It was an evening of losses last night.
Our trivia team lost another hard fought battle at Casey's. Last week we were firmly in the lead but wagered badly on the final question we got right and landed in second. Last night was closer. We were tied for third but only five points behind the first place team. We were sure we had learned our lesson last week, but once again we wagered conservatively on the final question, which we again correctly answered. We still wouldn't have won had we bet the maximum 20 points, but we would have been in second. Instead we finished in a tie for third and lost the tiebreaker, so we didn't get a prize.
I'm more beat up about the loss last week because we should have won that. We were kicking ass last week. Last night was a satisfying defeat because most of the answers didn't come easy but we thought the questions out, and more often than not, we got it right. We earned those points. I screwed up on a question about tennis: "Who defeated Boris Becker in the 1988 and 1990 Wimbledon championship but lost to Becker in 1989?" My first instinct was "Stefan Edberg" but then I started doubting myself and wrote down "Mats Wilander." Aaarghh. Whatever. It was another strong showing, though, and I'm sure it's just a matter of time until we win the evening outright.
After trivia I was on a mission to get fried chicken from Bon Chon in Koreatown. Franklin Avenue wrote about it and as a fan of fried food I had to try it. I think I circled for half an hour and could not find parking. My bladder was just about full, so I decided to save the chicken for another night.
At home I settled in to watch "American Idol" on DVR. My pick, David Archuleta, lost in a landslide to David Cook. My DVR actually cut out just as Ryan was saying, "The winner is David..." Had I not already looked up who won, I would have been pissed. The finale itself was actually very satisfying. Cook may have won, but Michael Johns stole the show. He was great, especially his duet with Carly Smithson on "The Letter." He should have been the American Idol. Of all the contestants I think I'm more likely to buy a Michael Johns album.
To cap it off, I watched "Top Chef." I wasn't so much bummed that Dale was eliminated as I was that Lisa survived yet another round. What a sucky way to end an evening.
Showing posts with label american idol. Show all posts
Showing posts with label american idol. Show all posts
Thursday, May 22, 2008
A Losing Night
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
05.20.2008 - AI Review
David Cook
1) "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For" - Why take such a rousing song and take away the rouse? He was being given an opportunity to blow the roof and instead takes away the best thing about the song and turns it into a mopey and, at times, screechy version.
2) "Dream Big" - He sang this well, but the song itself is awful. It sounded like something from the '80's. It's the kind of song you expect to hear in some 1980s movie about a group of misfit high schoolers who enter an academic decathlon even though most of them are illiterate. They perservere, however, and in the days leading up to the competition they study their nuts off. "Dream Big" would play over the montage as the kids study all over the place--at the library, a basketball court, at a grocery store, at a carwash, at the toilet. I can see it. Will they pass? What makes the song worse is that it tries to hide its treacle in a bouncy pop melody, but there's no hiding the cheesy lyrics. It's schlock.
3) "The World I Know" - Every rock star knows you don't end on a whimper, but whimper David Cook does here. He takes an already downbeat song and slows it down to a crawl. He sounds good, as usual, but it makes me fear based on his song choices that he'll be a vaguely Christian empowerment rocker. I tremble at the idea.
David Archuleta
1) "Don't Let the Sun Go Down On Me" - His best performance of the night, and perhaps the whole competition. He threw himself into the performance and I actually got goosebumps. The best moment, surprisingly, is when he struggles for a note because he's just singing from the gut. If anything it gives me hope that he'll move beyond the robotic element of his performing style.
2) "In This Moment" - Like Cook's song its message is pure cheese, but it embraces the cheese. Lesson: embrace the cheese. The song fit the Archuleta model for the season and he sang it well, but it's easily the most dismissible of his performances.
3) "Imagine" - The second time of anything is never as good. I was hoping he would add more to the song, but I think I was more riveted the first time he sang this. Like his other performances tonight, he was on point though.
Archuleta takes the evening, and he would be my choice to win. However, I think the winner will be David Cook.
1) "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For" - Why take such a rousing song and take away the rouse? He was being given an opportunity to blow the roof and instead takes away the best thing about the song and turns it into a mopey and, at times, screechy version.
2) "Dream Big" - He sang this well, but the song itself is awful. It sounded like something from the '80's. It's the kind of song you expect to hear in some 1980s movie about a group of misfit high schoolers who enter an academic decathlon even though most of them are illiterate. They perservere, however, and in the days leading up to the competition they study their nuts off. "Dream Big" would play over the montage as the kids study all over the place--at the library, a basketball court, at a grocery store, at a carwash, at the toilet. I can see it. Will they pass? What makes the song worse is that it tries to hide its treacle in a bouncy pop melody, but there's no hiding the cheesy lyrics. It's schlock.
3) "The World I Know" - Every rock star knows you don't end on a whimper, but whimper David Cook does here. He takes an already downbeat song and slows it down to a crawl. He sounds good, as usual, but it makes me fear based on his song choices that he'll be a vaguely Christian empowerment rocker. I tremble at the idea.
David Archuleta
1) "Don't Let the Sun Go Down On Me" - His best performance of the night, and perhaps the whole competition. He threw himself into the performance and I actually got goosebumps. The best moment, surprisingly, is when he struggles for a note because he's just singing from the gut. If anything it gives me hope that he'll move beyond the robotic element of his performing style.
2) "In This Moment" - Like Cook's song its message is pure cheese, but it embraces the cheese. Lesson: embrace the cheese. The song fit the Archuleta model for the season and he sang it well, but it's easily the most dismissible of his performances.
3) "Imagine" - The second time of anything is never as good. I was hoping he would add more to the song, but I think I was more riveted the first time he sang this. Like his other performances tonight, he was on point though.
Archuleta takes the evening, and he would be my choice to win. However, I think the winner will be David Cook.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
05.13.2008 - AI Review
Everyone was bad tonight. I think David Cook was more consistent but not in a great way. He was passable but made no mistakes. "I Don't Wanna Miss A Thing" was shrieky, I thought, and he was off pitch on "Dare You To Move." But of the three contestants he was the one who stayed on message and didn't doubt who he was. However, I thought David Archuleta's "And So It Goes" was the best single performance of the night. Too bad "With You" was awkward, but I give him props for trying to do something different.
1. David Cook
2. David Archuleta
3. Syesha Mercado
1. David Cook
2. David Archuleta
3. Syesha Mercado
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
05.06.2008 - AI Review
1. David Archuleta - This was his best night in a long while. I'm not sure I liked that he included a little bit of Sean Kingston's abominal "Beautiful Girls" in his performance of "Stand By Me," but I guess he was trying to prove that he's hip with what the kids his age are listening to. On both songs, he sounded great and connected with the lyrics. I've always found his voice interesting and rich, and tonight it was again both those things.
2. Syesha Mercado - Syesha sounded very good, but unfortunately her song choices pointed out a flaw. In choosing two soul classics, she highlights the fact that she lacks soul. She tends to beautify her renditions and the same was true tonight. It sounded good, but it lacked the urgency of those classics. She proved that she can sing well, but she also proved that there's very little soul in the package.
3. David Cook - His version of Duran Duran's "Hungry Like the Wolf" was a miss, but I almost think the band and/or the sound was to blame. His vocals were too much in the foreground and overwhelmed the music. Even if the mix was right, though, it still sounded like karaoke. As for "Baba O'Riley," the beginning demonstrated Cook's best vocal feature, a slow-burning growl. He lost me, though, when he got to the rock n'roll part of the song. It also didn't help matters that the song was truncated. It's a damn long song with an extended instrumental section that makes the song, but we don't get any of that. He chose the songs, though.
4. Jason Castro - Awful. Awful. Awful. Not only that but his attitude made it seem like a big joke. For a sincere, singer-songwriter type, he seems to take everything as a lighthearted joke. "I Shot the Sheriff" was toothless and "Mr. Tambourine Man" was horrible. His vocals may be more understandable than Bob Dylan's bleating, but what Dylan lacked in vocal prowess he made up for in intense feeling. Castro seemed more preoccupied with finding the best place to make his voice crack so that the teenage girls would think it was cute and sincere than actually understanding the songs. I hope he goes tomorrow.
2. Syesha Mercado - Syesha sounded very good, but unfortunately her song choices pointed out a flaw. In choosing two soul classics, she highlights the fact that she lacks soul. She tends to beautify her renditions and the same was true tonight. It sounded good, but it lacked the urgency of those classics. She proved that she can sing well, but she also proved that there's very little soul in the package.
3. David Cook - His version of Duran Duran's "Hungry Like the Wolf" was a miss, but I almost think the band and/or the sound was to blame. His vocals were too much in the foreground and overwhelmed the music. Even if the mix was right, though, it still sounded like karaoke. As for "Baba O'Riley," the beginning demonstrated Cook's best vocal feature, a slow-burning growl. He lost me, though, when he got to the rock n'roll part of the song. It also didn't help matters that the song was truncated. It's a damn long song with an extended instrumental section that makes the song, but we don't get any of that. He chose the songs, though.
4. Jason Castro - Awful. Awful. Awful. Not only that but his attitude made it seem like a big joke. For a sincere, singer-songwriter type, he seems to take everything as a lighthearted joke. "I Shot the Sheriff" was toothless and "Mr. Tambourine Man" was horrible. His vocals may be more understandable than Bob Dylan's bleating, but what Dylan lacked in vocal prowess he made up for in intense feeling. Castro seemed more preoccupied with finding the best place to make his voice crack so that the teenage girls would think it was cute and sincere than actually understanding the songs. I hope he goes tomorrow.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
04.29.2008 - AI Review
I won't even go into detail about the debacle that was last night's show. From Paula's goof to the uninspired performances, last night's show was a disappointment, and I'm not blaming Neil Diamond. He and his songs rock. The Idols should have been able to do more with those songs, but either they were daunted by having to do two songs or their energies are flagging. Regardless, they need to do better.
I will rank the Idols in order of overall performance.
1. Syesha Mercado - She's #1 but I really thought she was going to be better than she was. Like the other Idols, she sounded much better performing in front of Neil Diamond than the actual show. Still, she's stepping it up. I think Simon's warning about her being in trouble is to encourage her fans to vote. I think he really wants her to stay longer.
2. David Cook - Yes, he's consistent but I don't get the praise of originality. There's nothing original about his performances. They're all Nickelback-ed renditions. Original for "Idol" maybe but in the bigger scheme of things it's the same treacle that you hear on the radio. I actually disliked the arrangements to the songs last night.
3. David Archuleta - I liked the arrangements of the songs but I didn't like the execution. There should have been more teenage exuberance on "Sweet Caroline." That was a song he should have hit out of the park. I also heard his voice squeak a couple of times, but I still believe in this kid. He needs polishing and a few more years of living before he can become an interesting singer.
4. Jason Cook - I liked his low register on "Forever in Blue Jeans" but then he shifted to his moaning voice, which I now realize turns me off. It's the sound of someone trying too hard to seduce the panties off a girl. He probably should have taken lessons from Michael Johns about how to really do it, but unfortunately Johns left too soon. "September Morn" was just a snoozer.
5. Brooke White - She's back to her annoying habit of cutting off the judges before they can criticize her. She points out the bum note at the end of "I Am I Said." "I'm A Believer" was fake joy. No amount of smiling while performing can hide the insecurity that permeates through her performance. At least it wasn't as creepy as when she smiled her way through "You Must Love Me" last week.
I will rank the Idols in order of overall performance.
1. Syesha Mercado - She's #1 but I really thought she was going to be better than she was. Like the other Idols, she sounded much better performing in front of Neil Diamond than the actual show. Still, she's stepping it up. I think Simon's warning about her being in trouble is to encourage her fans to vote. I think he really wants her to stay longer.
2. David Cook - Yes, he's consistent but I don't get the praise of originality. There's nothing original about his performances. They're all Nickelback-ed renditions. Original for "Idol" maybe but in the bigger scheme of things it's the same treacle that you hear on the radio. I actually disliked the arrangements to the songs last night.
3. David Archuleta - I liked the arrangements of the songs but I didn't like the execution. There should have been more teenage exuberance on "Sweet Caroline." That was a song he should have hit out of the park. I also heard his voice squeak a couple of times, but I still believe in this kid. He needs polishing and a few more years of living before he can become an interesting singer.
4. Jason Cook - I liked his low register on "Forever in Blue Jeans" but then he shifted to his moaning voice, which I now realize turns me off. It's the sound of someone trying too hard to seduce the panties off a girl. He probably should have taken lessons from Michael Johns about how to really do it, but unfortunately Johns left too soon. "September Morn" was just a snoozer.
5. Brooke White - She's back to her annoying habit of cutting off the judges before they can criticize her. She points out the bum note at the end of "I Am I Said." "I'm A Believer" was fake joy. No amount of smiling while performing can hide the insecurity that permeates through her performance. At least it wasn't as creepy as when she smiled her way through "You Must Love Me" last week.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
04.22.2008 - AI Review
1. Syesha Mercado - Her best performance. She exuded confidence and charisma, something she hasn't done the last few weeks.
2. Carly Smithson - She could have done more on the chorus. The verses was where she shined, but she did a terrific job. She's got great stage presence too.
3. David Archuleta - The most radio-friendly of the performances tonight, but I doubt any radio station would be playing it. It sounded like something on Radio Disney, which I guess would be a station that would play it. With that said, he sang it well and made the song work to his strengths.
4. David Cook - He sang it well but it was drained of any real charisma. The need to hit notes seemed to preoccupy him. I've heard this song performed just like this many times and while it does it justice, it is hardly memorable.
5. Brooke White - I didn't mind the do-over so much, but as Simon pointed out, it made her tense. She's a trooper for getting through it, but it was like cheering on a third grader at a Spelling Bee.
6. Jason Castro - Bad song choice. What made him think he could sing this? The song didn't work as a simplified song. It's all about the big emotional end, which he stripped off. It almost sounded like he was trying to do "Hallelujah" again but this time the Rufus Wainwright version. I cringed throughout.
By the way, I'm in New York today. Check out this picture. Craziness!
2. Carly Smithson - She could have done more on the chorus. The verses was where she shined, but she did a terrific job. She's got great stage presence too.
3. David Archuleta - The most radio-friendly of the performances tonight, but I doubt any radio station would be playing it. It sounded like something on Radio Disney, which I guess would be a station that would play it. With that said, he sang it well and made the song work to his strengths.
4. David Cook - He sang it well but it was drained of any real charisma. The need to hit notes seemed to preoccupy him. I've heard this song performed just like this many times and while it does it justice, it is hardly memorable.
5. Brooke White - I didn't mind the do-over so much, but as Simon pointed out, it made her tense. She's a trooper for getting through it, but it was like cheering on a third grader at a Spelling Bee.
6. Jason Castro - Bad song choice. What made him think he could sing this? The song didn't work as a simplified song. It's all about the big emotional end, which he stripped off. It almost sounded like he was trying to do "Hallelujah" again but this time the Rufus Wainwright version. I cringed throughout.
By the way, I'm in New York today. Check out this picture. Craziness!
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
04.15.2008 - AI Review
1. David Cook - It was a terrific arrangement with OK vocals. The strings were the best thing about it. Like last week he went with his lower register, and while not as shaky, it is not the best use of his voice. He sounds best when on full rock mode.
2. Carly Smithson - I'd disagree with Randy and say that I liked the beginning more than I did the shrieking. She was trying too hard to reach those Mariah notes and she couldn't. Too many bottom 3 placements has shaken her confidence and she's second-guessing herself. She should stick to her instincts and not try to figure out what the audience wants.
3. Jason Castro - Castro needs to stop with the falsetto. It failed him on "Hallelujah" and it failed him again in the beginning of the song. Thankfully the song turned out to be quite pleasant and true to his self.
4. David Archuleta - He hit some flat notes and the falsetto also failed him, but overall a good effort from the kid. This is his comfort zone but he needs to show versatility. The song that really made me a believer was actually the only upbeat song I remember him singing, "Shop Around."
5. Syesha Mercado - Pretty voice but tries too hard to be so. She does pick difficult songs to sing but whether she succeeds is a matter of debate. It's not that she has no personality, it's that it gets overshadowed by too much strain and effort showing. Her best moment was in Hollywood Week when confronted with losing her voice, she delivered a gutsy performance.
6. Brooke White - Having her sixth seems weird because I actually didn't dislike her performance. It was good, but just not particularly memorable. A little on the dull side but it didn't make me cringe.
7. Kristy Lee Cook - Also not bad, but just merely passable. She has improved, though, from her awful early performances. I still don't think she should be here.
2. Carly Smithson - I'd disagree with Randy and say that I liked the beginning more than I did the shrieking. She was trying too hard to reach those Mariah notes and she couldn't. Too many bottom 3 placements has shaken her confidence and she's second-guessing herself. She should stick to her instincts and not try to figure out what the audience wants.
3. Jason Castro - Castro needs to stop with the falsetto. It failed him on "Hallelujah" and it failed him again in the beginning of the song. Thankfully the song turned out to be quite pleasant and true to his self.
4. David Archuleta - He hit some flat notes and the falsetto also failed him, but overall a good effort from the kid. This is his comfort zone but he needs to show versatility. The song that really made me a believer was actually the only upbeat song I remember him singing, "Shop Around."
5. Syesha Mercado - Pretty voice but tries too hard to be so. She does pick difficult songs to sing but whether she succeeds is a matter of debate. It's not that she has no personality, it's that it gets overshadowed by too much strain and effort showing. Her best moment was in Hollywood Week when confronted with losing her voice, she delivered a gutsy performance.
6. Brooke White - Having her sixth seems weird because I actually didn't dislike her performance. It was good, but just not particularly memorable. A little on the dull side but it didn't make me cringe.
7. Kristy Lee Cook - Also not bad, but just merely passable. She has improved, though, from her awful early performances. I still don't think she should be here.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
AI Review - 04.08.08
1. Jason Castro - He stuck to the arrangement but was not a slave to it. He avoided mimicry and imbued the performance with something of himself. Comparatively it wasn't as good as the original, but it was unique enough to be appreciated on its own terms. The producers seem to have learned their lesson from the Chris Cornell issue and allowed Jason to thoroughly credit the the original.
2. Kristy Lee Cook - Wait, wait...do I really have her in second? Yikes! I guess it points out the uneven nature of tonight's show. Truthfully, she was at her best tonight. I'd also give her credit as being the savviest contestant left. She knows how to play to her audience and pick songs. I'd say she has been improving the last couple of weeks.
3. David Archuleta -Archuleta probably isn't as comfortable playing and singing as the others and it showed. He seemed a little unfocused at times, but he picked a great song and sang it effectively and well.
4. Syesha Mercado - She's no Fantasia. I agree with Simon's assessment. She sang it technically well but there wasn't the rich emotion that made Fantasia's performance so galvanizing. Lack of emotion has actually been a problem for her all season. There's not doubt she can sing but the substance is lacking. That high note was flat too.
5. Brooke White - Pretty performance but dull. I like her as a singer, and she performs the songs admirably, but in a competition like this they need to also be memorable. I don't think I remember anything about her rendition tonight.
6. Michael Johns - That falsetto in the end diminished an otherwise good performance. I agree with the judges that as much as he wants to be a rock guy, he really isn't interesting as one. He's more interesting as the bluesy, seductive singer of last week. I'm still in heat from that one.
7. Carly Smithson - She was out of control--and that's not good. What I love about her every week is how in control of her voice she is, but this week the song got the better of her. Flat notes, lackluster singing, and it sounded unwieldy. She might be in trouble.
8. David Cook - Just a big old mess. What was up with that beginning? The shift in the beginning from low-voiced spoken word to full-on rock voice was jarring. The whole performance seemed off and all over the place. He looked great, channeling a little bit of Chris Martin complete with a message painted on his hand. I'd almost agree with Simon that it was a little pompous, but I blame it on the song. Bad, awful song.
2. Kristy Lee Cook - Wait, wait...do I really have her in second? Yikes! I guess it points out the uneven nature of tonight's show. Truthfully, she was at her best tonight. I'd also give her credit as being the savviest contestant left. She knows how to play to her audience and pick songs. I'd say she has been improving the last couple of weeks.
3. David Archuleta -Archuleta probably isn't as comfortable playing and singing as the others and it showed. He seemed a little unfocused at times, but he picked a great song and sang it effectively and well.
4. Syesha Mercado - She's no Fantasia. I agree with Simon's assessment. She sang it technically well but there wasn't the rich emotion that made Fantasia's performance so galvanizing. Lack of emotion has actually been a problem for her all season. There's not doubt she can sing but the substance is lacking. That high note was flat too.
5. Brooke White - Pretty performance but dull. I like her as a singer, and she performs the songs admirably, but in a competition like this they need to also be memorable. I don't think I remember anything about her rendition tonight.
6. Michael Johns - That falsetto in the end diminished an otherwise good performance. I agree with the judges that as much as he wants to be a rock guy, he really isn't interesting as one. He's more interesting as the bluesy, seductive singer of last week. I'm still in heat from that one.
7. Carly Smithson - She was out of control--and that's not good. What I love about her every week is how in control of her voice she is, but this week the song got the better of her. Flat notes, lackluster singing, and it sounded unwieldy. She might be in trouble.
8. David Cook - Just a big old mess. What was up with that beginning? The shift in the beginning from low-voiced spoken word to full-on rock voice was jarring. The whole performance seemed off and all over the place. He looked great, channeling a little bit of Chris Martin complete with a message painted on his hand. I'd almost agree with Simon that it was a little pompous, but I blame it on the song. Bad, awful song.
Thursday, April 03, 2008
It's Definitely Alright
I guess I've been smitten by Michael Johns's performance of "It's All Wrong, But It's Alright" on "American Idol" because I've rewatched the performance a few times now. I'm even contemplating actually buying it on iTunes. I still think he's older than he claims, but it certainly helped the performance. He's the only "Idol" contestant who can sing the line "Tell me sexy, lovin' lies" and not sound ridiculous. It actually sounded, well, sexy. Ultimately it might be too much grown-up sex appeal for "Idol's" main audience, but for a grown-up like myself that was definitely a treat. I might just be a puddle if he ever sings something like "Let's Get It On."
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
AI Review - 04.01.2008
1. Michael Johns - Now this is the performance from him I've been waiting for. Well-rounded, mature, and just utterly soulful. One of the standout performances of the season.
2. David Archuleta - He seems to have regained his confidence and plugged into the song. It's my favorite performance of his this season.
3. Carly Smithson - Again she displays amazing control of her voice. She and Michael are showing how age can endow a singer with great emotional depth.
4. Syesha Mercado - The two-for-one performance didn't bother me, especially since she pulled off both successfully, if a bit restrained.
5. David Cook - An original arrangement, but not a very good one. His vocals here, though, remain strong and I appreciated that he saw the value in simplicity.
6. Brooke White - It's unfair to have to rank her since she doesn't have the powerhouse vocals of the others, but Brooke would probably be closer to the kind of singer I would like. I have a feeling she would be an interesting performing artist outside of "Idol."
7. Jason Castro - I look at this guy and I see boy band. He'd be the rebellious one in the group, the guy with the whacked out hair, but as his vocals prove, he's really a puppy dog. His performance of "Travelin' Thru" does nothing to enhance his persona, as this is yet another in an increasingly long line of laidback performances in the vein of Jack Johnson. The song was cleanly delivered and he has a pleasant voice, but I don't hear anything interesting here.
8. Kristy Lee Cook - Yes, another pleasant but forgettable performance. No personality whatsoever.
9. Ramiele Malubay - Lacks the concentration to sing a song through. It seems like she gets bored 2/3 of the way through a song, as she did again tonight. I doubt she thinks about what she's singing, but instead focuses on making herself sound pretty. Surprisingly, this was better than her last two performances, but that's not saying a lot.
2. David Archuleta - He seems to have regained his confidence and plugged into the song. It's my favorite performance of his this season.
3. Carly Smithson - Again she displays amazing control of her voice. She and Michael are showing how age can endow a singer with great emotional depth.
4. Syesha Mercado - The two-for-one performance didn't bother me, especially since she pulled off both successfully, if a bit restrained.
5. David Cook - An original arrangement, but not a very good one. His vocals here, though, remain strong and I appreciated that he saw the value in simplicity.
6. Brooke White - It's unfair to have to rank her since she doesn't have the powerhouse vocals of the others, but Brooke would probably be closer to the kind of singer I would like. I have a feeling she would be an interesting performing artist outside of "Idol."
7. Jason Castro - I look at this guy and I see boy band. He'd be the rebellious one in the group, the guy with the whacked out hair, but as his vocals prove, he's really a puppy dog. His performance of "Travelin' Thru" does nothing to enhance his persona, as this is yet another in an increasingly long line of laidback performances in the vein of Jack Johnson. The song was cleanly delivered and he has a pleasant voice, but I don't hear anything interesting here.
8. Kristy Lee Cook - Yes, another pleasant but forgettable performance. No personality whatsoever.
9. Ramiele Malubay - Lacks the concentration to sing a song through. It seems like she gets bored 2/3 of the way through a song, as she did again tonight. I doubt she thinks about what she's singing, but instead focuses on making herself sound pretty. Surprisingly, this was better than her last two performances, but that's not saying a lot.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
AI Review - 03.25.2008
1. David C - Ha! I called it this afternoon. Based on his tendency for picking "interesting" rock covers, I knew he would do the Chris Cornell version. To his credit, he performed it very well, and also to his credit, he's smart in finding versions that make him seem original and different. I call b.s. on the "brave" comment. There was nothing brave about it when another artist already did it exceedingly well.
However, I just see him as another Daughtry, another uninteresting rocker in the Nickelback vein. Maybe he'll prove me wrong when he writes his own stuff, but the last thing I want to hear is another Nickelback or Buckcherry or Daughtry or Creed or 3 Doors Down or Matchbox 20 and so on.
2. Michael - Welcome back! Of all the men, he's the one most willing to test the boundaries of his vocals. He repeatedly picks songs that are tough and challenging. He hit some bumps tonight, but it was 99% on.
3. Brooke - Hers is a thoughtful way of singing, somewhat brooding. The problem with last week was she was trying to be Miss Sunshine. The judges were right about the shift in the song, but it was nitpicking.
4. Syesha - I think she ran out of breath in the end, but she's someone who can be easily improved with slight touches in the recording process. It was confidently delivered.
5. Carly - She was no match for the song--and Bonnie Tyler. It was the first time it felt like she lost control of her voice. Shaky.
6. David A. - Awful song choice. He's proven that he can sing and he sang well again tonight, but this was an awful, awful song choice. Cheesy. He needs to demonstrate his pop chops.
7. Chikezie - Boring. There's a radio station in LA that plays songs like this in the evenings. Growing up we would listen to it so we'd fall asleep. I almost did listening to Chikezie. He may have found an unexpected panache for country music, so I suggest he go back to it.
8. Ramiele - Her voice is weak during quiet passages, but she gets by on yelling. Randy is right about pitch issues during the song, but I'll give her a pass for being sick. Had she been better, though, I doubt it would have been any better.
9. Jason - Completely forgettable. Even Adam Duritz knows to rock it hard once in a while. I think I've had my fill ever since "Hallelujah."
10. Kristy - She actually has a pretty voice and this was her best performance, but at the same time it made me cringe. She's a vacant vocalist. However, she might be very savvy. She might have just earned all of the Red States tonight with that song.
However, I just see him as another Daughtry, another uninteresting rocker in the Nickelback vein. Maybe he'll prove me wrong when he writes his own stuff, but the last thing I want to hear is another Nickelback or Buckcherry or Daughtry or Creed or 3 Doors Down or Matchbox 20 and so on.
2. Michael - Welcome back! Of all the men, he's the one most willing to test the boundaries of his vocals. He repeatedly picks songs that are tough and challenging. He hit some bumps tonight, but it was 99% on.
3. Brooke - Hers is a thoughtful way of singing, somewhat brooding. The problem with last week was she was trying to be Miss Sunshine. The judges were right about the shift in the song, but it was nitpicking.
4. Syesha - I think she ran out of breath in the end, but she's someone who can be easily improved with slight touches in the recording process. It was confidently delivered.
5. Carly - She was no match for the song--and Bonnie Tyler. It was the first time it felt like she lost control of her voice. Shaky.
6. David A. - Awful song choice. He's proven that he can sing and he sang well again tonight, but this was an awful, awful song choice. Cheesy. He needs to demonstrate his pop chops.
7. Chikezie - Boring. There's a radio station in LA that plays songs like this in the evenings. Growing up we would listen to it so we'd fall asleep. I almost did listening to Chikezie. He may have found an unexpected panache for country music, so I suggest he go back to it.
8. Ramiele - Her voice is weak during quiet passages, but she gets by on yelling. Randy is right about pitch issues during the song, but I'll give her a pass for being sick. Had she been better, though, I doubt it would have been any better.
9. Jason - Completely forgettable. Even Adam Duritz knows to rock it hard once in a while. I think I've had my fill ever since "Hallelujah."
10. Kristy - She actually has a pretty voice and this was her best performance, but at the same time it made me cringe. She's a vacant vocalist. However, she might be very savvy. She might have just earned all of the Red States tonight with that song.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
AI Review - 03.18.2008
1. David Archuleta - Still not his best performance, but it's the winner in a weak night. Technically proficient and on point, with a startling maturity. He avoids the foolish tendency of others to embellish and overdo a song. He certainly does best on the power ballads and still has to prove his versatility.
2. David Cook - Might have been first if it wasn't for the ill-conceived vocoder and the increasingly off-putting smugness.
3. Michael Johns - He overreached. "A Day in the Life" is a tough song to sing and he sounded winded by the end. I appreciated his maturity during the criticism. He didn't speak and just took it all in. He also avoided milking the sentimental factor of his song choice and only revealed it when prodded by Ryan. A very mature guy in more ways than one.
4. Carly Smithson - She again demonstrates amazing control in her voice.
5. Syesha Mercado - An overcooked performance that tested the limits of her voice. The emotions were too much on the surface. It sounded pretty, though.
6. Brooke White - A very disappointing, awkward performance this week after the exquisiteness of last week. The goofy dancing and the desperate attempt to punch up the song's energy level hurt more than helped. The nervous, passive-aggresive attempt at justifying her failings tonight was a little annoying.
7. Ramiele Malubay - She certainly gave it her best, and for the most part she sounded fine. Her forte is in big ballads and her song choice this week showed the failings of her vocals when forced to add energy and fun to her performance.
8. Jason Castro - Dull and amateurish. The goofiness may be endearing but this week it just made it seem like he was unprepared and was just screwing around tonight. He gets bonus points for pointing out the "nails-on-chalkboard" moment during "Hallelujah."
9. Amanda Overmyer - She was singing ahead of the song. She's pretty much a one-trick pony and her personality adds to her unlikability. She could have an interesting voice. As of now she's getting by on the benefits of smoking two packs a day.
10. Chikezie - The first part was dull but sounded fine, then all of a sudden he started singing a different song. He must have gotten carried away after the praise last week, and instead he winds up with a baffling performance.
11. Kristy Lee Cook - She ruined one of my favorite songs. She hit the notes but this was a vacant lifeless performance. What a strange arrangement too.
2. David Cook - Might have been first if it wasn't for the ill-conceived vocoder and the increasingly off-putting smugness.
3. Michael Johns - He overreached. "A Day in the Life" is a tough song to sing and he sounded winded by the end. I appreciated his maturity during the criticism. He didn't speak and just took it all in. He also avoided milking the sentimental factor of his song choice and only revealed it when prodded by Ryan. A very mature guy in more ways than one.
4. Carly Smithson - She again demonstrates amazing control in her voice.
5. Syesha Mercado - An overcooked performance that tested the limits of her voice. The emotions were too much on the surface. It sounded pretty, though.
6. Brooke White - A very disappointing, awkward performance this week after the exquisiteness of last week. The goofy dancing and the desperate attempt to punch up the song's energy level hurt more than helped. The nervous, passive-aggresive attempt at justifying her failings tonight was a little annoying.
7. Ramiele Malubay - She certainly gave it her best, and for the most part she sounded fine. Her forte is in big ballads and her song choice this week showed the failings of her vocals when forced to add energy and fun to her performance.
8. Jason Castro - Dull and amateurish. The goofiness may be endearing but this week it just made it seem like he was unprepared and was just screwing around tonight. He gets bonus points for pointing out the "nails-on-chalkboard" moment during "Hallelujah."
9. Amanda Overmyer - She was singing ahead of the song. She's pretty much a one-trick pony and her personality adds to her unlikability. She could have an interesting voice. As of now she's getting by on the benefits of smoking two packs a day.
10. Chikezie - The first part was dull but sounded fine, then all of a sudden he started singing a different song. He must have gotten carried away after the praise last week, and instead he winds up with a baffling performance.
11. Kristy Lee Cook - She ruined one of my favorite songs. She hit the notes but this was a vacant lifeless performance. What a strange arrangement too.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
AI Review
1. Brooke White - She doesn't have the most conventional voice for a female Idol, but she knows how to wield it. She wasn't just covering a Beatles song, she was interpreting it.
2. Chikezie - He surprised me. He has been dull so far, but this was a breakout, joyous performance.
3. Carly - She's a pro and it shows. Just a very solid singer in full control of her voice.
4. David Cook - He's growing confident with a second straight strong performance, but I have a feeling he'll cross over into cockiness in no time. Leave the microphone stand alone. It can stand by itself.
5. Michael Johns - The judges expect a lot from him. He was shaky in the beginning, but he had a strong moment in the middle.
6. Amanda Overmyer - Surprisingly good. Her voice verges on screechy, but it was under control tonight.
7. Syesha - Weak beginning, but it settled in the middle and through the end. Not memorable, though.
8. Jason Castro - He's dull. Pretty enough voice but being given too much credit. He's essentially the Jack Johnson of this group. Good enough, but tiresome in its mellowness.
9. Ramiele - Dull tonight. Perhaps listening to too much Filipino pop music as it shows in her [i]maarte[/i] vocals.
10. David Archuleta - I love the kid, but he had a rough night tonight. Nerves got the best of him and stumbled. Apart from that he was actually decent, but this wasn't his best moment.
11. Kristy Lee Cook - I thought her vocals were OK. I blame the band and the arrangement. It went extreme. Even if the band had been better, there's no disguising her forgettable voice.
12. David Hernandez - Not playing up to his strengths. I was tired of it within the first few seconds.
I rarely call in to vote, but tonight, I felt so bad for David A. that I actually called in a couple--alright, a few--times tonight for him, and I'm sure quite a few others did too. Anyone who doesn't like him must hate puppies.
2. Chikezie - He surprised me. He has been dull so far, but this was a breakout, joyous performance.
3. Carly - She's a pro and it shows. Just a very solid singer in full control of her voice.
4. David Cook - He's growing confident with a second straight strong performance, but I have a feeling he'll cross over into cockiness in no time. Leave the microphone stand alone. It can stand by itself.
5. Michael Johns - The judges expect a lot from him. He was shaky in the beginning, but he had a strong moment in the middle.
6. Amanda Overmyer - Surprisingly good. Her voice verges on screechy, but it was under control tonight.
7. Syesha - Weak beginning, but it settled in the middle and through the end. Not memorable, though.
8. Jason Castro - He's dull. Pretty enough voice but being given too much credit. He's essentially the Jack Johnson of this group. Good enough, but tiresome in its mellowness.
9. Ramiele - Dull tonight. Perhaps listening to too much Filipino pop music as it shows in her [i]maarte[/i] vocals.
10. David Archuleta - I love the kid, but he had a rough night tonight. Nerves got the best of him and stumbled. Apart from that he was actually decent, but this wasn't his best moment.
11. Kristy Lee Cook - I thought her vocals were OK. I blame the band and the arrangement. It went extreme. Even if the band had been better, there's no disguising her forgettable voice.
12. David Hernandez - Not playing up to his strengths. I was tired of it within the first few seconds.
I rarely call in to vote, but tonight, I felt so bad for David A. that I actually called in a couple--alright, a few--times tonight for him, and I'm sure quite a few others did too. Anyone who doesn't like him must hate puppies.
Thursday, May 10, 2007
My Lovely Weekly Hump
The fact that I have to get my car fixed is annoying. Aaarghh! Poor Papa Smurf. I should take comfort in knowing that it's not my fault and that I can leave it up to the insurance company to take care of it, but I'd rather that it never happened at all. No use worrying about it, though.
Let's focus on other things:
Today was the last day of AP tutoring. Tomorrow the students take their AP English test. I hope they do well, and I will see them next week one last time. Today we reviewed some key terms, but most of the time was spent answering questions about myself. Did I take the AP test? Did I pass? Where did I go to college? What was my GPA? The students were also curious about college life and hopefully I eased some of their anxiety over it. They're good kids.
Tonight LaKisha was voted off "American Idol." Nothing too surprising about her ouster. I did hear her sing her last song, and she absolutely massacred it. That muffed note at the end was almost embarrassing. She was obviously trying to prove that she has the vocal flexibility of Jordin, but sadly, she proved that she doesn't. Kiki was made for belting. When she was in the lower, softer register she sounded so lifeless and dull, and once again it sounded as if she was singing two different songs. There is never any flow in her performances.
The little bit of Blake I did hear sounded atrocious, too, and he probably deserved to go home as much as Kiki. However, being the lone man left, he was safe. Kiki was the expendable one. She could have done a better job of connecting to people. When she sang tonight, she was walking through the audience givingn high fives, but she still wasn't connecting with the people around her. She was high-fiving without the sincerity. It was also telling how Kiki didn't go sing next to the remaining contestants as the other eliminees usually do.
Kiki is a diva already.
Let's focus on other things:
Today was the last day of AP tutoring. Tomorrow the students take their AP English test. I hope they do well, and I will see them next week one last time. Today we reviewed some key terms, but most of the time was spent answering questions about myself. Did I take the AP test? Did I pass? Where did I go to college? What was my GPA? The students were also curious about college life and hopefully I eased some of their anxiety over it. They're good kids.
Tonight LaKisha was voted off "American Idol." Nothing too surprising about her ouster. I did hear her sing her last song, and she absolutely massacred it. That muffed note at the end was almost embarrassing. She was obviously trying to prove that she has the vocal flexibility of Jordin, but sadly, she proved that she doesn't. Kiki was made for belting. When she was in the lower, softer register she sounded so lifeless and dull, and once again it sounded as if she was singing two different songs. There is never any flow in her performances.
The little bit of Blake I did hear sounded atrocious, too, and he probably deserved to go home as much as Kiki. However, being the lone man left, he was safe. Kiki was the expendable one. She could have done a better job of connecting to people. When she sang tonight, she was walking through the audience givingn high fives, but she still wasn't connecting with the people around her. She was high-fiving without the sincerity. It was also telling how Kiki didn't go sing next to the remaining contestants as the other eliminees usually do.
Kiki is a diva already.
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Homefires
Griffith Park burned again last night. Just last month another part of it was on fire. Last night's fire coverage, though, had the added urgency of the possibility that multi-million dollar homes would burn down. Last I heard none of them did.
My favorite quote from the LA Times this morning was from one of the affected residents, Michael Widman, a New Yorker who has lived in Los Feliz for five years.
He said, "I'm done with L.A."
I say, "What a wimp!"
It would be interesting to find out if he means it. If he does, good riddance. If he doesn't, a good, big earthquake ought to do the trick.
Last night's fire was too far away to really affect us at the SGV. However, running in Arcadia just before sundown, my lungs were burning. It made for a miserable workout, but I still managed to get in seven or eight Yassos. I lost track. I also wound up missing most of "American Idol," so I can't really comment on the performances. It looks like LaKisha will be bidding us farewell tonight. Stayin' alive, she might not be.
My favorite quote from the LA Times this morning was from one of the affected residents, Michael Widman, a New Yorker who has lived in Los Feliz for five years.
He said, "I'm done with L.A."
I say, "What a wimp!"
It would be interesting to find out if he means it. If he does, good riddance. If he doesn't, a good, big earthquake ought to do the trick.
Last night's fire was too far away to really affect us at the SGV. However, running in Arcadia just before sundown, my lungs were burning. It made for a miserable workout, but I still managed to get in seven or eight Yassos. I lost track. I also wound up missing most of "American Idol," so I can't really comment on the performances. It looks like LaKisha will be bidding us farewell tonight. Stayin' alive, she might not be.
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Farewell, Chris! Good Riddance, Phil!
Chris Richardson and Phil Stacey were both voted out tonight. Not a big deal, really. I didn't expect either one to be a competitor for the title, but I am sad still sad to see Chris go. He probably has a good shot at post-Idol success with his looks and decent voice. Phil, well, others seem to like him. He still creeps me out.
At least we got to see Chris sleeveless in the Ford video.
The top four truly is the top four.
At least we got to see Chris sleeveless in the Ford video.
The top four truly is the top four.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Days Like This
I was feeling bummed out for most of the day today. The day was too nice to be in the dumps, but it was one of those days. Thankfully it ended on a good note.
Today was my tutoring session with the ODLH School kids. They take their AP test in a couple of weeks. Today we practiced brainstorming. I've been tutoring for about six weeks now, but today was the first time where I felt a little more in control. Unfortunately there's only one more session left.
Afterwards, I braved traffic, which wasn't so bad today, and made my way back to Arcadia for track practice. TNT's summer team started speed workouts last week, so today I decided to join them. It marked my first speed workout since before the marathon--almost two months. I got there at 6:30, the usual start time from my previous teams, but it turned out this team meets at 7. I was a little early, but that was fine. I wanted to get home early anyway and catch "American Idol."
For tonight, since it's my first speed workout in a long time, I decided to take it easy. I would do three mile-repeats at an 8-minute pace. I did the first lap of the first mile way too fast. I wound up running that mile in 7:38, which felt good, but I was off in my pacing. The second mile came in at around 7:40 again. I felt great, so it wasn't an issue. The third mile was just about at 8 minutes. Since I felt so good, I threw in another mile, which also came in at under 8 minutes. Throw in the two miles of warm up and cool down and I wound up doing six miles for the evening.
I might be helping out on Saturday with the team. They're doing 18 miles and the head coaches have to leave early. I was planning on taking a yoga class that morning, but nothing beats coming to a TNT practice when you desire a pleasant, relaxing morning.
* * * * *
I didn't get home early enough tonight to see the first two Idol performances. I also missed Phil when I had to take care of something in the bedroom. As such, it's pointless to rank the performances tonight. Of the three I saw, though, LaKisha was the worst. Blake sounded so insincere, but he at least sang his song fine. LaKisha, though, tackled a song by yet another AI champion and wound up drawing negative comparisons. By performing "I Believe," the only conclusion anyone could reach was that LaKisha was no Fantasia. She again had problems with the quiet moments, the parts that required her to--you know--sing. She can yell fine but when she's not screaming LaKisha is just an OK singer.
Jordin's "You'll Never Walk Alone" was fine, but I wouldn't say it was one of the best in the show's history. In fact, I think I prefer Jerry Lewis's annual version over Jordin's.
Today was my tutoring session with the ODLH School kids. They take their AP test in a couple of weeks. Today we practiced brainstorming. I've been tutoring for about six weeks now, but today was the first time where I felt a little more in control. Unfortunately there's only one more session left.
Afterwards, I braved traffic, which wasn't so bad today, and made my way back to Arcadia for track practice. TNT's summer team started speed workouts last week, so today I decided to join them. It marked my first speed workout since before the marathon--almost two months. I got there at 6:30, the usual start time from my previous teams, but it turned out this team meets at 7. I was a little early, but that was fine. I wanted to get home early anyway and catch "American Idol."
For tonight, since it's my first speed workout in a long time, I decided to take it easy. I would do three mile-repeats at an 8-minute pace. I did the first lap of the first mile way too fast. I wound up running that mile in 7:38, which felt good, but I was off in my pacing. The second mile came in at around 7:40 again. I felt great, so it wasn't an issue. The third mile was just about at 8 minutes. Since I felt so good, I threw in another mile, which also came in at under 8 minutes. Throw in the two miles of warm up and cool down and I wound up doing six miles for the evening.
I might be helping out on Saturday with the team. They're doing 18 miles and the head coaches have to leave early. I was planning on taking a yoga class that morning, but nothing beats coming to a TNT practice when you desire a pleasant, relaxing morning.
I didn't get home early enough tonight to see the first two Idol performances. I also missed Phil when I had to take care of something in the bedroom. As such, it's pointless to rank the performances tonight. Of the three I saw, though, LaKisha was the worst. Blake sounded so insincere, but he at least sang his song fine. LaKisha, though, tackled a song by yet another AI champion and wound up drawing negative comparisons. By performing "I Believe," the only conclusion anyone could reach was that LaKisha was no Fantasia. She again had problems with the quiet moments, the parts that required her to--you know--sing. She can yell fine but when she's not screaming LaKisha is just an OK singer.
Jordin's "You'll Never Walk Alone" was fine, but I wouldn't say it was one of the best in the show's history. In fact, I think I prefer Jerry Lewis's annual version over Jordin's.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Sanjaya is Love
It's probably too early to miss Sanjaya, and for a while there I was worried about him. He seemed so crushed to leave "American Idol." I still think there's a conspiracy afoot. The producers probably booted him off as to not ruin their big "Idol Gives Back" episode on Wednesday.
Don't worry about Sanjaya, though. He's doing fine. He made an appearance at the White House Correspondents' Dinner on Saturday and drew long lines for his autograph. Tonight he's a guest on "Late Show with David Letterman," who I'm sure will throw plenty of zingers at the kid.
So, don't worry about Sanjaya. He's doing fine--and he's not singing!
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Ice Cream Makes Things Better
Did you get your free scoop of Ben and Jerry's ice cream on Tuesday? I sure did. Two of them.
With the free gelato from Saturday, it has been a free ice cream week. They ought to make a national free ice cream day. I'm sure the crime will drop for the day. People usually hate waiting in lines, but they will do so with a smile if it's for free ice cream. There are no friendlier folks than those waiting for free ice cream. Ice cream makes everything better. Ice cream truly saves the day.
I don't feel too guilty about the extra calories consumed because I went on my longest run in a month today. Six miles. It was tough. I've felt great in the short runs I've done the last two weeks, but today's run was a struggle. It's likely due to being out of shape, but it's also possible that it was just a bad day for me. I ran the six miles in 55:30, but I really had to work for it. Here's hoping that I regain my level of fitness from just before the marathon and gear up for another race. The knee is holding up well, so I'm glad.
* * * * *
Tonight was country music night on "American Idol." Everyone did OK, but this was not a very thrilling night.
1. Melinda - Terrific as usual.
2. Jordin - A huge gap between her and Melinda. She sounded screechy in parts, but she had great control for the most part. I liked that her song built to its crescendo. Another preternatural performance from her.
3. Chris - He is nasally and I don't agree with his argument that it's "a form of singing." To me it's an affectation that hinders rather than helps him. Tonight it was on overdrive, especially early on. He has a fondness for slurred notes even if it doesn't help the song, perhaps confusing it for soulfulness. The song was bland but it had entertaining moments.
4. Blake - I really can't stand the guy and I still don't understand the adoration. To me he is a hack. Yet another cover of a cover, which like most copies of a copy resulted in a murky mess. He should have listened to the Ryan Adams version first because the Tim McGraw version is just about devoid of personality. Blake stripped it even more tonight until the song made no sense. The most overrated contestant of the season.
5. Phil - Definitely his kind of music, but he is still bland. At least the creepiness was toned down.
6. LaKisha - The song made no sense as she sang it. It sounded like two songs. The first part had her singing in a quiet, colorless manner. The second part turned into a loud mess. There was no natural progression between the two parts. She's in trouble.
7. Sanjaya - At least he is showing some improvement. Not his worst but certainlly another laughable effort.
With the free gelato from Saturday, it has been a free ice cream week. They ought to make a national free ice cream day. I'm sure the crime will drop for the day. People usually hate waiting in lines, but they will do so with a smile if it's for free ice cream. There are no friendlier folks than those waiting for free ice cream. Ice cream makes everything better. Ice cream truly saves the day.
I don't feel too guilty about the extra calories consumed because I went on my longest run in a month today. Six miles. It was tough. I've felt great in the short runs I've done the last two weeks, but today's run was a struggle. It's likely due to being out of shape, but it's also possible that it was just a bad day for me. I ran the six miles in 55:30, but I really had to work for it. Here's hoping that I regain my level of fitness from just before the marathon and gear up for another race. The knee is holding up well, so I'm glad.
Tonight was country music night on "American Idol." Everyone did OK, but this was not a very thrilling night.
1. Melinda - Terrific as usual.
2. Jordin - A huge gap between her and Melinda. She sounded screechy in parts, but she had great control for the most part. I liked that her song built to its crescendo. Another preternatural performance from her.
3. Chris - He is nasally and I don't agree with his argument that it's "a form of singing." To me it's an affectation that hinders rather than helps him. Tonight it was on overdrive, especially early on. He has a fondness for slurred notes even if it doesn't help the song, perhaps confusing it for soulfulness. The song was bland but it had entertaining moments.
4. Blake - I really can't stand the guy and I still don't understand the adoration. To me he is a hack. Yet another cover of a cover, which like most copies of a copy resulted in a murky mess. He should have listened to the Ryan Adams version first because the Tim McGraw version is just about devoid of personality. Blake stripped it even more tonight until the song made no sense. The most overrated contestant of the season.
5. Phil - Definitely his kind of music, but he is still bland. At least the creepiness was toned down.
6. LaKisha - The song made no sense as she sang it. It sounded like two songs. The first part had her singing in a quiet, colorless manner. The second part turned into a loud mess. There was no natural progression between the two parts. She's in trouble.
7. Sanjaya - At least he is showing some improvement. Not his worst but certainlly another laughable effort.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Who Sang It Best?
I didn't get home in time to see Melinda sing, so I can't rank her. Word is that she was good but not spectacular. But it seems like everyone had problems with Latin night. Just about everyone was unspectacular, and as a result, Sanjaya actually impressed (relatively speaking).
1. Blake - Blake was the best of a lackluster night, but he did so with his best performance to date. I'm still not impressed by him, though. He's gotten way too much praise for his originality when all he is doing is mimicking the versions he preferred. Because the judges don't seem to listen to contemporary music beyond Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston, it all sounds fresh to them.
2. Jordin - Not her best performance, but she sang it credibly. I hear a Beyonce quality to her singing, a pliable, easily-digestible sound that should prove to be marketable. Still, I'm in shock that I much prefer Gloria Estefan's original. And I'm not a Gloria Estefan.
3. Lakisha - She doesn't connect with what she's singing nor the audience. It's all about her and her big voice. So when Lakisha is called to sing something that doesn't require her to bellow, it comes off as insincere and spiritless. It wasn't her worst performance, but she's no longer one of the favorites.
4. Chris - The beginning was shaky, but he quickly took off once he got to the chorus and finished strong. He's not incredibly original nor does he have great range, but there is an engaging quality to him when he's not trying to seduce the camera.
5. Sanjaya - Boy, that lecherous stare at the camera creeped me out. Beyond that, Sanjaya gave a credible performance. He had problems with the low notes, but he does have a smooth voice in the right range. He's still too immature to engage the material fully, and I doubt he ever will. But at least he wasn't the worst tonight.
6. Haley - Her eyebrows seemd overplucked. The singing was again bland and uninspired. The shorts were short. She didn't deny that she's using what sex appeal she has to gain votes.
7. Phil - Not his worst, and it actually started OK, but it veered off into creepy territory again. The voice cracks were painful. I also despise his pathetic ploys to gain sympathy votes. Every one does it, but he's too desperate when he does so. It's not a pretty sight.
***Again, didn't see Melinda, but I'm pretty sure I would have preferred it over everyone else.***
Oh, and what business does Jennifer Lopez have giving these kids singing advice?
1. Blake - Blake was the best of a lackluster night, but he did so with his best performance to date. I'm still not impressed by him, though. He's gotten way too much praise for his originality when all he is doing is mimicking the versions he preferred. Because the judges don't seem to listen to contemporary music beyond Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston, it all sounds fresh to them.
2. Jordin - Not her best performance, but she sang it credibly. I hear a Beyonce quality to her singing, a pliable, easily-digestible sound that should prove to be marketable. Still, I'm in shock that I much prefer Gloria Estefan's original. And I'm not a Gloria Estefan.
3. Lakisha - She doesn't connect with what she's singing nor the audience. It's all about her and her big voice. So when Lakisha is called to sing something that doesn't require her to bellow, it comes off as insincere and spiritless. It wasn't her worst performance, but she's no longer one of the favorites.
4. Chris - The beginning was shaky, but he quickly took off once he got to the chorus and finished strong. He's not incredibly original nor does he have great range, but there is an engaging quality to him when he's not trying to seduce the camera.
5. Sanjaya - Boy, that lecherous stare at the camera creeped me out. Beyond that, Sanjaya gave a credible performance. He had problems with the low notes, but he does have a smooth voice in the right range. He's still too immature to engage the material fully, and I doubt he ever will. But at least he wasn't the worst tonight.
6. Haley - Her eyebrows seemd overplucked. The singing was again bland and uninspired. The shorts were short. She didn't deny that she's using what sex appeal she has to gain votes.
7. Phil - Not his worst, and it actually started OK, but it veered off into creepy territory again. The voice cracks were painful. I also despise his pathetic ploys to gain sympathy votes. Every one does it, but he's too desperate when he does so. It's not a pretty sight.
***Again, didn't see Melinda, but I'm pretty sure I would have preferred it over everyone else.***
Oh, and what business does Jennifer Lopez have giving these kids singing advice?
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