Top 10 Girls – Performance

By On 02/27/2008 · 92 Comments · In Uncategorized

“Let’s begin tonight with song selection,” says Ryan.

So, Ryan, Are you and the judges going to discuss how hard it is to get a song cleared? Or, the fact that the kids only have 50 songs to choose from, and, as rumor has it, they are more than likely not going to get their first choice, unless they are a favored-one?

No? Randy, Paula and Simon going to keep blaming the kids for their “poor song choices?” Well, alrighty then.

These songs TPTB picked for the kids? They suck. The horrible songs the kids have to choose from are really keeping the semis from being as entertaining and awe inspiring as they could be. And it’s NOT the kid’s fault.

The gang is calling Simon “Mr. Happy” now. How fitting.

Tonight, the girls’ performances of 70′s classics get mostly lukewarm responses from the judges. And, from Randy and Paula, we learn that the Glory Note is all that matters.

The video packages feature more fun facts to know and tell – Girl Power edition.

Carly Smithson à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Crazy On Youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  by Heart – Carly is no Anne Wilson, but she does a decent job with her classic song. Carly goes all rock n’ roll tonight in a tank top revealing the tattoos on her arms. No tongue bath from Randy and Paula tonight. Randy says, “It was good towards the end, sharp in the beginning. By the middle of the song you got it together.” Paula says, “You are an amazing singer, you did an amazing job.” Simon, “I thought it was a much better performance than last week. I still don’t think you’ve chosen that one song that’s going to give you the absolute moment. You are the girl they’ve all got to beat.” I’m not sure what Simon is waiting for. Carly is a good singer, but her vocals have yet to match the hype surrounding her talent. Frankly, I think we’ve seen everything we’re going to get from Carly. Fun Fact: Carly works as a bartender in an Irish Bar. She’s Suzy homemaker! She loves to clean and cook.

Syesha Mercado à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Me And Mrs. Jones” by Billy Paul – How awesome would it be if Syesha performed this song without the gender switch up? I’d vote for that. As it is, I appreciate Syesha’s restraint on “Me and Mr. Jones”. She’s chill during the verses, but then busts out on the chorus, but without over-doing the vocal gymnastics. The judges aren’t having it. It appears they only like Syesha when she’s screaming. Randy says, “I don’t think this was a great song choice for you. When you do those soft little verses, it goes nowhere for me.” Paula says, “The soft notes are where you tend to go off.” Simon says, “I thought it was a bit indulgent, it wasn’t written for a girl…I was put off as soon as you started.” Fun Fact: Syesha has done a lot of commercials in Miami. But then again, we knew that.

Brooke White à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re So Vainà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  by Carly Simon – Brooke plays guitar sitting on a stool, performing an entire verse without the band. Thankfully, once the band joins her, they don’t drown out her delicate vocals. Brooke is tricky. Can a contestant with a subtle approach make it in a competition where louder is better? I think Brooke brings something new to the Idol table, I hope she sticks around. Randy says, “It was a great song choice for you, I don’t know if you brought anything different to it.” Paula says, “It suits you, I like what you did with it. You brought familiarity, everyone was digging it.” Simon says, “I absolutely loved it. It was absolutely perfect for you, it connected, the song didn’t sound old fashioned.” Maybe Simon is flattered–Brooke appears to be singing the song straight at him. It’s all good. Simon’s vote of confidence could help to propel Brooke and her lovely vocals into the Top 12. Fun Fact: Brooke went to Beauty school. Half way through the program she started singing.

Ramiele Malubay à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t Leave Me This Wayà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  by Thelma Houston – Ryan chats with Ramiele about her hysterical crying during last week’s eliminations. She says, in her weird little squeaky voice, that she was upset because she lost both her roommate and her good friend Colton Berry. Her performance of “Don’t Leave Me This Way” lacks the original’s urgency, but I blame the arrangement that has her repeating the verse over again, without the opportunity to get all hot on the chorus. Some songs don’t withstand being edited down to 1:30. Randy says, “This was a little rough for me. It wasn’t my favorite choice for you…there were so many dope records in the 7o’s…for you to chose that song…” And I’m guessing most of those dope songs weren’t on the short list of 50. Paula garbles, “Ramiele, you are one to beat here, your vocals are truly amazing. I feel kinda the same way…you powered through…the same notes…you didn’t get to perform your magic.” Simon says, “I agree with Paula…I thought you were much better last week, you showed more personality. This is one of those performances I’m not going to remember so well…I think you’re terrific, you are one of the Top 3 singers in this competition, but it wasn’t one of your best.” Fun fact: Ramiele used to Polynesian dance as a child.

Kristy Lee Cook à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re No Goodà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  by Linda Ronstadt – Kristy is looking alive this week. Literally. Her illness last week must have really knocked her out, because tonight her eyes look lively and she’s working the stage. Too bad the song is so repetitive. The song goes nowhere. It’s frustrating trying to judge these singers based on performances of crappy songs that are crappily arranged. Randy says, “100% improvement over last week. I was looking for some break out moments…but I liked it.” Paula says, “You’re back, you’re back, you’re back.” Simon says, “It was a huge improvement. I don’t know what kind of singer you are. If you go down the country route…You have real potential.” Well, TPTB have picked out her box, Kristy better jump into it! She promises Simon she’ll bring the country next week. Fun Fact: Kristy is a tomboy. She loves getting dirty! But not like that…

Amanda Overmyer à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Carry On My Wayward Sonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  by Kansas – What the f**k happened to Amanda’s hair? She’s scaring me. OMG, please kill her stylist, she looks like a fright. And the song? It’s completely wrong for her vocal range. She’s really struggling in her lower register. When she belts, there’s a little improvement. She might have done better in a higher key. Oh well–it’s not as if the song is some kind of masterpiece of songwriting in the first place. Unfortunately, this performance is truly bad enough to end her Idol run, keeping her out of the Top 12. Randy says, “It wasn’t the right song choice for you. Too much melody, too many instrumental breaks…the verses were very pitchy.” Too much melody? What does that mean? Randy then suggests that Amanda hop back into her blues/rock box and never come out. Sadly, he may be right. Paula says, “You’ve got some moves, you can dance. Do what fits right and what feels right. You are brilliant, this was not the right song for you.” Simon says, “…In your film, you came over very natural, but your performance was contrived…I couldn’t wait for you to finish.” Fun Fact: Amanda is a bookworm. She likes biographies of Rock stars!

Alaina Whitaker à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Hopelessly Devoted To Youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  by Olivia Newton-John – If I never heard this song, from the “Grease” soundtrack, ever again, I’d be fine with that. This week’s theme has served to remind me of everything I hated about 70′s music. Having said that, Alaina does a pleasant, country take on the song, throwing in a few big, albeit pitchy, notes in the appropriate places. Randy says, AGAIN, “I don’t think it was the right song for you…it was pitchy.” So, Randy, which of the songs on that short list of 50 DO you think was right for Alaina?   Paula says, “I think you did a real good job. I forget how young you are and mature you are.” That’s Paula’s version of “OMG!11! You’re only 17!@!” Simon says, “I like you, my problem is that your grandmother prepared this for you. It was very old fashioned… it was all a bit pageanty. On a positive note…I think you’re one of the dark horses in this competition.” Fun Fact: Alaina doesn’t like the food on her plate to touch the other. How fascinating.

Alexandrea Lushington à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“If You Leave Me Nowà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  by Chicago – Alex could be the dark horse in this competition if TPTB would give her half a chance. As it is, they appear to have no use for her. She consistently chooses interesting songs to sing, and delivers the songs well. Tonight, she displays smooth vocals on this classic Chicago tune. I think it’s one of the best vocals of the night. But again, it’s a mid-tempo song without a big finish. You know, no glory note, no glory. Randy says, “It was so safe for you, you have mad vocal skills, you should never make safe choices.” Paula says, “I never heard a female take on that song, I’ve been impressed with you since day one.” Simon says, “I was a big fan of yours in the early days, I think you are struggling now…it was boring.” No wonder Alex feels like the underdog. Fun Fact: She was a poster child for the Atlanta Fire department. Here dad worked for them.

Kady Malloy à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Magic Manà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  by Heart – Oh man, what’s wrong Kady? She’s completely overpowered by bandzilla, and seems to be sleepwalking through the performance. Has she given up, knowing that she’s designated cannon fodder? Her pitch is all over the place tonight. Don’t give up Kady! Oh well, it’s too late. Kady is probably packing her bags as I write this. Randy says, “It just never found the pitch, you never settled on to the note. It didn’t work.” Paula says, “When you powered, you sounded great. You sing opera well.” Simon says, “I’m struggling as much as you’re struggling here. Everything you do on film is fantastic.” Did Simon actually admit that he’s never heard of “Magic Man”? Did he spend his teen years in a cave? Fun Fact: Kady sings Opera–In the bathroom!

Asiaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢h Epperson à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ All By Myself by Celine Dion – Simon calls “All by Myself” the ultimate Diva song. If that’s true, why can’t I get Eric Carmen’s decidedly subtle and tender version out of my head? Hm. Asia’h takes her shot at this song, and she misses the target. The arrangement is weird, she doesn’t take off with the vocals when expected, and when she does, she’s really off key. This performance is a hot mess. But, apparently, Asia’h isn’t feeling well. Randy says, “I know you’ve been sick…very difficult song to sing…Celine sang everything out of it…but I got to tell you…you did a really good job with that song.” Ok, Randy is totally blowing off the fact that she wrecked the song. Paula begins speaking in sign language, but then finally says, “It was great, you had problems in the low notes, but you know what? The ending brought it home…that’s what counts on this song.” Simon spoils the party, “…It is one of the diva songs of all time, and you have to be one heck of a singer to pull that off, and unfortunately, you’re not…you nearly did it, but you’re not that good a singer…the song was too big for you. In my opinion, it showed you up, I think it was a silly decision.” Fun Fact: Asia’h was a cheerleader. She loved it!

 
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  • http://www.myspace.com/swood1104 Sarah

    Well damn if Carly wasn’t half bad. She could work on the stage presence some, and her hair is still greasy/stringy looking, but her voice sounded pretty good. The SIL approves, and she’s a big Heart fan. :)

    How convenient that she got to sing her favorite. song. evah! too.

    Metta, if you’re reading, we’re all in chat now. :)

  • primeminister

    I’m trying to be objective, but I don’t really like Carly’s upper range (at least the first time she went into it). I keep thinking of Kelly C–and it’s Simon’s fault.

    I won’t be watching the show tonight, but I’ll probably check out the buzz-worthy performances later.

  • http://www.myspace.com/swood1104 Sarah

    I really liked Brooke. Great song for her, great performance. I really love her voice. She may be my overall favorite actually. I may have a female overall fave on this show – for the first time ever. Wow.

  • Tony

    I learned Amanda’s song from Guitar Hero! lol My friends got me hooked.

  • Pam

    I really liked Brooke’s performance also. So far, I think the girls are sounding much better tonight.

  • KrazeeK120

    I might vote for Alaina simply because she has the same weird habit that I do. Maybe we’re not so weird after all.

  • Nostradamas

    My God, I HATE theme nights!!

    How are 17 – 20 somethings supposed ot relate to 30 – 40 year old songs??

    I still maintain that IF they truly want to find an “artist” then they need to allow them to be who they truly ‘are’…..nt act as if they simply “fit the suit” and are playdough waiting to be molded.

    My favorite Amanda gave her worst performance tonight….along with most of the rest of the girls…..aaaarrrrggghhhhh…

  • http://www.myspace.com/swood1104 Sarah

    It really pains me to say this… but Brooke and Carly were the top 2 tonight.

    I think Alex is gone. Still deciding on the 2nd one.

  • http://steve-o-meter.com steve-o-meter

    Brooke and Carly were the ONLY girls that didn’t suck bigtime….

    I feel bad for Amanda….I think she might go bye bye….

    And WHAT is with Simon’s Hee Haw Hand? Hee Haw George Bailey you old building and loan manager you!

  • Lu

    I think the hands down absolute worst performance of the night was Amanda…. It was painful.

  • http://steve-o-meter.com steve-o-meter

    Lu….it was horrid, and I’m so sad about that because I really liked her…..

    sigh sigh sigh

    Sarah….I agree, I think Alex is going too

  • KrazeeK120

    Yeah…Amanda was really, really bad. I think Alexandrea will go home. And was it just me, or was Syesha very, very forgettable tonight? I think she may go. Amanda is at least memorable.

  • Lu

    Luà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.it was horrid, and Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m so sad about that because I really liked herà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦..

    I liked her too Steve-O… :(

  • dukesterathlete

    haha Tony- that was the first thing I said when it came on, “Her mom i know how to play this on GH”..anyways, I’m really disappointed in Amanda more than anyone else. She was my fav girl and she blew it again. I definitely think she is going this week b/c i’m pretty sure she was btm 3 last week.

    I feel bad for Carly because going first they have nothing to compare her to and always underrate him/her. But its pretty clear that she has the best vocals of all the girls, regardless of whether people give her crap or not (its is still a singing competition)

    amanda and kady (unfortunately) are my picks.

  • GeminiDolly

    My favorite tonight was Carly followed by Brooke. The worst IMO were Amanda, Syesha, and Kady.

  • jpfan

    Aside from Carly and Brooke (and probably Rami)I wouldn’t be surprised to see any two of them leave. Except for the horrible ones, the rest were unforgettable to meh. I couldn’t actually pick a bottom two. Although Amanda was the worst.

  • St.Lucia

    Wow, girlies, you blew tonight.

    What were some of the comments that the judges gave Amanda Overmyer? (Although I’m sure none were GOOD). I got a phone call during the comments and missed them. Thanks in advance!

    Dang and I LOVE that Kansas song, but she did badly. She was my only Indiana person I had faith in making the top 12 but that is slowly starting to dwindle.

    Really liked Brooke White.

    Didn’t entirely hate Carly, but I hated her because it was Carly and her tattoos distracted me. One of my favorite Heart songs though.

    Kady Malloy’s personality is really cute, too bad she sucks singing. She should do Opera! It might get her further! Or Britney.

    Wow, Kristy Lee Cook just flat out sucks. Period. No wonder the record deal thing didn’t pan out…

    I really thought Asia’h had a pretty undeserving pimp spot(much like Carly last week) but I still prefer her to Syesha. Was it just me, but did her outfit just make her look much heavier than she is? Which she isn’t heavy by ANY MEANS, but some of the wide camera angles made her look like she had one huge bottom and I though ooooh fire the stylist. (can also be said about Amanda Overmyer’s Safari inspired oufit).

    Boys OWNED this week. Sorry ladies.

    Kady and Alaina possibly going home? Although could be Amanda, or even AlexANDREA going home…. Who knows. THey all pretty much blew.

  • MOMster

    i hate when it’s so obvious so early who will be in the top 2 or 3. makes for a very long season. brooke is so likable and Carly so talented.

  • jbrad

    Amanda was by far the worst tonight. And Alex is just to smug. So these are my picks to go home. Luke and Jason will go home for the guys.

  • Nostradamas

    Come on Asia’H sucked worse than a Hoover…and Kady? What? (to steal Randy’s favorite word)

    Bunch of sucktastic crap tonite to pick from….

  • St.Lucia

    Agree that Amanda was the worst, but I’ll remember her BAD to the forgettable any day, like Kady Malloy and Kristy Lee Cook and sometimes BAD is better than forgettable, because BAD will make fanbases vote.

    I really like Amanda, I do, but man, she just doesn’t work as an Idol. She needs a band.

  • Tracy

    Carly wasn’t bad, but Brooke was the only one I liked tonight. The rest were pretty awful or boring.

  • http://steve-o-meter.com steve-o-meter

    And was it just me, or was Syesha very, very forgettable tonight? I think she may go. Amanda is at least memorable.

    This is actually a VERY good point….I didn’t even remember that Syesha EXISTED till I saw the final montage phone number thing….

  • jpfan

    I hate to say it but Melinda or Lakesha from last year would have blown all but one of the girls off the stage tonight.

  • itsalleternal

    I agree Amanda is better in a band, even if she is my overall favorite she wasn’t good tonight.

    I’d say Alex and Kady to go home though.

  • daisy

    blech, I hate these theme weeks, poor song selections
    Amanda, the striped hair, the outfit, the song, the vocal, awful, I cringed for her, girl- find a decent band and do your thing elsewhere

    The blue dress and Kady’s song, felt I watching a Miss Junior Miss pageant, really really trite, give her a sash and a tiara and crown her prom queenn already, lol
    Did not like Asia’h at all tonight, that is a great great song and Simon is right, she is a weak singer and cannot do the song justice

    disappointed in the girls in general, can barely remember their names wk to wk, and the stylists this wk, horrendous, the shorts outfit on Alex, hated most of it
    Hoping this season still has a surprise or two, already looking a bit predictable to me

  • longsong

    Wow – I’m surprised to find that most people here are liking the same two I’m liking – Carly and Brooke. Who knew?

    Re: Amanda, Paula was once again lucid (dang!) and right: the show NEEDS Amanda.

  • gochiefs

    This is tough…. I keep juggling the middle ones around….so I’ll just put them in a bunch….:)
    1 Brooke
    2 Ramiele
    3 Carly
    4 Asia’h
    5-6 Syesha, KristyLee
    7-8 Alex, Alaina
    9 Kady
    12 Amanda……..

    I think the last two will go…. (Alaina may go before Kady)

  • jbrad

    I thought the show needed Amanda, too. But tonight she proved me wrong. What made her where her hair like that, and that outfit? She looked like a hooker. And a cheap one at that. But the biggest disappointment of all has been her vocals, both last week and tonight. Just awful. And even though Brooke was pretty good tonight, there is just something about her I can’t get into. Can’t quite put my finger on what it is, but it’s there. My favorite is still Asia’h. I know tonight wasn’t her best, but I will still be rooting for her.

  • http://myspace.com/saltwatercures pj

    Brooke was too smiley for the song, but I enjoyed her vocals and half-a$$ playing of the guitar. I’ll throw her a few votes.

    I’m mostly voting for Alex. I really like her. Call me crazy!

    ETA: I don’t really think Brooke conveyed the message of the song. She’s supposed to be angry. I still like her, but I can’t rip down little David for the same thing on “Imagine” without doing the same for her. I didn’t record it, so I’ll have to review it online to make sure I feel the same on further viewing.

  • gochiefs

    the show NEEDS Amanda.

    ?????
    She has shown little these two weeks…. There are plenty of “rockers” on the guys side…. She doesn’t seem to really want to be there anyway….

  • longsong

    Oh. Okay. I guess the show DOESN’T need Amanda. Never mind.

    I actually don’t care one way or the other. I liked her personality, but she seems to have lost even that.

    The show needs her as she WAS. Better?

  • idolbeat

    pj,
    i’m with you.
    i love Alex! she was not bad! voting like crazy

  • ealbino

    It seemed to me like Amanda doesn’t want to be there..like she couldn’t give a crap how she looked or sounded…could she want out? Not one of the girls moved me :-(

  • Sunny D

    Amanda is now up at VFTW as their pick

  • http://idolstages.com Connie D.

    I’m not getting Brooke yet, but it was not a bad performance.

    Carly was very good.

    Amanda’s dancing was awesome, and I didn’t get that her song was as bad as everyone is making it out to be. She had some good moments.

    Ramiele Malubay is just too beautiful and awesome to be ignored. I’m not getting her clothing style yet, though.

    Kady is a very good singer. I wish they could pick a current song to perform. Cute outfit/dress/leggings.

    What happened to Asia’h? She had some good moments, but I was overall disappointed. I think these kids are suffering from sleep deprivation… or something.

  • judy

    Worst performances tonight or maybe ever on AI – Kady and Amanda. Holy cow, they were terrible. I don’t think they sang more than half the notes on key. This is painful tonight.

    Go David H.!!

  • http://kmantoniva.blogspot.com/ KristiVA

    I thought the girls were MUCH better than the duds…er..dudes!

  • thesheriff

    Man, the women blew tonight. I thought Amanda really did bad, but I still like her personality. I liked Your so Vain, but I don’t like the girl for some reason. And, I actually thought Mr Jones wasn’t half bad. All by Myself…wow, what a poor choice for her. I liked her last week…agree totally with Simon. I soooo don’t know their names…

  • thesheriff

    ConnieD, I agree with you and Paula…Amanda’s got moves!

  • LoveU

    Brooke is my new BFF.

    Ramie is my favorite vocalist. I could see why she chose that song–slow intro which she kicked tail on, then upbeat so she wouldn’t get hit with a “change it up” comment from the judges.

    Carly wasn’t bad, although I personally don’t like that band (I know, I’m one of the few).

    Amanda reminded me of Phyllis Diller. (Remember “Mad Monster Party”?”) Simply awful. I mean, really, really bad.

    Alaina needs to be put out of her misery. That was way off. Kady chose a bad song for her, and frankly, her attitude bothers me, with the comments about Simon. Those two seem interchangeable to me.

    Alex–you are not out and about in Hotlanta, girl; you are on national television. Wear something better. But props for choosing a Chicago song. She struggled with it, but I think it’s the first time a Chicago song has been done on AI, so at least it was different.

    Syesha–yay! The scarf was in her hair and not around her neck for a change. What song did she sing?

    Asia’h–was she singing it for her Dad? She seemed to me like she was about to cry.

    Kristy Lee was way improved and I agree with Simon, she would do well singing country. Goes with all the horsey/fishing/camping/outdoorsy/tomboy/I can wear a dress stuff.

    Most improved performance award goes to Paula Abdul.

  • gabam

    I had never heard the songs Carly and Amanda sang before tonight. I did not like either song. I did not like either performance.

    The girls were pretty bad tonight, IMO. I thought Brooke was the best of the lot.

    It’s pretty nice not having to worry about voting this season. No one has inspired me to pick up the phone and dial. I don’t care who leaves. Some deserve to stay more than others but I’m still on Team Indifference. My membership is still in good standing from last season.

  • http://www.xanga.com/werwanderflugen Preston

    The guys were MILES ahead of the girls this week; I would consider at least 3-5 of the guys better than any of the girls tonight.

    For me, Brooke, Carly, and Alexandrea were the best of the night. It’s a shame Alex will be so vulnerable.

    I enjoyed Syesha tonight… I actually thought it was a good song choice. The judges hit the nail on the head though– when she sings softly, she loses any sense of core in her sound and she exhibits less control as her “real” voice. She does have an outstanding persona/look to her, though, and I think she’ll probably last through at least the top ten.

    Amanda and Kady were easily the worst. Kady’s performances really disturb me– I’m not really a fan, but I can tell that she truly has an amazing voice in there somewhere. Her song choices have flat-out SUCKED.

    Asia’h, Alaina, Ramiele, and Kristy Lee are stuck in the middle group. Asia’h-of-the-pimp-spot and Ramiele-of-the-young-fan-base are probably safe, but the other two should be worried. (btw– Ramiele PALED in comparison to Vonzell’s version three seasons ago: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pxjqjG1tKfE )

    If I could choose one to go home, I’d probably vote to send away Kristy Lee. I think she has the least talent of all the girls remaining, which is a shame, considering how beautiful she is. I don’t know who else I’d like to see go; I feel like most of the rest have a TON of unlived potential.

  • http://www.myspace.com/gundomom CarieB

    OMG, my Mom and one of my Aunts are going to join MJ’s blog. Might have to be careful what I say! Nah!

  • JNM

    I sort of liked Carly. First time I’ve liked her. I think she might just come up with a kick-ass performance later in the competition. Wouldn’t vote for her. Don’t want her to win. But, I was impressed by her voice tonight.

    I loved Brooke. Just really natural and cool both on stage and off. Am interested to see what she does next.

    Overall–the girls really bit it tonight. I would sure like to see the blondies (sans Brooke of course) go away. So very boring.

    Interesting how we’re not hearing BEST TALENT EVAH about a thousand times a night. Gee, wonder why?

    Bleh! I sure hope the kids improve a LOT over the season.

  • LoveU

    Having read the song choice discussion on another part of the blog, does anyone think Ramie encountered that kind of trouble tonight? Ryan made mention of that being her 4th song choice….so maybe her first three choices were vetoed by TPTB?
    I bet they freaked out after she blew it out of the water last week.

  • lg

    None of those girls could top Carly tonight. She pretty much nailed Crazy on You.

    What was up with Amanda tonite? Her voice just isn’t cut out for the original version of Carry on My Wayward Son. I think she should’ve changed it up, made it a little slower and bluesier…if only she had.

    Alex is sooo much better than that elevator music Chicago song, I agree with idolbeat in the spoiler thread….girl coulda torn up some Aretha Rock Steady! But alas, I doubt it was on the list.

    The short song list and the selection process is grossly unfair and crosses the line. Especially when one hears Simon make the comment to one of the guys, something like “out of all the great songs from this era, you choose a boring song like that” Grrrrrr!!!!!

    Am I the only one who thinks the band seems off this year? Ricky M is one of the greatest but I’ve heard him do better. And the lead guitarist should break out more and stop being so generic…I just know he can do better! :)

  • t2

    Which girls deserve a vote this week? Carly/Brooke

    Who sounded good on a bad song choice? Alaina

    Who did O.K.? Ramiele

    Who do I like that absolutely crashed and burned? Asia’h, Kady

    Who do I not understand what happened to them? Amanda…sniff

    Who was downright awful? SyNosha, Kristy Lee (two note song) Cooke!, and Alex (sniff again — CHICAGO?)

    All I can think is that Nigel asked the song fairy to visit the girls this week because something was not right in Idol-Land tonight.

    Send home 4 girls and give the boys a do-over

  • Nostradamas

    OK, I just went over to Rickey’s and listened to Amanda’s performance 4-5 times to see if my initial disappointment was warranted….it was obviously her worst to date, but not as bad as I first felt.

    What I saw was a girl who’s voice, singing these kinds of rock songs, took it’s toll on her after probably 4-5 times thru during practice….her voice sounded shot….but was more in tune than I first thought.

    That being said, more than half the girls tonite were every bit as bad or worse…..Kady, Kady, Kady…damn girl, I had higher expectations from her…..and Asia’H wiffed on half the notes…

    I truly believe Pauler is right though, if not for Amanda, the rest of the crowd, save maybe Brooke, are ALL forgettable and similar…..I have to look up their names to remember them….

    Between VFTW and Rickey, Amanda will hopefully bring it next week….

  • http://www.myspace.com/swood1104 Sarah

    Okay, I got some rankings:

    First let me say this: the word is OUT about how this song choices stuff is going down, judges. So I’m really annoyed at hearing all this shiz about “picking the wrong songs” blah blah blah, when they don’t even have the final say. FIND A NEW CRITIQUE.

    Now, onto the rankings.

    1. Brooke – I know I keep saying this, but I have to re-emphasize – I have never had a female overall favorite on AI before. This may be the year, and if it is, Brooke is the person. I LOVE her voice. This was a great song choice for her, and while she didn’t have the bite that Carly Simon’s original does, she still performed it well. Good use of the guitar, great song choice, great performance.
    2. Carly – As much as I hate to admit it, Carly sounded great tonight. Just giving props where they are due. I do understand what Simon is saying (he wants a “moment” like Fantasia doing “Summertime”), but I thought this was a very good week for her. Seems like she’s starting to show her real potential.

    (big gap)

    These are all pretty interchangeable:

    3. Syesha – I appreciate that she showed she can do a subtle and nuanced performance. I was appreciative that she did not scream a whole song (Randy’s critique of that reminded me of last year when he kept telling Chris Rich to put runs back in the song when they were. not. needed. Or telling Blake to always keep the beatboxing as part of his thing one week, and then the next week that he didn’t need to beatbox on every song. Make a decision, dude.). That said… I forgot about her by the end of the night and only remembered upon playback for the voting numbers. Not good.
    4. Ramiele – Song was a bit too big for her, and she struggled quite a bit on the chorus, but overall it wasn’t bad. Better on playback.
    5. Kristy Lee – Better on playback. Still not convinced that she can do a great job with anything but “Amazing Grace” though.
    6. Alaina – Song choice was dismal, but I thought she sang it very well. I’ll be spending a few minutes voting for her after I post this. I like her.
    7. Asia’h – Song was waaay too big for her, but I thought Simon was being extra harsh with his “you’re not a great singer” remark. I like Asia’h a lot. Kind of redeemed herself at the end, but that is not ALL that matters, Randy. *rollseyes*
    8. Alexandrea – Boring, forgettable. I love love her voice, but these songs are not helping her case.

    (HUGE gap)

    9. Kady – Yeouch. I know the girl can sing, but it looks like she needs to go back to either doing Britney impressions or singing opera. Pop doesn’t seem to be her thang, yo.
    10. Amanda – I really had high hopes for her with this song choice, but this was truly dismal.

  • KrazeeK120

    I wonder who out of the bunch got shafted on their song choice this week…

  • JNM

    Oh and another thing. Dean. Yeah you mister hairstyle master. What the hell were you thinking when you designed the fright wig that was Amanda’s hair tonight? I was counting on you to fix that rat’s nest, not accentuate it. Man that was just all kinds of brutal.

  • bean99

    I thought Carly was the best tonight and Brooke sounded good for the first time for me. Unlike the judges I liked Syesha and Asia’h. Ramiele continues to be one of my favorites because she’s just so cute with a big voice. I’m not sure who will go but Kristy, Kady, and Amanda were the worst tonight. Girls night disappointed and I continue to think the guys did better.

  • abbysee

    You know this song choice thing is getting to me. If they have so few choices how can they go back and forth before making a final choice? I don’t understand it.

    Carly was good, I also like Ramiele, Asiah, and Syesha, I think she has a radiant smile and presence, and that will get her to the top 12. I can’t see Brooke getting past all of the hurdles that this show will throw at her. She doesn’t have the creativity of Blake that will allow her to overcome the power singers that will inevitably be her competition. That said she is the best of the lot of the blonds. Didn’t realize there were so many or that they were truly pretty much interchangeable, with Kady being the worst of the lot. I hope Amanda hangs in there. I really am not totally sold on her, but I do remember her name, therefore she must stay. I also like Alex, I think she was given a bad rap this week and last week. That girls shows such creativity in her vocals that is really being missed. I also don’t like that they are trying to pigeonhole Ramiele. She did a good job and her ability is really remarkable that she does it without seeming to pop a vocal cord when going for the power note.

    Alaina and Kady should pack their bags. If not this week for both of them, next week for sure. If I voted early I would be voting for Alex and Amanda, they add some relevance and spark to this lackluster group.

  • Chicago-sally

    Listening to the girls on Rickey.org and they all sound pitchy and don’t have any energy. Asia was sick, but tried to fight through it. The others were just “blah”….and to think this is the “best” EVAH! Maybe it’s nerves; you think?

  • KrazeeK120

    To DNM…I think Dean was the one who got fired…am I wrong? Someone?

  • PrplDva

    Tony
    Feb 27th, 2008 at 8:48 pm
    I learned Amandaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s song from Guitar Hero! lol My friends got me hooked.

    ACCK! When did I get old! Crap!

    LoveU
    Feb 27th, 2008 at 10:32 pm
    Amanda reminded me of Phyllis Diller. (Remember à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Mad Monster Partyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ?à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ )

    Ok-really old- I even remember what she called her husband…..

    Very mad at myself for liking Carly tonight. None of the other performances were all that. Very dissappointed in Amanda and Alex. Love Ramieles voice, but horrid song choice for her.

  • cricket

    Amanda’s performance tonight ?? Think Cruella DeVille !

  • JustSomeGuy

    Man if Kady goes, I’ll be so disappointed. But that was just plain awful tonight. Too bad cuz I think there is a magical voice there somewhere.

    Really liked Syesha. Thought that was an artfully restrained version of “Mr. Jones,” yet the judges complain because she didn’t over sing. Go figure.

    Brooke’s performance and Simon’s reaction was the highlight of the show.

  • Sparkles

    1. Brooke – I know I keep saying this, but I have to re-emphasize – I have never had a female overall favorite on AI before. This may be the year, and if it is, Brooke is the person.

    I’m with ya (except for last season because I liked Melinda). I think Brooke can sell CDs too, unlike some of the other (interchangeable) blondes.

  • later

    I think Brooke was the best of the show tonight. The next 3 for me are Syesha..Ramiele…and Kristy Lee. My bottom 3 would be Amanda….Alex…and Kady..all of them were off key and struggling with their songs.

  • Kirsten

    General Comments
    —————-
    1. I cannot believe they went with the song selection question to open up the show. Stuff it, AI!

    2. I see Simon still doing that half a moose antler thing with his hand. Is he hoping it will catch on? Here’s hoping he knocks it off. He looks STUPID.

    3. Could they please stop harping on song choice? They commented on song choice for each and every singer. Give them better songs to pick from!

    Performance Comments
    ——————–

    1. Carly – “Crazy On You” (Heart – 1976) Trying to humanize her in the intro. Started out well. I was going to say that this was the first time I liked her, but then she went into her upper register and it got very unpleasent. Was it just me or did the song last forever? I will say it’s the best she’s ever looked. Good job new hair person and whoever found that outfit. Nice job pimping the TCO, Simon. Apparently, her only problem is song choice, voters!

    2. Syesha – “Me and Mr. Jones” (Billy Paul – 1972) We knew she did commercials, but that baby crying was new. And kind of creepy. When she’s not belting a note, she goes flat at the end of a phrase. Sometimes, when she’s belting, she goes sharp. It was a pretty song, but not quite as grooving as I’d hoped. She looks great. Randy tells her to get back into her box. Simon’s criticism about changing gender in the song is stupid. Tell it to Amy Winehouse.

    3. Brooke – “You’re so Vain” (Carly Simon – 1972) Beauty School Drop-out! Grease shout-out! Kind of lacking the ironic-sass of the original. See, this is the problem I have with this. It’s actually a pretty good job, but she’s so much like Carly that she seems like a Carly impersonator. This song is too perfect for her. I would have liked to have seen her be more original. Take another song and give it her “Carly” twist. If Brooke was cannon fodder and had done that song, it would have been called karoake by the judges. Wow. Simon is so vain.

    4. Ramiele à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t Leave Me This Wayà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  (Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes – 1975; Thelma Houston – 1977) Hula dancing! Just like Sanjaya! Don’t tap your mic. I hate mic tapping. Not enough energy for this song. Got a little shouty. I still like her.

    5. Kristy – à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re No Goodà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  (Betty Everett – 1963; Linda Ronstadt – 1975) We already know she rides barrel horses and kick boxes. Why would be surprised to find out she was a tomboy? Did they stick mainly to the long shots so we wouldn’t see the crazy things she does with her eyes? That was boring. Better than last week. But boring. Judges over-praised. Why was she on anti-biotics if she had the flu? She had a virus (insert PSA about the over-prescription of antibiotics)

    6. Amanda – à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Carry On My Wayward Sonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  (Kansas – 1976) – Wow! Another nerdy rocker. What will Simon say? I think it’s great that she reads. What’s not great is that hair. She looks like a lion. She never seems to get on top of that song and there were a few bad notes. Okay. So Simon thinks books are rockin’ but crosswords are not. Randy wants her back in her box.

    7. Alaina à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Hopelessly Devoted To Youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  (Olivia Newton-John – 1978) – Her surprise is that she’s OCD about food. On the one hand, she hit a lot of bad notes. On the other hand, she at least seemed to connect to the song and added some layers.

    8. Alexandrea à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“If You Leave Me Nowà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  (Chicago – 1976) – Is she sick? She seems to be lacking power. So much less energy than last week. And there were some really bad notes. Simon is an idiot. Does he work in the music biz or is he just pretending? He claims the song has never been covered? Wiki says that there have been 100 covers of that song.

    9. Kady à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Magic Manà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  (Heart – 1976) – We get to see the Idol bathroom. This performance is horrible. She sounded okay with the opera. What’s up with this? She’s murdering this song. Book her Dan-o. I hate to beat a dead horse, but bad song choice for her. Simon has never heard this song before? I’m not finding him very authentic. Okay, Simon, so you’re a musical moron. Why don’t you grab the list of choices from Nigel and do some research next week so you don’t look so clueless.

    10. Asiaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢h à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ “All By Myself” (Eric Carmen – 1975) – Didn’t she just say you needed to have personality on stage? Ouch on the glory note. Yikes. Oh, that was awful. Limp. Off-key. Dire. Randy is whacked. It was not good. Nice of Ryan to mention she was sick.

    Best of the Night: Brooke, Alaina, Syesha (though, nobody blew me away tonight)
    Worst of the Night: Kady, Aisa’h, Alexandrea

    Who Should Go Home: Kady and Aisa’h
    Who Will Go Home: Kady and…um…Kristy?

  • Kirsten

    To DNMà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦I think Dean was the one who got firedà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦am I wrong? Someone?

    Yes, milajoy said he got fired last year for giving spoilers to Ricky.

    So, we have a brand new hair guy to blame for Amanda’s hideous hair. At least he’s got her using a conditioner.

  • JNM

    I’m so out of the loop. But I’m happy that was not Dean’s doing. Time to fire the new hair “designer”.

  • hwc

    I don’t think I’ve ever been as frightened as I was during Amanda’s “performance”. She is one scary woman. I was hiding behind the sofa.

    Here’s something to ponder. Idol cut the stage lights during her big dance break in the middle of the song. I’ve never seen them go dark during a song. One can only imagine how frightening that sequence must have been that FOX wouldn’t even show it. Wow.

    And, what about Kristy. For such a gorgeous girl, her overall presentation is about as sexy as a dog urinating on a fire hydrant. Her “dance moves” are beyond robotic. It’s really quite remarkable to grasph how hard such a pretty young thing must have to work to be that sexless in a performance. Yeow.

  • wendy

    it looks to me like there is the subtle (not?) shift into “ok, this is what you get to sing, this is how we want to fix your hair, and remember, WE KNOW what works”.
    And the whole spark starts going down the drain. If they are young enough (WOW, YOU ARE ONLY 16), it is far easier to shape the whole image. I am hoping Ramiele can live up to.. to.. I think I saw something good there. Jason C has a speck of interest for me, but mostly for local boy label.
    I miss some solid snark. I miss some Gray Hair. I miss the spirit.

  • http://steve-o-meter.com steve-o-meter

    Kirsten said:

    About Carly

    Was it just me or did the song last forever?

    I really noticed this too! I thought to myself….did they give her more time than anyone else or something?

    About Brooke

    If Brooke was cannon fodder and had done that song, it would have been called karoake by the judges.

    I thought the same thing…and Brooke is my fav female this year.

    About Ramiele

    Hula dancing! Just like Sanjaya! Donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t tap your mic. I hate mic tapping. Not enough energy for this song. Got a little shouty. I still like her.

    My big problem with her ish her eshes. She’sh a little more shutle about it than Fantashia wash, but shtill, drivesh me freaking nutsh.

    About Kady

    Simon has never heard this song before? Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m not finding him very authentic. Okay, Simon, so youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re a musical moron.

    That cracked me up….WHO hasn’t heard ‘Magic Man’? pfffftttttt

  • jersey

    HWC! That is all.

  • primeminister

    I miss some Gray Hair. I miss the spirit

    Me too, wendy, me too. No more Takin’ it to the Streets craziness in the semi-finals!

  • t2

    Was Nigel standing backstage with a taser gun? That had to be the oddest Idol show I can ever remember.

    Did they decide to give all of the girls songs that showed their vocal flaws? Amanda has no grasp of melody, Kady can’t hit low notes, Alex can’t sing a song straight up, Syesha has no soft side, Ramiele can’t dance and Kristi Lee can’t sing anything but Amazing Grace. And no one should ever be forced to sing Hopelessly Devoted to You (shades of Carmen anyone?)

    Did they reread the contestants their rights…uhhhh…go over the parts of the contract that talk about suing the contestants within an inch of their life if they give away any “backstage secrets”?

  • ParticleHustler

    Well, Amanda exceeded every expectation I had for her when I saw the song choice. Yes, she’s genuine and something this competition needs, but what we really need is a legit bluesy singer, not a Janis Joplin imitator. That’s all she is – she has absolutely NO vocal ability outside of imitating Janis Joplin. The judges put her in because she is a “rocker” and that’s it. But outside of that, she’s no different from a Cher impersonator who can’t sing when she’s not Cher. I feel bad for her, because she’s beyond overmatched. That was hands-down the worst AI performance of all time.

  • rher

    I agree that Amanda’s performance was probably the worst ever on AI. Boy was that painful to listen to. I missed the dancing, but my 11 year old son said it was awesome. Now I got to go back and see it for myself!

    When Alexandrea finished her performance, she did not look happy. I wonder if this is another case of the song being chosen for her? I hope she stays because she seems like she has a lot of raw talent. Same with Kady. What a poor song choice for her. I never liked that song, and done poorly it just made it worse.

    Syesha gained some points with me with her background story. I kind of liked her performance, too.

    I didn’t get all the praise for Brooke. To me, it was very average. Kristy – ugh, the awkwardness on stage. It was really bad. The singing was very average too.

    I didn’t know that Eric Carmen was a diva. Hmm, Simon, did you know that a man sang the song first?

  • calimari

    1. Carly – à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Crazy On Youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – This is the first time I’ve liked her at all. She is “the chosen one” on the female side & AI has been pimping her quite a bit. But she delivered on this song, for the most part. They gave her a lot of time – pretty long version.
    2. Syesha – à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Me and Mr. Jonesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – that baby cry was creepy. I think she’s very pretty & has a good voice. I think the judges were harsh on her & she wasn’t that bad.
    3. Brooke – à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re so Vainà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – She is kind of my early favorite this year because I like her indy/folk singer vibe. She won’t win of course, but I’d like her to make the top 10. This song was perfect for her.
    4. Ramiele à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t Leave Me This Wayà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – she’s a very strong contender but I didn’t like this song as much as last week’s. She’s in it for a while.
    5. Kristy – à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re No Goodà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – Light years better than last week, but not as good as many of the girls from last year. For a professional, it was just OK. She is a middle-of-the-pack girl.
    6. Amanda – à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Carry On My Wayward Sonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – she is the Sundance Head of this season. Peaked in the audition/hollywood rounds. She’s cool, I liked her, but she’s bombing on the weekly performances. The hair was awful. She needs to be a front person for a band – not an individual performer. I thought she’d make the top 10 but now I’m not so sure.
    7. Alaina à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Hopelessly Devoted To Youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – She’s one of the many interchangeable blonds on the show this year, and therefore forgettable. It was bad, and it’s a pretty easy song compared to some of the others.
    8. Alexandrea à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“If You Leave Me Nowà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – someone burn that outfit. I liked her much better last week with Spinning Wheel. This week, well, she wasn’t off key awful, but it wasn’t anything great.
    9. Kady à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Magic Manà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – Does Simon live under a rock to not know this song? Not a good song for her – she couldn’t get anywhere near the performance level to do this song justice. Buh-bye.
    10. Asiaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢h à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“All By Myselfà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – She is good, but this was not her best. If she was sick like Ryan said, then she should be given a break like many of the other ones last week were when they were sick.

  • Nostradamas

    But yet….no-one gives Amanda a break for obviously having the same illness…..but is above using any excuses (love her attitude)….unlike the 11 padgent queens she’s surrounded with.

    Amanda’s performance was far from the worst EVAR on AI…hell, Kady, Asia’h, etc… took that title.

    Seriously, I can’t imagine the level of suck the tour will have this year without Amanda…squeeky voiced IBW’s and little prepubecent boyz….

  • beachn

    I am not a Carly or David A fan but I must admit those two stand out way ahead of the others IMO. While the others bounce around from good to bad these two remain consistent in their performances. I expect that from them week after week. I am without doubt that David A will be in the Final 2 !! It should be with Carly but I remain curious if America will put her there !!

  • idolwatcher

    I missed Carly’s performance but unfortunately was able to see the rest of the girls last night. Found myself getting bored and fast forwarding a lot. I still can’t get the blond girls straight. As much as I get tired of the young ones I have to say that David A. is the only one grabbing my attention right now. I think I could not watch the next few shows and not miss anything.

  • LoveU

    It’s a real shame if Brooke doesn’t get respect/credit/attention/fans because she’s not a big power singer. What the heck is wrong with that? Some of the biggest, most enduring names in the music business are not power singers. James Taylor, Willie Nelson, Billy Joel, Jimmy Buffett….OK, these are all guys. Someone help me out with some women.

    I love Brooke because she seems to have a genuine joy to her that she brings to her performances. Of course, some people will hate that.

  • Ladybug

    I never got in a comment on boys top 10, and I hear the wailing now from those who missed me….wait. I think that’s crickets.

    Will make a general impression of the week.

    Once again, Simon the Unfathomable. Last week it was the white sidewall hairdo (still there, but up for a fresh wash and wax). Now it is the Half-a-Bullwinkle. What? (Randy, that FINALLY fits!). Is it a signal to cartoon characters world-wide?

    Paula went off the medical mental charts officially Tuesday night. Yeah. I want one of those decapitated David A. mirror thingy’s too. Is that a reverse bobble-head or something?

    And, in the trifecta of judges, Randy continues to bore and use the same phraseology from, I suppose, the 70′s? (Also the 80′s, 90′s and 00′s)

    The boys had a pretty good night in my view except for a few and I agree with those who liked David H and David A. Both had terrific nights.

    OK, so I will never be able to look at Robbie without wondering about the wig/no wig. Ever.

    I will say that Mr. Eye Candy, Luke, tackled a really difficult song and I thought he did pretty well.

    But, honestly, there are iconic 70′s singers who need to be left alone — Freddie, Steve Perry, Lou Gramm, Dennis DeYoung, and Paul Rodgers for starters. Just don’t go there.

    As to the ladies, it was one LOOOONGG night for me. Even my early fave, Ramiele SO disappointed me. Not THAT song!! Pleeeze! She is an awesome singer, though. I think maybe the best of the ladies.

    I do like the whole Brooke vibe and hope she sticks around. She has a calmness about her that I like, plus a good voice.

    Interchangeable blondes can all go. I don’t care. Not one was impressive beyond Brooke.

    The soul sisters are fine, but I didn’t much care for how they performed last night.

    Amanda. Oh Amanda. She flat skeered me! Let me add Steve Walsh to that 70′s singers group above. Her outfit was so beyond awful I cannot even get started.

    And let me say about the band. Their lead guitar player looks like my old postman. And he is so deadpan while he plays. But he shreds like Slash. Such a disconnect.

    The band occasionally borders on Bandzilla of years’ past, but all-in-all, I think they are doing well.

    Lastly, back to Simon. He knows NOTHING about music. He is almost stunning in his ignorance. Why doesn’t he just judge the singing and quit mucking around with the background/history of the songs since he knows SQUAT.

  • colette

    Just a question: These girls are the best singers they saw in their grand tour of all those cities?

    Not trying to rain on anyone’s parade here, but I’m stunned by how colorless, uninteresting and (in some cases) thoroughly pitchy the vocals were in this round.

    Is that they just want a guy this time? And a very cute, very young, squeaky-clean guy? Or Carly and no one else? I’m trying to figure this out, please enlighten me!

    Just a moment of comparison:

    Solidly talented girls in the top 10 in 2007: Jordin Sparks, Melinda Doolittle, Lakisha Jones, Gina Glockson

    in 2006 (which wasn’t the greatest for girls,but at least there were some distinct styles and personalities): Kellie Pickler, Katherine McPhee, Paris Bennett, Mandisa, Melinda McGee

    In 2005: Carrie Underwood, Vonzell Solomon, Nadia Turner, Mikalah Gordon

    What’s going on???

  • colette

    woops, I forgot Lisa Tucker in 2006 — maybe it was a great year for girls, especially by comparison!

  • lg

    Like Amanda, I used to love singing Carry on My Wayward Son, but I didn’t have a husky voice either. (no I came nowhere close to the power notes, but kept the melody :) It was really a bad move on her part, the verses should have been easy for her but she seemed out of sorts the entire time. Kinda like a deer in the headlights…or something. Maybe her hair skeered even her. LOL

    I do look forward to a better song from Amanda next week, that is if she stays.

  • Karen

    You know, so many girls were having trouble with pitch that maybe they couldn’t hear the band well. To us at home it was drowning them out but maybe the speakers weren’t aiming right at the singers. Or maybe it was a conspiracy!!

  • primeminister

    Brooks’s unique and I like that. To me, Brooke is for the girls who Jason C. is for the guys.

  • hcpoirot

    In order to made it more interesting, probably American idol had to think to adapt the X-Factor style.

    In X-Factor, each judge (they had 4 judges) mentoring 3 finalist. They picked the songs for the finalist and give them advice how to perform. And they had choreographer to teach the finalist how to act during the singing.

    So it will be more interesting cause the judges will pick songs suitable for the finalist voices and not crappy songs like now.

    And if the judges pick the wrong song, they are to balme and not the finalist. and the judges there will do anything trying for their apprentice to win the show.

    Now, with the 50 song choices each week in Idol, I had to said that X-Factor concept from UK are much better than Idol.

  • Rosalee

    As far as song choice goes –

    Randy made a big deal out of saying how that 70′s was his era and that there were so many good songs back then ….

    Well, first of all, like has been already said, the contestants’ song choices were very limited and they often didn’t get their first choice.

    Secondly, and more important:
    These kids did not grow up in the seventies like Randy, listening to this music. Even if they had a much larger song selection, they probably wouldn’t have been familiar with enough of the material to know what is best to choose.

  • colette

    RE: Song Choice

    Now that they’ve got the Beatles songbook to delve into, what are they going to pick?

    Maybe “Baby You Can Drive My Car”? How about “Polythene Pam”? Or “Don’t Pass Me By”? Or “Octopus Garden”?

    Mind you, I adore just about everything the Beatles every committed to vinyl! But with the weird 70s songs available to these kids, we might not hear too much A-List Beatles either.

    Some great ’70s tunes the were either not taken/or not on the approved list:

    “The Thrill is Gone”
    “You Can’t Always Get What You Want”
    “I Will Survive”
    “Your Song”
    “Because the Night”
    “Lean on Me”
    “Best of My Love”
    “Take It Easy”
    “Moon Dance”
    “Evil Ways”
    “Just the Way You Are”
    “Best of My Love”

    we could all go on and on…..

  • janerazor

    Carly was pretty good, though I was both distracted and amused by that jiggling up and down thing she was doing with her girls. I doubt she was trying to be all sexy doing it; it looked like the kind of thing she’ll be mortified by when she watches her performance.

    I’m sure that as Leslie Hunt watched Brooke Wednesday night, she was kicking herself for auditioning one year too early. I liked Brooke’s performance. After her audition, I was sure I was going to hate Brooke, but I kinda like her now.

    Asia’h should have just come out and sang two glory notes, because the rest of the song was just bad.

    I’m kind of grateful for Amanda. I usually have a soft spot for performances gone awry. But I must be getting bitchy in my old age, because, holy buckets, that was the worst thing I’ve ever seen on AI. And now I don’t have to stick up for her against a sea of hated-its.

    Somehow “Me and Mr. Jones” just didn’t carry much emotional impact. Seyesha managed to drain all the sexy angst from the song. Not changing the lyrics would have been a start. I’ve always thought that song would be awesome for a woman to cover.

    Overall, the girls ranged from upper meh to bleach-your-brain bad.

  • Karen

    I agree with MJ, Syesha should have just gone ahead and sung “Me and Mrs Jones”. Now THAT would have had ‘em talking today!

    As an underdog lover, I love Amanda. But she is just not right for American Idol. Remember, as bad as she was last night, it’s not the all-time worst Top 24 performance. That award went to Amy last week. I’m still wincing over that one.

  • ParticleHustler

    “Too much melody? What does that mean?”

    MJ, it means Amanda can’t sing.

  • Nostradamas

    Amanda can sing just fine….just not glory note pop drivel, as is expected on this show….

  • bean99

    Carly was pretty good, though I was both distracted and amused by that jiggling up and down thing she was doing with her girls.

    My hubby said the same thing, Janerazor. :laugh_tb:

  • ParticleHustler

    “Amanda can sing just fineà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.just not glory note pop drivel, as is expected on this showà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.”

    Sorry, but she has no voice, which was demonstrated again last night during the ensemble number. In fact, the only notes she can sing are Joplin-fied “glory notes” – anything else is absolutely horrendous. I’m talking about her singing voice, not the style of music. I don’t even listen to this kind of music outside of the show – mainly power pop and metal, so I know what a good rock singer sounds like. She’s not one, not even close. Being on this type of show just makes it all the more obvious.