American Idol 13 Studio Recordings Top 6
I’m disappointed that the contestants didn’t record each of their solo performances. I know it comes down to economics. But I think having only one available is a little confusing. Fans can’t find one, and assume the other isn’t available. The songs barely charted last week, even with a couple of buzzy performances.
For whatever it’s worth, here are my thoughts on the songs that were available this week. What did you think about the Top 6 Studio recordings?
Jena Irene – Rock: Heart’s “Barracuda” – Her vocal is strong, but she’s no Ann Wilson. And that’s the problem with singing an iconic song without changing it up. Maybe Jena felt such a beloved song shouldn’t be messed with. In which case, Heart was probably not the best rock song for her to pick. – Download at iTunes
Alex Preston – Rock: Neon Trees’ “Animal” – What the hell? Why was this dumb song chosen to be recorded rather than his superb cover of “Always on My Mind?” Was it a rights issue maybe? When I get a chance to interview Alex, I may ask him. In any case, the recording is much better than the live version where Alex was breathless and all kinds of awkward cakes. In the meantime, I’ll have to content myself with a live version of AOMM. D0wnload at iTunes
Caleb Johnson – Rock: The Black Crowes’ “Sting Me” – There’s nothing like Caleb live. He’s so entertaining. Retrieving the mic after he dropped it was only one awesome moment in his crazy performance of “Sting Me”. Needless to say, I can’t get as excited for the recording, but it’s still pretty great. – Download at iTunes
C.J. Harris – Rock: The Guess Who’s “American Woman” – Gosh. I believe every word of this song. Except NOT. Oh CJ. You are just not convincing as Mr. Angry. I just don’t believe you want that American Woman to GTFO and never come back. Which is why I tune out after the first verse – Download at iTunes
Jessica Meuse – Country: Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” – I loved Jessica’s dark take on the Dolly Parton classic. Her vocal has a distinct country twang. But, similar to the White Stripes version of the song, it’s got a dark, almost punk-like instrumental underpinning. She reminds me a little bit of Exene Cervanka, who was always a little bit country even at her punkiest. My favorite of the bunch. Download at iTunes
Sam Woolf – Country: Shania Twain’s “You’re Still the One” – The tenderness of the original is missing from the recorded version, just as it was from the live performance. Sam sings this song like he has no idea what he’s singing. Which at 18 years old, he of course, doesn’t. Not a great song choice for him. – Download at iTunes
