot of walking around and posing, and his movement never quite matched Ashleigh’s. Nigel let Dave know that this was not challenging enough choreography for this point in the competition.
Kathryn & Nathan
"Choreography," Danny Kaye (Broadway w/ Spencer Liff)
This was one of my favorite dances from the night actually. I loved how stylized it was, and I thought they both absolutely nailed it. I did not agree with Nigel that there was no chemistry, and I felt like I had stepped back into a 40’s movie. Spencer Liff is really talented and this was probably one of his best moments on the show so far. Unfortunately, Nathan looked ready to have a nervous breakdown during the comments. Landing in the bottom, and Adam’s comments about his film from last week really worked on him, and he looked close to tears all evening whenever the music stopped.
"Walk on by," Aretha Franklin (Rumba w/ Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin)
This music was just a wrong choice for a Rumba. If they could have put that choreography with a sexier song that wasn’t about a poor woman’s broken heart, it might have worked for me. Kathryn was fabulous, so much so that I didn’t really look at Nathan. I don’t really know what a Rumba is supposed to look like, so Nigel’s comments washed right over me, but I do think if you are in a partner dance of this style; your song shouldn’t be about a girl who is alone.
Ellenore & Jakob
"Four Brothers," Manhattan Transfer (Quickstep w/ Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin)
This was one of the better Quicksteps on this program, and putting these two together for this week is a great pairing, as they both are phenomenal technical dancers, but even better entertainers. It was pure fun from beginning to end. Will I rewind and re-watch? It is doubtful. Quickstep just doesn’t do that much for me.
"Tore My Heart," OONA and Dave Tweedle (Contemporary w/ Sonya Tayeh)
This was a great Sonya piece, and these two were perfection performing it. I got completely lost in the routine and found Sonya surprising me with some of the elements in the characters. There were still some moves that Sonya uses to death (grabbing the leg and bouncing the head) but I got so lost in the story and did not want it to end. It deserved the standing “O” that it received from the judges.
Mollee & Russell
"It Must Have Been Love," Roxette (Lyrical Jazz w/ Mandy Moore)
Oh Mandy, you and your 80’s music. She pulled out all of the stops on this one, and Russell had to lift Mollee so many times and so many different ways that it caused your head to spin. I really enjoyed the technical perfection of the number. I did not feel the chemistry that the judges did, probably because there were no quiet moments in this dance. Russell actually terrified me with a couple of the lifts, I thought he was going to drop her on her head at one point, but they were both in complete control.
"Land of 1000 Dances," Jimmy Barnes (Jive w/ Anya Garnis & Pasha Kovalev)
This was a great end to the night, and I appreciated that Mollee delivered a cute little Anya finger point during the piece. In this performance I actually felt the chemistry and thought they brought the high energy and character that is required to make a jive entertaining. Russell made Mollee look like a different dancer this evening, and her trip to the bottom calmed some of that silliness that she usually has going on.
SOLOS
Mollee Gray ("Rock the Beat," LMFAO) – I think Mollee has proved that she has great technique, but this solo felt a little like pom camp to me. I loved her curls, and her interview at the beginning was much more mature then in her previous film. I can already tell that these parent interviews are going to wipe me out.
Russell Ferguson ("Outros," Black Milk) –I am normally not a fan of the Krump, but that is probably because no one ever does it correctly. This was hard hitting and dirty and put together with great use of stage. He owned his minute thirty and I loved it.
Noelle Marsh ("Every Time It Rains," Charlotte Martin) – Noelle dances with pure joy every time she steps on that stage, and that, along with her gorgeous lines, made this a moving performance.
Ryan Di Lello ("Rock You like a Hurricane," The Scorpions) – Ballroom solos stink. Ryan may be in trouble, even with the muscles.
Kathryn McCormick ("Beautiful," Bethany Dillon) – This was a well put together solo that was just like the song title. I am really impressed with Kathryn’s dancing these last couple of weeks. I think after tonight she deserves to be here another week.
Nathan Trasoras ("Golden Train," Justin Nozuka) – Whatever is going on with Nathan emotionally tonight was utilized to perform a brilliant solo. I thought his was the best of the night. His turns were amazing and he managed to be in such control of his body while letting go completely in the performance. I hope he gets a chance to pull it together and perform another week. He has amazing potential.
Ellenore Scott ("Beatbox Harmonica," Yuri Lane) – I love this girl. Hands down, the best girl solo of the evening. She may be a little too weird for some, but she brings true artistry and individuality to the stage. She was able to give us technique, confidence and humor, all with her quirky unique twist.
Jonathan "Legacy" Perez ("No Air," Jordin Sparks & Chris Brown) – Legacy took some of the things he has learned about musicality and incorporated them into his solo so that it became more than street dancing. I have a soft spot for this guy and although he isn’t as strong as his competition, I am pulling for him to get another week.
Ashleigh Di Lello ("Batucada Por Favor," Bob Azzam) – Again, ballroom solos stink. She did better than her husband, but only because her music was faster and she was able to distract us with a lot of fancy footwork and shimmying.
Jakob Karr ("Always Midnight," Pat Monahan) – Jakob is excellence in dance, no question, but I guess because of his accomplishments before tonight, I had expected to be blown away by his solo. The fact that he was last only built up my anticipation. It was all of the typical Jakob flexibility, showcased with multiple leg extensions, but I guess I wanted something more. Don’t get me wrong, he is one of my favorite dancers, but I thought tonight, Nathan was technically as strong, and gave more of his heart on that dance floor.
Bottom 4? Ashleigh, Ryan, Nathan and Kathryn.
Going home? It could be the end of the road for our married couple. I think Nathan had much stronger performances than Legacy, but I think his nervous emotional time in front of the camera may have made some viewers uncomfortable. Ryan just can’t dance a solo. I still think Ashleigh has ton to offer and I have enjoyed her time on this show, but out of this line up of fabulous women she is the weakest dancer.
Tune in tonight…..
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Top 12
This is a big week my SYTYCD friends. It is the final two dances with some of our favorite couples, and it is the selection of the ten you will see live if you go to the tour (heck yes I go to the tour). Cat is fabulous in a one shoulder royal blue dress that appears to ride up on occasion, but she wears it well. The shoes are ridiculous (and when I say that I mean fabulous).
Tonight Cat tells us that we will get to see the first Can Can and the return of the Lindy Hop. While I am thrilled at the possibility of new choreographers, I have not forgotten the Russian folk dance from Season 5. Each couple is dancing twice, so let’s get busy.
Round Number 1
Ellenore & Ryan - Lindy Hop (Carla Heiney) -
This dance was packed with high energy and required a ton of lifting on Ryan’s part. These two captured the spirit of the dance (which I am sure was exhausting) while still looking like they were having a blast. The judges tell us that Ryan had pulled his back earlier in the week, which is amazing to hear after seeing such an effortless performance. There was one slight glitch where Ellenore’s leg appeared to get caught for a moment, but otherwise they didn’t miss a beat. All three judges loved it.
Kathryn & Legacy - Jazz (Sonya Tayeh) –
Sonya did a great job using Legacy’s strength’s as a b-boy in this quirky little number, and Kathryn oozed sensuality without the suggestive movement that sometimes gets Karen noticed. I thought they performed wonderfully together and the dance was edgy enough to stay with people throughout the show. The judges loved Kathryn and Legacy and Nigel even said it was his favorite dance of the season. I would not go that far, but I did really enjoy the performance.
Karen & Victor - Argentine Tango (Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin) -
This was an amazing comeback for both of these dancers’ who have not seemed to capture America’s attention despite their strengths as dancers. I thought the chemistry was riveting and the technique was perfect. The costuming was amazing for a change and I was on the edge of my seat throughout the dance. The judges were blown away, but Nigel told Victor to tuck his bum under his body. Thanks Nigel now that is all I will be looking at the next time he is on stage.
Mollee & Nathan - Hip-Hop (Jamal Sims) –
This was a cute fun dance, but I felt Nathan out performed Mollee. Gary thought it was the most ridiculous song he had ever heard in his life (and by this I mean ridiculously stupid). I thought they performed well, and though Mollee has been suffering from an ankle injury, I sure didn’t see the bobbles until the replay. This type of hip hop needs a story that connects the dancers in a way that creates chemistry, and unfortunately, I was not feeling it. This type of number on these two dancers only served to accentuate their youth. A a time when the other couples are forging ahead, this couple has stalled out due to style and in the case of last week-bad choreography.
Noelle & Russell - Samba (Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin)
This was not a number for these two dancers, and while they still seem to have a great connection between them, it was like their faces were still in the foxtrot and their bodies were trying to do something else. Noelle’s shaking never quite got with the music, so it looked a little frantic and out of place. I am not sure what happened at the end, but Noelle’s best hip action happened about a count of 8 after the music had stopped. The judges thought it wasn’t dirty enough, but Mary thought they did a respectable job.
Ashleigh & Jakob - Lyrical Jazz (Sonya Tayeh) –
This was actually a really beautiful piece that the dancer’s lived up to. I had no doubts that Jakob would be worthy of top ten, but I am happy to say that Ashleigh has won me over. She danced this beautifully. All three judges are going to be sad to see this couple separate, but I for one can’t wait until Jakob is paired with Ellenore or Noelle or Kathryn. Just think what Travis Wall could do with one of those pairings. These two have earned a spot at the top and will not be in trouble after tonight.
Round Number 2
Ellenore & Ryan - Broadway (Spencer Liff) –
This was an amazing Broadway piece that had so much character matched with great technical dancing. Ryan was the lure of fame and Ellenore was absolutely brilliant as the innocent one being lured in. Ellenore was able to use her face to completely sell this story and I was blown away by her extensions. I have to confess that I was watching Ryan’s expression and trying to decipher if he was staying in character or grimacing with the pain of all of the lifts (can you tell I have thrown my back out?) but this was so unique and well danced that in the end I was cheering with the crowd. These two have earned a place in the top ten, with their only misstep being the hip hop number (which was not great choreography so not entirely their fault).
Kathryn & Legacy - Viennese Waltz (Jean Marc and France Généreux) –
I am not a fan of the waltz in any of its manifestations, and this was not really an exception. I thought that Kathryn was gorgeous and used as a major distraction from Legacy’s lack of training. Lesson for all you contestants, if you know you were really bad, cry and talk about hope. The judges will then softly serve you their criticisms. I still love these two, but I think they might be in trouble after that.
Karen & Victor - Hip-Hop (Laurie Ann Gibson) –
Why is Laurie Ann Gibson still a choreographer on this show? This was just awful, although I will say that they gave their whole hearts over to it. They weren’t together in the beginning, but the music, the endless reaching (or was it pushing?) and the painfully executed lifts took these two from professional dancer to workshop dancer in a minute and thirty seconds. I was so disappointed for both of them after that fabulous tango, especially Victor who was not utilized in this piece at all. I get that the dancer’s seem to love to work with Laurie Ann, but even Adam was thinking the music and the movement did not go together. Enough of my rant, they are going to lose good dancer’s if they keep this woman on staff!
Mollee & Nathan - Can Can (Tyce Diorio) –
This was pretty darn fun, and was another high energy performance that was a winner with the judges. For me, it was memorable, but not special, if that makes any sense. The choreographers need to help these two grow up in a hurry. Since there will be three couples on top and three on bottom, I think these two could land in the bottom again based on both of their work tonight. Sidebar, was it me or did the rest of you find it totally unnecessary to know that the French did that dance without underwear?
Noelle & Russell - Contemporary (Tyce Diorio) - Tyce
Tyce wanted the dancers to paint their relationship on each other with their bodies, and he was literal enough to use paints halfway through. It was stunning to watch Noelle, and Tyce created some really unique lifts and body shapes within this work that kept me interested and moved throughout. I thought they would be in the bottom and possibly going home after their samba, but now I am not so sure.
Ashleigh & Jakob - Cha-Cha (Jean Marc and France Généreux) –
I have come to love this style and this performance was perfection. Jakob can do no wrong in my eyes; he adapts to whatever they throw at him and captures the essence of the dance as well as the movement. Ashleigh was in her style and was fantastic. This was a great way to end the evening, and all three judges were loving, even after giving Jakob some teasing for the ballroom facials and points.
Bottom three couples? Karen and Victor, Mollee and Nathan, and Noelle and Russell. From my surfing of the blogs, Legacy’s fan base is HUGE and may carry him through over Noelle and Russell, although either couple could be there based on their split performances. Going home? Victor and Noelle, that is if Noelle is there over Kathryn. The judges are really crazy about Karen, and after her tango they are not going to let her go unless she has another abysmal solo. If it is Kathryn and Legacy instead of Noelle and Russell, it will be Kathryn to go home. I find them to both be very beautiful dancers but minus that special something that Jeanine (season 5 winner) had. You need that extraordinary personality to get the phones ringing, and I am not sure either one of the girls have won hearts with their personalities. The only thing that could change this scenario is if Mollee’s injury is worse than they are letting on. Tune in tonight…..
Tonight Cat tells us that we will get to see the first Can Can and the return of the Lindy Hop. While I am thrilled at the possibility of new choreographers, I have not forgotten the Russian folk dance from Season 5. Each couple is dancing twice, so let’s get busy.
Round Number 1
Ellenore & Ryan - Lindy Hop (Carla Heiney) -
This dance was packed with high energy and required a ton of lifting on Ryan’s part. These two captured the spirit of the dance (which I am sure was exhausting) while still looking like they were having a blast. The judges tell us that Ryan had pulled his back earlier in the week, which is amazing to hear after seeing such an effortless performance. There was one slight glitch where Ellenore’s leg appeared to get caught for a moment, but otherwise they didn’t miss a beat. All three judges loved it.
Kathryn & Legacy - Jazz (Sonya Tayeh) –
Sonya did a great job using Legacy’s strength’s as a b-boy in this quirky little number, and Kathryn oozed sensuality without the suggestive movement that sometimes gets Karen noticed. I thought they performed wonderfully together and the dance was edgy enough to stay with people throughout the show. The judges loved Kathryn and Legacy and Nigel even said it was his favorite dance of the season. I would not go that far, but I did really enjoy the performance.
Karen & Victor - Argentine Tango (Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin) -
This was an amazing comeback for both of these dancers’ who have not seemed to capture America’s attention despite their strengths as dancers. I thought the chemistry was riveting and the technique was perfect. The costuming was amazing for a change and I was on the edge of my seat throughout the dance. The judges were blown away, but Nigel told Victor to tuck his bum under his body. Thanks Nigel now that is all I will be looking at the next time he is on stage.
Mollee & Nathan - Hip-Hop (Jamal Sims) –
This was a cute fun dance, but I felt Nathan out performed Mollee. Gary thought it was the most ridiculous song he had ever heard in his life (and by this I mean ridiculously stupid). I thought they performed well, and though Mollee has been suffering from an ankle injury, I sure didn’t see the bobbles until the replay. This type of hip hop needs a story that connects the dancers in a way that creates chemistry, and unfortunately, I was not feeling it. This type of number on these two dancers only served to accentuate their youth. A a time when the other couples are forging ahead, this couple has stalled out due to style and in the case of last week-bad choreography.
Noelle & Russell - Samba (Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin)
This was not a number for these two dancers, and while they still seem to have a great connection between them, it was like their faces were still in the foxtrot and their bodies were trying to do something else. Noelle’s shaking never quite got with the music, so it looked a little frantic and out of place. I am not sure what happened at the end, but Noelle’s best hip action happened about a count of 8 after the music had stopped. The judges thought it wasn’t dirty enough, but Mary thought they did a respectable job.
Ashleigh & Jakob - Lyrical Jazz (Sonya Tayeh) –
This was actually a really beautiful piece that the dancer’s lived up to. I had no doubts that Jakob would be worthy of top ten, but I am happy to say that Ashleigh has won me over. She danced this beautifully. All three judges are going to be sad to see this couple separate, but I for one can’t wait until Jakob is paired with Ellenore or Noelle or Kathryn. Just think what Travis Wall could do with one of those pairings. These two have earned a spot at the top and will not be in trouble after tonight.
Round Number 2
Ellenore & Ryan - Broadway (Spencer Liff) –
This was an amazing Broadway piece that had so much character matched with great technical dancing. Ryan was the lure of fame and Ellenore was absolutely brilliant as the innocent one being lured in. Ellenore was able to use her face to completely sell this story and I was blown away by her extensions. I have to confess that I was watching Ryan’s expression and trying to decipher if he was staying in character or grimacing with the pain of all of the lifts (can you tell I have thrown my back out?) but this was so unique and well danced that in the end I was cheering with the crowd. These two have earned a place in the top ten, with their only misstep being the hip hop number (which was not great choreography so not entirely their fault).
Kathryn & Legacy - Viennese Waltz (Jean Marc and France Généreux) –
I am not a fan of the waltz in any of its manifestations, and this was not really an exception. I thought that Kathryn was gorgeous and used as a major distraction from Legacy’s lack of training. Lesson for all you contestants, if you know you were really bad, cry and talk about hope. The judges will then softly serve you their criticisms. I still love these two, but I think they might be in trouble after that.
Karen & Victor - Hip-Hop (Laurie Ann Gibson) –
Why is Laurie Ann Gibson still a choreographer on this show? This was just awful, although I will say that they gave their whole hearts over to it. They weren’t together in the beginning, but the music, the endless reaching (or was it pushing?) and the painfully executed lifts took these two from professional dancer to workshop dancer in a minute and thirty seconds. I was so disappointed for both of them after that fabulous tango, especially Victor who was not utilized in this piece at all. I get that the dancer’s seem to love to work with Laurie Ann, but even Adam was thinking the music and the movement did not go together. Enough of my rant, they are going to lose good dancer’s if they keep this woman on staff!
Mollee & Nathan - Can Can (Tyce Diorio) –
This was pretty darn fun, and was another high energy performance that was a winner with the judges. For me, it was memorable, but not special, if that makes any sense. The choreographers need to help these two grow up in a hurry. Since there will be three couples on top and three on bottom, I think these two could land in the bottom again based on both of their work tonight. Sidebar, was it me or did the rest of you find it totally unnecessary to know that the French did that dance without underwear?
Noelle & Russell - Contemporary (Tyce Diorio) - Tyce
Tyce wanted the dancers to paint their relationship on each other with their bodies, and he was literal enough to use paints halfway through. It was stunning to watch Noelle, and Tyce created some really unique lifts and body shapes within this work that kept me interested and moved throughout. I thought they would be in the bottom and possibly going home after their samba, but now I am not so sure.
Ashleigh & Jakob - Cha-Cha (Jean Marc and France Généreux) –
I have come to love this style and this performance was perfection. Jakob can do no wrong in my eyes; he adapts to whatever they throw at him and captures the essence of the dance as well as the movement. Ashleigh was in her style and was fantastic. This was a great way to end the evening, and all three judges were loving, even after giving Jakob some teasing for the ballroom facials and points.
Bottom three couples? Karen and Victor, Mollee and Nathan, and Noelle and Russell. From my surfing of the blogs, Legacy’s fan base is HUGE and may carry him through over Noelle and Russell, although either couple could be there based on their split performances. Going home? Victor and Noelle, that is if Noelle is there over Kathryn. The judges are really crazy about Karen, and after her tango they are not going to let her go unless she has another abysmal solo. If it is Kathryn and Legacy instead of Noelle and Russell, it will be Kathryn to go home. I find them to both be very beautiful dancers but minus that special something that Jeanine (season 5 winner) had. You need that extraordinary personality to get the phones ringing, and I am not sure either one of the girls have won hearts with their personalities. The only thing that could change this scenario is if Mollee’s injury is worse than they are letting on. Tune in tonight…..
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
The Top 14
After last week I had almost forgotten tonight was a SYTYCD night, and wasn’t in a hurry to watch it. Thank goodness for some different choreographers, because with one exception, I enjoyed every performance this evening. Cat was having a fabulous hair day, but her dress was reminiscent of a wrap dress I had in the 80’ made with tin foil. When I saw a Nappy Tabs number would open the show, I was nervous. Especially after all the Twitter ridiculousness of last week when they felt they had to defend their racy number with Karen and Kevin to their angry fans. My only complaint about tonight’s show was that it could have been an hour and a half, even with the 10 minute plug for the Dizzy Feet foundation. There was just way too much banter by the judges used as filler. Let’s get busy.
Ashleigh & Jakob (Hip-Hop w/ Napoleon & Tabitha D'umo)
"Whatcha Say," Jason Derulo
After the hip hop we have seen so far in season 6, if these two were going to fall apart it would be here. The story was that Jakob was a big fat cheater trying to get Ashleigh back. Ashleigh was so committed to the acting, but she actually kept up with Jakob’s dancing. They started off with her reading a text (which they displayed behind the dancers) and from that moment I was hooked. It had moments that reminded me of Chelsie and Mark’s Bleeding Love number, and it brought back that angst that Napoleon and Tabitha are so good at pulling out of their dancers. I loved it, and all three judges were blown away by Ashleigh. She may have started out with doubters, but each week she is changing minds. These two may have been the first number of the evening, but they aren’t going anywhere.
Karen & Kevin (Broadway w/ Spencer Liff)
"If My Friends Could See Me Now," Sweet Charity (2005 revival cast)
Before I start, I want to be clear that I loved this choreography. I felt so sorry for Spencer Liff who created a really authentic Broadway number, because these two looked amateur and uncomfortable. Apparently if Karen can’t bump and grind, she disengages from her dancing. You could almost see them counting steps and it was a huge disappointment. This piece had so much potential, and I can only imagine what Benji and Danielle (season 2) would have done with it. The judges were underwhelmed. These two are in the bottom for sure, and if it was my doing they would both go home.
Noelle & Russell (Foxtrot w/ Edward Simon)
"Baby (You've Got What It Takes)," Michael Buble and Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings
I really enjoyed Noelle and Russell in this number, and there was a sweetness and a joy that came across in their dancing. There were a couple of really nice lifts and I didn’t see any missteps. The judges agreed that this was a solid performance. Unfortunately, this is the Foxtrot, and I think this fact alone will land them in the bottom. Sweetness alone isn’t enough on this show to inspire phone calls, and I think it is outrageous that this poor couple pulled this style twice out of the hat. Out of the two hip hoppers that may find themselves on the block this week, Russell has no worries. Noelle on the other hand…
Channing & Victor (Jazz w/ Tyce Diorio)
"Blackbird," Bobby McFerrin
This music was obnoxious. I am not sure what Tyce was thinking. He could have accomplished the quirkiness of the dance and great use of the birdcage prop with Paul McCartney’s voice, come on! Victor and Channing danced it with technical perfection, and for the first time I might get what all of the hype is about Channing. She had personality and fierce confidence, which took this dance to a place that their contemporary piece from last week never made it to. Victor is a fantastic dancer, but he is missing the star quality that Jakob has, and this pairing doesn’t seem to have the connection that some of the other couples have. Overall, I loved the concept and the execution, but felt the music was a distraction.
Kathryn & Legacy (Paso Doble w/ Tony Meredith)
"Pursuit," Ka (Cirque du Soleil soundtrack)
If you could forget the last couple of seconds of the dance, this was extremely entertaining. Kathryn took notes after her critiques last week and brought a new level of intensity and emotion to her dancing. Legacy has won me over with his determination, even though he is a crybaby. I don’t know that I have seen someone want something as bad as he wants to do well in this competition. They captured all of the drama that the music and choreography required, and the judges were all three blown away. This was right up there with Neil and Sabra or Heidi and Travis’ Paso Dobles from seasons past.
Ellenore & Ryan (Contemporary w/ Travis Wall & Jaimie Goodwin)
"Your Ex-Lover Is Dead," Stars
Thank God for Travis Wall. He is bringing us those pieces that take your breath away this season, and this dance was one that I will save on my TiVo and watch over and over again. Ellenore was exactly how I expected her to be, brilliant, but Ryan was such a surprise. The story was about bumping into an old flame ten years down the road, and all those possibilities that might have been that didn’t happen. From the minute they looked at each other it was so believable and touching, and the lifts were freaking amazing. One of my fav’s from the season so far. All three judges were amazed with Ryan’s growth. They won’t be dancing for their lives this week.
Mollee & Nathan (Pop-Jazz w/ LaurieAnn Gibson)
"Bad Romance," Lady Gaga
I may get yelled at, but I do not get LaurieAnn’s choreography. I am not sure why they have her on the show except for the drama of her berating the dancers. I thought that Mollee and Nathan gave 110% and that they looked fantastic, but I just wasn’t moved by the story or lack of story. This piece did not do these two any favors, and the way the other guys are killing it this season, Nathan better start looking less childlike in a hurry. I think they are a cute couple, but cuteness is not required very often on this show and after last week’s disaster of a salsa, these two have a lot to prove to their fans. I thought they worked really hard this week, I am just sorry that it wasn’t for something more memorable.
BOTTOM
Hands down the worst couple of the night was Karen and Kevin. I am sure that Kevin is the weakest link left in that group of guys. The judges are crazy about Karen, although I don’t think she has the personality to inspire fans. The Foxtrot (due to the style not being a fan favorite) is going to land in the bottom as well. The third couple will either be Victor and Channing (if Tyce was too weird for the viewing audience) or Mollee and Nathan (due to bad choreography). I don’t think the judges will want to send Karen home, although that is who should go. I worry for Channing and Noelle if they are the other two in the bottom with Karen. Tune in tonight….
Ashleigh & Jakob (Hip-Hop w/ Napoleon & Tabitha D'umo)
"Whatcha Say," Jason Derulo
After the hip hop we have seen so far in season 6, if these two were going to fall apart it would be here. The story was that Jakob was a big fat cheater trying to get Ashleigh back. Ashleigh was so committed to the acting, but she actually kept up with Jakob’s dancing. They started off with her reading a text (which they displayed behind the dancers) and from that moment I was hooked. It had moments that reminded me of Chelsie and Mark’s Bleeding Love number, and it brought back that angst that Napoleon and Tabitha are so good at pulling out of their dancers. I loved it, and all three judges were blown away by Ashleigh. She may have started out with doubters, but each week she is changing minds. These two may have been the first number of the evening, but they aren’t going anywhere.
Karen & Kevin (Broadway w/ Spencer Liff)
"If My Friends Could See Me Now," Sweet Charity (2005 revival cast)
Before I start, I want to be clear that I loved this choreography. I felt so sorry for Spencer Liff who created a really authentic Broadway number, because these two looked amateur and uncomfortable. Apparently if Karen can’t bump and grind, she disengages from her dancing. You could almost see them counting steps and it was a huge disappointment. This piece had so much potential, and I can only imagine what Benji and Danielle (season 2) would have done with it. The judges were underwhelmed. These two are in the bottom for sure, and if it was my doing they would both go home.
Noelle & Russell (Foxtrot w/ Edward Simon)
"Baby (You've Got What It Takes)," Michael Buble and Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings
I really enjoyed Noelle and Russell in this number, and there was a sweetness and a joy that came across in their dancing. There were a couple of really nice lifts and I didn’t see any missteps. The judges agreed that this was a solid performance. Unfortunately, this is the Foxtrot, and I think this fact alone will land them in the bottom. Sweetness alone isn’t enough on this show to inspire phone calls, and I think it is outrageous that this poor couple pulled this style twice out of the hat. Out of the two hip hoppers that may find themselves on the block this week, Russell has no worries. Noelle on the other hand…
Channing & Victor (Jazz w/ Tyce Diorio)
"Blackbird," Bobby McFerrin
This music was obnoxious. I am not sure what Tyce was thinking. He could have accomplished the quirkiness of the dance and great use of the birdcage prop with Paul McCartney’s voice, come on! Victor and Channing danced it with technical perfection, and for the first time I might get what all of the hype is about Channing. She had personality and fierce confidence, which took this dance to a place that their contemporary piece from last week never made it to. Victor is a fantastic dancer, but he is missing the star quality that Jakob has, and this pairing doesn’t seem to have the connection that some of the other couples have. Overall, I loved the concept and the execution, but felt the music was a distraction.
Kathryn & Legacy (Paso Doble w/ Tony Meredith)
"Pursuit," Ka (Cirque du Soleil soundtrack)
If you could forget the last couple of seconds of the dance, this was extremely entertaining. Kathryn took notes after her critiques last week and brought a new level of intensity and emotion to her dancing. Legacy has won me over with his determination, even though he is a crybaby. I don’t know that I have seen someone want something as bad as he wants to do well in this competition. They captured all of the drama that the music and choreography required, and the judges were all three blown away. This was right up there with Neil and Sabra or Heidi and Travis’ Paso Dobles from seasons past.
Ellenore & Ryan (Contemporary w/ Travis Wall & Jaimie Goodwin)
"Your Ex-Lover Is Dead," Stars
Thank God for Travis Wall. He is bringing us those pieces that take your breath away this season, and this dance was one that I will save on my TiVo and watch over and over again. Ellenore was exactly how I expected her to be, brilliant, but Ryan was such a surprise. The story was about bumping into an old flame ten years down the road, and all those possibilities that might have been that didn’t happen. From the minute they looked at each other it was so believable and touching, and the lifts were freaking amazing. One of my fav’s from the season so far. All three judges were amazed with Ryan’s growth. They won’t be dancing for their lives this week.
Mollee & Nathan (Pop-Jazz w/ LaurieAnn Gibson)
"Bad Romance," Lady Gaga
I may get yelled at, but I do not get LaurieAnn’s choreography. I am not sure why they have her on the show except for the drama of her berating the dancers. I thought that Mollee and Nathan gave 110% and that they looked fantastic, but I just wasn’t moved by the story or lack of story. This piece did not do these two any favors, and the way the other guys are killing it this season, Nathan better start looking less childlike in a hurry. I think they are a cute couple, but cuteness is not required very often on this show and after last week’s disaster of a salsa, these two have a lot to prove to their fans. I thought they worked really hard this week, I am just sorry that it wasn’t for something more memorable.
BOTTOM
Hands down the worst couple of the night was Karen and Kevin. I am sure that Kevin is the weakest link left in that group of guys. The judges are crazy about Karen, although I don’t think she has the personality to inspire fans. The Foxtrot (due to the style not being a fan favorite) is going to land in the bottom as well. The third couple will either be Victor and Channing (if Tyce was too weird for the viewing audience) or Mollee and Nathan (due to bad choreography). I don’t think the judges will want to send Karen home, although that is who should go. I worry for Channing and Noelle if they are the other two in the bottom with Karen. Tune in tonight….
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Top 16
Tonight we have 8 performances and two hours. Get ready for filler. Cat is sporting a hairdo that is not flattering, but her shoes are fabulous. In the interview portion of the show, the dancers are asked to let America know one thing about them that they wouldn't know. Let's get this party started.
Karen & Kevin - Hustle (Maria Torres) - "Come to me" France Joli
Karen tells us that she and her husband filed for divorce (I am not sure why this is what she chose to share, but she did), and Kevin has traveled all over the world which has influenced his dance. I am surprised with Kevin in this number, I guess because I actually watched him for a change and he was good. Unfortunately they tried to get fancy after the music stopped and he almost dropped her on her fanny. Tragically, that is really the only thing that stuck with me. All three judges loved it.
Ashleigh & Jakob - Jazz (Mandy Moore) - "Relax" Frankie Goes to Hollywood
Ashleigh is a book nerd and Jakob is best bud's with season 5 champ Jeanine.
This was great Mandy Moore choreography, and I am impressed by how much better Ashleigh is dancing. Jakob should be on Broadway already, and I am not sure what in the world he is doing on this show, but as always he is unbelievably good. They have pretty great chemistry and this is one of those numbers that I would rewind and watch again. The judges were quick to praise Ashleigh on how much she has grown.
Pauline & Peter - Quickstep - (JT & Tomas) - "Hey Baby! (Shake Those Hula Hips)" Big Kahuna & The Copa Cat Pack
Peter works with special needs adults and Pauline eats all day long. I am not sure that bit helped her with the viewing audience, but seeing Peter teaching all those special people to dance did much to smooth out what I perceived as arrogance in his personality. This dance usually results in a kick-off. I am pretty sure it still will. The actual quick-step part looked ridiculous, but they really sold the story of an army guy fascinated with a Polynesian woman. It was really nice choreography, and I was entertained. I just don't think anybody cares enough about quickstep to let it sell them on a new couple.
Kathryn & Legacy- Broadway (Andy Blankenbuehler) - "I Wanna Be Like You" Swingin' Fireballs
Kathryn loves to do mission work, and Legacy was almost a soccer star. This story line about who was going to get control of the remote for the TV had alot of potential, but it didn't quite get there for me. The judges seemed to lay the blame at Kathryn's feet, that she was too juvenile for the story. (Hello, it is Jungle Book. They had nothing but praise for Legacy. I didn't think they danced poorly, it just wasn't to the standard that we are used to on this show. In other words, I have already forgotten about it.
Channing & Victor - Contemporary (Stacy Tookey) - "Be Be Your Love" KCRW version - Rachael Yamagata
How sad is this, even in their opening sequence I can't remember what these two wanted us to know about them. Maybe that was the start of the problem. This dance had so much beautiful choreography packed into it, and it was technically perfect. Unfortunately, these two have NO chemistry. I have to say, that although she danced gorgeously, it was Channing that fell short, because I had already witnessed great chemistry with Victor and Bianca in their contemporary piece. Channing is a mystery, because she has gorgeous lines and great quality of movement. I just don't feel her spirit when she is dancing. I was a little disappointed, because this could have been one of those pieces that moved me with different dancers. The judges loved it, but Nigel was a little let down too.
Ellenore & Ryan - Hip-Hop (Lil' C) - "Lost BoiZ Anthem" Tha J-Squad
Ryan is an extreme sports addict and Ellenore has 6 or 8 different ethnicity's. Lil'C did what he could with these two, but they could not figure out the style, and thus couldn't sell it. They will be in the bottom 3 couples for sure. I have loved these two, but after all of the hype about this being the best of the best dancers ever seen on the show, this danced proved that this might not be accurate. Pasha and Lauren sold a Shane Sparks piece that I still remember. I can't wait to forget this number.
Mollee & Nathan - Salsa (Gustavo Vargas) - "Quimbara" Celia Cruz and Johnny Pacheco
Mollee is deaf in one ear and Nathan loves to jet ski. These two are so young and childlike that there is not a hope of a prayer that they are going to pull off the sexiness of a salsa. Guess what, it was way worse than I even imagined. Mollee couldn't shimmy, wiggle or dance in heels. It was actually at times too embarrassing to watch. Judges thought it was their worst ever, and if I hadn't known how talented they were, I would think they were beginner dancers at a dance competition. This could land them in the bottom 3 if they didn't have such an established fan base already. The judges all agreed with me.
Noelle & Russell - Afro Jazz (Sean Cheesman) - "Frog Dance" Mickey Hart and Planet Drum
This was a great number and after the night I have had, it restored my faith in the show. It was fresh, and they completely pulled me into their story. I am so glad that Noelle had such a strong performance, because I really wasn't too sure about her. Russell was a natural with this movement, and they had great chemistry together. The judges loved it as well as the audience.
Bottom 3 couples?
Ellenore & Ryan
Pauline & Peter
Karen & Kevin
I am wildly guessing on the last couple, but I think as horrendous as Mollee and Nathan were, they will squeak through. I pick Peter and and Pauline to go.
Tune in tonight!
Karen & Kevin - Hustle (Maria Torres) - "Come to me" France Joli
Karen tells us that she and her husband filed for divorce (I am not sure why this is what she chose to share, but she did), and Kevin has traveled all over the world which has influenced his dance. I am surprised with Kevin in this number, I guess because I actually watched him for a change and he was good. Unfortunately they tried to get fancy after the music stopped and he almost dropped her on her fanny. Tragically, that is really the only thing that stuck with me. All three judges loved it.
Ashleigh & Jakob - Jazz (Mandy Moore) - "Relax" Frankie Goes to Hollywood
Ashleigh is a book nerd and Jakob is best bud's with season 5 champ Jeanine.
This was great Mandy Moore choreography, and I am impressed by how much better Ashleigh is dancing. Jakob should be on Broadway already, and I am not sure what in the world he is doing on this show, but as always he is unbelievably good. They have pretty great chemistry and this is one of those numbers that I would rewind and watch again. The judges were quick to praise Ashleigh on how much she has grown.
Pauline & Peter - Quickstep - (JT & Tomas) - "Hey Baby! (Shake Those Hula Hips)" Big Kahuna & The Copa Cat Pack
Peter works with special needs adults and Pauline eats all day long. I am not sure that bit helped her with the viewing audience, but seeing Peter teaching all those special people to dance did much to smooth out what I perceived as arrogance in his personality. This dance usually results in a kick-off. I am pretty sure it still will. The actual quick-step part looked ridiculous, but they really sold the story of an army guy fascinated with a Polynesian woman. It was really nice choreography, and I was entertained. I just don't think anybody cares enough about quickstep to let it sell them on a new couple.
Kathryn & Legacy- Broadway (Andy Blankenbuehler) - "I Wanna Be Like You" Swingin' Fireballs
Kathryn loves to do mission work, and Legacy was almost a soccer star. This story line about who was going to get control of the remote for the TV had alot of potential, but it didn't quite get there for me. The judges seemed to lay the blame at Kathryn's feet, that she was too juvenile for the story. (Hello, it is Jungle Book. They had nothing but praise for Legacy. I didn't think they danced poorly, it just wasn't to the standard that we are used to on this show. In other words, I have already forgotten about it.
Channing & Victor - Contemporary (Stacy Tookey) - "Be Be Your Love" KCRW version - Rachael Yamagata
How sad is this, even in their opening sequence I can't remember what these two wanted us to know about them. Maybe that was the start of the problem. This dance had so much beautiful choreography packed into it, and it was technically perfect. Unfortunately, these two have NO chemistry. I have to say, that although she danced gorgeously, it was Channing that fell short, because I had already witnessed great chemistry with Victor and Bianca in their contemporary piece. Channing is a mystery, because she has gorgeous lines and great quality of movement. I just don't feel her spirit when she is dancing. I was a little disappointed, because this could have been one of those pieces that moved me with different dancers. The judges loved it, but Nigel was a little let down too.
Ellenore & Ryan - Hip-Hop (Lil' C) - "Lost BoiZ Anthem" Tha J-Squad
Ryan is an extreme sports addict and Ellenore has 6 or 8 different ethnicity's. Lil'C did what he could with these two, but they could not figure out the style, and thus couldn't sell it. They will be in the bottom 3 couples for sure. I have loved these two, but after all of the hype about this being the best of the best dancers ever seen on the show, this danced proved that this might not be accurate. Pasha and Lauren sold a Shane Sparks piece that I still remember. I can't wait to forget this number.
Mollee & Nathan - Salsa (Gustavo Vargas) - "Quimbara" Celia Cruz and Johnny Pacheco
Mollee is deaf in one ear and Nathan loves to jet ski. These two are so young and childlike that there is not a hope of a prayer that they are going to pull off the sexiness of a salsa. Guess what, it was way worse than I even imagined. Mollee couldn't shimmy, wiggle or dance in heels. It was actually at times too embarrassing to watch. Judges thought it was their worst ever, and if I hadn't known how talented they were, I would think they were beginner dancers at a dance competition. This could land them in the bottom 3 if they didn't have such an established fan base already. The judges all agreed with me.
Noelle & Russell - Afro Jazz (Sean Cheesman) - "Frog Dance" Mickey Hart and Planet Drum
This was a great number and after the night I have had, it restored my faith in the show. It was fresh, and they completely pulled me into their story. I am so glad that Noelle had such a strong performance, because I really wasn't too sure about her. Russell was a natural with this movement, and they had great chemistry together. The judges loved it as well as the audience.
Bottom 3 couples?
Ellenore & Ryan
Pauline & Peter
Karen & Kevin
I am wildly guessing on the last couple, but I think as horrendous as Mollee and Nathan were, they will squeak through. I pick Peter and and Pauline to go.
Tune in tonight!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Season 6 Top 20
It is so fitting that Saturday night I will be watching and meeting season 5 dancers, and this week my favorite obsession starts all over again! I have not blogged during the audition process mainly because the new format was so quick that I could not remember names. I was grateful for last night's show, so that I could simply enjoy each dancer showcased in their individual dance genre. I also loved an opportunity to watch without critiques.
I am very saddened that we will not be able to watch Billy Bell this season, but let's hope he gets his health back and can join season 7. All I have to say about last night is that Wade was on a completely different level than the other choreographers. As we roll into tonight, not only do we not have Billy, but apparently Noelle has incurred some sort of knee injury and we will have to relive Pasha's awkward cha cha with Melanie from season 3. From what I have read on the blogs, Noelle's injury may be a pre-existing condition that she did not disclose to the executives and SYTYCD, and if that is true I think it is really sad that she gets a week one free pass. Here is how I saw the dancing this evening:
Phillip Attmore (25 from Pasadena, CA-Tap)& Channing Cooke (18 from Haverhill, MA-Contemporary- They picked the Jive with Jacob Gilkison. The song is Rockin Robin, and I am instantly annoyed. I thought that Phillip's dancing was not bad, but there is something about his cocky demeanor that is a huge turnoff. Channing looked stiff and completely uncomfortable in heels. Jacob said the key was to make a hard dance look easy. Guess what? The dance look really hard. When it was time for the lift there was an awkward stunt set up that I could barely watch. Adam thought Channing needed to plie more, but thought Phillip was great. Mary wanted more from both of them. Nigel thought they needed sharper retractions and they needed to build chemistry. This was totally forgettable, from the music, costuming, dancing and choreography. They are lucky they are judge favorites, because after that I could easily send them both packing.
Jakob Karr (19 from Orlando, FL-Contemporary) & Ashleigh Di Lello (26 from Orem, UT-Latin)- Broadway - Tyce Diorio-Hit Me with a Hot Note and Watch me Bounce.
Jakob is unbelievably talented and from the minute he hits the dance floor I am blown away. He has more than just effortless technique, and I am really surprised that this guy isn't working in some Broadway show. It must be a sign of the economic times. I have been on the fence about Ashleigh, initially thinking that the whole deal with her husband was just too much to drama to hold my interest. In this piece however, I actually thought Ashleigh had more chemistry with Jakob than she does with her own husband. Adam thought Jakob was born to dance, and Mary was blown away as well. Nigel went on and on about Jakob being one of the most talented dancers that has ever been on the show. I would have to agree, but as far as being able to take Ashleigh all the way to the top 10, that remains to be seen.
Peter Sabasino (21 from Philadelphia, PA-Tap) & Ariana Debose(18 from Raleigh, NC-Contemporary) - Hip Hop - NappyTabs-Black and Gold
This was a cute concept, but I didn't like the costuming at all. Worse than that, they didn't gel as a couple, and there was something in Peter's expression that set my teeth on edge. This piece was really beaten up in the blogs as the worst choreography ever by Tabitha and Napoleon. I would not agree, it had the potential to be something really funny, but the pair just couldn't take it to that place. Adam thought that their dancing didn't match. Mary thought the middle of the number was sloppy. Nigel thought they never figured it out through the entire dance. I did not think it was as bad as couple number 1, but by the judges comments can see that this will probably go to the bottom of the heap before the jive does.
Russell Ferguson (20 from Boston, MA-Krump) & Noelle Marsh (18 from Sandford, NC-Contemporary)- Foxtrot - Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin-Vagabond Shoes
Well, this wasn't nearly as awkward as Melanie and Pasha's Cha Cha from season 3, THANK GOD. The music lended itself to an older woman dancing with a younger man, so since that is what we had to watch, it was okay. Russell was a huge surprise with his ease in this character, and I was pretty amazed at his carriage and ability to lift Melanie and make it look like it was easy. He actually had some Gene Kelly charm that I would have thought impossible after watching this guys' Krump. Adam thought Russell defied explanation. Mary though he was going places. Nigel thought his lines were beautiful and that he did well.
Victor Smalley (20 from Miami, FL-Contemporary) & Bianca Revels (20 from Detroit, MI-Tap)- Contemporary - Travis Wall-Wasted Time
It is clear to me that Travis is the new Mia Michaels for Season 6. I think I held my breath through this entire piece. I loved the story, the music, and these two dancers did too. Bianca has some awkwardness when she dances, and even when she walks. It is the way she holds her neck. I was so enthralled with the story, that I didn't notice it. It was the first really enjoyable dance for me that I wanted to re-watch. At one point Victor lowered Bianca in a hinge and they were both strong and controlled. I am crazy for Travis Wall! Adam thought it was amazing but told Bianca to watch her shoulders and her feet. Mary loved the chemistry. Nigel thought they were the most connected couple so far. If Bianca can break some of those bad dance habits, she has so much personality that she should do well in this competition. I was cracking up during their rehearsal when Victor was ignoring her and she said "I was so excited when I pulled you out of the hat". The girl is funny.
Kevin Hunte (23 from Brooklyn, NY-Hip Hop)& Karen Hauer (27 from Fort Lee, NJ-Latin)- Cha Cha-Push It
Not a great song choice, but these two were smoking hot together. There were a couple of moments that were so steamy I felt like a peeping Tom. I was not a fan of the actual choreography, it seemed like a lot of bump and grind and using Karen to distract from Kevin, but you can't deny that she has the it factor, and he has a great face. Adam said he felt like Popeye with his eyes bugging out. Mary put Karen on the train and put Kevin on the platform. Nigel thought Kevin danced it very well and that Karen was a vision. (Here we go again-Karen is this season's Jeanine for creepy Nigel commentary).
Ryan Lello (28 from Orem, UT-Latin) & Ellenore Scott (19 from New York, NY-Contemporary Jazz)- Jazz - Sonya Tayeh-Aracadia
Talk about riveting, unique and fantastically performed. This had to be, for me, the surprise of the evening, because I was thinking that Ryan was going to get all Dimtry (season 2) every dance. (He is completely in love with his own body as so many of these ballroom guys are). So when I found myself on the edge of my seat, it was unexpected . This was a great Sonya interpretation and I loved the whole fallen angel storyline. The movement was fresh and these two really connected and sold it. Adam thought these were two of the most exciting dancers of the evening. Mary was so proud of Ryan. Nigel thought it was captivating and that Ryan surprised him.
Brandon Dumalo(replacing Billy-Hip Hop) & Pauline (Mata 18 from West Covinas, CA-Jazz)- Smooth Waltz-You Light Up My Life
We all know how I feel about the waltz. Yawn, stretch, check the watch. That being said, there were some really sweet moments between Brandon and Pauline,they established chemistry immediately. Not bad for a day and a half of rehearsals. As far as if they danced the waltz correctly? I don't really know or care. Adam thought Brandon needed to open his arms from his back (wtf?). Mary thought the chemistry was dynamic. Nigel didn't like it so much. He thought it wasn't strong enough for this program.
Legacy Perez (28 from L.A. CA-B-Boy)& Kathryn McCormick (19 from Burbank,CA-Lyrical)- Hip Hop - Dave Scott-Evolution
This was pretty weird. Lots of fake bug eating, like baboons at the zoo. Once I got passed this initial grossness, however, these two were amazingly strong together and somehow the quirkiness and the characters worked. It was kind of like cave people and the woman was in charge. Kathryn was the girl who talked in a really high voice when she cried during Vegas week. She was not even on my radar before this. She was really fierce and if she can come off a little better in the interview process, she might be one to keep an eye on. Adam thought they met in the middle and did a great job. Mary pulled a Paula Abdul. Let's just say after she screamed Yabadabadoo I could no longer listen to her critique. It was something about Bam Bam and Pebbles, and it was ridiculous. Nigel thought it was the hip hop version of Quest for Fire. I think that was a good thing.
Nathan Trasoras (18 from Downey, CA-Contemporary) & Mollee Gray (18 from Upland, CA-Jazz)- Disco - Doriana Sanchez-Turn the Beat Around.
These two are the youngest looking contestants in the history of the show and had really great energy. Their enthusiasm was contagious and you couldn't help but enjoy the piece, even though it was disco. I didn't think it was as amazing as Brandon and Jeanette from season 5, but what a great way to end the show. Adam thought they were the cutest couple. Mary thought it was the toughest Disco routine we have seen yet (really?). Nigel thought it was fantastic, great energy. Gary wanted to try a couple of the lifts. You know which one I am talking about. These two are extremely likable and are going to be around for a long time.
The bottom four, were Pauline, Brandon, Ariana and (SHOCK)Russell. They all danced for their life and it was completely obvious that it didn't matter what they did up there, the judges had made up their minds before the evening started. It is Brandon and Ariana who go home. Because Brandon has only been on the show a day and a half, Nigel is hoping to get him back next season, he is going to plead his case to FOX. Hey, aren't you the executive producer? If he doesn't get another chance, it is a shame because I saw a lot more potential in him than Peter or Phillip, but what do I know? Tune in next week.
I am very saddened that we will not be able to watch Billy Bell this season, but let's hope he gets his health back and can join season 7. All I have to say about last night is that Wade was on a completely different level than the other choreographers. As we roll into tonight, not only do we not have Billy, but apparently Noelle has incurred some sort of knee injury and we will have to relive Pasha's awkward cha cha with Melanie from season 3. From what I have read on the blogs, Noelle's injury may be a pre-existing condition that she did not disclose to the executives and SYTYCD, and if that is true I think it is really sad that she gets a week one free pass. Here is how I saw the dancing this evening:
Phillip Attmore (25 from Pasadena, CA-Tap)& Channing Cooke (18 from Haverhill, MA-Contemporary- They picked the Jive with Jacob Gilkison. The song is Rockin Robin, and I am instantly annoyed. I thought that Phillip's dancing was not bad, but there is something about his cocky demeanor that is a huge turnoff. Channing looked stiff and completely uncomfortable in heels. Jacob said the key was to make a hard dance look easy. Guess what? The dance look really hard. When it was time for the lift there was an awkward stunt set up that I could barely watch. Adam thought Channing needed to plie more, but thought Phillip was great. Mary wanted more from both of them. Nigel thought they needed sharper retractions and they needed to build chemistry. This was totally forgettable, from the music, costuming, dancing and choreography. They are lucky they are judge favorites, because after that I could easily send them both packing.
Jakob Karr (19 from Orlando, FL-Contemporary) & Ashleigh Di Lello (26 from Orem, UT-Latin)- Broadway - Tyce Diorio-Hit Me with a Hot Note and Watch me Bounce.
Jakob is unbelievably talented and from the minute he hits the dance floor I am blown away. He has more than just effortless technique, and I am really surprised that this guy isn't working in some Broadway show. It must be a sign of the economic times. I have been on the fence about Ashleigh, initially thinking that the whole deal with her husband was just too much to drama to hold my interest. In this piece however, I actually thought Ashleigh had more chemistry with Jakob than she does with her own husband. Adam thought Jakob was born to dance, and Mary was blown away as well. Nigel went on and on about Jakob being one of the most talented dancers that has ever been on the show. I would have to agree, but as far as being able to take Ashleigh all the way to the top 10, that remains to be seen.
Peter Sabasino (21 from Philadelphia, PA-Tap) & Ariana Debose(18 from Raleigh, NC-Contemporary) - Hip Hop - NappyTabs-Black and Gold
This was a cute concept, but I didn't like the costuming at all. Worse than that, they didn't gel as a couple, and there was something in Peter's expression that set my teeth on edge. This piece was really beaten up in the blogs as the worst choreography ever by Tabitha and Napoleon. I would not agree, it had the potential to be something really funny, but the pair just couldn't take it to that place. Adam thought that their dancing didn't match. Mary thought the middle of the number was sloppy. Nigel thought they never figured it out through the entire dance. I did not think it was as bad as couple number 1, but by the judges comments can see that this will probably go to the bottom of the heap before the jive does.
Russell Ferguson (20 from Boston, MA-Krump) & Noelle Marsh (18 from Sandford, NC-Contemporary)- Foxtrot - Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin-Vagabond Shoes
Well, this wasn't nearly as awkward as Melanie and Pasha's Cha Cha from season 3, THANK GOD. The music lended itself to an older woman dancing with a younger man, so since that is what we had to watch, it was okay. Russell was a huge surprise with his ease in this character, and I was pretty amazed at his carriage and ability to lift Melanie and make it look like it was easy. He actually had some Gene Kelly charm that I would have thought impossible after watching this guys' Krump. Adam thought Russell defied explanation. Mary though he was going places. Nigel thought his lines were beautiful and that he did well.
Victor Smalley (20 from Miami, FL-Contemporary) & Bianca Revels (20 from Detroit, MI-Tap)- Contemporary - Travis Wall-Wasted Time
It is clear to me that Travis is the new Mia Michaels for Season 6. I think I held my breath through this entire piece. I loved the story, the music, and these two dancers did too. Bianca has some awkwardness when she dances, and even when she walks. It is the way she holds her neck. I was so enthralled with the story, that I didn't notice it. It was the first really enjoyable dance for me that I wanted to re-watch. At one point Victor lowered Bianca in a hinge and they were both strong and controlled. I am crazy for Travis Wall! Adam thought it was amazing but told Bianca to watch her shoulders and her feet. Mary loved the chemistry. Nigel thought they were the most connected couple so far. If Bianca can break some of those bad dance habits, she has so much personality that she should do well in this competition. I was cracking up during their rehearsal when Victor was ignoring her and she said "I was so excited when I pulled you out of the hat". The girl is funny.
Kevin Hunte (23 from Brooklyn, NY-Hip Hop)& Karen Hauer (27 from Fort Lee, NJ-Latin)- Cha Cha-Push It
Not a great song choice, but these two were smoking hot together. There were a couple of moments that were so steamy I felt like a peeping Tom. I was not a fan of the actual choreography, it seemed like a lot of bump and grind and using Karen to distract from Kevin, but you can't deny that she has the it factor, and he has a great face. Adam said he felt like Popeye with his eyes bugging out. Mary put Karen on the train and put Kevin on the platform. Nigel thought Kevin danced it very well and that Karen was a vision. (Here we go again-Karen is this season's Jeanine for creepy Nigel commentary).
Ryan Lello (28 from Orem, UT-Latin) & Ellenore Scott (19 from New York, NY-Contemporary Jazz)- Jazz - Sonya Tayeh-Aracadia
Talk about riveting, unique and fantastically performed. This had to be, for me, the surprise of the evening, because I was thinking that Ryan was going to get all Dimtry (season 2) every dance. (He is completely in love with his own body as so many of these ballroom guys are). So when I found myself on the edge of my seat, it was unexpected . This was a great Sonya interpretation and I loved the whole fallen angel storyline. The movement was fresh and these two really connected and sold it. Adam thought these were two of the most exciting dancers of the evening. Mary was so proud of Ryan. Nigel thought it was captivating and that Ryan surprised him.
Brandon Dumalo(replacing Billy-Hip Hop) & Pauline (Mata 18 from West Covinas, CA-Jazz)- Smooth Waltz-You Light Up My Life
We all know how I feel about the waltz. Yawn, stretch, check the watch. That being said, there were some really sweet moments between Brandon and Pauline,they established chemistry immediately. Not bad for a day and a half of rehearsals. As far as if they danced the waltz correctly? I don't really know or care. Adam thought Brandon needed to open his arms from his back (wtf?). Mary thought the chemistry was dynamic. Nigel didn't like it so much. He thought it wasn't strong enough for this program.
Legacy Perez (28 from L.A. CA-B-Boy)& Kathryn McCormick (19 from Burbank,CA-Lyrical)- Hip Hop - Dave Scott-Evolution
This was pretty weird. Lots of fake bug eating, like baboons at the zoo. Once I got passed this initial grossness, however, these two were amazingly strong together and somehow the quirkiness and the characters worked. It was kind of like cave people and the woman was in charge. Kathryn was the girl who talked in a really high voice when she cried during Vegas week. She was not even on my radar before this. She was really fierce and if she can come off a little better in the interview process, she might be one to keep an eye on. Adam thought they met in the middle and did a great job. Mary pulled a Paula Abdul. Let's just say after she screamed Yabadabadoo I could no longer listen to her critique. It was something about Bam Bam and Pebbles, and it was ridiculous. Nigel thought it was the hip hop version of Quest for Fire. I think that was a good thing.
Nathan Trasoras (18 from Downey, CA-Contemporary) & Mollee Gray (18 from Upland, CA-Jazz)- Disco - Doriana Sanchez-Turn the Beat Around.
These two are the youngest looking contestants in the history of the show and had really great energy. Their enthusiasm was contagious and you couldn't help but enjoy the piece, even though it was disco. I didn't think it was as amazing as Brandon and Jeanette from season 5, but what a great way to end the show. Adam thought they were the cutest couple. Mary thought it was the toughest Disco routine we have seen yet (really?). Nigel thought it was fantastic, great energy. Gary wanted to try a couple of the lifts. You know which one I am talking about. These two are extremely likable and are going to be around for a long time.
The bottom four, were Pauline, Brandon, Ariana and (SHOCK)Russell. They all danced for their life and it was completely obvious that it didn't matter what they did up there, the judges had made up their minds before the evening started. It is Brandon and Ariana who go home. Because Brandon has only been on the show a day and a half, Nigel is hoping to get him back next season, he is going to plead his case to FOX. Hey, aren't you the executive producer? If he doesn't get another chance, it is a shame because I saw a lot more potential in him than Peter or Phillip, but what do I know? Tune in next week.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Jeanine is America's Favorite Dancer
This is it friends, the last night of SYTYCD for the summer. This night usually signals kids going back to college for me and makes me sad-but knowing another season is but a few weeks away, I am not letting the melancholy set in. Tonight the judging table was full of choreographers from the season: Lil' C, Mia Michaels, Tyce Diorio, Debbie Allen, Adam Shankman, Mary Murphy and Nigel Lythgoe.
We are treated to a video recap of this season, and I am reminded just how talented this group of dancers is. I actually get chills when the fab four came out on stage at the end. There were a lot of great numbers brought back by the panel tonight, and I was so excited that they stayed away from showcasing too many guest artists and stuck to the great dance we saw all season. Let's reminisce, shall we?
The Groups
Top 20 - "Brand New Day," The Wiz
(Broadway, Tyce Diorio) The larger stage really brought this number to new heights, but I was ready to tear my hair out at some of the camera angles. There were some video shots from the top balcony and you couldn't see anything. WTF?
Top 16 - "I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho)," Pitbull
(Hip-Hop/Latin ballroom, Dmitry Chaplin, Napoleon & Tabitha D'umo)
I loved this number the first time, and was so excited to see Janette showcased here. My daughter and I kept trying to figure out the water element (was some of this pre-taped?) and how they were cleaning all of this up for the next number. While we are watching she is surfing the net and finds out that there were a couple of things pre-taped. My girl is such a multi-tasker.
Top 8 - "One," A Chorus Line
(Contemporary, Mia Michaels)
I absolutely loved that they brought the judges out to dance, but I sure wish that there would have been a little more to this than a few moves and an ending pose.
The Surprise Guests
Talia Fowler - "Shot You Down," Audio Bullys
(Sonya Tayeh) What a great thing to bring a winner from another country to the finale. I thought she was a brilliant dancer, and Sonya put together an interesting routine that showed, once again how much she enjoys the arabesque.
The Rage Boyz Crew - "Feel It," Colby O'Donis & Mauli-B
(Hip-Hop, Tiffany Burton)
There were about 4 or 5 Numbers that I would have rather re-watched than to see this group again. It was cute, but not finale material in my eyes.
The Judges' Choice of Encores
Jeanine & Phillip
"Mad," Ne-Yo (Hip-Hop, Tabitha & Napoleon D'umo)
(Adam Shankman's choice)
I actually thought they took this performance to a new level. This was the start of season 5 and the first time we really saw Jeanine, so it was an appropriate start to the finale.
Janette & Brandon
"Libertango," Forever Tango (Argentine Tango, Miriam Larici & Leonardo Barrionuevo)
(Nigel Lythgoe's choice)
Oh Janette, how I wish it was you in this finale. I thought this piece was one of the best of the entire season. They were fantastic again and I have to agree with Brandon. Janette made him better. He looked fantastic and strong in this routine.
Asuka & Vitolio
"Dreams Are More Precious," Enya (Waltz, Louis van Amstel)
(Debbie Allen's choice)
While these two were not my favs, I did enjoy them in this choreography. I thought they performed it even better than the first time, except that I was a litte worried that Asuka was going to shoot off the end of the stage at her ending pose.
Jeanine & Jason
"If It Kills Me (The Casa Nova Sessions)," Jason Mraz (Contemporary, Travis Wall)
(Mary Murphy's choice)
I don't know if it is the excitement of the finale, or just the reviewing of my favorite numbers, but this was better the second time around as well. The kiss was not so spontaneous as it was the first time, but still believable and was the perfect blend of flawless dancing and inspiring choreography.
Kayla & Max
"Jum Buh Day," House of Gypsies (Samba, Louis van Amstel)
(Mia Michaels' choice)
Really?
Caitlin & Jason
"Jai Ho," Slumdog Millionaire (Bollywood, Nakul Dev Mahajan)
(Lil' C's choice)
I was so happy to see Jason get a second chance to perform this evening. I really enjoyed their energy and seeing those two together again.
Randi & Evan
"Koop Island Blues," Koop f. Ane Brun (Contemporary, Mia Michaels)
(Adam Shankman's choice)
I was thrilled that Randi and Evan got a second chance at this brilliant number, as some of the problems they had in the first performance were all worked out in this one (the shoe dropping, Evan's stumble when Randi put her leg over his shoulder's. While I enjoyed the camera work much better the first time, I loved getting to see them both on the top of their game with one of the more memorable routines of the season.
Jeanine & Brandon
"Tetsujin," The Matrix Revolutions (Paso Doble, Louis van Amstel)
(Mary Murphy's choice)
This was a great piece both last night and tonight. That music really gets your blood pumping, doesn't it?
Kayla & Kupono
"Gravity," Sarah Bareilles (Contemporary, Mia Michaels)
(Nigel Lythgoe's choice)
This was artwork, and Kayla's emotions were right there on the surface (probably because she was just put in last place-did anyone else think she looked really mad initially when they said her name??) Kupono was even more scary this time around. While I felt most of the season that Kayla came off artificially, I can't take anything away from her on this dance. It was a masterpiece.
Janette & Brandon
"Loving Is Really My Game," Brainstorm (Disco, Doriana Sanchez)
(Tyce Diorio's choice)
I am not a huge disco fan, but if they had to bring the style to the finale, I am so glad it was this one. Janette took it up a notch (she didn't stumble this time around) and it was a great reminder of how much she and Brandon had accomplished this season.
Melissa & Ade
"This Woman's Work," Maxwell (Contemporary, Tyce Diorio)
(Mia Michael's choice)
I was really touched again by the beauty of this piece, and to see Christina Applegate in the audience (a breast cancer survivor) and read the reaction in her eyes was especially moving.
AMERICA'S FAVORITE DANCER
I got this one wrong, and for the record, I am glad. I think this went down exactly as it should have, with the best two dancers standing side by side at the end. Was anyone else just blown away that Kayla seemingly withheld her congratulations from Jeanine and stood off to the side of the stage talking to Tyce? Not too classy Kayla!
Tune in next month when we get to do this all again!
We are treated to a video recap of this season, and I am reminded just how talented this group of dancers is. I actually get chills when the fab four came out on stage at the end. There were a lot of great numbers brought back by the panel tonight, and I was so excited that they stayed away from showcasing too many guest artists and stuck to the great dance we saw all season. Let's reminisce, shall we?
The Groups
Top 20 - "Brand New Day," The Wiz
(Broadway, Tyce Diorio) The larger stage really brought this number to new heights, but I was ready to tear my hair out at some of the camera angles. There were some video shots from the top balcony and you couldn't see anything. WTF?
Top 16 - "I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho)," Pitbull
(Hip-Hop/Latin ballroom, Dmitry Chaplin, Napoleon & Tabitha D'umo)
I loved this number the first time, and was so excited to see Janette showcased here. My daughter and I kept trying to figure out the water element (was some of this pre-taped?) and how they were cleaning all of this up for the next number. While we are watching she is surfing the net and finds out that there were a couple of things pre-taped. My girl is such a multi-tasker.
Top 8 - "One," A Chorus Line
(Contemporary, Mia Michaels)
I absolutely loved that they brought the judges out to dance, but I sure wish that there would have been a little more to this than a few moves and an ending pose.
The Surprise Guests
Talia Fowler - "Shot You Down," Audio Bullys
(Sonya Tayeh) What a great thing to bring a winner from another country to the finale. I thought she was a brilliant dancer, and Sonya put together an interesting routine that showed, once again how much she enjoys the arabesque.
The Rage Boyz Crew - "Feel It," Colby O'Donis & Mauli-B
(Hip-Hop, Tiffany Burton)
There were about 4 or 5 Numbers that I would have rather re-watched than to see this group again. It was cute, but not finale material in my eyes.
The Judges' Choice of Encores
Jeanine & Phillip
"Mad," Ne-Yo (Hip-Hop, Tabitha & Napoleon D'umo)
(Adam Shankman's choice)
I actually thought they took this performance to a new level. This was the start of season 5 and the first time we really saw Jeanine, so it was an appropriate start to the finale.
Janette & Brandon
"Libertango," Forever Tango (Argentine Tango, Miriam Larici & Leonardo Barrionuevo)
(Nigel Lythgoe's choice)
Oh Janette, how I wish it was you in this finale. I thought this piece was one of the best of the entire season. They were fantastic again and I have to agree with Brandon. Janette made him better. He looked fantastic and strong in this routine.
Asuka & Vitolio
"Dreams Are More Precious," Enya (Waltz, Louis van Amstel)
(Debbie Allen's choice)
While these two were not my favs, I did enjoy them in this choreography. I thought they performed it even better than the first time, except that I was a litte worried that Asuka was going to shoot off the end of the stage at her ending pose.
Jeanine & Jason
"If It Kills Me (The Casa Nova Sessions)," Jason Mraz (Contemporary, Travis Wall)
(Mary Murphy's choice)
I don't know if it is the excitement of the finale, or just the reviewing of my favorite numbers, but this was better the second time around as well. The kiss was not so spontaneous as it was the first time, but still believable and was the perfect blend of flawless dancing and inspiring choreography.
Kayla & Max
"Jum Buh Day," House of Gypsies (Samba, Louis van Amstel)
(Mia Michaels' choice)
Really?
Caitlin & Jason
"Jai Ho," Slumdog Millionaire (Bollywood, Nakul Dev Mahajan)
(Lil' C's choice)
I was so happy to see Jason get a second chance to perform this evening. I really enjoyed their energy and seeing those two together again.
Randi & Evan
"Koop Island Blues," Koop f. Ane Brun (Contemporary, Mia Michaels)
(Adam Shankman's choice)
I was thrilled that Randi and Evan got a second chance at this brilliant number, as some of the problems they had in the first performance were all worked out in this one (the shoe dropping, Evan's stumble when Randi put her leg over his shoulder's. While I enjoyed the camera work much better the first time, I loved getting to see them both on the top of their game with one of the more memorable routines of the season.
Jeanine & Brandon
"Tetsujin," The Matrix Revolutions (Paso Doble, Louis van Amstel)
(Mary Murphy's choice)
This was a great piece both last night and tonight. That music really gets your blood pumping, doesn't it?
Kayla & Kupono
"Gravity," Sarah Bareilles (Contemporary, Mia Michaels)
(Nigel Lythgoe's choice)
This was artwork, and Kayla's emotions were right there on the surface (probably because she was just put in last place-did anyone else think she looked really mad initially when they said her name??) Kupono was even more scary this time around. While I felt most of the season that Kayla came off artificially, I can't take anything away from her on this dance. It was a masterpiece.
Janette & Brandon
"Loving Is Really My Game," Brainstorm (Disco, Doriana Sanchez)
(Tyce Diorio's choice)
I am not a huge disco fan, but if they had to bring the style to the finale, I am so glad it was this one. Janette took it up a notch (she didn't stumble this time around) and it was a great reminder of how much she and Brandon had accomplished this season.
Melissa & Ade
"This Woman's Work," Maxwell (Contemporary, Tyce Diorio)
(Mia Michael's choice)
I was really touched again by the beauty of this piece, and to see Christina Applegate in the audience (a breast cancer survivor) and read the reaction in her eyes was especially moving.
AMERICA'S FAVORITE DANCER
I got this one wrong, and for the record, I am glad. I think this went down exactly as it should have, with the best two dancers standing side by side at the end. Was anyone else just blown away that Kayla seemingly withheld her congratulations from Jeanine and stood off to the side of the stage talking to Tyce? Not too classy Kayla!
Tune in next month when we get to do this all again!
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Finale Part One
This is the finale week, and SYTYCD must be reaching new heights because the venue is now the Kodak Theatre. The larger stage got mixed reviews from the viewers at my house. My mom thought all of the lighting made it difficult to watch the dancing. I loved the larger stage and the great energy from the audience, but at times the way it was shot did make me dizzy. Cat had an absolutely heinous dress on that looked like a silver sack that she semi belted. She saved the worst outfit of the season for the finale? Adam joined the judging panel this evening, and at times I felt like he could have done the task alone. Let’s get to it, shall we?
THE GROUP
"Boys Boys Boys," Lady Gaga (Pop-Jazz, Wade Robson)
This had me cracking up. I was not expecting this from Wade at all, and it was great to see the dancers interact with each other in a completely humorous way. I thought Evan stepped it up and looked like he belonged. I didn’t see anything genius, but it certainly put all of the dancers at ease and started the night off on a fun note.
COUPLES
Jeanine & Evan
"Heartbreaker," MSTRKRFT f. John Legend (Jazz, Sonya Tayeh)
This was probably my favorite couple routine of the evening. The story was a girl who is over her boyfriend, but he can’t let go. Jeanine really captured the essence of the character, starting off trying to get free and feeling maybe a little bad, but by the end being angry and ready to be out. Evan did well staying up with her, and I thought he did a great job bringing the desperation. The judges loved it.
Kayla & Brandon
"Bye Bye Love," All That Jazz (Broadway, Tyce Diorio)
Okay I am a Fosse freak, and I loved this movie. I thought Brandon was channeling Ben Vereen, and at the beginning I as really loving it, but the routine lost something in the middle for me. Despite the judges raving about how together they were, that fouttee section was not on.
Brandon & Evan
"Nasty," Janet Jackson (Pop-Jazz, Laurie Ann Gibson)
Poor Evan, this just didn’t work for him on many levels. He isn't nasty, he isn't badass and technically his flaws really stand out next to Brandon. On a side note, I don’t get Laurie Ann Gibson. What is up with the pink headphones? Why so angry? This just wasn’t my thing I guess.
Jeanine & Kayla
"The Four Sections: IV (Full Orchestra)," Steve Reich (Contemporary, Mia Michaels)
Kayla & Evan
I always appreciate a conceptual piece, and while I loved the movement, I don’t think the shedding of the clothing worked quite the way Mia intended. It was a huge distraction at times, and even though the dancers in my living room made me watch it twice, I still didn’t really enjoy it that much.
"T.R.O.U.B.L.E.," Travis Tritt (Jive, Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin)
Jeanine & Brandon
From the boots, to the chemistry, to the music, this was the most boring jive I have ever sat through. Even that lightening fast kiss at the end by Kayla didn’t rescue it.
"Tetsujin," The Matrix Revolutions (Paso Doble, Louis Van Amstel)
I actually loved the intensity and the performance aspect of this routine, but I was waiting for the big lift they practiced. What happened to it? I thought at the end of the day, these two were the standout performers, and although I would have rather they ended on something like hip hop, I did enjoy it.
SOLOS
Brandon Bryant - "Dies Irae," Karl Jenkins
Dude, what is up with the swim trunks? I thought it was completely spastic, and while I appreciate his greatness, I couldn’t wait for that one to end.
Jeanine Mason - "Por una Cabeza," The Tango Project
This was a masterpiece for me, and if she doesn’t win this thing after that solo it will be completely shocking. That turn sequence was unbelievable. She has the it factor, and add to that her amazing talent, she should win this by a landslide.
Evan Kasprzak - "The Best Is Yet to Come," Michael Bublé
Evan did a repeat performance of an earlier solo, and although I liked it, last week was a lot better. He has a bit of a glandular problem that someone in wardrobe forgot to address as well…. He should not be too worried though, he had the entire audience chanting his name.
Kayla Radomski - "Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)," Eurythmics
While I appreciate Kayla’s technical excellence, her interview made we want to slap her silly. Really? Are you this artificial? I am hoping it is just the stress of being on TV that keeps her from presenting herself well. I have already forgotten her solo.
SUMMARY
4th place Kayla
3rd place Brandon
2nd place Evan (I don’t think he deserves it, but all that Evan bashing is going to backfire)
1st place Jeanine
I think that Nigel reached a new level of creepiness this evening, and even if some of it was unintentional, I think Jeanine will be glad not to be in skimpy costumes in front of him anymore. I hope he gets that under control for season 6. Vegas taping begins tomorrow!!!
Tune in for the finale. It will be a wild night at my house with all the dancers chatting a mile a minute. I promise to post the blog tomorrow much earlier. I had cocktails and couldn't trust my grammar last night.
THE GROUP
"Boys Boys Boys," Lady Gaga (Pop-Jazz, Wade Robson)
This had me cracking up. I was not expecting this from Wade at all, and it was great to see the dancers interact with each other in a completely humorous way. I thought Evan stepped it up and looked like he belonged. I didn’t see anything genius, but it certainly put all of the dancers at ease and started the night off on a fun note.
COUPLES
Jeanine & Evan
"Heartbreaker," MSTRKRFT f. John Legend (Jazz, Sonya Tayeh)
This was probably my favorite couple routine of the evening. The story was a girl who is over her boyfriend, but he can’t let go. Jeanine really captured the essence of the character, starting off trying to get free and feeling maybe a little bad, but by the end being angry and ready to be out. Evan did well staying up with her, and I thought he did a great job bringing the desperation. The judges loved it.
Kayla & Brandon
"Bye Bye Love," All That Jazz (Broadway, Tyce Diorio)
Okay I am a Fosse freak, and I loved this movie. I thought Brandon was channeling Ben Vereen, and at the beginning I as really loving it, but the routine lost something in the middle for me. Despite the judges raving about how together they were, that fouttee section was not on.
Brandon & Evan
"Nasty," Janet Jackson (Pop-Jazz, Laurie Ann Gibson)
Poor Evan, this just didn’t work for him on many levels. He isn't nasty, he isn't badass and technically his flaws really stand out next to Brandon. On a side note, I don’t get Laurie Ann Gibson. What is up with the pink headphones? Why so angry? This just wasn’t my thing I guess.
Jeanine & Kayla
"The Four Sections: IV (Full Orchestra)," Steve Reich (Contemporary, Mia Michaels)
Kayla & Evan
I always appreciate a conceptual piece, and while I loved the movement, I don’t think the shedding of the clothing worked quite the way Mia intended. It was a huge distraction at times, and even though the dancers in my living room made me watch it twice, I still didn’t really enjoy it that much.
"T.R.O.U.B.L.E.," Travis Tritt (Jive, Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin)
Jeanine & Brandon
From the boots, to the chemistry, to the music, this was the most boring jive I have ever sat through. Even that lightening fast kiss at the end by Kayla didn’t rescue it.
"Tetsujin," The Matrix Revolutions (Paso Doble, Louis Van Amstel)
I actually loved the intensity and the performance aspect of this routine, but I was waiting for the big lift they practiced. What happened to it? I thought at the end of the day, these two were the standout performers, and although I would have rather they ended on something like hip hop, I did enjoy it.
SOLOS
Brandon Bryant - "Dies Irae," Karl Jenkins
Dude, what is up with the swim trunks? I thought it was completely spastic, and while I appreciate his greatness, I couldn’t wait for that one to end.
Jeanine Mason - "Por una Cabeza," The Tango Project
This was a masterpiece for me, and if she doesn’t win this thing after that solo it will be completely shocking. That turn sequence was unbelievable. She has the it factor, and add to that her amazing talent, she should win this by a landslide.
Evan Kasprzak - "The Best Is Yet to Come," Michael Bublé
Evan did a repeat performance of an earlier solo, and although I liked it, last week was a lot better. He has a bit of a glandular problem that someone in wardrobe forgot to address as well…. He should not be too worried though, he had the entire audience chanting his name.
Kayla Radomski - "Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)," Eurythmics
While I appreciate Kayla’s technical excellence, her interview made we want to slap her silly. Really? Are you this artificial? I am hoping it is just the stress of being on TV that keeps her from presenting herself well. I have already forgotten her solo.
SUMMARY
4th place Kayla
3rd place Brandon
2nd place Evan (I don’t think he deserves it, but all that Evan bashing is going to backfire)
1st place Jeanine
I think that Nigel reached a new level of creepiness this evening, and even if some of it was unintentional, I think Jeanine will be glad not to be in skimpy costumes in front of him anymore. I hope he gets that under control for season 6. Vegas taping begins tomorrow!!!
Tune in for the finale. It will be a wild night at my house with all the dancers chatting a mile a minute. I promise to post the blog tomorrow much earlier. I had cocktails and couldn't trust my grammar last night.
Friday, July 31, 2009
The Top Four are Revealed.
I have to say that I am not expecting any big surprises tonight, but right off the bat I get one from Tyce Diorio.
Group Performance
"Send in the Clowns" – Judy Collins (Tyce DiOrio) –
This was probably my favorite Tyce choreography ever! Gary asked me as we were watching "who did this" and I didn't have a clue, and usually you can kind of pick out the choreographer if you have seen enough of their work. I loved the box, the costuming and the movement was just beautiful. I wanted it to go on and on.
I was glad that they immediately sent Jeanine and Brandon to safety, but again this was no surprise.
I am so glad instead of listening to Lil'C, we got to watch old favorite dances. This was an unexpected treat.
Emmy Nominated Performances
Jessica & Will – "Silence" – (Tyce DiOrio) – I loved seeing Will dance again, and although I did prefer this the first time around, it was still a gorgeous piece.
Katee & Twitch – "Mercy" (Mia Michaels) This was one of my favorites last season, and even with the door refusing to stay shut, these two never broke character and made it highly entertaining. I am pretty sure it was taped though.
Chelsie & Joshua – "A Los Amigos" (Dmitry Chaplin) – This dance was as great as the first time they performed it, and was smoking hot. I wish I had the mad love for the current dancers that I did for these two.
Chelsie & Mark – "Bleeding Love" (Napoleon & Tabitha D'umo) –Was it me, or is something up with the suitcase? Otherwise, I was thrilled to get to watch this again. I can't hear that song without imagining my mother trying to learn to pop with my daughter. I am not dissing her, I sure can't do it, it just cracks me up that she wants to learn hip hop at 66.
Solos
Melissa – "I Put A Spell On You" - Nina Simone - Same solo, but maybe with a little better camera angles, as I enjoyed it a bit more than last night.
Ade – "18th Floor Balcony" - Blue October - Is it me, or does Ade sometime wing it?
Kayla – "You Found Me" - The Fray - Seemed less together than the night before, she didn't hit the big musical cue or something.
Evan - "The Lady Is a Tramp" - Sammy Davis, Jr. -It may have been the same number, but Evan had an even better performance of it tonight. His leaps were crazy high!
Guest Performances
JabbaWockeeZ - "Freak-A-Zoid" - Midnight Star – This was the moment I was most excited for because I love this crew. They were so synchronized and I love the weird formations they make. This was the highlight of the evening for me.
Sean Paul – "So Happy" - Yuck. What was up with the random shouting guy in the background? I had to resort to the pause, then fast forward option.
The Kick-Off
Goodbye Melissa and Ade! We can't wait to see you on tour! I will especially be looking forward to Tyce's piece on breast cancer and of course (in Gary's words from last season) "the potted earth".
I am hosting a finale gathering. Anyone who lives close enough that reads this blog is welcome. That includes you little dingo.
Group Performance
"Send in the Clowns" – Judy Collins (Tyce DiOrio) –
This was probably my favorite Tyce choreography ever! Gary asked me as we were watching "who did this" and I didn't have a clue, and usually you can kind of pick out the choreographer if you have seen enough of their work. I loved the box, the costuming and the movement was just beautiful. I wanted it to go on and on.
I was glad that they immediately sent Jeanine and Brandon to safety, but again this was no surprise.
I am so glad instead of listening to Lil'C, we got to watch old favorite dances. This was an unexpected treat.
Emmy Nominated Performances
Jessica & Will – "Silence" – (Tyce DiOrio) – I loved seeing Will dance again, and although I did prefer this the first time around, it was still a gorgeous piece.
Katee & Twitch – "Mercy" (Mia Michaels) This was one of my favorites last season, and even with the door refusing to stay shut, these two never broke character and made it highly entertaining. I am pretty sure it was taped though.
Chelsie & Joshua – "A Los Amigos" (Dmitry Chaplin) – This dance was as great as the first time they performed it, and was smoking hot. I wish I had the mad love for the current dancers that I did for these two.
Chelsie & Mark – "Bleeding Love" (Napoleon & Tabitha D'umo) –Was it me, or is something up with the suitcase? Otherwise, I was thrilled to get to watch this again. I can't hear that song without imagining my mother trying to learn to pop with my daughter. I am not dissing her, I sure can't do it, it just cracks me up that she wants to learn hip hop at 66.
Solos
Melissa – "I Put A Spell On You" - Nina Simone - Same solo, but maybe with a little better camera angles, as I enjoyed it a bit more than last night.
Ade – "18th Floor Balcony" - Blue October - Is it me, or does Ade sometime wing it?
Kayla – "You Found Me" - The Fray - Seemed less together than the night before, she didn't hit the big musical cue or something.
Evan - "The Lady Is a Tramp" - Sammy Davis, Jr. -It may have been the same number, but Evan had an even better performance of it tonight. His leaps were crazy high!
Guest Performances
JabbaWockeeZ - "Freak-A-Zoid" - Midnight Star – This was the moment I was most excited for because I love this crew. They were so synchronized and I love the weird formations they make. This was the highlight of the evening for me.
Sean Paul – "So Happy" - Yuck. What was up with the random shouting guy in the background? I had to resort to the pause, then fast forward option.
The Kick-Off
Goodbye Melissa and Ade! We can't wait to see you on tour! I will especially be looking forward to Tyce's piece on breast cancer and of course (in Gary's words from last season) "the potted earth".
I am hosting a finale gathering. Anyone who lives close enough that reads this blog is welcome. That includes you little dingo.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
The Road to the Top 4
Tonight is going to be jammed full of great dance (I hope) and so I am going to skip my usual babble and get right to the show. Cat is looking especially tall and slender in royal blue. Tragically we have to listen to Lil'C and his messed up analogies tonight. The only thing I would appreciate less is another evening with Toni Basil. Let's talk, shall we?
Top 3 Boys
Contemporary with Sonya Tayeh "True Romance" Revenge
This piece was Sonya's take on Willie Wonka, and it was fierce. This was quirky, and had such sharp movement mixed with some amazing turns and leaps. The guys brought the strength and personality required to make it greatly entertaining. I sure hope they do it on 10/31 (heck yes I bought tickets).
Lil'C commended them all. Mary just loved it, yes she did. Nigel thought Evan stood out in a good way. The choreography was smart and the guys all performed the heck out of it. No standout for me, they were all good.
Ade and Jeanine
Samba with Louis Van Amstel (Who is totally HOT) "Love Game" Lady Gaga
I thought it was sexy and fun, but let's be honest, what do I know about ballroom? Everytime I enjoy one of these, Mary tears it to shreds. Guess what? She thought it fell apart and looked way too novice for this caliber of a show. Lil'C thought that Jeanine looked amazing but thought it fell short (there wasn't an explosion of excellence apparently). Nigel thought Jeanine did everything with confidence and looked fabulous. He picked on Ade, but mostly blamed it on height.It was fun, but not memorable.
Kayla's solo "You Found Me" The Fray
I actually saw a little more in this choreography than just gorgeous lines and beautiful control. Maybe it was hearing that the judges felt that Janette shouldn't have gone home, but I saw something more of Kayla in that dance. I just wish she wouldn't pick so many overplayed tunes for her solos.
Melissa and Evan
Broadway with Tyce Diorio "Get me to the Church on Time" from My Fair Lady
This was 100% Evan's genre and he looked like he had a blast during this number. Sometimes Tyce gets a little too corny for me, but with Evan he met his match. I am not going to lie, My Fair Lady is like my least favorite musical, but I was able to enjoy this routine because of what these dancers brought to it. It was pretty darling. Lil'C wanted an A+, but only got an A (do you see what I am saying about Lil'C?). Mary thought it was fun and entertaining. Nigel thought they were both great. Like I told my kids when they would fret over the 1 point they missed from the perfect paper, an A is an A in my book.
Ade "16th Floor Balcony" Blue October
I love to watch the joy in Ade's dancing. He has so much strength in his turns and such depth to his movement. It was a another solid routine.
Kayla and Brandon
Contemporary with Stacy Tookey "All I Want" Ahn Trio
This was a story about the mistress of a married man. This had an intensity that was so interesting. Kayla was able to bring a little more complexity to this routine. Brandon was so strong in his character, plus his tour jeté was like a mile off of the floor, and a thing of beauty. There was a lot of great partnering and I have to think anyone lucky enough to have pulled this choreography would have made it beautiful. Lil'C thought it was intense, beyond amazing. Mary thought they were still on the hot tamale train. Nigel thought the technique was brilliant.
Melissa "I Put a Spell on You" Nina Simone
I have to say anytime I hear Nina Simone's voice, I pay attention. I thought Melissa did her usual solid performance, but I was looking for a little more edge.
Jeanine and Ade
Hip Hop with Tabitha and Napolean "Move (If You Wanna)" MIMS
This story was about friends getting evicted from their apartment. It had some great prop work with a bunch of boxes and the footage before they started was pretty funny. Once these two got on stage it was all seriousness, and it was really hard hitting and in synch. Ade must have been worried after the bad review on his samba because he pushed it with his hip hop technique. It was highly entertaining and they danced it really well. Lil'C thought it was earthy and dirty. Mary thought it was a great performance. Nigel told them that they took notes and made it great.
Melissa and Evan
Quick Step with Louis Van Amstel "As Long as I'm Singing" Brian Setzer Orchestra
Have I mentioned how HOT Louis Van Amstel is? Ok, despite the height difference, their lack of ballroom training, I thought this was fairly entertaining. I know nothing about what they are supposed to be doing, but I enjoyed it. Will it keep them both in? I don't know. This dance has been the kiss of death for plenty of dancers, and I feel like they pull it out everytime they are trying to ditch someone. Lil'C thought Evan danced bigger than ever. Mary thought their form fell apart and she was disappointed. Nigel didn't think it was the best routine of the night, but he enjoyed it.
Brandon "O' Fortuna" from Carmina Burana
This was a redo of Brandon's audition piece from the last two seasons, but it was every bit as gorgeous and even though Caitlin (my partner for the evening) was like-"already seen it" I enjoyed the third viewing. Brandon's strength and control are amazing and this was for me the solo to beat. He got a standing O from all three judges.
Jeanine "Feedback" Janet Jackson
I love the way this girl puts so much of her personality on stage. I know the critics say she has a formula for her solo, but I have enjoyed every one of her performances. Unlike Kayla, she almost never falls out of a turn, and her choice of music is always compelling as well as her interpretation of it.
Evan "Lady is a Tramp" Sammy Davis Jr.
This was a fantastic way for Evan to close out the evening. He was channeling "Singing in the Rain" or something, because I thought it was a perfect solo, even if it was similar to what he always does.
Brandon and Kayla
Disco with Doriana Sanchez "Dance (Disco Heat)" Sylvester
This had great energy and lifts and these two dancers gave it 100%. I could have done without the double death drop. I just didn't think it was that smooth, but this was off the hook as far as pushing dancers to the brink of collapse, and they dealt with it well. If I am being honest, I much preferred Janette and Brandon's earlier disco, even with their little stumble.This, for me was desperate and almost a little ridiculous. Lil'C, omg, spit it out already! Blah blah blah, crap about darkness and ears and pockets-can't you just say you liked it? Mary thought they hit a home run with both of their numbers. Nigel started jumping around like a lunatic. Cat says the line of the evening when she tells Nigel to "take the tablets". Cat is a girl after my own heart. I think the judges are trying really hard to keep these two out of the bottom.
Top 3 Girls
Contemporary with Sonya Tayeh "Kick It (Super Heroes Remix) Nina Martine
Sonya wanted to make these girls superheroes because she always wanted to be one. Jeanine is Wonder Woman, Kayla is Storm and poor Melissa end up a powerpuff girl. This routine was (in Mia's words) A-mazing. This was perfectly performed. There were some great moments, but despite all of Kayla's extra leaps, my eyes were on Jeanine. This was so cool I re watched it. Lil'C exhausted me from his comments and I have no idea if he was criticizing it or commending it at the end. Mary thought it was the epitome of strong, versatile, and flexible. Nigel made some totally pervvy comment about Jeanine's costume.
Who goes home? I think we may be surprised. I have to say that I like all three guys and girls so it will be sad to see anyone go home. I think it will Melissa and Ade, even though Ade is my favorite guy. I think there are some Evan fanatics out there that will keep him in this thing. I love Melissa, but out of the three girls, I think she will be the one to go. We won't have long to wait until season 6, they have moved up the first show to the first week of September. I guess I will be up late blogging the entire year! Tune in tonight for the unveiling of the top 4!
Top 3 Boys
Contemporary with Sonya Tayeh "True Romance" Revenge
This piece was Sonya's take on Willie Wonka, and it was fierce. This was quirky, and had such sharp movement mixed with some amazing turns and leaps. The guys brought the strength and personality required to make it greatly entertaining. I sure hope they do it on 10/31 (heck yes I bought tickets).
Lil'C commended them all. Mary just loved it, yes she did. Nigel thought Evan stood out in a good way. The choreography was smart and the guys all performed the heck out of it. No standout for me, they were all good.
Ade and Jeanine
Samba with Louis Van Amstel (Who is totally HOT) "Love Game" Lady Gaga
I thought it was sexy and fun, but let's be honest, what do I know about ballroom? Everytime I enjoy one of these, Mary tears it to shreds. Guess what? She thought it fell apart and looked way too novice for this caliber of a show. Lil'C thought that Jeanine looked amazing but thought it fell short (there wasn't an explosion of excellence apparently). Nigel thought Jeanine did everything with confidence and looked fabulous. He picked on Ade, but mostly blamed it on height.It was fun, but not memorable.
Kayla's solo "You Found Me" The Fray
I actually saw a little more in this choreography than just gorgeous lines and beautiful control. Maybe it was hearing that the judges felt that Janette shouldn't have gone home, but I saw something more of Kayla in that dance. I just wish she wouldn't pick so many overplayed tunes for her solos.
Melissa and Evan
Broadway with Tyce Diorio "Get me to the Church on Time" from My Fair Lady
This was 100% Evan's genre and he looked like he had a blast during this number. Sometimes Tyce gets a little too corny for me, but with Evan he met his match. I am not going to lie, My Fair Lady is like my least favorite musical, but I was able to enjoy this routine because of what these dancers brought to it. It was pretty darling. Lil'C wanted an A+, but only got an A (do you see what I am saying about Lil'C?). Mary thought it was fun and entertaining. Nigel thought they were both great. Like I told my kids when they would fret over the 1 point they missed from the perfect paper, an A is an A in my book.
Ade "16th Floor Balcony" Blue October
I love to watch the joy in Ade's dancing. He has so much strength in his turns and such depth to his movement. It was a another solid routine.
Kayla and Brandon
Contemporary with Stacy Tookey "All I Want" Ahn Trio
This was a story about the mistress of a married man. This had an intensity that was so interesting. Kayla was able to bring a little more complexity to this routine. Brandon was so strong in his character, plus his tour jeté was like a mile off of the floor, and a thing of beauty. There was a lot of great partnering and I have to think anyone lucky enough to have pulled this choreography would have made it beautiful. Lil'C thought it was intense, beyond amazing. Mary thought they were still on the hot tamale train. Nigel thought the technique was brilliant.
Melissa "I Put a Spell on You" Nina Simone
I have to say anytime I hear Nina Simone's voice, I pay attention. I thought Melissa did her usual solid performance, but I was looking for a little more edge.
Jeanine and Ade
Hip Hop with Tabitha and Napolean "Move (If You Wanna)" MIMS
This story was about friends getting evicted from their apartment. It had some great prop work with a bunch of boxes and the footage before they started was pretty funny. Once these two got on stage it was all seriousness, and it was really hard hitting and in synch. Ade must have been worried after the bad review on his samba because he pushed it with his hip hop technique. It was highly entertaining and they danced it really well. Lil'C thought it was earthy and dirty. Mary thought it was a great performance. Nigel told them that they took notes and made it great.
Melissa and Evan
Quick Step with Louis Van Amstel "As Long as I'm Singing" Brian Setzer Orchestra
Have I mentioned how HOT Louis Van Amstel is? Ok, despite the height difference, their lack of ballroom training, I thought this was fairly entertaining. I know nothing about what they are supposed to be doing, but I enjoyed it. Will it keep them both in? I don't know. This dance has been the kiss of death for plenty of dancers, and I feel like they pull it out everytime they are trying to ditch someone. Lil'C thought Evan danced bigger than ever. Mary thought their form fell apart and she was disappointed. Nigel didn't think it was the best routine of the night, but he enjoyed it.
Brandon "O' Fortuna" from Carmina Burana
This was a redo of Brandon's audition piece from the last two seasons, but it was every bit as gorgeous and even though Caitlin (my partner for the evening) was like-"already seen it" I enjoyed the third viewing. Brandon's strength and control are amazing and this was for me the solo to beat. He got a standing O from all three judges.
Jeanine "Feedback" Janet Jackson
I love the way this girl puts so much of her personality on stage. I know the critics say she has a formula for her solo, but I have enjoyed every one of her performances. Unlike Kayla, she almost never falls out of a turn, and her choice of music is always compelling as well as her interpretation of it.
Evan "Lady is a Tramp" Sammy Davis Jr.
This was a fantastic way for Evan to close out the evening. He was channeling "Singing in the Rain" or something, because I thought it was a perfect solo, even if it was similar to what he always does.
Brandon and Kayla
Disco with Doriana Sanchez "Dance (Disco Heat)" Sylvester
This had great energy and lifts and these two dancers gave it 100%. I could have done without the double death drop. I just didn't think it was that smooth, but this was off the hook as far as pushing dancers to the brink of collapse, and they dealt with it well. If I am being honest, I much preferred Janette and Brandon's earlier disco, even with their little stumble.This, for me was desperate and almost a little ridiculous. Lil'C, omg, spit it out already! Blah blah blah, crap about darkness and ears and pockets-can't you just say you liked it? Mary thought they hit a home run with both of their numbers. Nigel started jumping around like a lunatic. Cat says the line of the evening when she tells Nigel to "take the tablets". Cat is a girl after my own heart. I think the judges are trying really hard to keep these two out of the bottom.
Top 3 Girls
Contemporary with Sonya Tayeh "Kick It (Super Heroes Remix) Nina Martine
Sonya wanted to make these girls superheroes because she always wanted to be one. Jeanine is Wonder Woman, Kayla is Storm and poor Melissa end up a powerpuff girl. This routine was (in Mia's words) A-mazing. This was perfectly performed. There were some great moments, but despite all of Kayla's extra leaps, my eyes were on Jeanine. This was so cool I re watched it. Lil'C exhausted me from his comments and I have no idea if he was criticizing it or commending it at the end. Mary thought it was the epitome of strong, versatile, and flexible. Nigel made some totally pervvy comment about Jeanine's costume.
Who goes home? I think we may be surprised. I have to say that I like all three guys and girls so it will be sad to see anyone go home. I think it will Melissa and Ade, even though Ade is my favorite guy. I think there are some Evan fanatics out there that will keep him in this thing. I love Melissa, but out of the three girls, I think she will be the one to go. We won't have long to wait until season 6, they have moved up the first show to the first week of September. I guess I will be up late blogging the entire year! Tune in tonight for the unveiling of the top 4!
Friday, July 24, 2009
Goodbye Janette and Jason
Before I get into my shock and dismay over the loss of Janette, I thought I would run down the evening, as I have many comments about the 100th episode. First, it was great to see all of those past dancers in the audience. I wish this could have been a two hour show so that they could have showcased each of the past 4 season's top 20 a little better. The video montage was so fast and chopped up that I really didn't get to see any one dancer long enough. Let's start at the beginning:
OPENING NUMBER
"One," A Chorus Line
(Contemporary, Mia Michaels)
I am still not sure how I feel about this routine. The dancers were a little on the crazy side, with those maniacal smiles and sharp movements. I appreciated that Mia was making a dated piece current with her choreography, but it was a little too much commotion on that little stage. And those smiles scared me.
THE NUMBER OF THE NIGHT
Katie Holmes - "Get Happy"
WTF? Are you kidding me? After months of hype, this was the big "dance"? My Mom said if she was going to lip-sync anyway, she might have asked them to use a real singer's voice, since hers was not so great. Ouch. Did you get the feeling Judy Garland's son couldn't wait to get out of there and grab a beer? Where do we start. It wasn't live. This would be my biggest issue. The outdoor section that was filmed seemed to have nothing to do with the choreography and performance that was on the stage. Besides revealing that motherhood hasn't robbed her of her nice legs and butt cheeks (which we saw more of than her face), Mrs. Cruise was a pretty large letdown. I would have much rather watched Benji and Danielle's Broadway, Danny and Lacy's Samba, Katee and Joshua's Hip Hop or Neil and Sabra's table dance. Yikes. I still can't believe it.
DANCE ENCORES FROM SEASONS PAST
Jaimie Goodwin & Hokuto "Hok" Konishi
"The Chairman's Waltz," Memoirs of a Geisha (Wade Robson)
Just as it was when these two very different dancer's unveiled it 2 seasons ago, this routine was beautiful.It captured both Jaimie and Hok's strength's without exposing any lack of training on Hok's end.
Heidi Groskreutz & Travis Wall
"Calling You," Celine Dion (Mia Michaels)
This piece was one of my all time favorites from season two, and although I am not sure that it had the exact same energy as it did during that first viewing, I still appreciated and enjoyed this story. Mia is the resident prop queen and her use of the bench in this routine was almost as important as how she utilized her dancers. Travis is an amazing technician and Heidi brought an innocence and a rawness that was as special tonight as it was back then. I only wish that it had been a live performance.
WADE, AND OTHERS WITH MAKE UP RENDERING THEM UNRECOGNIZABLE
"Ramalama (Bang Bang)," Roisin Murphy (Wade Robson)
I absolutely loved this routine when it was first performed in season two. Apparently I didn't love it as much as the cameraman loved Wade Robson. Good Lord, can you put the camera on somebody else please? I am trying to recognize some of my favorite former dancers here! Oh well, it's already over and all I picked out was Danielle, Heidi and Allison.
BOTTOM FOUR DANCERS
Kayla Radomski
Jason Glover
Janette Manrara
Brandon Bryant
Wait a minute-did you say Brandon??? What the heck happened here??
GOODBYE JANETTE AND JASON
As soon as Brandon was announced to be in the bottom two, we all knew it was over for poor Jason. I apparently completely underestimated Evan's fan base when making my predictions. Jason has a great dance career ahead of him, and I can't wait to see him on the tour.
I am totally sad that Janette left before Kayla. I feel like we just lost all of the passion and soul from this competition and we are left with empty steps. I completely acknowledge that technically Kayla is the better dancer, but for me she can't hold a candle performance-wise to Janette. Kayla could have never brought to that tango what Janette did two weeks ago, and I think if Kayla makes the top four, it will not be as entertaining as it could have been if Janette had made it there. I was glad that Nigel acknowledged that America got it wrong and that it ruined the 100th episode for him because I felt the same way.
Let's hope for some decent choreography next week. Only two weeks left my friends and we will crown a winner!
OPENING NUMBER
"One," A Chorus Line
(Contemporary, Mia Michaels)
I am still not sure how I feel about this routine. The dancers were a little on the crazy side, with those maniacal smiles and sharp movements. I appreciated that Mia was making a dated piece current with her choreography, but it was a little too much commotion on that little stage. And those smiles scared me.
THE NUMBER OF THE NIGHT
Katie Holmes - "Get Happy"
WTF? Are you kidding me? After months of hype, this was the big "dance"? My Mom said if she was going to lip-sync anyway, she might have asked them to use a real singer's voice, since hers was not so great. Ouch. Did you get the feeling Judy Garland's son couldn't wait to get out of there and grab a beer? Where do we start. It wasn't live. This would be my biggest issue. The outdoor section that was filmed seemed to have nothing to do with the choreography and performance that was on the stage. Besides revealing that motherhood hasn't robbed her of her nice legs and butt cheeks (which we saw more of than her face), Mrs. Cruise was a pretty large letdown. I would have much rather watched Benji and Danielle's Broadway, Danny and Lacy's Samba, Katee and Joshua's Hip Hop or Neil and Sabra's table dance. Yikes. I still can't believe it.
DANCE ENCORES FROM SEASONS PAST
Jaimie Goodwin & Hokuto "Hok" Konishi
"The Chairman's Waltz," Memoirs of a Geisha (Wade Robson)
Just as it was when these two very different dancer's unveiled it 2 seasons ago, this routine was beautiful.It captured both Jaimie and Hok's strength's without exposing any lack of training on Hok's end.
Heidi Groskreutz & Travis Wall
"Calling You," Celine Dion (Mia Michaels)
This piece was one of my all time favorites from season two, and although I am not sure that it had the exact same energy as it did during that first viewing, I still appreciated and enjoyed this story. Mia is the resident prop queen and her use of the bench in this routine was almost as important as how she utilized her dancers. Travis is an amazing technician and Heidi brought an innocence and a rawness that was as special tonight as it was back then. I only wish that it had been a live performance.
WADE, AND OTHERS WITH MAKE UP RENDERING THEM UNRECOGNIZABLE
"Ramalama (Bang Bang)," Roisin Murphy (Wade Robson)
I absolutely loved this routine when it was first performed in season two. Apparently I didn't love it as much as the cameraman loved Wade Robson. Good Lord, can you put the camera on somebody else please? I am trying to recognize some of my favorite former dancers here! Oh well, it's already over and all I picked out was Danielle, Heidi and Allison.
BOTTOM FOUR DANCERS
Kayla Radomski
Jason Glover
Janette Manrara
Brandon Bryant
Wait a minute-did you say Brandon??? What the heck happened here??
GOODBYE JANETTE AND JASON
As soon as Brandon was announced to be in the bottom two, we all knew it was over for poor Jason. I apparently completely underestimated Evan's fan base when making my predictions. Jason has a great dance career ahead of him, and I can't wait to see him on the tour.
I am totally sad that Janette left before Kayla. I feel like we just lost all of the passion and soul from this competition and we are left with empty steps. I completely acknowledge that technically Kayla is the better dancer, but for me she can't hold a candle performance-wise to Janette. Kayla could have never brought to that tango what Janette did two weeks ago, and I think if Kayla makes the top four, it will not be as entertaining as it could have been if Janette had made it there. I was glad that Nigel acknowledged that America got it wrong and that it ruined the 100th episode for him because I felt the same way.
Let's hope for some decent choreography next week. Only two weeks left my friends and we will crown a winner!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Top 8
A few notes before we break it down. I am not sure what the point of Ellen was, but I did crack up. This night of dancing had a few highs, but mostly some big choreography lows. Hopefully tomorrow night will blow us away! Let's do this.
GROUP
"Let It Rock," Kevin Rudolf f. Lil' Wayne (Contemporary, Travis Wall)
This had great energy and was a lot of fun, although I am not sure I saw the individuality from each dancer within the piece as was discussed during the rehearsal. I thought it was a great group number from Travis, and I am thrilled to see him out there in the audience making his mark.
COUPLES
Janette & Evan
"Move (Metromoney Remix)," CSS (Jazz, Sonya Tayeh)
This was a really interesting piece and I was so blown away by Janette that I have to be honest, I really didn't focus that much on Evan. I am just amazed at how this salsa dancer keeps growing and rising to every challenge. I love this girl.I loved Sonya's choreography, I am just bummed that this is the first dance of a long night. I hope folks remember it.
"Heartless," Kris Allen (Rumba, Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin)
I thought they did a nice job with the chemistry, but this music killed me. I kept wanting it to speed up so they could wow me with something. It certainly was not the dancers (or Kris Allen's) fault, but I was pretty bored.
Jeanine & Brandon
"May It Be," Hayley Westenra (Waltz, Hunter Johnson)
UGH. Haven't we had enough waltz's already??? This was not either of their best performances, and I actually saw a wobble in the beginning lift, which never seems to happen to Brandon. Not good enough, but even if it was, who cares? Between the Lord of the Rings music and that God awful yellow dress, even Brandon and Jeanine couldn't make this one interesting for me.
"Battlefield," Jordin Sparks (Pop-Jazz, Laurie Ann Gibson)
Now this was more like it, hard hitting and very synchronized, although I would have enjoyed much more partnering in the choreography. Too much side by side dancing and not enough use of stage. I didn't quite get the judges raving about it, except that the rest of the evening has been so off they might have had some pent up cheering to do.
Melissa & Ade
"Yeah (Gomo Gaza Mi Morena)," Chino Espinoza y Los Dueños Del Son (Cha-Cha, Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin)
Neither of these two can wiggle their hips. It was not sexy and it was not very good choreography. I was underwhelmed. The music tonight is just killing me. Can they not get an up tempo song approved tonight?
"This Woman's Work," Maxwell (Contemporary, Tyce DiOrio)
This piece of art made me fall back in love with these two dancers. Melissa brought that perfect combination of frailness and strength and Ade was absolutely gorgeous. I was moved. I actually watched this a second time while I was alone so I could fully appreciate those quiet moments in the dance. Having been touched by cancer with way more people than I care to get into, this piece came from an honest place and it will be one of those dances that I always remember. Although the list of family members and friends who I have watched battle (some win, some lose) with cancer is long, it was my beautiful niece's struggle that I saw in that dance, and Ade became my sister-in-law in that quiet strong place that I so admired during her daughter's ordeal. Thank God Melanie will be able to call me later and tell me what she thought of the dance.
I could have done without all of the boo-hooing, although I did get a kick out of Mary's make-up running down her face. Heartfelt tears or not, I am not one for the sharing of all that emotion. It was awkward. This is probably why I am an accountant.
Kayla & Jason
"Mr. Monotony," Kim Criswell (Broadway, Tyce DiOrio)
Loved, loved, loved it! This style of dance never gets old for me. It was pure entertainment. As far as Mia's comments about Jason's frame-didn't see it.
"They're Everywhere," Izza Kizza (Hip-Hop, Shane Sparks)
I thought this was awesome, thank God Shane got in a piece that had some good comments this season, because I am not going to lie, in the video before the danced I was getting worried. They captured the characters without losing the hard hitting style. I loved Kayla pulling that black make-up down her cheeks. It had quite the MJ feel to it.
SOLOS
Kayla Radomski - "The Moment I Said It," Imogen Heap
Not one of my favorite Kayla solos. I felt like she was trying too hard.
Jason Glover - "...Slowdance on the Inside," Taking Back Sunday
I didn't enjoy this week's solo as much as last weeks, but I do love to watch him dance.
Janette Manrara - "Seduces Me," Celine Dion
Aside from the leap, which looked like an intermediate jazz class move, I thought she did a great job of showing her versatility, and for not having any training aside from this show-she showed so much growth!
Ade Obayomi - "Hater," Various Productions Artist
I loved this solo-it was SO much better than last week. Great energy and interpretation of the music.
Melissa Sandvig - "Heads Will Roll," Yeah Yeah Yeahs
This solo was miles beyond last week as well. She showed an edge that has been missing week to week.
Evan Kasprzak - "Old Devil Moon," Jamie Callum
I love this kid, and every time he gets to perform in his style, I remember why he is here. He is so unique and just brings back that Hollywood dance magic. Loved it.
Jeanine Mason - "Let the Drummer Kick," Citizen Cope
Fantastic. She is so strong and controlled. Jeanine is the total dancer package. She had strength and control and great musicality. This girl is fierce!
Brandon Bryant - "Ain't Nothing Wrong With That," Robert Randolph & the Family Band
What a powerhouse, and the tumbling didn't even seem to leave him out of breath. Brandon is an unbelievable dancer, even if he had an off night with that God awful waltz. He is going to be in that finale.
Who Goes home?
I have no idea, but it could be Jason or Evan and Kayla or Janette. I don't want either, but after that breast cancer piece I think Melissa earned herself another week.
Tune in for the 100th episode tonight!
GROUP
"Let It Rock," Kevin Rudolf f. Lil' Wayne (Contemporary, Travis Wall)
This had great energy and was a lot of fun, although I am not sure I saw the individuality from each dancer within the piece as was discussed during the rehearsal. I thought it was a great group number from Travis, and I am thrilled to see him out there in the audience making his mark.
COUPLES
Janette & Evan
"Move (Metromoney Remix)," CSS (Jazz, Sonya Tayeh)
This was a really interesting piece and I was so blown away by Janette that I have to be honest, I really didn't focus that much on Evan. I am just amazed at how this salsa dancer keeps growing and rising to every challenge. I love this girl.I loved Sonya's choreography, I am just bummed that this is the first dance of a long night. I hope folks remember it.
"Heartless," Kris Allen (Rumba, Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin)
I thought they did a nice job with the chemistry, but this music killed me. I kept wanting it to speed up so they could wow me with something. It certainly was not the dancers (or Kris Allen's) fault, but I was pretty bored.
Jeanine & Brandon
"May It Be," Hayley Westenra (Waltz, Hunter Johnson)
UGH. Haven't we had enough waltz's already??? This was not either of their best performances, and I actually saw a wobble in the beginning lift, which never seems to happen to Brandon. Not good enough, but even if it was, who cares? Between the Lord of the Rings music and that God awful yellow dress, even Brandon and Jeanine couldn't make this one interesting for me.
"Battlefield," Jordin Sparks (Pop-Jazz, Laurie Ann Gibson)
Now this was more like it, hard hitting and very synchronized, although I would have enjoyed much more partnering in the choreography. Too much side by side dancing and not enough use of stage. I didn't quite get the judges raving about it, except that the rest of the evening has been so off they might have had some pent up cheering to do.
Melissa & Ade
"Yeah (Gomo Gaza Mi Morena)," Chino Espinoza y Los Dueños Del Son (Cha-Cha, Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin)
Neither of these two can wiggle their hips. It was not sexy and it was not very good choreography. I was underwhelmed. The music tonight is just killing me. Can they not get an up tempo song approved tonight?
"This Woman's Work," Maxwell (Contemporary, Tyce DiOrio)
This piece of art made me fall back in love with these two dancers. Melissa brought that perfect combination of frailness and strength and Ade was absolutely gorgeous. I was moved. I actually watched this a second time while I was alone so I could fully appreciate those quiet moments in the dance. Having been touched by cancer with way more people than I care to get into, this piece came from an honest place and it will be one of those dances that I always remember. Although the list of family members and friends who I have watched battle (some win, some lose) with cancer is long, it was my beautiful niece's struggle that I saw in that dance, and Ade became my sister-in-law in that quiet strong place that I so admired during her daughter's ordeal. Thank God Melanie will be able to call me later and tell me what she thought of the dance.
I could have done without all of the boo-hooing, although I did get a kick out of Mary's make-up running down her face. Heartfelt tears or not, I am not one for the sharing of all that emotion. It was awkward. This is probably why I am an accountant.
Kayla & Jason
"Mr. Monotony," Kim Criswell (Broadway, Tyce DiOrio)
Loved, loved, loved it! This style of dance never gets old for me. It was pure entertainment. As far as Mia's comments about Jason's frame-didn't see it.
"They're Everywhere," Izza Kizza (Hip-Hop, Shane Sparks)
I thought this was awesome, thank God Shane got in a piece that had some good comments this season, because I am not going to lie, in the video before the danced I was getting worried. They captured the characters without losing the hard hitting style. I loved Kayla pulling that black make-up down her cheeks. It had quite the MJ feel to it.
SOLOS
Kayla Radomski - "The Moment I Said It," Imogen Heap
Not one of my favorite Kayla solos. I felt like she was trying too hard.
Jason Glover - "...Slowdance on the Inside," Taking Back Sunday
I didn't enjoy this week's solo as much as last weeks, but I do love to watch him dance.
Janette Manrara - "Seduces Me," Celine Dion
Aside from the leap, which looked like an intermediate jazz class move, I thought she did a great job of showing her versatility, and for not having any training aside from this show-she showed so much growth!
Ade Obayomi - "Hater," Various Productions Artist
I loved this solo-it was SO much better than last week. Great energy and interpretation of the music.
Melissa Sandvig - "Heads Will Roll," Yeah Yeah Yeahs
This solo was miles beyond last week as well. She showed an edge that has been missing week to week.
Evan Kasprzak - "Old Devil Moon," Jamie Callum
I love this kid, and every time he gets to perform in his style, I remember why he is here. He is so unique and just brings back that Hollywood dance magic. Loved it.
Jeanine Mason - "Let the Drummer Kick," Citizen Cope
Fantastic. She is so strong and controlled. Jeanine is the total dancer package. She had strength and control and great musicality. This girl is fierce!
Brandon Bryant - "Ain't Nothing Wrong With That," Robert Randolph & the Family Band
What a powerhouse, and the tumbling didn't even seem to leave him out of breath. Brandon is an unbelievable dancer, even if he had an off night with that God awful waltz. He is going to be in that finale.
Who Goes home?
I have no idea, but it could be Jason or Evan and Kayla or Janette. I don't want either, but after that breast cancer piece I think Melissa earned herself another week.
Tune in for the 100th episode tonight!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
The Top 12 Perform
Tyce was the third judge on the show, and had some hilarious moments playing off of Mary all evening. My personal favorites were his shimmy with Mary, his comment "1-800-friggin fantastic" but I also loved that he managed to give the dancers some element to improve on without raking them over the coals. Let's get to the dancing. This is the last week before things get dicey and the dancers have a new partner each week. I think some will handle it just fine, but others....
Melissa & Ade
"Move On Up," Destination (Disco, Doriana Sanchez)
Can we skip the disco for the rest of the season? Is anyone that into it? I thought they tried really hard, but that was part of the issue for me. It looked like they were trying really hard and then when Melissa fell at the ending, it was just too painful. I don't care what the judges say, I won't ever watch that one again.
"(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman," Mary J. Blige (Waltz, Ron Montez)
This was everything that the other dance wasn't, and I was so impressed with Ron Montez's choreography. I didn't even feel like I was stuck watching a boring waltz. (Those of you who have followed my blog, know that I am not a fan). This was really beautiful, and Ade had some turns that were every bit as beautiful as Melissa's. I hope they are not in the bottom, but since half of the group will be it might happen. I don't think the judges will get rid of either of these two!
Kayla & Kupono
"Gravity," Sarah Bareilles (Contemporary, Mia Michaels)
This was the show stopper of the evening for me. I have been struggling with Kayla, because I feel like her dancing sometimes is empty steps, but I take all of that back after this number. I realize that Mia can make anyone look good, but there were moments in this dance that made all of the hair stand up on my arms. When Kupono held Kayla's arm as she cried and kept this malevolent look on his face, I was completely in awe. In Mia's words A-mazing.
"The Dance at the Gym," West Side Story (Broadway, Joey Dowling)
I love West Side Story, but I did not care for this. I don't know if it was the music Joey selected for the piece, but I did not feel the love story she was trying to portray went with this particular cut of music. I kind of understand what Nigel was saying about missing the element of danger, but I think it was more than that.
Caitlin & Jason
"Minnie the Moocher," Big Bad Voodoo Daddy (Foxtrot, Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin)
This was old Hollywood class, and I loved it. I could not stop watching Caitlin and wondering what would happen next week if she ended up with Evan. She had gorgeous lines, and they both captured the energy and style perfectly.
"Show Me Heaven," Maria McKee (Lyrical Jazz, Mandy Moore)
This was a gorgeously danced piece, and I actually watched it twice to see why it didn't capture me the way I thought it should have. I think they danced really well, but I think their relationship has never recaptured that sexiness from the bollywood piece. The kiss at the end of that number was filled with passion. The energy felt more like brother/sister or good friends in this number, and I wanted more manliness from Jason. He looked so great without his shirt on!! It is hard for me to gauge if they have done enough to keep out of the bottom.
Jeanine & Phillip
"Kalinka," Barynya (Russian Folk Dance, Youri Nelzine & Lilia Babenko)
Why? I didn't think it was as awful as it looked in rehearsal, but the producer's of the show (hey Nigel-that's you)should have left this alone. What did they expect these two to do with that?
"Stuff Like That There," Bette Midler (Jive, Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin)
I thought Jeanine was fantastic, and is really emerging as one of my favorite girls. I can't WAIT until she has another partner to see what she can accomplish. Phillip is a unique dancer, but what in the world will they do with him in the top 10? Only their first hip hop number was so fantastic that I would re-watch it. If they land in the bottom, they have to send him home.
Randi & Evan
"Halo," Beyonce (Hip-Hop, Tabitha D'umo & Napoleon D'umo)
These two are so darn cute, and although I am not sure that they captured popping all that well, their chemistry was as powerful as it always is. Is it enough to stay out of the bottom, I don't think so.
"Ritmo De Bum Bom," Jababa (Samba, Anya Garnis & Pasha Kovalev)
This had some great lifts and interesting movement, but they didn't capture the sensuality of it, and so it didn't work for me. I love these two, but this wasn't enough to stay out of the bottom.
Janette & Brandon
"Libertango," Forever Tango (Argentine Tango, Miriam Larici & Leonardo Barrionuevo)
This was the best tango on the show ever. I watched it three times. I could not believe that they could dance that perfectly and still keep that energy and passion between them the entire time. These two are running away with the show. In my mind, they are the two to beat.
"Ruby Blue," Roisin Murphy (Jazz, Wade Robson)
Absolute commitment to choreography and because of that it was pure entertainment. I was so amazed by Janette's technique and personality in this piece. She was equally as good as Brandon. A perfect night for the pair of them. They have nothing to worry about.
Bottom 3
Based on dancing, Evan and Randi, Phillip and Jeanine, and Melissa and Ade. Problem is, 2 of those couples have never been in the bottom which could spell disaster for Caitlin and Jason. As far as who goes home, I hope it is Phillip but I will be sad to see any of those girls go. I wouldn't want to be the judges tonight. It will be sad every Thursday from here on out for me. What a great top 12. Tune in tonight....
Melissa & Ade
"Move On Up," Destination (Disco, Doriana Sanchez)
Can we skip the disco for the rest of the season? Is anyone that into it? I thought they tried really hard, but that was part of the issue for me. It looked like they were trying really hard and then when Melissa fell at the ending, it was just too painful. I don't care what the judges say, I won't ever watch that one again.
"(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman," Mary J. Blige (Waltz, Ron Montez)
This was everything that the other dance wasn't, and I was so impressed with Ron Montez's choreography. I didn't even feel like I was stuck watching a boring waltz. (Those of you who have followed my blog, know that I am not a fan). This was really beautiful, and Ade had some turns that were every bit as beautiful as Melissa's. I hope they are not in the bottom, but since half of the group will be it might happen. I don't think the judges will get rid of either of these two!
Kayla & Kupono
"Gravity," Sarah Bareilles (Contemporary, Mia Michaels)
This was the show stopper of the evening for me. I have been struggling with Kayla, because I feel like her dancing sometimes is empty steps, but I take all of that back after this number. I realize that Mia can make anyone look good, but there were moments in this dance that made all of the hair stand up on my arms. When Kupono held Kayla's arm as she cried and kept this malevolent look on his face, I was completely in awe. In Mia's words A-mazing.
"The Dance at the Gym," West Side Story (Broadway, Joey Dowling)
I love West Side Story, but I did not care for this. I don't know if it was the music Joey selected for the piece, but I did not feel the love story she was trying to portray went with this particular cut of music. I kind of understand what Nigel was saying about missing the element of danger, but I think it was more than that.
Caitlin & Jason
"Minnie the Moocher," Big Bad Voodoo Daddy (Foxtrot, Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin)
This was old Hollywood class, and I loved it. I could not stop watching Caitlin and wondering what would happen next week if she ended up with Evan. She had gorgeous lines, and they both captured the energy and style perfectly.
"Show Me Heaven," Maria McKee (Lyrical Jazz, Mandy Moore)
This was a gorgeously danced piece, and I actually watched it twice to see why it didn't capture me the way I thought it should have. I think they danced really well, but I think their relationship has never recaptured that sexiness from the bollywood piece. The kiss at the end of that number was filled with passion. The energy felt more like brother/sister or good friends in this number, and I wanted more manliness from Jason. He looked so great without his shirt on!! It is hard for me to gauge if they have done enough to keep out of the bottom.
Jeanine & Phillip
"Kalinka," Barynya (Russian Folk Dance, Youri Nelzine & Lilia Babenko)
Why? I didn't think it was as awful as it looked in rehearsal, but the producer's of the show (hey Nigel-that's you)should have left this alone. What did they expect these two to do with that?
"Stuff Like That There," Bette Midler (Jive, Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin)
I thought Jeanine was fantastic, and is really emerging as one of my favorite girls. I can't WAIT until she has another partner to see what she can accomplish. Phillip is a unique dancer, but what in the world will they do with him in the top 10? Only their first hip hop number was so fantastic that I would re-watch it. If they land in the bottom, they have to send him home.
Randi & Evan
"Halo," Beyonce (Hip-Hop, Tabitha D'umo & Napoleon D'umo)
These two are so darn cute, and although I am not sure that they captured popping all that well, their chemistry was as powerful as it always is. Is it enough to stay out of the bottom, I don't think so.
"Ritmo De Bum Bom," Jababa (Samba, Anya Garnis & Pasha Kovalev)
This had some great lifts and interesting movement, but they didn't capture the sensuality of it, and so it didn't work for me. I love these two, but this wasn't enough to stay out of the bottom.
Janette & Brandon
"Libertango," Forever Tango (Argentine Tango, Miriam Larici & Leonardo Barrionuevo)
This was the best tango on the show ever. I watched it three times. I could not believe that they could dance that perfectly and still keep that energy and passion between them the entire time. These two are running away with the show. In my mind, they are the two to beat.
"Ruby Blue," Roisin Murphy (Jazz, Wade Robson)
Absolute commitment to choreography and because of that it was pure entertainment. I was so amazed by Janette's technique and personality in this piece. She was equally as good as Brandon. A perfect night for the pair of them. They have nothing to worry about.
Bottom 3
Based on dancing, Evan and Randi, Phillip and Jeanine, and Melissa and Ade. Problem is, 2 of those couples have never been in the bottom which could spell disaster for Caitlin and Jason. As far as who goes home, I hope it is Phillip but I will be sad to see any of those girls go. I wouldn't want to be the judges tonight. It will be sad every Thursday from here on out for me. What a great top 12. Tune in tonight....
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Top 14
Okay, I am pathetic because this is my first blog since I announced the top 20.
Quick synopses:
Not at all surprised by the bottom 3 couples each week, and not surprised by who has gone home so far.
Dance High's:
Melissa and Ade's contemporary and Rumba
Philip and Jeanine's hip hop
Randy and Evan's jazz and contemporary (loved the butt dance)
Brandon and Jeanette-every number
Karla and Johnathan's contemporary
All three group numbers so far have been awesome.
Let's get down to business:
Mia was the guest judge, which immediately sets me on edge. She is not my favorite judge as she usually offers criticism that can't be turned into positive change for the dancers. Of course I am not sure we need another night with Toni or Lil'C and all of that talking. Those two are exhausting. Tonight my only comment is that I would like to get at Mia's hair with a comb.
The Good
Melissa & Ade – Classical Pas de Deux - I don't care if it was rigged (because we know it was-no one else could have danced on point like that), it was beautiful. These two are fantastic together and completely professional. Nigel makes the statement "where else can you watch aliens getting impregnated and professional ballet?" which of course is saying "I am the world's most brilliant executive producer".
Janette & Brandon - Cha-Cha –These two are fantastic dancers and great entertainers. It had total energy, sexiness and great technique. Mia is actually quite complimentary and tells Brandon she is only hard on dancers when she sees they have great potential. Poor Brandon cries like a baby.
Kayla & Kupono – Jazz – Sonya must have seen Twilight. And really liked it. This number is actually riveting and I am completely sucked into the story, and blown away at the technical elements and how well they are performed. I hope this number keeps these two out of the bottom.
The Pretty Good
Jeanine & Phillip - Hip-Hop - I almost can't believe that these two have pulled another Tabitha and Napolean routine. They perform with their ankles chained together, and it is danced extremely well. The problem is, I have already seen these two in this style, and I am left slightly disappointed that I can't see Jeanine perform in her style.
Karla & Vitolio – Quickstep – This piece was so cleverly put together, and between the story, Karla's magic dress, and pretty amazing dancing, I enjoyed it WAY more than I thought I would. I don't know if at this point it will be enough for either of these dancers, but if they are in the bottom they shouldn't feel bad about their performance.
The So-So
Randi & Evan - Broadway - I am a huge Fosse fan, and I loved the concept of this dance and I loved some of the great moments in it. I did notice the "heaviness" that Mia mentioned when Evan lifted Randi, and I did think that they could have brought more to that style than they did. I am not dissing it, because I enjoyed the number, but compared to the other dances we saw, and given that this is Evan's style, it wasn't in the same league.
Caitlin & Jason - Pop Jazz –Oh Brian Friedman. I love this guy, but this dance was so strange. I HATED Caitlin's costume, and I hated that even with the total commitment to this number the choreography is going to put them in the bottom again.
The Big Announcement – The Dizzy Feet Foundation - Carrie Ann Inaba from Dancing with the Stars is working with Katie Holmes and Nigel to bring dance to underprivileged kids. I think it is awesome that they have found a way to give back to new dancers who are in training. Anyone who has a child in dance knows how expensive it is to get them on a stage. Kudos to the show for this effort!!
The 100th episode will feature Katie Holmes. I can't wait for that!
Bottom three?
This is tricky. Evan and Randi, Caitlin and Jason and Vitolio and Karla are the ones who should be there. I worry about Kayla and Kupono landing there because of Randi and Evan's popularity. Regardless, I think that Vitolio and Karla are the obvious to go home, but I guess that depends on those solos. I wouldn't be upset if Caitlin went home and Jason ended up with Karla. There is something missing with that couple. If Kupono and Kayla end up in the bottom, she may be the Dimitry of season 2 and end up with a new partner again. I guess we will find out tonight....
Quick synopses:
Not at all surprised by the bottom 3 couples each week, and not surprised by who has gone home so far.
Dance High's:
Melissa and Ade's contemporary and Rumba
Philip and Jeanine's hip hop
Randy and Evan's jazz and contemporary (loved the butt dance)
Brandon and Jeanette-every number
Karla and Johnathan's contemporary
All three group numbers so far have been awesome.
Let's get down to business:
Mia was the guest judge, which immediately sets me on edge. She is not my favorite judge as she usually offers criticism that can't be turned into positive change for the dancers. Of course I am not sure we need another night with Toni or Lil'C and all of that talking. Those two are exhausting. Tonight my only comment is that I would like to get at Mia's hair with a comb.
The Good
Melissa & Ade – Classical Pas de Deux - I don't care if it was rigged (because we know it was-no one else could have danced on point like that), it was beautiful. These two are fantastic together and completely professional. Nigel makes the statement "where else can you watch aliens getting impregnated and professional ballet?" which of course is saying "I am the world's most brilliant executive producer".
Janette & Brandon - Cha-Cha –These two are fantastic dancers and great entertainers. It had total energy, sexiness and great technique. Mia is actually quite complimentary and tells Brandon she is only hard on dancers when she sees they have great potential. Poor Brandon cries like a baby.
Kayla & Kupono – Jazz – Sonya must have seen Twilight. And really liked it. This number is actually riveting and I am completely sucked into the story, and blown away at the technical elements and how well they are performed. I hope this number keeps these two out of the bottom.
The Pretty Good
Jeanine & Phillip - Hip-Hop - I almost can't believe that these two have pulled another Tabitha and Napolean routine. They perform with their ankles chained together, and it is danced extremely well. The problem is, I have already seen these two in this style, and I am left slightly disappointed that I can't see Jeanine perform in her style.
Karla & Vitolio – Quickstep – This piece was so cleverly put together, and between the story, Karla's magic dress, and pretty amazing dancing, I enjoyed it WAY more than I thought I would. I don't know if at this point it will be enough for either of these dancers, but if they are in the bottom they shouldn't feel bad about their performance.
The So-So
Randi & Evan - Broadway - I am a huge Fosse fan, and I loved the concept of this dance and I loved some of the great moments in it. I did notice the "heaviness" that Mia mentioned when Evan lifted Randi, and I did think that they could have brought more to that style than they did. I am not dissing it, because I enjoyed the number, but compared to the other dances we saw, and given that this is Evan's style, it wasn't in the same league.
Caitlin & Jason - Pop Jazz –Oh Brian Friedman. I love this guy, but this dance was so strange. I HATED Caitlin's costume, and I hated that even with the total commitment to this number the choreography is going to put them in the bottom again.
The Big Announcement – The Dizzy Feet Foundation - Carrie Ann Inaba from Dancing with the Stars is working with Katie Holmes and Nigel to bring dance to underprivileged kids. I think it is awesome that they have found a way to give back to new dancers who are in training. Anyone who has a child in dance knows how expensive it is to get them on a stage. Kudos to the show for this effort!!
The 100th episode will feature Katie Holmes. I can't wait for that!
Bottom three?
This is tricky. Evan and Randi, Caitlin and Jason and Vitolio and Karla are the ones who should be there. I worry about Kayla and Kupono landing there because of Randi and Evan's popularity. Regardless, I think that Vitolio and Karla are the obvious to go home, but I guess that depends on those solos. I wouldn't be upset if Caitlin went home and Jason ended up with Karla. There is something missing with that couple. If Kupono and Kayla end up in the bottom, she may be the Dimitry of season 2 and end up with a new partner again. I guess we will find out tonight....
Friday, June 5, 2009
SYTYCD Top 20 is revealed!
Hi all-I have been watching the audition rounds with much excitement over the talent in this coming season, and also the return of Shane and Wade to the choreography pool. As always, you see so many dancers that are fantastic in Vegas and get comments like "you are really disappointing us" or "I am not impressed" and I don't know about you-but I am thinking WHAT?
The group that made it is interesting, diverse and so talented. I can't wait to see them paired up and given the star treatment. Also new this year, SYTYCD will be a twice a year show-which means we may see some of these kids that got sent home this week back this fall before we forget about them.
The following I pulled directly from Fox's website. Copy and Paste, it was that simple. At least you get a little idea about them before next week comes. Remember-if you are out and about on Wednesday's-we are always looking to watch amazing dancers with friends!
Girls
Randi Evans
Dance Specialty: Jazz
Hometown: Orem, UT
Currently Resides: Springville, UT
Age: 23
Evans began dancing at an early age and performed in the closing ceremonies at the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympic Games. She currently attends Utah Valley University where she is majoring in elementary education.
Karla Garcia
Dance Specialty: Jazz/Contemporary
Hometown: Oxon Hill, MD
Currently Resides: Brooklyn, NY
Age: 23
Garcia is a graduate of New York University. Her early dance experience included learning traditional Filipino folk dancing. Garcia performed on Broadway in “Hot Feet,” danced in the ensemble of the “Radio City Christmas Spectacular” and went on to tour with “Wicked.” She is a member of “Boogie Bots Crew.”
Caitlin Kinney
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Annapolis, MD
Currently Resides: Annapolis, MD
Age: 21
Kinney graduated from the Baltimore School for the Arts in 2005. She danced at North Carolina Dance Theatre as an apprentice for two years and is an experienced gymnast.
Asuka Kondoh
Dance Specialty: Latin Ballroom
Hometown: San Francisco, CA
Currently Resides: Irvine, CA
Age: 25
Kondoh loves swimming, golf and tennis and has played piano for 13 years. She is a graduate of University of California, Irvine, and has worked as a Latin Ballroom instructor for the last two years.
Janette Manrara
Dance Specialty: Salsa
Hometown: Miami, FL
Currently Resides: Hialeah, FL
Age: 25
Manrara began performing in musical theater at age 12, and started her formal dance training at 19, studying Ballroom, Ballet, Pointe, Jazz and Hip Hop. She currently attends Florida State University.
Jeanine Mason
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Miami, FL
Currently Resides: Pinecrest, FL
Age: 18
A recent graduate of the Ransom Everglades School, Mason plans to attend the University of California, Los Angeles in the fall. She began her dance training in Ballet and Lyrical and then went on to study Jazz, Acrobatics, Hip Hop, Modern and Contemporary.
Kayla Radomski
Dance Specialty: Jazz/Contemporary
Hometown: Aurora, CO
Currently Resides: Aurora, CO
Age: 18
Radomski has been dancing for most of her life, and participating in SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE is one of her most rewarding experiences. She is grateful to her amazing mother who has supported her love of dance for so many years. Radomski also enjoys acting and singing.
Melissa Sandvig
Dance Specialty: Ballet
Hometown: Los Alamitos, CA
Currently Resides: Los Alamitos, CA
Age: 29
Sandvig has been dancing for most of her life. She has danced with the Milwaukee Ballet Company, LA Opera, Long Beach Ballet and Helios Dance Theater. A highlight for Sandvig was performing “Le Coeur Illumine” at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.
Paris Torres
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Issaquah, WA
Currently Resides: Issaquah, WA
Age: 19
Torres is a graduate of Skyline High School. She began dancing when she was 6 years old and now teaches at a studio near her home. She was also a Miss Washington Teen pageant winner, and was a Seattle Storm and Seattle Sonic Jr. dancer from 2000-2003.
Ashley Valerio
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Mesa, AZ
Currently Resides: North Hollywood, CA
Age: 22
Valerio has been dancing for most of her life. She is a graduate of Mountain View High School.
Guys
Kupono Aweau
Dance Specialty: Lyrical/Contemporary
Hometown: Honolulu, HI
Currently Resides: Kailua, HI
Age: 23
Aweau graduated from the Kamehameha Schools and has been dancing since he was 16 years old. He loves his home state of Hawaii, and is an avid collector of home furnishings.
Tony Bellissimo
Dance Specialty: Hip Hop
Hometown: Buffalo, NY
Currently Resides: Buffalo, NY
Age: 20
Bellissimo has been dancing for most of his life. He is a graduate of Frontier High School, and played on the school’s soccer, football and lacrosse teams. He likes to write short stories and poems, and his favorite professional dancer is Barry Lather.
Brandon Bryant
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Miami, FL
Currently Resides: Salt Lake City, UT
Age: 19
Bryant began dancing ballet at age 10. He is a graduate of Coral Reef Senior High School and now attends Miami Dade College. His most memorable dance experience was performing for Madonna at her daughter’s birthday party.
Phillip Chbeeb
Dance Specialty: Popping
Hometown: Houston, TX
Currently Resides: Los Angeles, CA
Age: 20
Chbeeb has had no formal dance training, but began dancing when he was 15 years old. At age 16, he founded the Marvelous Motion Studio in Houston. He is currently an engineering physics major at Loyola Marymount University.
Jason Glover
Dance Specialty: Lyrical/Contemporary
Hometown: Fresno, CA
Currently Resides: Fresno, CA
Age: 21
Glover began dancing at age 12, studying Tap and Hip Hop. He is a graduate of Bullard High School, and his favorite dancer is Michael Jackson. Tapping onstage with Gregory Hines, in one of his last shows, changed Jason’s life.
Vitolio Jeune
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Pétionville, Haiti
Currently Resides: Miami, FL
Age: 26
Jeune began dancing at age 18, and is a graduate of Florida’s New World School of the Arts. He loves motorcycles, and his favorite dancer is Desmond Richardson.
Max Kapitannikov
Dance Specialty: Latin Ballroom
Hometown: Moscow, Russia
Currently Resides: Brooklyn, NY
Age: 26
Kapitannikov has been dancing for as long as he can remember. He comes from a dancing family, and his mother is a ballet teacher. He also enjoys sculpting and playing the guitar. He attended the Manhattan Comprehensive High School.
Evan Kasprzak
Dance Specialty: Broadway
Hometown: West Bloomfield, MI
Currently Resides: West Bloomfield, MI
Age: 21
Kasprzak graduated from Wylie E. Groves High School and currently attends Illinois Wesleyan University. He has been dancing since he was 6 years old, and his most memorable dance experience was performing in a Gregory Hines tribute with Hines’ family in the audience.
Ade Obayomi
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Chandler, AZ
Currently Resides: Orange County, CA
Age: 20
Obayomi has been dancing since he was 6 years old. He is a graduate of Corona Del Sol High School and currently attends Chapman University. A dance highlight for him was performing at Radio City Music Hall.
Jonathan Platero
Dance Specialty: Salsa
Hometown: Sanford, FL
Currently Resides: New York, NY
Age: 21
Platero was a gymnast before he began dancing at age 16. He is a graduate of Seminole High School, was a World Salsa finalist in 2006-2007 and performed as a dancer and acrobat in “High School Musical.”
The group that made it is interesting, diverse and so talented. I can't wait to see them paired up and given the star treatment. Also new this year, SYTYCD will be a twice a year show-which means we may see some of these kids that got sent home this week back this fall before we forget about them.
The following I pulled directly from Fox's website. Copy and Paste, it was that simple. At least you get a little idea about them before next week comes. Remember-if you are out and about on Wednesday's-we are always looking to watch amazing dancers with friends!
Girls
Randi Evans
Dance Specialty: Jazz
Hometown: Orem, UT
Currently Resides: Springville, UT
Age: 23
Evans began dancing at an early age and performed in the closing ceremonies at the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympic Games. She currently attends Utah Valley University where she is majoring in elementary education.
Karla Garcia
Dance Specialty: Jazz/Contemporary
Hometown: Oxon Hill, MD
Currently Resides: Brooklyn, NY
Age: 23
Garcia is a graduate of New York University. Her early dance experience included learning traditional Filipino folk dancing. Garcia performed on Broadway in “Hot Feet,” danced in the ensemble of the “Radio City Christmas Spectacular” and went on to tour with “Wicked.” She is a member of “Boogie Bots Crew.”
Caitlin Kinney
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Annapolis, MD
Currently Resides: Annapolis, MD
Age: 21
Kinney graduated from the Baltimore School for the Arts in 2005. She danced at North Carolina Dance Theatre as an apprentice for two years and is an experienced gymnast.
Asuka Kondoh
Dance Specialty: Latin Ballroom
Hometown: San Francisco, CA
Currently Resides: Irvine, CA
Age: 25
Kondoh loves swimming, golf and tennis and has played piano for 13 years. She is a graduate of University of California, Irvine, and has worked as a Latin Ballroom instructor for the last two years.
Janette Manrara
Dance Specialty: Salsa
Hometown: Miami, FL
Currently Resides: Hialeah, FL
Age: 25
Manrara began performing in musical theater at age 12, and started her formal dance training at 19, studying Ballroom, Ballet, Pointe, Jazz and Hip Hop. She currently attends Florida State University.
Jeanine Mason
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Miami, FL
Currently Resides: Pinecrest, FL
Age: 18
A recent graduate of the Ransom Everglades School, Mason plans to attend the University of California, Los Angeles in the fall. She began her dance training in Ballet and Lyrical and then went on to study Jazz, Acrobatics, Hip Hop, Modern and Contemporary.
Kayla Radomski
Dance Specialty: Jazz/Contemporary
Hometown: Aurora, CO
Currently Resides: Aurora, CO
Age: 18
Radomski has been dancing for most of her life, and participating in SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE is one of her most rewarding experiences. She is grateful to her amazing mother who has supported her love of dance for so many years. Radomski also enjoys acting and singing.
Melissa Sandvig
Dance Specialty: Ballet
Hometown: Los Alamitos, CA
Currently Resides: Los Alamitos, CA
Age: 29
Sandvig has been dancing for most of her life. She has danced with the Milwaukee Ballet Company, LA Opera, Long Beach Ballet and Helios Dance Theater. A highlight for Sandvig was performing “Le Coeur Illumine” at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.
Paris Torres
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Issaquah, WA
Currently Resides: Issaquah, WA
Age: 19
Torres is a graduate of Skyline High School. She began dancing when she was 6 years old and now teaches at a studio near her home. She was also a Miss Washington Teen pageant winner, and was a Seattle Storm and Seattle Sonic Jr. dancer from 2000-2003.
Ashley Valerio
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Mesa, AZ
Currently Resides: North Hollywood, CA
Age: 22
Valerio has been dancing for most of her life. She is a graduate of Mountain View High School.
Guys
Kupono Aweau
Dance Specialty: Lyrical/Contemporary
Hometown: Honolulu, HI
Currently Resides: Kailua, HI
Age: 23
Aweau graduated from the Kamehameha Schools and has been dancing since he was 16 years old. He loves his home state of Hawaii, and is an avid collector of home furnishings.
Tony Bellissimo
Dance Specialty: Hip Hop
Hometown: Buffalo, NY
Currently Resides: Buffalo, NY
Age: 20
Bellissimo has been dancing for most of his life. He is a graduate of Frontier High School, and played on the school’s soccer, football and lacrosse teams. He likes to write short stories and poems, and his favorite professional dancer is Barry Lather.
Brandon Bryant
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Miami, FL
Currently Resides: Salt Lake City, UT
Age: 19
Bryant began dancing ballet at age 10. He is a graduate of Coral Reef Senior High School and now attends Miami Dade College. His most memorable dance experience was performing for Madonna at her daughter’s birthday party.
Phillip Chbeeb
Dance Specialty: Popping
Hometown: Houston, TX
Currently Resides: Los Angeles, CA
Age: 20
Chbeeb has had no formal dance training, but began dancing when he was 15 years old. At age 16, he founded the Marvelous Motion Studio in Houston. He is currently an engineering physics major at Loyola Marymount University.
Jason Glover
Dance Specialty: Lyrical/Contemporary
Hometown: Fresno, CA
Currently Resides: Fresno, CA
Age: 21
Glover began dancing at age 12, studying Tap and Hip Hop. He is a graduate of Bullard High School, and his favorite dancer is Michael Jackson. Tapping onstage with Gregory Hines, in one of his last shows, changed Jason’s life.
Vitolio Jeune
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Pétionville, Haiti
Currently Resides: Miami, FL
Age: 26
Jeune began dancing at age 18, and is a graduate of Florida’s New World School of the Arts. He loves motorcycles, and his favorite dancer is Desmond Richardson.
Max Kapitannikov
Dance Specialty: Latin Ballroom
Hometown: Moscow, Russia
Currently Resides: Brooklyn, NY
Age: 26
Kapitannikov has been dancing for as long as he can remember. He comes from a dancing family, and his mother is a ballet teacher. He also enjoys sculpting and playing the guitar. He attended the Manhattan Comprehensive High School.
Evan Kasprzak
Dance Specialty: Broadway
Hometown: West Bloomfield, MI
Currently Resides: West Bloomfield, MI
Age: 21
Kasprzak graduated from Wylie E. Groves High School and currently attends Illinois Wesleyan University. He has been dancing since he was 6 years old, and his most memorable dance experience was performing in a Gregory Hines tribute with Hines’ family in the audience.
Ade Obayomi
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Chandler, AZ
Currently Resides: Orange County, CA
Age: 20
Obayomi has been dancing since he was 6 years old. He is a graduate of Corona Del Sol High School and currently attends Chapman University. A dance highlight for him was performing at Radio City Music Hall.
Jonathan Platero
Dance Specialty: Salsa
Hometown: Sanford, FL
Currently Resides: New York, NY
Age: 21
Platero was a gymnast before he began dancing at age 16. He is a graduate of Seminole High School, was a World Salsa finalist in 2006-2007 and performed as a dancer and acrobat in “High School Musical.”
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
The Showdown
It is the week I have been waiting for. The final two, the Idol finale, and the start of So You Think You Can Dance. I am not sure how I will get anything accomplished! Tonight Adam and Kris were able to pick one song for themselves, Simon Fuller picked a song for them, and they both will perform a song that Kara co-wrote for the finale. Ryan called it a battle between the acoustic rocker and the glam rocker. Randy is dressed in a coat and tie, Kara in a fancy black dress, Paula in a green dress, looking like she has been in the tanning bed just a little too long, and even Simon pulled out a sport coat for the event. The Nokia theatre is full of past contestants and stars, and Ryan wastes no time getting us started.
Adam Lambert lost the coin toss, so he is the first performer of the evening. He starts with "Mad World", a song that I personally loved the first time he sang it. Mom and Gary immediately are distracted by the cowbell(?)sound in the background. It is Adam in all his glory, with the smoke and shadows looking like Keanu in the Matrix with his long coat. I can tease him all I want about the over the top performance (I much preferred him sitting and telling the story the first time around), but vocally it was solid and with the large crowd in that theater, I am sure it had a different effect live. Randy thought it was an A+ performance. Kara was so happy he chose this song and thought he did great. Paula thought he was handsome and she was proud (don't ask me to repeat Paula tonight, it is just too exhausting). Simon thought it was over theatrical, bringing up Phantom of the Opera, but he thought it was a good song for him.
Kris Allen sang "Ain't no Sunshine", and it is even better than his first performance. It for me, feels like a real moment, and I believe him. Randy said he saved the best for last. Kara agreed and said if you can't feel a Kris Allen song than there is something wrong with you. She commented on how in a huge arena, he can still make you feel like he is singing just to you. Paula talked about how he awakens the spirit in each of us. (If you didn't watch it live, fast forward Paula and be glad). Simon said that when Kris made it to this point last week, he wasn't sure America got it right, but after that performance, he absolutely takes it all back.
Simon Fuller picked "Change is Gonna Come" for Adam, and I am impressed with his vocal, and with his control. It is really for me, the best I have heard Adam sing, and I have heard this particular song every single season on Idol, but never with this much originality. Randy said "the reason you are here is that you can sing your face off". (Really?) Kara thought it was his best performance ever and showed both sides of his personality. Paula went on and on and finished with "you will be iconic". (It is painful sometimes to listen to Paula). Simon thought he was 1000% back in the game.
Simon Fuller picked "What's Going On" for Kris, and he sits with his guitar and completely turns this song into a Kris Allen classic. I hear the message behind the music and I totally love his version. Randy said it was a real live duel, but he thought the song was a little light for this point in the competition. Kara thought it was perfect that Simon Fuller gave him this song, and that he was the one who could deliver it and change people with it. Paula thought he tore it up. Simon thought it was like three friends in a bedroom singing, way too laid back for this point in the competition.
The next round is the one I dread every season since "A Moment Like This". I hate the made for Idol song, and I am pretty sure even with Kara's name attached to it, it will still be dumb.
The name of the song is "No Boundaries" and Adam is first.
It is as cheesy as every other one of these songs, and the lyrics actually cause me to wince. It is so trite that I can't wait for it to end, despite how hard Adam is trying to sell it to me-and he tries really hard. Randy thought it was just okay. Kara thanked him for that moment at the end for her. Paula said she is in awe of him and will be a fan forever. Simon started in about "the mountains" in the lyrics and then decided to just not critique the song but Adam's time on the show this season. He complimented him on his talent and his originality, and thought that they had found a contestant with world wide appeal in Adam Lambert.
Kris comes out to sing the song next, and it is only slightly more believable this time around, although vocally it is not exactly in his range. Randy thought he was an amazing competitor and Kara thought he was a compelling artist. Paula thought he did an amazing job. Simon thought he deserved to be in the finale and that he should be so proud of himself.
Who will take the crown when you have two such amazingly talented singers that are so different from each other both perform to the best of their abilities? I of course prefer Kris,but in all fairness to Adam, this is not a judgement on his talent but just the style of music that I prefer. I know just as many Adam fans who will be thrilled after how he performed tonight and no doubt be sure that he has won it. No way can I predict what will happen tomorrow night. It is that time of year when I switch from American Idol gears to So You Think You Can Dance, so this is my final Idol blog. If you aren't a SYTYCD watcher, I will be back next season for AI my faithful readers. Thank you for your comments, your angry emails when you hate my opinion, and always for laughing along with me as we enjoy this crazy pop culture ride that is Idol. I wouldn't be staying up past my bedtime if not for you! Until next season, Idol Annie is signing out.
Adam Lambert lost the coin toss, so he is the first performer of the evening. He starts with "Mad World", a song that I personally loved the first time he sang it. Mom and Gary immediately are distracted by the cowbell(?)sound in the background. It is Adam in all his glory, with the smoke and shadows looking like Keanu in the Matrix with his long coat. I can tease him all I want about the over the top performance (I much preferred him sitting and telling the story the first time around), but vocally it was solid and with the large crowd in that theater, I am sure it had a different effect live. Randy thought it was an A+ performance. Kara was so happy he chose this song and thought he did great. Paula thought he was handsome and she was proud (don't ask me to repeat Paula tonight, it is just too exhausting). Simon thought it was over theatrical, bringing up Phantom of the Opera, but he thought it was a good song for him.
Kris Allen sang "Ain't no Sunshine", and it is even better than his first performance. It for me, feels like a real moment, and I believe him. Randy said he saved the best for last. Kara agreed and said if you can't feel a Kris Allen song than there is something wrong with you. She commented on how in a huge arena, he can still make you feel like he is singing just to you. Paula talked about how he awakens the spirit in each of us. (If you didn't watch it live, fast forward Paula and be glad). Simon said that when Kris made it to this point last week, he wasn't sure America got it right, but after that performance, he absolutely takes it all back.
Simon Fuller picked "Change is Gonna Come" for Adam, and I am impressed with his vocal, and with his control. It is really for me, the best I have heard Adam sing, and I have heard this particular song every single season on Idol, but never with this much originality. Randy said "the reason you are here is that you can sing your face off". (Really?) Kara thought it was his best performance ever and showed both sides of his personality. Paula went on and on and finished with "you will be iconic". (It is painful sometimes to listen to Paula). Simon thought he was 1000% back in the game.
Simon Fuller picked "What's Going On" for Kris, and he sits with his guitar and completely turns this song into a Kris Allen classic. I hear the message behind the music and I totally love his version. Randy said it was a real live duel, but he thought the song was a little light for this point in the competition. Kara thought it was perfect that Simon Fuller gave him this song, and that he was the one who could deliver it and change people with it. Paula thought he tore it up. Simon thought it was like three friends in a bedroom singing, way too laid back for this point in the competition.
The next round is the one I dread every season since "A Moment Like This". I hate the made for Idol song, and I am pretty sure even with Kara's name attached to it, it will still be dumb.
The name of the song is "No Boundaries" and Adam is first.
It is as cheesy as every other one of these songs, and the lyrics actually cause me to wince. It is so trite that I can't wait for it to end, despite how hard Adam is trying to sell it to me-and he tries really hard. Randy thought it was just okay. Kara thanked him for that moment at the end for her. Paula said she is in awe of him and will be a fan forever. Simon started in about "the mountains" in the lyrics and then decided to just not critique the song but Adam's time on the show this season. He complimented him on his talent and his originality, and thought that they had found a contestant with world wide appeal in Adam Lambert.
Kris comes out to sing the song next, and it is only slightly more believable this time around, although vocally it is not exactly in his range. Randy thought he was an amazing competitor and Kara thought he was a compelling artist. Paula thought he did an amazing job. Simon thought he deserved to be in the finale and that he should be so proud of himself.
Who will take the crown when you have two such amazingly talented singers that are so different from each other both perform to the best of their abilities? I of course prefer Kris,but in all fairness to Adam, this is not a judgement on his talent but just the style of music that I prefer. I know just as many Adam fans who will be thrilled after how he performed tonight and no doubt be sure that he has won it. No way can I predict what will happen tomorrow night. It is that time of year when I switch from American Idol gears to So You Think You Can Dance, so this is my final Idol blog. If you aren't a SYTYCD watcher, I will be back next season for AI my faithful readers. Thank you for your comments, your angry emails when you hate my opinion, and always for laughing along with me as we enjoy this crazy pop culture ride that is Idol. I wouldn't be staying up past my bedtime if not for you! Until next season, Idol Annie is signing out.
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