Anastasia’s Vancouver American Idols Live Tour Re-Cap

By On 07/09/2009 · 84 Comments · In Uncategorized

Check out Anastasia’s VERY detailed re-cap of her Vancouver Idol experience.   Bras fly and there’s no booing. Check out her photos at the end of the re-cap…

More photos and videos from the Vancouver concert HERE.

***

The date: July 8, 2009
The location: Vancouver, BC
The event: American Idols Live 2009
The venue: General Motors Place (a.k.a. ‘The Garage’ ); concert capacity 14,000 (total capacity 20,000)

8:55 a.m. On my way to work (running late, as per usual), I walked past GM Place. The equipment trucks (three brand-new 18-wheelers with bright red cabs) were parked in front of Gate 10, the last one with its hazard lights flashing. Next time guys, don’t park on the inside of a blind curve with your arse hanging out.

5:15 p.m. On my way home from work, I walked past GM Place again. The trucks have moved to the back cargo bay, where barricades have been set up. There are roughly 75-100 people standing around. From my bird’s eye vantage point on the staircase leading from the overpass to the Costco entrance, the groups look like they are pressed against the barricades like sardines, although there is no sign of activity ‘“ Idol, crew or otherwise ‘“ that would warrant being okay with numerous strangers invading ones’ personal space for more than a split second. The rest of the area around the stadium was quiet. I stop at the Will Call wicket to confirm that cameras are in fact allowed, just no video recorders.

6:52 p.m. I leave my apartment, exiting the building through the parkade. I cross the street to the stadium and am in my seat at 6:59 p.m. Seven minutes ‘travel’ time, gotta love it.

The stage is closer than I thought it would be. Nice. There is a barricade between the front row and the stage, with a gap of about 8 feet from front row to the edge of the stage. No touching sweaty Idol palms in this show! A few rows ahead/below me is a woman admiring her souvenir ‘“ an Adam Lambert t-shirt. Black, of course. It’s smoky in here ‘“ were they playing with dry ice during final rehearsal?

7:05. People are still making their way to their seats. When I came through the concourse, it was packed. Very wide age-range ‘“ youngest I saw was probably around 5, quite a few seniors, and everything in between. They’re playing Carrie Underwood and Daughtry videos on the side screens.

7:15 p.m. Oh, I think the show might be starting’ ¦ Cheesy American Idol advertisement on the screens letting you know they have absurdly-over-priced t-shirts for sale. Psych! Not starting yet. More Underwood, singing about anonymous one-night stands. Good role model, there.

7:17 p.m. Start time! Wow, this is loud. It’s either been a long time since I last was at a rock concert, or I’ve officially jumped the shark into ‘late-30′s’  territory. 38 is only 12 days away!

Michael Sarver: Not bad, actually. I’m impressed. I see lots of cameras out. Vancouver has lots of country music fans. ‘Hey Vancouver!!’  He gets the name of the city correct. He says it’s his first time in Canada and ‘so far he kinda likes it.’  He asks if anybody out there is in love. Some cheering, and he says ‘There must be a lot of bummed out people out there!’ , which gets some laughter and louder cheers. Close-up shot on the side video screen. Oh geez, he looks like my ex’ ¦ He’s workin’ the stage. Sounds good. The first section of floor seats is on their feet. Good energy, got the crowd going.

Megan Joy: Holy Barbie, Batman. Now that’s pink. Those shoes must be killing her feet! She’s doing the ” ¦if you’ve ever been gypped in love, this song’s for you’  intro. I’ve never heard this song. Her voice is much nicer than what I heard on the show ‘“ none of that odd wavery vibrato stuff. Vocally, her first song is better, but I like the growly bits during the second song. Oh NO, she did the ‘CAW CAW!’  right after the lights went out. Some people near me laughed; I don’t think they got the reference.

Scott McIntyre: His voice is a lot stronger, with much better tonal quality, than I was expecting. Good piano skills! I still hate his hair. LOL, he’s got stubble. I’ve never heard this song, but I like it. He says he lived in Ontario, near Toronto, for four years. He’s talking about the High Five That Was Heard Around the World. Asks if anyone watched the first show (once voting commenced? not sure). Imitates Simon Cowell ‘“ ‘It was HORRIBLE!’  He’s funny! He sounds good, great piano. Nice job on the falsetto glory note.

Lil Rounds: Sparkly! Started off well, thought it got a little pitchy in spots. She’s getting the crowd going with the arm waving. About half the stadium follows suit. I don’t know any of these songs, but she sounds good. She’s workin’ those moves! Looks like the entire floor section is on their feet. The glow sticks are out.

Anoop Desai: Lots of cheers. The floor section is still on their feet. He sounds really good. He’s wearing metallic silver sneakers. Wow, is that booing? WTF. LOL @ the geek glasses. Are they booing again, or chanting ‘NOOOOOP!’  Can’t tell for sure, but I think it’s the latter. Booing doesn’t make sense. ‘My Prerogative’  ‘“ I’ve never liked this song, but he’s rockin’ it. The 8(ish)-year-old boy in front of me wearing a backwards baseball cap is on his feet dancing his butt off. Anoop should stick with this type of music, it totally works. Handfuls of people here and there are on their feet clapping. Much cheering at the end of his set.

Matt Giraud: Big cheers. The floor section is still on their feet. More people up all over the stadium. Wow, I’m impressed. I was worried about ‘Hard to Handle’  for him (for me, for him), but no need. He’s rockin’ it. I think I’ve used the word ‘rockin”  a few too many times already, and the show’s only half over. Here comes the piano rising out of the stage. Sounds really good. He nailed that falsetto. WTG, Matt. The crowd loves it.

Group Song/Duets: Megan and Lil together hurt my ears a little, too sharp. Matt and Scott sound good together. LOL @ the upright pianos ‘“ they look so small on that stage. Michael looks better in a suit than the white jacket (or the plaid/denim he usually wears). Does a good job on ‘Suspicious Minds.’  Definitely a country boy. I don’t know this song called ‘Beggin” , but they sound good! I hate rap, but Lil works it out. Oh god I’m starting to sound like Randy. Lil and Megan dueting again hurts my ears.

Intermission. The lights come on, and I realize my pen has been leaking all over my hands. Nice. Lots of people head for the exits for beer and bathroom breaks. Now they’re playing David Cook videos on the screens. I think I prefer Daughtry. I spot a 10-foot banner down on the floor that proclaims ‘Vancouver Y’s American Idol!’ 

There’s still a haze hanging around the rafters. WTF were they smoking in here?! There’s a sign on bright pink poster board saying only ‘Adam Lambert,’  nothing else. Do they think he needs to be reminded of his own name? I see a couple of gals totally sequined out. Full-on sequin action belongs only on Vegas Showgirls, Drag Queens and Bellydancers. Sorry ladies, no free pass to Planet Fierce for you! The two gals to my right are giggling their asses off with a little girl I assume is the daughter of one of them. She looks about five years old.

More Underwood videos. More leaking from the pen. Fail. Glad I have another one in my purse. There’s an ‘Allison Rocks!’  sign down on the floor. A dad two rows ahead of me is drinking beer and looking at his daughter’s autographed photo of Adam. Repeat of the Daughtry video. Does he only have the one? I think I’d enjoy this guy in concert. The Anoop-lovin’ baseball cap kid is back, clutching an autographed 8×10″ photo of Danny. My stomach reminds me I haven’t eaten since lunchtime. My heart rate is up. OMG Kradison!

There are far fewer kids here than I was expecting. Lots of 20- and 30-somethings, and a lot of people who are clearly over the age of 50. Colour me surprised. I don’t think Vancouver got the memo about the ‘team colours’ . Most people seem to be wearing whatever, although I have seen a number of women in all black. This is practically the Official Uniform for Vancouver women. The large central screen comes to life. Another psych-out. LOL @ this AI/Disney propaganda ‘“ I mean commercial. Sooooo cheesy!!

The lights dim and the crowd begins cheering. People are still coming back from pit stops, a little faster than they left.

Allison Iraheta: Huge cheers! The crowd loves her, and with good reason. She is SO good. I feel like a broken record since so many people have said this, but I cannot believe she’s only 17 and is a rookie at this. She looks right at home up there. Love the fan-action with her hair blowing. She’s talking about ‘those other three guys, you might have heard of them’ ¦’  Adam and Kris get an equal amount of cheers and noise. Kradam lives! Allison is really really great. What can I say that hasn’t already been said? The girl can rock! I am very impressed.

Danny Gokey: He’s got lots of people on their feet, clapping and cheering. Most people in my section haven’t risen yet, but my ears are ringing. He sounds good. Praying he doesn’t go for any falsetto glory notes. ‘ ¦Damn, I need to pee. Can’t leave now, Adam is on in two songs, I’d never make it back in time. Danny looks like he’s got skinny calves. It’s probably the angle. He rips his jacket off and throws it towards the crowd. Can’t tell if it goes over the barricade or not. He’s workin’ his dance moves, and the crowd cheers. Vancouver loves salsa dancing. I’m pretty impressed, actually; his voice is holding up well. I don’t hear any straining or reaching for notes. ‘ ¦Oh Jesus H. Christ on a piece of toast, here we go with the sermonizing’ ¦ Okay, I kind of take it back ‘“ the preaching is minimal and the ‘Always follow your dreams. I dedicate this song to everyone in this room!’  isn’t yuck. I could be wrong, but I think country music would be a good fit for him.

[I put my pen & paper down at this point. The Glittery Alien Prince from Planet Fierce, a.k.a. the Cosmic Alchemist, demands the full attention of his Minions. No multi-tasking allowed.]

Adam Lambert: I don’t think I have enough words to describe this; I don’t think the English language itself has enough words. The crowd’s largest response in Adam’s set was, by far, to ‘Mad World.’  Someone threw a hot-pink bra at Adam during his ‘Slow Ride’  duet with Allison. He grabbed it and twirled it around his head like a lariat a few times then threw it back into the crowd, without pausing or losing his concentration with his part in the song. Love the vest and the bare arms and chest. He looks like he would be silky-smooth to the touch. He is indeed a human slinky. Why can’t hetero men ever move this way?!? If they did, I might be able to forgive some of their B.S. Adam’s voice is truly otherworldly, and crystal clear. He slides so effortlessly from his lower register into his upper range and back down again, that you don’t even notice the transitions. You feel his voice go through you like a hot knife through butter, or that scene in ‘The Bodyguard’  with the silk scarf and the samurai sword. I have never understood all those who sneer in Adam’s general direction and rant about screaming/shrieking/screeching, because his voice is none of those things. I’ve got five words for you: Exquisite perfection. If I could hear only one voice for the remainder of my life and be deaf to the rest of the world, I would choose Adam’s voice, hands down.

Kris Allen: Huge cheers from the crowd. The slower sections of ‘No Melodies’  sound weird to me, like he’s playing tonsil-hockey with the microphone. Lots of people all around the stadium are still on their feet. Applause afterwards is a little more lukewarm than that for ‘Heartless,’  but I think it was a response to the song itself, not Kris. His speaking voice is stronger and more confident than I thought it would be. He’s rocking ‘Ain’t No Sunshine’  and nails the falsetto at the finish. ‘Bright Lights’  ‘“ I love this song! This style suits him. He rocked that electric guitar solo like a pro. ‘Hey Jude’  is also Kris’ style. Lots of waving arms in the crowd.

Group Song: I’ve always liked ‘Don’t Stop Believin’,’  so this was not cheesy for me. I think I might have heard a couple of bum notes, but not whose they were. Lots of love from the crowd.

10:05 p.m. Exiting the stadium. As I walk to the intersection, I overhear a couple of girls (mid- to late-teens, I’d guess) talking about Adam vs. Kris. As I pass by I hear one of them say very earnestly, ‘Adam belted it out, but Kris has more variety; he’ll go further. Adam’s just a head-banger.’  LOL. Time check when I walk in my apartment door: 10:11 p.m.

Reflections on Kradam: Kris Allen is definitely not a meek little mouse – although I do love the nickname some cyberspace groups have given him: ‘Pocket Idol’ . This makes me smile. Kris might be low-key and understated, but he commands that stage. Like Adam, you can’t take your eyes off him when he sings, but in a totally different way. Adam is larger-than-life; his energy is like a Mexican jumping bean on speed (I imagine this could be quite jarring for a lot of people. I guess I really love crackhead legumes). Adam pulls your emotions from you, concentrates them into a ball of pure white light and throws it back at you, and it takes your breath away. Kris also has an intensity, but it draws you in quietly and you’re just ‘there’  in a warm, cozy little bubble; then you shake your head, look around and realize that more time has passed than you expected and you feel like he might have hypnotized you a little bit.

General Comments: All ten received great response and lots of love from the audience. They sound much better live than they did on the show, and they all impressed cynical old me. There was no mass exodus during anyone’s set, and no booing at all (except for what I thought at first was booing during Anoop’s set, but it wasn’t [see above]). I have never been to an Idol concert, and I admit to having serious doubts about everyone except Kradison (and if I’m being totally honest, the only one I felt sure was going to nail it and send it home first-class airmail, was Adam). I am pleased (as is my bank account, for avoiding the ‘Damn what a Gi-Normous Rip-Off’  guilt-trip of massive proportions) to report that this was a VERY good show, and thoroughly entertaining. It (as do the Idols) seems much more polished than one would expect for only their third stop on the tour. If anyone is wondering if it’s worth the money and trouble, this Idol-Concert-virgin and diehard Adam-centric Minion is here to tell you, it definitely is. For this year, at least. When the last note of ‘Don’t Stop Believin”  faded and I watched them all exit through the back of stage, I thought, ‘Wait! Oh wait, couldn’t I just rewind that and watch the whole thing again??!?’ 

 
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  • desiiiire

    Who is Anastasia?

  • flicker

    Awesome recap, thanks so much! I love all the little details. And thank you very much for including all the idols and for being so open-minded. :)

    ETA – your pictures are really, really good!

  • Kirsten

    Great recap Anastasia! It’s always fun to read recaps from a concert you attended because it’s interesting to see what other’s noticed, remembered or saw that you did not. Plus, it’s great to read the different perspectives.

    It was very well-written and you got some great pictures.

  • Suzanne

    In that picture at the top of this thread Megan Joy looks like a superhero!

  • flicker

    Kirsten, will you write a recap? You always have an interesting take on things, and I’d love to hear more of your thoughts on the show. From your post in the other thread, it sounds like you really enjoyed it.

  • julieitis

    This was awesome, thank you so much for sharing it with us! I love the reflections on Kradam ;)

  • Kirsten

    Kirsten, will you write a recap?

    I did. I sent it to MJ this morning, but it’s probably going to take her a while to fix all my typos.

    From your post in the other thread, it sounds like you really enjoyed it.

    I had a blast. The audience was there to have fun and the Idols were great. So much improvement from the show.

    Best AI concert I’ve been to (they’ve really upgraded the production values. I mean, it’s not U2, Madonna or Rolling Stones production levels yet, but it’s a far cry from the tin-foil set from S5 (with the cardboard door that didn’t always open) and the cheap-looking costumes and tacky white couch from S6.

  • weareallinnocent

    Fantastic!

    Adam pulls your emotions from you, concentrates them into a ball of pure white light and throws it back at you, and it takes your breath away. Kris also has an intensity, but it draws you in quietly and you’re just ‘there’  in a warm, cozy little bubble; then you shake your head, look around and realize that more time has passed than you expected and you feel like he might have hypnotized you a little bit.

    Now that’s a pretty piece of writing. Very nice.

    Thanks for the great remarks and gorgeous pictures too!

  • goldenlpb

    Thanks for your recap…I felt like I was there.

  • GlamGirlLee

    Wow, Anastasia, awesome recap. Thank you so much!

  • suebrody

    Excellent, very detailed (she should go into journalism–take note, faux reporters) and very fair. She is a Kradison fan, but was very fair-minded critiquing the other Idols. All reviews should be this good!

    How did she manage to write so much when 1) her pen leaked everywhere, and 2) she didn’t transcribe during Adam’s set? ;)

    And for the record, *I* didn’t find the bra waving particularly amusing. I hope there won’t be a lot more of that, but some Glamberts are already talking about making studded ones, etc. I’m not a prude, but ick.

  • ravengirl

    Wow, Anastasia, brilliant review! Your metaphors and imagery took me right there. And then I looked around and realized I was at work but with a big smile on my face.
    I simply now cannot wait to be as entranced as you with the real live Adam, as opposed to my numerous recordings of the AI show, the grainy always rebuffering YouTubes and the hideous Rickey cellcasts that do great damage to my ears and my time but I keep listening to.
    July 20 (Arizona!) cannot come soon enough.
    Huzzah for the crackhead legumes!

  • Suzanne

    Kris also has an intensity, but it draws you in quietly and you’re just ‘there’  in a warm, cozy little bubble; then you shake your head, look around and realize that more time has passed than you expected and you feel like he might have hypnotized you a little bit.

    Your description really does come alive. Very much the way Jaime Foxx. on Ellen, described listening/watching Kris.

  • tinawina

    You’re a really good writer. Thanks!

  • ruskimom

    If I could hear only one voice for the remainder of my life and be deaf to the rest of the world, I would choose Adam’s voice, hands down.

    very nice sentiment Anastasia

  • https://twitter.com/draddee Sunn

    Great recap Anastasia. Thank you very much. It’s obvious that you enjoyed the show, and your joy translated to me as I read your very funny account of it.

    The pictures are also great.

    So thanks again Anastasia.

    P.S. Can someone explain to me the Anoop glasses?

  • Michelle

    Thank you Anastasia, I loved reading your review :) Off to look at the pics!

    eta: haha, they gave Allison a wind machine? Looking epic

  • Susan M.

    Anastasia: Just. Wow. This review was FANTASTIC and full of WIN, WIN, WIN!! You do a beautiful job with your metaphors and your paragraph about Adam was one of the best tributes I’ve ever read (and I’ve read MANY … and written several myself). I’ve got an article to write right now (WAY more boring!), but I could not even start until I read every word of yours.

    Great, great piece, a perfect balance of reporting, editorializing and relating. And let’s just go ahead and quote a portion of you paragraph about Adam again, because it deserves restating:

    … Love the vest and the bare arms and chest. He looks like he would be silky-smooth to the touch. He is indeed a human slinky. Why can’t hetero men ever move this way?!? If they did, I might be able to forgive some of their B.S. Adam’s voice is truly otherworldly, and crystal clear. He slides so effortlessly from his lower register into his upper range and back down again, that you don’t even notice the transitions. You feel his voice go through you like a hot knife through butter, or that scene in ‘The Bodyguard’  with the silk scarf and the samurai sword. I have never understood all those who sneer in Adam’s general direction and rant about screaming/shrieking/screeching, because his voice is none of those things. I’ve got five words for you: Exquisite perfection. If I could hear only one voice for the remainder of my life and be deaf to the rest of the world, I would choose Adam’s voice, hands down.

    ITA with all of it, particularly the line about hetero men.

  • deez

    Why can’t hetero men ever move this way?!? If they did, I might be able to forgive some of their B.S. ”

    Lol!!!!!!

    Thanks for the re-cap! I think Kradison may surprise everyone… (by everyone I mean the anti AI snobs who think these guys are karaoke losers) They are very talented. I disagreed with those who said it at first, but Season 8, I think has been the best.

  • AC

    Thanks for the great recap Anastasia! It’s always nice to hear what happens from different viewpoints and it looks like you have really good seats! Just one question- did Adam’s bedazzled jean vest look cooler in person? hehe

  • ines

    I was there! The audience was great and the show was awesome! Met ALL of them and got all their autographs. Of course, watching Scott perform live and meeting him was the BEST part for me.

  • Anastasia72071

    desiiiire
    Who is Anastasia?

    What, you mean I’m not a household name already?!? LOL. :bye_tb:

    ‘Vancouver Y’s American Idol!’ 

    That’s supposed to be a heart – as in “Vancouver hearts American Idol!”

  • DEfan

    Great piece! Very informative, detailed and entertaining. I LOL several times while reading. Photos are great, too. Thanks so much, Anastasia.

  • Renina

    Wow girl!! Thanks so much for this!! You really put a lot of effort into letting us know all of the details of the tour. I feel like I know quite a bit more about how all of the idols performed, and were recieved. It makes me happy that no one was really bad, and all of the idols seemed to appeal to a lot of people!!

    The tour is sounding better and better, and it seems like this group are all really bringing their A game.

    Also, LOVE Matt, and I am so glad that so far everyone is pretty much on the same page about him being outstanding on this tour, and apparently getting better :clap_tb:

  • Squirrely

    Thank you! Your recap was great, very descriptive

  • wand3rful

    Awesome recap….actually better than most critics i have read LOL fine example of how you can have your favorites (clearly stated multiple times) yet keep an open objective mind to the others. All reviews should folllow this format.

    and i loved your comment of adam: “his energy is like a Mexican jumping bean on speed” . hehe, if a performance by adam doesnt make you bang your head and shimmy your shoulders, there is something wrong with you. (similar to the smartest words kara ever spoke: if a kris’ performance doesnt move you {emotionally}……)

  • Anastasia72071

    AC
    Thanks for the great recap Anastasia! It’s always nice to hear what happens from different viewpoints and it looks like you have really good seats! Just one question- did Adam’s bedazzled jean vest look cooler in person? hehe

    To be honest, at that point I was still in such a daze that the bedazzled vest barely registered. I was already thinking “OH NO, this is the END! Wait – what was the middle thing [20 points to whoever can tell me which movie that's from] ?!? I DEMAND A DO-OVER!!”

    The vest didn’t look bad. He was wearing far too many layers though (is he like a woman, always cold?! Inquiring minds want to know. We neeeeeds to know). Having said that, I’m a bellydancer and for me (for you, for them, for me. heh.) there’s absolutely nothing wrong with a bit of sparkle. *Unless you’re the be-sequined woman I mentioned – that was just overkill.

  • Ellie2

    Thanks for the great recap! It was wonderful to read all the details! I don’t know how I’m going to wait 7 more weeks. Ugh.

  • Eileen99

    Awesome, thanks!!

    So far, after 3 concerts, pretty much everyone is having the same experience/impressions of the Idols:

    1) The concert is worth the money and definitely worth seeing.

    2) Expectations are generally exceeded for all Idols.

    3) They all sound so much better/more impressive live.

    4) The crowds are respectful to all Idols (YAY).

    Dang it, I wish now I would have made the 3 hour trek to see the show last night.

  • colette

    Anastasia:

    What a “fair and balanced” round-up!

    I really appreciated your even-handedness, your insights, and your willingness to not turn the whole thing into an Adam vs. Kris match.

    My understanding is that the show is really about all the Idols, and that both guys come out well. Neither of them is meek, both have loads of fans, and this show sounds SO much better than last year’s lackluster affair.

    You rock, lady!

  • will

    Fantastic recap and great photos, Anastasia! Glad you had a great time, despite the leaky pen and the inconvenient need to pee (I hate when that happens). Oh, and congrats on coining the phrase crackhead legumes.

  • TWI

    Thank you, Anastasia! That was a good read! It’s great to hear that at the end you just wanted to re-wind: that has to be the ultimate compliment to the show.

  • anovich

    Adam pulls your emotions from you, concentrates them into a ball of pure white light and throws it back at you, and it takes your breath away. Kris also has an intensity, but it draws you in quietly and you’re just ‘there’  in a warm, cozy little bubble; then you shake your head, look around and realize that more time has passed than you expected and you feel like he might have hypnotized you a little bit.

    This!!!! This statement is so full of win and just shows that these 2 guys are both talented in their own ways.

    So thanks :)

  • Mary102

    Great review! And I too loved the language used to describe Adam, and then both Adam and Kris! Very well put!

    Megan and Lil together hurt my ears a little, too sharp.

    I hadn’t heard this mentioned before, but come to think of it, the two of them would not seem to be the best duet – very different voices. Then again, I’m kind of surprised when Megan is able to duet with anyone, considering how unique her voice is.

    They are very talented. I disagreed with those who said it at first, but Season 8, I think has been the best.

    Yeah, I’m still on the fence with this one. I think Adam, Kris, and Allison deserve a place in the echelon of top AI talents of all time. And in that respect I think they helped make it an incredibly strong season. Some of the other guys, though, did not impress me (show or otherwise) as much as some of the previous years (especially last year, with Michael Johns and Carly Smithson being so strong, yet leaving so early).

    This year struck me as being slightly more focused on “personality” or “backstory” as opposed to actual singing ability, and I’m always most interested in just getting a group of talented singers and performers – I could care less how poor they were before, how many kids they have, etc. But jmo.

  • girlygirl

    Thank you Anastasia for this terrific, balanced recap. Makes me even more excited about seeing the show myself next week. I loved some of your imagery, especially in reference to Adam.

  • OutlandoGirl

    Anastasia: great review! You write very well!

    “No Melodies”: THAT had me cracking up!

  • AC

    *Unless you’re the be-sequined woman I mentioned – that was just overkill.

    haha, no, I was not at that concert, but that vest just made me rethink me wanting Adam to help Kris with his wardrobe. =)

    I also loved your description of the differences between Adam and Kris and how they can both pull you in. I’m getting giddy since I see them in a few days!

  • Sassycatz

    Yeah, I’m still on the fence with this one. I think Adam, Kris, and Allison deserve a place in the echelon of top AI talents of all time. And in that respect I think they helped make it an incredibly strong season. Some of the other guys, though, did not impress me (show or otherwise) as much as some of the previous years (especially last year, with Michael Johns and Carly Smithson being so strong, yet leaving so early).

    I think Season 7′s talent was deeper and that’s why everyone below Archie and Cook got three solos. (Ramielle was the only one who I felt was swallowed up by the stage.)

  • bowchickawowow

    Anastasia, what a wonderful way of expressing your enjoyment of this concert! I was already way beyond excited for my approaching concert date of July 23rd in Dallas, but you just raised that excitement out of the stratosphere for me! I CANNOT wait to see this group of talent perform! Thank you so much for your efforts and for putting so much thought into such aneloquent recap! I appreciate your generosity!

  • Mtlfan

    Thanks for the review Anastasia! It was fresh and appreciative!

  • Mtlfan

    Also your Kradam toughts are so spot on especially in my case for Kris!! For me he is soooo sexy musically!!

  • Mary102

    I think Season 7′s talent was deeper and that’s why everyone below Archie and Cook got three solos.

    Yeah, I think last year was deeper and a little more varied too. Of course, it didn’t help that this year was so male dominated. But I know people were commenting earlier about a lack of both diversity and variety in this year’s pool. The top 3 being 3 white dudes kind of says it all (though of course their styles are very different).

    IDK, this is all coming from someone who wasn’t personally thrilled with the Top 36 format this year (meant that lucky people could coast by on one great performance and lots of favorable screen time, while those who need more room to grow were cut too early).

  • Anastasia72071

    Awwww. Thanks everyone for the compliments. I feel so loved! :lol_tb: :wub_tb:

    In retrospect, I want to add that the (non-Kradison, HA) ones who surprised me the most (in a good way) I think, were Matt, Anoop and Scott. On the show I was not at all impressed with Scott, I just couldn’t get ‘into’ Anoop and Matt’s pitch problems made me cringe. In person, however, these three were very good.

    All ten of them projected great energy and they all seemed to be having a great time up there; I didn’t sense any hesitation or nerves – which, after only two previous concerts, I think is amazing. As someone who has spent a little bit of time on stage – with bare midriff and cleavage, no less (bellydancing, people, bellydancing!), I can vouch for it being very nerve-wracking!

    For the record, I am officially dumbfounded that my recap came out anywhere near coherent. I edit while I write and then edit again, and then a couple more times, but it was nearly 4:30am when I emailed it to mj and by that time I could barely see straight. I had to get up at 7:30am for work. If I manage to not walk around the office like a zombie jacked up (or would that be down?) on Prozac today, it will be a friggin’ miracle.

  • Yss

    Love the pictures (Allison is such a rockstar!!! and that Kradison pic is awesome) Great review, I liked it, it was very fair and balanced. And your final thoughts on Kradam: Spot on!

  • will

    IDK, this is all coming from someone who wasn’t personally thrilled with the Top 36 format this year (meant that lucky people could coast by on one great performance and lots of favorable screen time, while those who need more room to grow were cut too early).

    Oh man, don’t get me started on that! It pissed me off so much that I almost boycotted the whole season. If they insist on keeping that format next season, I think I will abandon the show, it is just so unfair.

  • Qcloud9

    Anoop coolness factor XD

    http://twitpic.com/9ror3

  • washpd

    Thanks for the great recap. It’s good to hear that they are all doing so well, and that the crowds are really enjoying the show. I like Adam a lot, I love Allison, and I love Kris more than is probably appropriate, so it’s great to hear that Kradison really delivers in the show. I really wish for great success for all three of them.

    Based on so much of what I’ve read about Matt’s performance, I’m thinking he might be one who ends up getting a deal (even if not with 19) out of this tour. He really seems to be impressing everyone.

  • Mom in the Suburbs

    Anastasia, you are so awesome for sacrificing sleep for our reading pleasure! I esp. enjoyed your enthusiastic description of the Fierce One’s set. Now if only someone would post a FULL video of Whole Lotta Love from last night, so I can see the famous come-hither gesture. I’m obsessed, I admit it! :blush_tb:

  • SarahP

    great recap!!! i feel like i’ve been to the concert already (although i live half the world away) love your paragraph on adam and kris at the end. super choice of words and captured the essence of those two perfectly!

    my favourite (ya i’m biased..) was:

    Kris also has an intensity, but it draws you in quietly and you’re just ‘there’  in a warm, cozy little bubble; then you shake your head, look around and realize that more time has passed than you expected and you feel like he might have hypnotized you a little bit.

    kudos :clap_tb:

  • Sinochick

    Anastasia,

    Great review!!! I could never have been that coherent in my review. :)

    I was at the show last night and to be honest the first half of the show bored me. I kept comparing it to last year’s AI show I went to in Tacoma. I have to be honest, I`m not a fan of Michael, Megan, Scott and Lil so that is mainly why the first half of the show did not hold my attention.

    I was laughing so hard when Adam twirled that bra around before flinging it back off stage. It was soo funny! :) His dancing really impressed me as well.

    I went with a friend who was a Kris fan (not an Adam fan) and thought that after last night`s show I could convince her to switch over to Adam`s side. While she appreciated Adam`s amazing vocal range and showmanship, she still thought Kris was better. I didn`t notice any booing or anything when any of the Idols were performing but I did notice a few people leave after Adam`s set.

    GM Place is one of the best venues to stage a concert (the sound acoustics is VERY GOOD!!!). I noticed that Adam didn`t have to adjust his earpiece during his set (I had heard he fiddled with his earpiece in his other shows) – he sounded really good and his voice really filled the arena.

    Even Danny (who I really disliked during the tv show) sounded good at the concert. I even clapped and sang along to PYT and Maria Maria. I forget which song it was but during one of his songs the hole in the front of the stage opened up (where the piano comes up) and my friend said to me `I wonder if he`ll ever forget about that hole and fall into it.` LOL

    The stage production, lighting, and background visuals were ALOT better than season 7`s concert. And I am soo happy there weren`t any dancing poptarts in the crowd to pump us up!!! LOL

  • xdahlia

    They were saying NOOOOPP!! Not boo.
    Remember Reuben? Reuuuben!

  • Mary102

    Anoop coolness factor XD

    http://twitpic.com/9ror3

    That’s great! I still don’t quite get the glasses, but, somehow it doesn’t seem to matter as much when Anoop is wearing them.

    I forget which song it was but during one of his songs the hole in the front of the stage opened up (where the piano comes up) and my friend said to me `I wonder if he`ll ever forget about that hole and fall into it.` LOL

    LOL! I thought the same thing after watching the opening night vid! I wouldn’t be surprised if he forgot one night – that would be really bad, though, so I hope he stays safe :-)

    Good to hear about the improved sound. I really hope my venue sounds ok – that would suck if the sound was off, especially during Adam’s set (sounds like his softer songs suffered more than the rock ones when the sound was bad).

  • SarahP

    I went with a friend who was a Kris fan (not an Adam fan) and thought that after last night`s show I could convince her to switch over to Adam`s side.

    adam’s side??? kris’s side??? we should all be on KRADAM’S side LOL

  • unique28v

    great review!!

  • http://umbrellatoday.com Stormy

    Great recap and great pics, Anastasia! ITA with all the people who have expressed appreciation for your balanced and colorful commentary.

  • Q3

    Very nice recap — I almost feel like I was there. Thanks.

  • reillyjohnson

    Finally, a decent, fair, respectful, and well-written review. Some of the newspaper reviews I’ve seen read like they were written by a high school intern. I’m an Adam maniac, but felt bad seeing most of the other idols get some really mean reviews (Adam also got few). No reason you can’t tell it like it is in a decent, kind and encouraging way. Props to you!

  • jersey

    Thanks for the great recap!

  • carolinacharms

    Great recap.

  • carolinacharms

    Great recap.

  • unique28v

    Sounds like a fun time!! Great pics too!!

  • dusty

    Thank you, Anastasia, for transporting us to the concert with your review! It was wonderfully written, clever, and funny. I liked how you told us about the crowd around you, it added to the feeling of being there. And I envy your commute to the concert. :)

  • sarah_wino

    Nice job, Ana! You have probably convinced quite a few who were unsure to buy tickets for future shows – AI should have you on the payroll! :clap_tb:

  • LaurelG

    Thanks, Anastasia, for a lovely positive report.

  • kris4music

    Enjoyed reading your re-cap, Anastasia. Would you continue writing please? :clap_tb:

    Finally I realized why Kris Allen, the sweet devil, had me voted for him like mad, because he had hypnotized (using your word) me. What a wonderful feeling being hypnotized!
    :wub_tb:

  • catzmadam

    Excellent review Anastasia – a really detailed, funny, fair and enjoyable read…

    and especially this… lol. lol. lol. lol

    [I put my pen & paper down at this point. The Glittery Alien Prince from Planet Fierce, a.k.a. the Cosmic Alchemist, demands the full attention of his Minions. No multi-tasking allowed.]

    Many thanks – loved it!

  • isisdagmar

    Thanks for your fantastic review, Anastasia.

    I’m curious, if you don’t mind taking questions: I’ve been hearing a lot of people say that Starlight seems particularly emotional and alien–could you possibly talk about this, or just about your impressions of that particular song?

  • papercut

    Thank you for the nice review!

  • star

    Fantastic recap! It was hilarious (LOL at the sequin twins) and I felt like I was there. Definitely a good thing since I’m not able to go to the tour. Your Adam description was especially :wub_tb: . Thanks so much for taking the time to write this, Anastasia!

  • Anastasia72071

    star
    (LOL at the sequin twins)

    The funniest part about that is, they were not together! :laugh_tb:

  • Anastasia72071

    isisdagmar
    Thanks for your fantastic review, Anastasia.
    I’m curious, if you don’t mind taking questions: I’ve been hearing a lot of people say that Starlight seems particularly emotional and alien’“could you possibly talk about this, or just about your impressions of that particular song?

    Thanks and you’re very welcome! I have had a difficult time singling out anything as THE Moment of the whole show. Adam’s set as a whole was definitely my favourite part (which I don’t think should be of any particular surprise to anyone at this point, lol).

    I think that if I had to pick, “Starlight” was the highlight for me. I had never heard the song before Adam brought it up, so it was totally new territory for me. It was emotional, and when I wrote that his voice is “otherworldly and crystal clear,” I was referring to this song in particular. The word ‘alien’ in the traditional sense does not fit, because his voice did not strike me (and never has) as ‘foreign’ or ‘unknown’ – it was more like a loving caress. Ethereal and thrilling, but familiar, sweet and sensual. It was as if that ball of white light that was flying around during WLL, drifted to a stop over your head and slowly melted down your body like warm scented oil.

    Of course, it could very well be that I have gone stark raving mad and have become lost in a labyrinth of cheesy metaphors, but if that’s true then someone needs to clone me, stat, so my doppleganger can take my place at the office and actually get some work done.

  • lizardino

    Thank you for another great and well-written review, from one Idol-tour virgin to another.

    I also thought it was a great concert and well worth the money I couldn’t really afford to spend for it. I had the same reaction to Kris that you did (and I am also a die-hard Adam fan). He really does have wonderful stage presence and a great deal of intensity–it really surprised me and pleased me as well. There is a reason Adam respects Kris as much as he does. And of course Allison is just a wild ball of energy with much richer vocals in person.

    Okay, it’s been less than 48 hours from Tacoma and I want to go again… I really didn’t get to spend nearly enough time on Planet Fierce with that glittery alien!

  • JOJOSIE

    Anastasia, belly-dancing must be your hobby as you report a day job. I tried it a little when I was younger for fun and exercise. Now I”m the senior poster (at 77, I think I am) and Tai Chi is more my speed. Loved your review, especially about our boy, Adam. Love. Love, Love him. I’m going to be in Kansas City for a meeting for work (I’m old but they still pay me to work a couple days a week) and the tour is there the night that we get there so I’m really thinking about trying to go. I hear tickets can be bought at a late date. The more I hear about the tour the more I want to go. Thanks again, you’ve really wetted my appetite for the glittery alien and his friends.

  • http://umbrellatoday.com Stormy

    I love Allison more and more, and I’m glad the crowds are showering her with the praise and cheers she didn’t get (enough of) on the show … I’ve been watching the vids of her from the tour and her strength and presence are amazing.

  • madefourbabies

    Anastasia and Lizardino, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed reading your AI concert experiences. I especially loved reading your passionate expressions and descriptions of Adam and his performances. I’m a 34 year old mother of four and feel like I have COMPLETELY lost my mind with how mesmerized I am by Adam. I’ve NEVER felt so passionately about or been so intrigued by a performer. My mother and children think I’m crazy for spending so much time searching for anything Adam. lol When trying to explain my fangirly behavior, I can only tell them that there is an unexplainable force that just draws me to him and that I really do believe that he is going to be THE NEXT BIG THING. It’s very comforting to find that there are so many others who have been captivated by Adam just as I have and that I’m not alone in feeling that I’ve completely lost my mind for becoming so fangirly at my age! :jittery_tb: I find it interesting that so many of Adam’s die hard fans are mature and accomplished women. It’s a beautiful thing and Adam is simply AMAZING!! :wub_tb:

  • http://twitter.com/cara_lee pj

    Thanks for the entertaining recap. Loved it. I also love Vancouver. Only was there for four days for a conference. Maybe one day I’ll be lucky enough to go back.

  • lola

    “I find it interesting that so many of Adam’s die hard fans are mature and accomplished women.’

    - I think Adam hit the right market in today’s economy. These women have money to spare for Adam concerts and coming CDs.

  • iluvai

    Anastasia and Lizardino, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed reading your AI concert experiences. I especially loved reading your passionate expressions and descriptions of Adam and his performances

    Madefourbabies:

    Me too.

    Only 3 kids here. hehe. We talk about Adam like he is a distant cousin. LOL.

    .

  • didilynn

    Of course, it could very well be that I have gone stark raving mad and have become lost in a labyrinth of cheesy metaphors, but if that’s true then someone needs to clone me, stat, so my doppleganger can take my place at the office and actually get some work done.

    Love this! I feel this way too. Also new for me – never had a “crush” on a celebrity/singer of any kind the way I feel about Adam. Yes, another captivated over 40 female here.

    Thanks for the great review – felt like I was there – I’m going to be sooo ready for my concert (this Saturday).

  • Anastasia72071

    sarah_wino
    Nice job, Ana! You have probably convinced quite a few who were unsure to buy tickets for future shows – AI should have you on the payroll!

    Thanks Sistah! Good idea, although I think I’d much rather be on Adam’s payroll. :tongue_wink_ee:

  • http://www.fatladysings.us TFLS

    Why can’t hetero men ever move this way?!? If they did, I might be able to forgive some of their B.S.

    Ha! Oh honey! You summed it up perfectly! Best line evah!! And what a wonderful review. Thanks. You made me feel like I was right there with you.

  • Grammie Kari

    I can’t imagine anyone getting boos, but especially not Anoop. He has a good fan base and I am sure everyone will be hearing the Nooooooop chant. I can’t figure out what’s up with the glasses? Does he normally wear contacts?

    Thanks for the review!

  • listen

    A little late to the party, but wanted to add my “thanks!” for a fun, informative and really well-written review….

    Love your imagery: “Adam is larger-than-life; his energy is like a Mexican jumping bean on speed” …and… “Adam pulls your emotions from you, concentrates them into a ball of pure white light and throws it back at you, and it takes your breath away. ”

    Thank you !!

  • idolislife

    hahaha i loved this review, well written and very witty AND 100% true. and your pictures of Adam make me hate him a little bit. It’s just not fair for any one man to be that beautiful….I am not worthy.