AI 7 - Elimination Round 2 - 2/28/08

Elimination episodes can be very interesting and last night's had several moments.

I am not quite sure America got it right this week but many times they don't. Only 1 or 25% of my predictions were sent home although I did throw in one of the actual eliminate contestants as a possibility.

The men eliminated were Jason Yeager (my one correct guess) and Robbie Carrico (this is the one I said might go) and for the women Alexandrea Lushington and Alaina Whitaker. It is fascinating the young contestants are being knocked out somewhat quickly. Our two women are both teenagers and as far as I am concerned can sing better then Amanda and Kady but who no one ever listens to me AMERICA!

Clearly Luke Menard is getting the vote because he is pretty.

Overall the hour results show moved along fairly quickly. I did actually like the opening group number and surprisingly they sounded pretty good even Amanda who clearly listened to Paula and toned down the whole extreme make-up and hair, I actually could hear the words when she sang.

The eliminations were apparently emotional for the contestants, I will chuck it up to age, David Archuleta was crying more then the contestants eliminated outside of Alaina. I guess I have some heart because her elimination was getting to me but it was nice to see she rose above it and I actually think her sign off with "Hopelessly Devoted to you" was much better then the previous night.

I still don't get Amanda and how she made it through, I guess all the Hell's Angels have her number on speed dial.

March 11th is when the top 12 will be performing on a new stage singing the songs of The Beatles. I guess we are stuck in the 60's and 70's again.

April 9th will be Idol Gives Back or there will be no elimination and two will go the next week.

Until next week….

American Idol 7 - Semi-Finals Round 2 - The Women - 2/27/08

We have another night of performances this time by the women. They too are stuck with songs of the 1970’s. A decade of songs to chose from and it will be interesting to see what they attempt. Hopefully the illnesses which hurt them last week have flown the coop as well.

Let the fun begin.

Carly Smithson

Carly was looking hot, loved the outfit. Carly chose “Crazy on You” and this was a good song choice for her. It started a little strange for me and she was looking straight up not at the audience. She did a fairly good job on the vocals, i.e. technically well but there was no true passion. I did not feel her connection to the song. Her dance movements were idiotic; she was not wearing a bra because her chest was bouncing up and down in a most distracting way. She hit the money note at the end. I liked her but I wasn’t wowed. She was much better than last week.

Randy – it was good towards the middle and end, the beginning was a little rough, you have to be careful because you have a big voice, singers with big voices have trouble with the lower notes because they can’t belt them, it was all right.

Paula – you are an amazing singer, glad you are healthy again

Simon – it was much better than last week, you are an incredible singer, the other women can’t touch you vocally but the problem is you haven’t found the one song to connect with, if you find that song and have your “moment” you would be untouchable.

Syesha Mercado

Syesha definitely had a hot outfit; it is unfortunate her performance did not match the heat. Syesha chose “Me and Mrs. Jones” changing it to “Mr. Jones”. This was a stupid song choice. The arrangement of the song totally sucked, it was dull. Syesha started out so tentative and restrained. It was totally bizarre. There was no emotion tied to the song and this is a song which is all about emotion. I don’t think she sold this song at all. Her voice was okay, there were some severe pitch and sharp notes but when she let it rip she has a powerful voice. She definitely didn’t wow me. It was a total step down from last week.

Randy – it was not a great song choice, when you had the soft moments it was like you were uninterested, they went no where, and you need to pick songs where you can belt

Paula – it was with the softer notes where you go off, you fall off pitch, with the power notes you are great. I liked the interpretation.

Simon – it was indulgent, I was put off when you started, and it was silly to do a song not written for a woman or designed for your voice

Brooke White

Oh how cute, she is a beauty school drop out (please hear the sarcasm in my voice). Brooke had on some killer boots. When Ryan announced before the break that Brooke was going to do some Carly Simon I screamed at the television, oh no, she is going to attempt “You’re So Vain” and surprisingly I was right. Brooke handled this performance sitting down and using her guitar. I thought it was a nice touch but she didn’t over do it and half way through she stopped playing and just sang which means she was listening to the judges when they were talking to Jason Castro. This performance was better than last week but there was no wow. Brooke did a pretty good job with the vocals although there were some sharp/pitchy notes during the chorus. My problem with this performance is once again she did not sale the number. Brooke is Miss Mary Sunshine and she was a very happy shiny person while singing this song. This is a song dripping with sarcasm and I didn’t hear it or feel it. Regardless of whether or not she was trying to sing to Simon about being vain, she did not sale the emotion of the number and don’t get me started on some of her enunciation or pronunciation of the words. It was just okay for me.

Randy – great song choice, you didn’t do anything different with it, just okay

Paula – it was the perfect song choice, it suits you, I liked what you brought to it, familiarity, loved it

Simon – I absolutely loved it, it was the perfect song and one of the rate times I thought the artist had genuinely chosen the song, you connected with it and you sang it well. This is the reason you made it to this point in the competition.

Ramiele Malubay

Ramiele had a great outfit and killer shoes but get the hair out of your eyes, it was *&(^ distracting. Ramiele has decided to go with “Don’t Leave Me This Way”, good heavens why are you picking a song with a title including leave, talk about being a jinx. For all those who know me well, disco is my favorite type of music. I probably have more disco albums, CD’s, etc. then anyone but it doesn’t mean everyone can tackle such songs. I don’t believe this was the right choice of song and the entire performance was appalling. I thought she had some incredibly off notes, some of her transitions were abrupt and the band was not helping her much. This was a train wreck, I thought some of her movements were cheesy and the energy of the number was off as well. Ramiele gave my favorite performance last week and now I get this. Where is the consistency?

Randy – it was a little rough, it just was okay, you can really sing but with so many choices of songs this was not my favorite choice

Paula – you are someone to beat, I agree with Randy about the vocals, you have an amazing voice but you weren’t able to perform your magic

Simon – astonishingly I agree with Paula, I have heard this song sung badly so many times, last week you stood out, this week you weren’t memorable, I think you are a terrific singer, one of the top 3 but this was not your best

Kristy Lee Cook

Kristy is next, I did like her outfit but it wasn’t as great as some of the others. Kristy goes with “You’re No Good”. I have to interject here, what are you thinking using a song with the words, you are no good, are you asking for trouble? Kristy’s performance was better than last week but there was no wow. It was just okay. Her vocals were better but there were still some painfully pitchy moments. She definitely has trouble with the lower register. I also didn’t see much personality coming out in the performance, it was robotic at best. Improved but not by much.

Randy – 100% improvement from last week, better song choice, there were no breakout notes, I liked it

Paula – you’re back, you’re back, you’re back

Simon – huge improvement, my trouble is I am not sure how to label you, I would focus on the country route which should let you make a statement, you have real potential.

Amanda Overmyer

What the hell is she thinking about? Amanda’s outfit was one of the worst I have seen in a long time; Cruella DeVille could have made that outfit with only one Dalmatian and saved herself some trouble. I don’t even know how to describe that hairdo, if it was in a tall bun she could star in a remake of “The Bride of Frankenstein”. Amanda decided to tackle “Carry on Wayward Son”, a band song! This performance was appalling, atrocious, awful, dreadful, frightful, ghastly, grisly, gruesome, hideous, horrendous, horrid, horrifying, lurid, monstrous, nightmarish, and terrible. There are not enough words to describe this train wreck. Amanda was in a different key then the band, she was sharp, pitchy, she seemed uncomfortable, it was awkward and what was up with all the screaming. Her words were unintelligible to say the least. I just don’t get her. Please put me out of my misery!

Randy – I don’t like the song choice, there were too many instrumental breaks, it has too much melody for a bluesy singer, it was pitchy

Paula – you can dance (oh Paula I don’t think so), you worried too much about not doing Janis Joplin but maybe you should, it suits you, you are a brilliant artist, this competition needs you

Simon – in the filmed introduction you seem natural, this was contrived, it was an indulgent song, terrible outfit and hair, and I didn’t get it

Alaina Whitaker

Alaina looked good in that dress, nice change of pace from the other contestants. Alaina though unfortunately has chosen “Hopelessly Devoted to You”. Given the song selection of the 70’s this was a totally uninspired choice. What are these contestants thinking? Alaina has a good voice but this song really didn’t give her a chance to shine. The power notes were totally off key and she couldn’t even deliver the final note at the end.

Randy – it wasn’t the right song, you were pitchy, you over shot some and were sharp

Paula – you did a very good job

Simon – I like you but this was like your grandmother prepared you for the performance including the dress, you could have been more current despite the theme, this performance was pageantry, you are the dark horse in this competition but you need to become relevant

Alexandrea Lushington

Give me a break, what the hell where you thinking Alexandrea when you put on that outfit, it sucked big time. Alexandrea chose “If You Leave Me Now”. Come on, another song with the word leave, contestants get a clue. I thought the arrangement of this song was wrong and the band was too loud. I could hardly hear her which wasn’t all bad because when I did it was painful; she was off key, pitchy and sharp. What was up with the strange facial movements? What is going on tonight? I was not impressed at all.

Randy – this was safe, you are one of my favorite performers but you need to challenge yourself

Paula – I think you really let go, doing your own arrangements, stretching yourself, I think you are relevant

Simon – I was a big, big fan but am struggling now, the song is stuck in its time period, you were inconsistent, in and out of tune, it was boring

Kady Malloy

I hated Kady’s dress but the shoes were killer. Kady went with “Magic Man”. If you want to know what I think about this performance go back and read what I indicated about Amanda, the same words describe this train wreck as well. Kady was both overpowered by the band plus she was not singing in the same key. I can’t even call it singing because I could not understand a single word she said. Kady just could not pull off or sale the emotion of this song, she was neither sexy nor sultry.
Randy – interesting song choice, you never found the pitch

Paula – you sounded great when you put power into the notes but not on the softer ones, you were off, you need to let your self go and find out who you are as an artist

Simon – I am struggling and frustrated, on film you are great but on stage you are impersonating someone, this time it appears to be Christina (the singing from the throat), there was no melody

Asia’h Epperson

I totally hated Asia’h’s outfit and look. Asia’s chose “All By Myself”; I love the original by Eric Carmen. I have the 45 of that song; yes I know it ages me that I have 45’s. I totally thought the arrangement sucked, what is up with the band tonight. Asia’h started way too low and she definitely has trouble with her lower register. She tried to reach for the high notes but couldn’t get there. I did not like the performance at all. While I understand she was sick who cares, you have to make it work; the show must go on so to speak. I don’t like Asia’h but she was much better last week compared to this one and they gave her the money spot. It was a disappointing end to a rather uneven night.

Randy – very difficult song to sing, you did a good job with it

Paula – you have trouble with the low notes but with the ending you brought it home

Simon – this is one of the diva songs of all time and you couldn’t pull it off, you nearly did it but the song was too big for you.

I don’t know what was up this week those who were good last week weren’t so hot this week and vice versa, it was the same with the guys. This was not a good night for the ladies. Quite frankly after tonight’s lackluster performances I wouldn’t care if they all went home.

I wasn’t much in the voting mood because the performances didn’t move me but I voted anyway. I got them all in less than an hour. I gave Carly 20 votes, Syesha and Brooke got 10, Ramiele got 15, and Kristy got 2 while Alaina and Alexandrea got 1 each.

There is no question in my mind that based on performance alone Kady and Amanda should be heading home.

I will predict Kady will be going home but the second choice is harder because of their various fan bases. Oh what the hell I hated them both equally so I will just go with Kady and Amanda.

Until tomorrow…

American Idol 7 - Semi-Finals Round 2 - The Men - 2/26/08

Welcome to another performance elimination round. Let your fingers do the voting. After last week’s very lackluster start for the men I am expecting better especially to live up to the hype of this being the best group of any season.

The producers are going with another theme, this time the songs of the 1970s. I love the 70’s. It was my time. The contestants better not ruin any of my favorite songs or they will suffer my wrath! Can we count on songs of the 80’s for next week?

Michael Johns

Michael gets the coveted first position, how interesting. Michael chooses "Go Your Own Way". Interesting choice of song, I am not sure it was the right one though. Michael’s outfit of jeans and a t-shirt were unkempt, like they had been thrown in a suitcase and weren’t ironed before he came out and don’t get me started on his hair. This performance was definitely not as good as last week. The music really overpowered him and he was off the beat, the chorus seemed to be shouted vs. sung. I found the vocals very tentative and he was flat quite a bit of the time. On the other hand, Michael has great performance skills; he knows how to work the stage.

Randy – It was good, not your best, you need to let go when performing, I liked it

Paula – you are consistent, the crowd likes you, you are like a seasoned performer, way to go

Simon – it was okay, your weakest performance so far in the competition, there was no moment, you were coasting, and you were hurt by choice of song

Jason Castro

I realize I am in the minority but I hate his hair, it is totally distracting for me. We get another shirt/jeans combination. I see Jason has his guitar again, my first thought was one trick pony and that was before he even opened his mouth or the judge’s commentary. Jason went with "I Want to Be Your Everything", Bee Gees via Andy Gibb. This was a disco ballad and a song I adore. I did not like the arrangement at all. I think this was a very weak performance for Jason. I noted that he let the backup singers do all the hard vocal gymnastics, i.e. falsetto notes. The guitar playing was an impediment to Jason this week and he hurt him severely especially with breath control given the nature of the song. Jason stood in one place and sang there was no joy, fun in the performance. He can sing but this was just okay for me. There was no wow moment like last week.

Randy – the guitar is cool as an act but the vocals were not that great, okay, it bordered on being karaoke like.

Paula – you are cute, it was a clever choice of song, I liked the arrangement and how you worked with the band, my recommendation is next week we need to see you without the guitar, we need to see your vulnerability as an artist

Simon – the whole thing was horrible, schmaltzy, I agree with Randy, it was weak, you were out of sorts, looked uncomfortable, and you did not do yourself any favors.

Luke Menard

Luke tells us he sings in an acapella group and since there is no band you have to be flawless. Luke chooses "Killer Queen". I was impressed he wants to tackle such a difficult song but you can’t out Freddie Mercury and his showmanship. There are plenty of other songs in the 70’s which are difficult but won’t have people trying to compare you with the original. Oh NO is that strumming of the fingers on the mike, Luke you are loosing points with me. Overall Luke did much better then last week but there were still plenty of issues. I thought his performance was bordering on cheesy. There were some pitch problems and his enunciation wasn’t good either. There were vocal moments throughout when it worked but he was hampered by the band and backup singers who were very loud. Better but not great.

Randy – credit for the degree of difficulty in the song, I liked it better then last week, there were some pitch problems, it was pretty good

Paula – it was the perfect song for you, it was a great week for you

Simon – the performance was a mistake, you are always going to be judged against the original and you do not have the charisma and personality of Freddie Mercury, it was theatrical and verging on whiny.

Robbie Carrico

What is up with the sloppy clothes? I hate the chain, the jewelry, and is that a handcuff hanging from the back pocket? Robbie please comb your damn hair. Robbie goes with "Hot Blooded" which is probably an okay song choice for him but his execution was not that "hot". Robbie’s enunciation was not good so he looses points immediately. I don’t give a rat’s ass about all the talk between the judges on authenticity, "faux" rocker, et al. These contestants need to come out and sing. They have to sell the song regardless of genre or their personal style. I think Robbie failed. The vocals were weak and he couldn’t sale this song. The band was not helping him and I understand the need to change the key but once again the backup singers did the hard vocal work with the falsetto high notes.

Randy – I agree there are different forms of rock but rock is about attitude, it was a pretty good choice of song but there was no wow, you don’t have a rock voice, it was just okay.

Paula – you know who you are so it must drive you crazy when people say you are not authentic, I think you played it too safe which made you loose your character and personality; you need to up the ante.

Simon – don’t be so defensive, it is only an opinion, your vocals were okay.

Danny Noriega

Danny is clearly the candidate of the year where you either love him or hate it. I think I fall into the first group. I will give Danny credit, he has great style. Danny did choose the wrong song, not because he couldn’t tackle it but because this is a song a former Idol sent through the roof. How can people say they watch this show from the very being and then chose a song done by a prior Idol, get a clue contestants. Danny clearly heard the judge’s comments from last week to chill the theatrics and sing; my problem is that it killed his personality. Overall I thought the vocals were pretty good and much better than last week, it started out a little rough but improved from there. The number allowed him to actually prove he could sing but he was trying so hard for that goal there was no fun in the number, no personality, it was robotic.

Randy – you are a fun guy, there were some problems with the vocals, you should have sped it up a bit, you were over thinking it, you have a good voice and sometimes you have to let it go

Paula – you have amazing vocal skills, sometimes you can’t over think it you just need to perform, your vibrato is excellent.

Simon – this was better than last week but you did try too hard, I like that you stand out in a crowd and you are interesting, you look terrific on camera.

David Hernandez

David was looking good tonight, he showed some style. David went with "Papa Was A Rolling Stone". This was by far my most favorite performance of the night so far. I liked how he started on the stairs and moved down. David took command of the stage and he was very much in sync with both the band and the backup singers, it was like they had rehearsed this multiple times. The entire performance was spectacular. It was the come back of the week for me. His vocals were crystal clear and I didn’t hear a bum note throughout, I liked how they changed the arrangement, his enunciation was good, he was confident, sexy and he sold the song.

Randy – this is it, the David Hernandez we fell in love with, loved the personality, hot, very nice

Paula – (this was the first performance so far where Paula stood up) David you have such a pure voice, you pierce the heart (I am sure she would like something else pierced – Paula chill girl), the notes were amazing, you told a story and didn’t overdo the song, it was just perfect.

Simon – This was the best vocal of the night so far, you treated the criticism as a challenge, I was not a fan of you being here but you made me glad

Jason Yeager

Poor Jason, all I can say is he has a million dollar smile. Jason chose "Long Train Runnin", what was up with that choice. What kind of 70’s song book where these contestants looking at, they should have called me for advice. This performance was a train wreck. It was at least more entertaining then last week but it was way too over the top. Jason should avoid dancing at all costs, he was worst than Taylor Hicks and that is saying a lot! What was up with the ending movement, it reminded me of the end to "The Jazz Singer" with Neil Diamond, he could pull that off, Jason could not. The vocals weren’t bad but there was nothing special, no wow! If the man can play 4 instruments he should have taken the opportunity to demonstrate that skill with a much better song.

Randy – this was not a singer’s song, it was very pitchy and karaoke.

Paula – I liked seeing a different side of you, it was fun but the song doesn’t have many notes it so it doesn’t show your vocal range, pick singer songs.

Simon – last week was simply boring, this was awkward and ordinary, the ending was horrific like you were drunk at a party, it was corny, you are a good singer but you can’t perform very well

Chikeze

Oh my god, Chikeze admitted that last week’s suit was actually his and that he loves it, I can’t believe it. I wasn’t very much impressed with this week’s outfit either, the blue sweater over that horrid colored polo shirt and the shoes, ghastly, red sneakers and he matches it with an ugly red watch and some horrid red thing tied around the other wrist. These contestants need to hire me as their stylist so I don’t have to bitch about what they wear. Chikeze or Chi (as Simon as now decided he will say) chose "I Believe". I didn’t really like the performance at all. Do not get me started about the cheesy inserting your own name into the song! It was better than last week by a mile, at least it was fun but he can’t dance either, his movements were awkward and I thought he shouted a lot. I just do not get Mr. Chikeze.

Randy – Chikezie is back America, this is the guy we fell in love with, you were having fun, it was hot

Paula – it was clever to have this song tie into his story, brilliant, fun

Simon – you look better and sound better, it was a clever choice of song

David Cook

So David is a word nerd, he gains points from me on that one. I do think even though he was going to rock, he was too shabby and what was hanging from his back pocket, friggin clean your hair dude and shave! David went with "All Right Now" and accompanied himself with an electric guitar. It was a nice change of pace. I think the vocals overall were good although his enunciation sucked and I think he fouled up some of the lyrics as well. I liked his performance, he was definitely rocking it and was having fun, and the audience was definitely enthralled. It was a much stronger performance than last week.

Randy – you are a real rocker for the boys, great choice of song; I really, really liked it

Paula – the band is on fire tonight, you are the real deal, every kid who loves guitar loves that song and girls will love it, it was smart, fun and very relevant, I loved it.

Simon – it was solid and believable but not a lot of charisma

David Archuleta

The girls were screaming just from hearing his name. David goes with "Imagine". I absolutely hated the arrangement of the song, it was too damn slow but even with that, David can sing, there is no question about it. David has one of the purest voices I have ever heard, every note, crisp and clear, and he had the audience in the palm of his hand. I think there were a couple of pitchy moments though. I still think David Hernandez won the night but this David is definitely safe.

Overall this week was much better for the men overall. I was a voting fool again last night. I managed to get in only 145 votes last night in two hours. The lines were fairly busy. David Hernandez and David Archuleta got 50 votes each from me, David Cook got 30, Danny got 10, Jason Castro got 3, and Michael Johns got 2.

I am predicting that Jason Yeager and Luke Menard will be going home and I think that Robbie is in trouble as well.

Until tomorrow…

The 80th Academy Awards - OSCARS!

I did enjoyed the Oscar telecast, there were great moments but there were some duds and clearly some tighter choices by the director could have kept the show to 3 hours or less but overall it did move fairly well.

I really did not see the Marion Cotillard win so it was an unexpectedly great moment as was her genuine thank you, ever once in awhile the Academy does do the right thing.

I also loved Tilda Swinton's acceptance speech as well.

I also totally thought it rocked that Jon brought back Marketa Irglova to give her thank you, a brilliant speech at that.

Jon Stewart’s comments about the Academy even nominating bad films (i.e. Norbit) was a great bit as well.

Overall there really weren't too many fashion train wrecks but what was up with all those long trains on the dresses, unless your getting married they are stupid and especially when it was wet. Diablo Cody had a most interesting gown to say the least or as I described it, a Wilma Flintstone formal. I did though enjoy her acceptance speech.

Jon Stewart and the writers did a good job with the limited time they had, however, with a little more time they really could have polished the banter.

I think the clips which did not work for me was the random one's regarding the comments of past winners. They were just added fairly abruptly and they had some very odd choices of who was included. I am figuring those were part of the Plan B for the show if the writer’s strike had not been settled but they were just wrong. Barbra was looking kind of rough and Elton looked like he had just gotten out of bed.

I also enjoyed the thank you regarding "Taxi to the Dark Side", that was both genuine and inspiration, the whole we need to get away from the dark side was brilliant.

Overall a pretty good Oscar telecast!

P.S. Not my best prediction year but not my worst. I did get 15/24 (63%) while last year I got 18/24 (75%) but my all time best is 23/24. I would definitely had a much higher percentage had I gone with some of my personal choices.

Until New Year!

My predictions for Oscar Winners (sent by e-mail on 2/22/08)

Below were my predictions in order as they are listed on the official Oscar ballot not in the order they are presented. This is a tough year because there are so many deserving people and don't get me started on the one's who were snubbed.

Performance by an actor in a Leading Role: Daniel Day-Lewis

Outside of Johnny Depp, I actually believe all the other nominees deserve to be in the top spot. I am not sure I would actually vote for Daniel Day-Lewis I am actually torn between Tommy Lee Jones or Viggo Mortensen but I think my personal choice would go to Tommy Lee Jones.

Performance by an actor in a Supporting Role: Javier Bardem

I think the momentum is there for Javier but my personal choice would be Hal Holbrook, he doesn't have much screen time but he makes the most of every second, Tom Wilkinson would be my next choice.

Performance by an actress in a Leading Role: Julie Christie

Julie is brilliant as is Marion Cotillard. Cate Blanchett could read the phone book and make it interesting but my personal choice in this category is Laura Linney and I believe she should win hands down. I enjoyed Ellen Page but I am not convinced she deserved this nomination.
Performance by an actress in a Supporting Role: Tilda Swinton (my personal choice as well)
Cate is going to be cancelled out because of her two nominations and she just recently won, while Ruby did win the screen actors award but I don't think she has enough momentum unless it is just sentimentality because she has never won. Amy Ryan was brilliant and Gone Baby Gone is a very good movie (it is now out on DVD so watch it) I also don't think the movie has had enough publicity or nominations but if she wins I would be okay.

Best Animated Feature: "Ratatouille" (my personal choice as well)

Achievement in Art Direction: "Sweeney Todd" - Dante Ferretti (Art Direction), Francesca Lo Schiavo (Set Decoration)

I am torn between "Atonement" and "The Golden Compass" but I would vote for Atonement - Sarah Greenwood (Art Direction), Katie Spencer (Set Decoration)

Achievement in Cinematography: "There Will Be Blood" - Robert Elswit

Roger Deakins is up twice, once for "The Assassination of Jesse James" and "No Country For Old Men", I think his dual nomination will hurt him. I would go with Atonement (Seamus McGarvey).

Achievement in Costume Design: "Sweeney Todd" - Colleen Atwood

I am torn here as well between "Atonement" and "Across The Universe" but I would go for "Atonement" - Jacqueline Durran

Achievement in Directing: Joel and Ethan Goen "No Country For Old Men"

There are quite a few directors who should have been nominated and weren't but of the 5 I would probably go with Julian Schnabel (The Diving Bell and the Butterfly).

Best Documentary Feature: "No End in Sight" (my personal choice as well)

I have only seen two of the nominated documentaries, "No End in Sight" and "Sicko". I think Michael Moore has worn out his welcome even though this was one of his best (most likely because he wisely chose not to be in it as much).

Best Documentary Short Subject: "Freeheld"

I have not seen any of the nominations but all the blogs and websites devoted to the Oscars has this race between Sari's Mother and Freeheld. I am just taking a wild guess

Achievement in Film Editing: Roderick Jaynes "No Country For Old Men"

I think my personal choice would be "The Diving Bell and the Butterfly" with "The Bourne Ultimatum" coming in a close second.

Best Foreign Language Film: "The Counterfeiters" - Austria

This is a category where I have not seen any of the films but all the blogs and websites are discussing this one. The topic is the Holocaust and this is one topic Hollywood loves.

Achievement in Makeup: Didier Lavergne and Jan Archibald "La Vie en Rose" (my personal choice as well)

All I can say is making Eddie Murphy's multiple characters and the fat female in "Norbit" isn't that great of achievement and was handled better in other films, "Pirates of the Caribbean" could pull one over but there is no question that what those artists did with Marion Cotillard was absolutely brilliant.

Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original Score): Dario Marianelli "Atonement" (my personal choice as well)

It was a truly fantastic score.

Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original Song): Falling Slowly - "Once" Music and lyrics by Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova

I am never a great predictor of this category but Once is a brilliant movie and this song was great. I think the 3 Disney songs will cancel each other out. I do think "That's How You Know" from the perspective of moving the narrative really worked for me and I just love the song. I would probably vote for that one. "Raise It Up" from August Rush moved me as well.

Best Motion Picture of The Year: "No Country For Old Men"

I think the Coen's are unbeatable at this point but I am torn between "Juno" and "Michael Clayton" but I think my personal choice would be "Juno"

Best animated short film: "I Met The Walrus" (my personal choice as well)

I did get to see all these nominated films. It should be noted this film also walked off with several Grammies as well. The Beatles come on. Last year was the first time I got to see all the films and I missed this category. I have actually done better in the category without seeing the films.

Best live action short film: "Tanghi Argentini"

I did get to see all these nominated films as well (see comments above). This film actually moved me so that is why I am choosing it. The other one I would go with is "The Tonto Woman".

Achievement in sound editing: Kevin O'Connell, Greg P. Russ, Peter J. Devlin "Transformers"

My personal choice would be "The Bourne Ultimatum" with "No Country for Old Men" coming in next.

Achievement in sound mixing: Kevin O'Connell, Greg P. Russ, Peter J. Devlin "Transformers"

See above the same comments apply.

Achievement in visual effects: Scott Farrar, Scott Benza, et al "Transformers" (my personal choice as well)

Adapted Screenplay: "No Country For Old Men" - Coen Brothers

I think it is going to be the Coen's night. My personal choice would be Christopher Hampton for "Atonement", he made the story come alive and he provided actual "Atonement" for Briony which the book never actually did.

Original Screenplay: "Juno" - Diablo Cody (my personal choice as well)

American Idol 7 - Semi Finals Results for Round 1

American Idol is how about building up hopes and then having us the viewing public tear them down.

I do enjoy watching the result shows on tape because I can fast forwarded through most of the crap.

Can I say how excited I am that I was 75% correct on my elimination choices, I think that is the best I have done during the semi-final rounds in the last couple of years.

The show had way too much filler, this show could have been done in a half hour which includes the group number and Paula's video.

Let's talk about the group number and how absolutely cheesy it was and with all the incredible songs that were created in the 60's we got stuck with some pretty lame one's and I don't think the genre is the contestant's cup of tea. The ladies fared better with the costumes then the men. The entire group number was a great comedy act, I laughed through the entire thing.

We got to the first elimination quickly Garrett Haley gone. As far as I am concerned Garrett deserved to be sent home for the ridiculous hat he was wearing. I love hats but not that one and he just did not have the verve to pull it off.

Then for the ladies, Amy Davis gone.

Oh joy, Paula and Randy's video. I will admit Paula does look great but the pink filters on those lights helped. She can still move and I loved the choreography but her vocals are strained and she is just lucky there are so many synthesizers they can run the master through to make her sound good. It is a pretty lame song.

The next elimination is for the ladies and Ryan calls up Amanda Overmyer and Joanna Borgella. This means of course Amanda was closer to the bottom so I was happy about that given that hideous performance but JoAnna is sent home.

I was 3 for 3 and pretty psyched let me tell you.

It is time for the men, Chikeze and Colton Berry are brought center stage and I realized I wasn't getting a hundred percent but I was not disappointed so to speak. Colton Berry was sent home but Chikeze was at the bottom as well which is proper given his hideous performance.

Garrett Haley
Amy Davis
Joanna Borgella
Colton Berry

These were America's choices for elimination and now there are 20.

It is interesting that for the men two of our teenagers are gone with David and Danny left. This tells me those teens split the vote between all 4.

It all starts again next Tuesday.

American Idol 7: Top 12 Women - 2/20/08 - Semi-Finals

The women are up tonight and if we have to be told the worst flu/bronchitis has been running through the group it must mean we are headed for a train wreck. I was worried from the beginning but the show must go on and I am ready to vote again.

The filler that Fox comes up with to fill two hours is amazing. There are more commercials for Fox’s new shows then there is actual performance time but I digress.

We open with the montage of how the women reached this moment.

Once again Ryan announces that this season the level of talent is higher and the competition is fiercer. Can we stop saying this which just puts more pressure on the contestants? There were a couple of men so far I think showed this higher level of talent but so far I can’t say this season is so much fiercer. Perhaps the women will be putting on their best!

The women are stuck with songs from the 60’s as well.

Kristie Lee Cook – 24

Kristie looked hot and I loved her bracelet. The shoes were killer too. Kristie chose “Rescue Me”. I don’t think it was a good song choice and we learn Kristie is one of the sick contestants. I thought the tempo was totally wrong for the song and unfortunately the band and background singers’ way overpowered poor Kristie but perhaps that was related to her illness. What was up with those stupid head and eye movements, it was scary. The other thing which totally bugged me was the strumming of her fingers on the microphone, it annoyed me when Trenyce did it constantly during season 2 and it was totally distracting last night. I hope she loses that habit but fast. I think the vocals were okay but this performance certainly didn’t make me say wow!

Randy – this was not your best performance, it was rough around the edges.

Paula – Kristy is sick but you can’t let that get in the way of your shine or performance because you are a good performer.

Simon – this is an important time in the show because we get to see what you are made of and you didn’t show much. The song choice was not good, it didn’t suit you, the performance was robotic and she can’t blame everything on her illness, you didn’t make an impression.

JoAnne Borgella – 25

JoAnne looked great, loved the outfit, it totally worked for her. JoAnne went with “I Say A Little Prayer”. First of all the band and the backup singers were totally overpowering JoAnne, I could hardly hear her. She appeared to be on pitch but she had severe problems with her lower register and don’t get me started on the breathing issues and enunciation. I wasn’t wowed by this performance either.

Randy - it was pretty good, you were nervous, the first part was kind of weird but you worked it out, your voice was very shaky

Paula – this is nerve wracking but you have got to pull it together, I liked it but didn’t love it

Simon – I didn’t like it at all, everyone needs to be nailing the songs, it was very average and cabaret, I disagree with Randy the second half was worst then the first part, there was no confidence, and it was substandard.

Alaina Whitaker – 16

We learn that Thursday, the elimination day is Alaina’s birthday and she doesn’t want to go home on her birthday and all I thought is you have to be better then the other two contestants so far or I will vote to insure you do go home (yeah I know I have no heart). I totally loved the ensemble and especially the killer shoes.

Alaina chooses “More Today then Yesterday” oh my the same song Chikeze went with. Wow this song started out great, I loved how she started slow in her lower register and the seamless transition to a higher register was fantastic. Alaina definitely kicked Chikeze’s butt on this number. Why I adored the vocals Alaina needs to be more energetic in her performance skills, she didn’t move much but thankfully her great vocals shined through.

Randy – the beginning was a little rough but you sang with so much conviction and once you got into it, it was good.

Paula – this is a feel good song and it was joyful, you nailed it, the best ending, it was amazing.

Simon – I think you are very good but I hate the song (Randy pipes in with that’s because it is about love), there was no nerves showing through, if you can make a bad song sound good you will be great with a good song. You should sail through to the next round.

Amanda Overmyer – 23

Oh my, what is up with that outfit, Amanda looked horrible, the hairdo didn’t work, and the Goth look has to go along with the tacky jewelry. Amanda went with “Baby Please Don’t Go”. When this performance started all I could think was what the &*^$! The performance was totally too frenetic, the music was overpowering I could hardly hear her voice which didn’t matter because I couldn’t understand a single friggin word she was singing or shall we say shouting. This is a singing competition, songs have lyrics, and I want to hear the words. This was a total disaster from start to finish. I didn’t like anything about it, nothing worked including the scatting. It was a waste of my time.

Randy – loved it, loved it, you blew, the trousers are cool

Paula – I love everything you do, you are authentic, and you are not a one trick pony

Simon – I liked it, you are genuine and authentic, you stand out in a crowd, it wasn’t the best performance and then the judge’s banter about scatting and whether or not Simon knows the song, Simon finishes by saying you need to prove that you can sing well because the song was all over the place.

I am not sure what the judges were listening to but I totally disagree, this was a train wreck of a performance and the worst of the evening so far.

Amy Davis – 25

Amy looked ghastly, what was up with the extreme eye make up, I hated how she looked except for the shoes. Amy went with “Where the Boys Are” Poor Amy, you know where the boys are, they are running from you as fast as they can because the performance sucked, and you bored them to death. This has got to be one of the most boring performances of an Idol season yet, I actually yawned. The vocals were ghastly, I don’t think she was ever on pitch, there was absolutely no emotion shown.

Randy – this was not great, when you sing a song where the vocal sweeps into the notes you have to be perfect, there were pitch problems.

Paula – the camera loves you, nerves got you, and it was not engaging, very lackluster

Simon – you look good but didn’t sound good, the song was boring, the performance was cabaret, you don’t have the country twang necessary to make the song work, it felt like the song went on for 10 minutes, the arrangement wasn’t good, it was not you.

Brooke White – 24

Our resident good girl is next. Brooke what is up with the hair, get it out of your face. Brooke goes with “Happy Together”, a song which David Cook performed really well. Come on producers we have 10 years worth of songs to choose from and we can’t avoid duplicates, this is ridiculous. Brooke is definitely Miss Mary Sunshine which helps her sell the song but what is with that constantly grabbing her hair was she trying to hold herself up? She went with the more traditional arrangement and she did pretty well with the vocals but I wasn’t wowed but I was engaged. She needs to improve her performance skills though.

Randy – it started rough but by the middle you got your confidence back, good, the song doesn’t matter as long as the singer slays it.

Paula – the competition is about originality and that is what I love about you, you picked the right song, you did good.

Simon – you did choose the right song but I felt like I was in a 60’s commercial for “washing-up liquid” because of the blondness and the whole sunny and happy vibe, the performance was very you but not my cup of tea, you are going to remain this nice throughout the competition.

Alexandrea Lushington – 17

Alexandrea what is up with the extreme eye make-up and the hairdo, it wasn’t working, you are lucky I liked the performance. She goes with “Spinning Wheel”. This was an inspired choice and the band was hot, I loved the arrangement, they gave it a very nice modern funk sound. Alex started on the stairs and when she hit the stage she commanded it with great confidence, there was energy, she connected with the audience, and she sold the number. The vocals were good but she has a very weak upper register and there were some off notes but like a great performer she didn’t let it stop her, she was there to entertain us and she did. My favorite performance of the evening at this point.

Randy – you blew the doors off the song, you stayed on the notes, and you have it.

Paula – you took control of your entrance as well as every moment of the performance, you wore a dope outfit (what?), you have shown more confidence then any other contestant tonight, your interpretation could be on the radio, you are relevant.

Simon – “I didn’t get it”, I don’t think the vocals were great and it reminded me of an awful musical from the 60’s. You look good but the vocals are not great. I am not sure what Paula is listening to on the radio. Then the judges argue about Alexandrea being relevant. (I don’t often disagree with Simon but I think he was totally off regarding this performance).

Kady Malloy – 18

Once again the ladies showed some flair with the outfit and the shoes, the dress was definitely a change of pace from all the pants. She looked wonderful. Kady chose “A Groovy Kind of Love”. I am not sure it was the right song choice but she did well with it. Kady started the performance sitting. I thought her vocals were good overall even with a few pitch issues. What Kady was able to do was to sell the emotion of the song, it isn’t the best song in the world but she made the song real to her and sold it to the audience.

Randy – okay for me, the performance was too controlled and restrained, you got lost, like her concentration was gone.

Paula – you look pretty, we fell in love with your personality and we didn’t really see it tonight, where is the life of you, the fun

Simon – I agree with Paula, it was like “Night of the Living Dead”, you came across as 80, and you need to lighten up

Once again I totally disagree with the judges.

Asia’h Epperson – 19

Asia’h irritates me, first with the ridiculous name and I still can’t get over her selfishness regarding her audition vs. her father’s death, I am jaded over that and it probably will color my interpretation of her performances just putting that out right away. I liked Asia’h’s outfit, purple is a good color for her but her make-up was way too extreme.

Asia’h chooses “Piece of My Heart”. I did not like the vocals at all. I don’t think her voice was right for the song and what was up with the jerky body movements. I will however give Asia’h credit for her overall performance skill, she worked exceedingly well with the band and the backup singers, she had confidence and great energy. She provided a fun performance which helped her sell the song because her vocals weren’t going to do it. I do wish she would learn to enunciate better, much of the end of the words were lost.

Randy – you did your thing, I was impressed

Paula – you had fun, there were good moments for you

Simon – this was my favorite of the night, you let go, had fun, good voice; you are likable and did not take yourself too seriously.

Ramiele Malubay – 20

I wasn’t feeling the outfit, kinda of boring except for the shoes. Ramiele had way too extreme eye make-up as well, come on what is wrong with those make-up artists and don’t even get me started on the hair in the eyes, give me a break!

Ramiele went with “You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me”. I totally loved this performance. The girl can sing and has pretty good performance skills as well. Her voice is very pure, great tone, she was totally pitch perfect and she built the intensity of the number. She sold the emotion of the song and I understood each and every word which totally earns extra points from me. This now officially becomes my favorite performance of the night so far!

Randy – loved it, started slow and built up to show your voice, you did not dress it up too much, and it was very classy, like a pro.

Paula – you are a force to be reckoned with, you have a beautiful range, right on

Simon – I didn’t like you at first but tonight you out sang every single person here

Syesha Mercado – 21

Syesha, another child stuck with a stupid name but the girl looked hot, great outfit, killer shoes and her make-up was not too extreme. Syesha chose “Tobacco Road” and she nailed this performance. She can sing. The band was a bit overpowering but Syesha tore through it. She had energy and what a great personality which shined through during the performance. She sold the song and once again I heard every single word. There was the wow factor here.

Randy – you can sing, there were some pitchy moments, but I liked it, you are consistent.

Paula – you are consistent, it was joyful, fun, loved it.

Simon – it wasn’t your best performance but it doesn’t matter because you are one of the most talented girls in the competition, you have attitude and you try hard, this was terrific, you have the whole package.

Carly Smithson – 24

Carly gets the money spot, the last contestant. Carly goes with “The Shadow of Your Smile”. This performance was just okay for me. I am not sure it was the best song choice and for having the anchor spot she should have blown us away but I wasn’t that impressed. I realize she was ill but I wanted and expected more. I thought it started really rough and she shouted a lot (perhaps because of her illness) which always turns me off. Her enunciation was good. There wasn’t much razzle dazzle to her performance. It was just okay but nothing to write home about. I think she has talent but was taken down by the song choice.

Randy – this is what the show is all about, best vocal of the top 24 (what the *&^$) hot, blazing hot

Paula – you are reliable

Simon – I don’t get the hype, the song was too old-fashioned for you and your mike technique was cabaret, the whole thing was a let down, if this was the first time I heard you I wouldn’t be too excited.

I am not sure the women pulled it out of the hat tonight, illness or not. Outside of their better ability to dress and accessorize along with all the killer shoes this was a very lackluster night at best. There were some outstanding performances and Ramiele’s was my favorite of the night with Syesha a close second with Alexandrea, Alaina, Kady, and Brooke right behind them.

It was so lackluster that I didn’t even vote for two hours. I voted for about 45 minutes and trust me the lines weren’t too busy. Ramiele and Syesha got 15 votes from me, Alaina, Alexandrea and Kady got ten. Brooke and Carly got 5 each. I was even kind hearted and gave Asia’h 1 vote.

My prediction for elimination is a little easier with the women. I believe Amy will definitely be going home with Joanne taking the second spot. Kristy might take Joanne’s place but for performance alone Amanda should be shown the door.

I won’t be watching the results show live because I am going to be watching “The Big Rock Show”, a local theater production. I hate those hour result shows anyway but I will be taping it. It will then only take me about 5 minutes to fast forward to the results.

Until tomorrow…

American Idol 7 – Top 12 Men – 2/19/08 Semi-Finals

I am so psyched about tonight whether or not the singers are any good because I get to vote. My fingers need the exercise and I have my cell phone and land line ready to go, verified numbers are all still programmed.

Being back in the studio feels like being at home and it really got my heart pounding and I was smiling big time. Can I say once again how excited I am about getting to vote!

Our top 12 men are up tonight with the ladies tomorrow. On Thursday the bottom two men and women are heading home.

We once again hear about how great this season’s contestants are which I think really puts pressure on these people to live up to they hype. I hope they don’t crack under the pressure.

Since we have two hours of time to fill up we get a montage of how the top 12 men got to this point.

We have a theme tonight, Songs of the 60’s.

David Hernandez 24

It must have been hard to go first of all the 24 contestants. David looked pretty good and his clothes were age appropriate, however, I have to say it was the wrong shirt to wear, I realize it was the design but it looked like it was covered in dirty spots and it hadn’t been cleaned, it was very distracting to me.

David chose “In the Midnight Hour” and I really liked how he changed the arrangement and gave it a very gospel/rock type sound. The music was too loud but David rose above that. He has a great sounding voice, good clear tone. He fumbled at the end with the high note but that may have been nerves. While David was technically good, there was no true feeling, this is a song I need to believe and he didn’t sell the emotion of it. The performance didn’t move me even though the vocals were outstanding except for the one fumble.

Randy – started out with a gospel vibe, really good job, my advice is to watch the long phrasing

Paula – it is unnerving to go first but I fell for you, brilliant vocals, beautiful vibrato and it was “very cool”.

Simon – it was better than I thought it would be, the beginning was terrific, the middle was like a “rabbit in the headlights” and I didn’t like the ending, you lost the note, you need to loosen up, you were a little stiff.

Chikezie 22

First of all, what is the going to a one name moniker please he is not Madonna or Cher and don’t even get me started on how stupid this name is or I could write a dissertation on the ridiculous names parents stick on their kids.

Second of all, what was up with that hideous, disgusting, burnt orange suit, what was he thinking about, the sad thing is it had to be in his wardrobe because it is only the top 12 which get a budget for clothes each week. Scary!

Mr. Chikezie was not good. I hated the arrangement; he was totally off-pitch at the beginning although he rallied for a solid close to the number. Chikezie definitely has a great smile and he appeared to be having a good time but the overall feel of the performance just didn’t work for me.

Randy – it was pretty good, the problem is you are an old fashion singer; you need to make it new/fresh, it was alright

Paula – you have come along way, you look great and if people didn’t realize it, he has lost weight; you are a throwback to great R&B (not even close Paula).

Simon - I hated the whole performance (right on Simon and he was booed with that comment) The suit is hideous, it was too old fashion and cheesy.

David Cook 25

David dressed the part of the rocker and it worked. He went with “Happy Together” and I think it was a good song choice, it started a bit rough and the band was overpowering him but once we got past the first chorus the man can sing. He was in perfect pitch and has great stage presence; he seemed very comfortable which is important. The end note sucked the big one but overall I liked the performance. For those of you who have read my blogs you know what is coming next. Yes, David was using the dreaded mike stand, please; please don’t get in that habit holding on to the stand, it doesn’t work. You lost points from me.

Randy – it started off weird, but you rocked it, there was an edge, it was crazy, good

Paula – it was worthy of great praise, you made it original

Simon – you shouted a bit in the middle but you almost made it believable.

Jason Yeager – 28

Jason went with “Moon River”. Jason has the cute factor going along with his very adorable son Nathan and was that a dedication to his dead grandmother, oh my. He was dressed with a suit jacket, jeans, and shirt but had killer shoes. Jason has a nice voice but this was a boring performance. He started out sitting and I knew exactly what Simon would say. Jason didn’t stand out and since we had really never heard him before this isn’t good. There wasn’t anything technically wrong with his vocal it just wasn’t an old my god, wow!

Randy – pretty good dude, couple of pitch problems in the middle and it is a tough song to sing, my advice concentrate all the time when you are singing

Paula – agrees with Randy’s advice, a simple song can be hard to sing, the song has special memories for me, I did my first ballet recital to that song, say it with me everyone, AH!

Simon – you appeared much older, very cruise ship (here I thought we were getting the old lounge singer, cabaret comment) it was neither here nor there, it was middle of the road, young people listening will go, what?

Robbie Carrico – 26

Oh the poor guy while in his previous unsuccessful boy band experience he got to tour with Britney Spears.

While I realize Robbie now wants to be a rocker it is ridiculous to have to put on the whole mystic, I hated the bandana or do rag, the unkempt hair, and that stupid pocket chain, come on let’s be original. The fringe on the shirt was over the top as was the way too many jewelry accessories.

Robbie chose “One” which was a great song choice. The vocals were pretty good but what Robbie had was great stage presence, he really rocked the house. He totally lost it at the end and the note cracked several mirrors I am sure but overall a good performance.

Randy – nice one, you moved me

Paula – you picked the perfect song, you are authentic, vocals not too over the top, perfect

Simon – it is the only performance we’ve seen so far which has any semblance of making sense, it is the only current performance but I question your authenticity, are you a rocker or a pop singer?

David Archuleta – 17

What can we say about David? David seems to have it all; he has the cute/adorable factor, that sweet persona which will have all those young adolescent girls texting for hours.

David was dressed age appropriately and he went with “Shop Around” which was a great choice of song. David has a very interesting tone to his voice and can the kid sing, he has great phrasing, he is unbelievably talented. The entire performance was spot on, David is very engaging, had the audience in his hand, and took absolute control of the stage. David is SO very safe tonight! I hate though how he can be so damn happy all the time, okay I am jealous of his ability to be so positive all the time.

Randy – I am a big fan, really brilliant, you have a gift, you sang very maturely for a 17 year old.

Paula – it was a brave, bold choice, I forget how young you are and I admire your confident, older soul, great job

Simon – when you got, you go it, it was the best performance by a mile

Danny Noreiga – 18

I am just happy to see he has lost that lip piercing he had when he tried out last year. Danny wants to be true to himself and he clearly was. All I could think of was he was “fierce”. Danny was dressed in some very tight black jeans, white shirt, skinny black tie, and some awesome shoes. He was so ready to go clubbing.

Danny went with “Jailhouse Rock”. He started at the top of the stairs and then hit the stage with some clear pent up energy. I thought it was a bit manic and way over the top but he has a good voice and he was definitely in tune but his movements were a bit much. Danny knows how to perform that is for sure. I think Danny has talent and good performance skills but this number didn’t allow him to show his vocal range.

Randy – you know how to have a good time, the vocals were okay but you didn’t show off your voice but the performance was “kinda hot.”

Paula – the performance was almost “scalding” but it was a safe song but it allowed him to just be a performer, then Paula rambled about a lot of color coming out or some such nonsense that for the rest of the night was banter between Simon and Paula about what color each performer was

Simon – I found the performance verging on the grotesque, it was hideous

Luke Menard – 29

I hated Luke’s jacket, it didn’t work. Luke went with an interesting song choice (A song I really like I might add) “Everybody’s Talking”. They went with an interesting arrangement to the song. Luke was just a bit stiff, he stood behind the mike the entire time, and there was no stage presence. The band was way too loud and overpowered him much of the time which wasn’t all bad. Luke had some clear pitch problems and the vocals were all over the place. It wasn’t my favorite performance of the evening.

Randy – it was very pitchy, consistently sharp, it wasn’t great

Paula – I agree with Randy, not the best song choice, you have good range which we have seen before, pick better songs

Simon – pitchy or not, it was forgettable, you fell into the worst trap, you have to stand out but you didn’t, no one will remember you

Colton Berry – 18

Colton there was no need to tell us about how you look like Ellen Degeneres from certain sides and I also didn’t have to know you hum the Teletubbies theme song when you are nervous because you are setting yourself up for some rude comments. I hated the color of his jeans and what was hanging from underneath his shirt, were those suspender straps, come on. Colton chose “Suspicious Minds” (one of my favorite Elvis songs) and they chose an interesting arrangement for this one as well. Vocally Colton was okay but there was no wow, he had some very cheesy dance movements if that is what they were suppose to be. Colton’s musical theater background was evident but didn’t help him much.

Randy – pretty good job, it started rough but you worked it out

Paula – nice to see a different side of you, not your best performance but it was eager/fun

Simon – okay, not as bad as the other Elvis song, it was karaoke, it isn’t relevant, and I wasn’t listening to a recording artist

Garrett Haley – 17

Garrett, Garrett, Garrett we are not in the 70’s, fix the hair dude! Garrett chose “Breaking Up is hard to do”. Do I have to be reminded of how old I am? I have the Carpenter’s version, the Partridge family version and of course Neil Sedaka’s version on a 45 record at that. I totally disliked the arrangement of the number, it was too freakin’ slow. Garrett has a strange voice; it was pretty thin, I am not sure he was on key because it was hard to hear him over the band. The performance was lackluster at best.

Randy – I love the song but you didn’t do anything with it, there were a couple of pitch problems, kinda boring

Paula – it stayed at a slow tempo, it is okay to talk to the band director and ask them to mix it up, be courageous

Simon – it was boring, you looked terrified, it looks like you were locked up in your bedroom for months, pale, it was verging on “haunted”, you are not relevant, young, or current.

Jason Castro – 20

Jason I hate the “dreadlocks” they have to go. The outfit was okay. Jason went with “Daydream” and accompanied himself with a guitar. I think the guitar worked for him. The song choice was fine and overall I liked his voice but there were several times he tried for some vocal theatrics which weren’t necessary and it was during those moments he had some severe pitch problems and can we talk about the cracked note at the end but overall he has a nice mellow but not boring manner and he has one heck of a smile.

Randy – I like your accent, you were interesting, liked the guitar, it had some pitch problems, and the high note was sharp, it was okay but I wasn’t blown away

Paula – you did blow me away (but of course Paula, he is young, single, and you are thinking about something other than singing) good song choice, joyous, less is more

Simon – like David you just got it, one of the top 2 performances of the night, it would have worked better without the band, you made it sound current, and it was effortless, terrific

Michael Johns – 29

Michael gets the money spot, last! What was up with the stupid scarf tied around his neck? It totally did not work. Michael went with “Light My Fire” and it was a great choice of song. This was a great performance, the vocals were spot on, Michael had command of the stage, and he knows how to move. The only criticism I have is that stupid fire background was back and it is only the first performance show, note to producers, kill it, I hate it. Unless Michael fumbles terribly he is a safe bet for the top 12.

Randy – I loved you, you throw caution to the wind, da bomb, hot

Paula – it’s an excellent way to end the night and you really did set everyone on fire (Paula rein it in)

Simon – You are the most consistent performer; I liked “Bohemian Rhapsody” better but you have the charisma of a lead singer, “you have just got it”.

Well it is time. I spent two hours voting last night and the lines were busy. I only managed to get in 160 votes over the two hours. The majority went to David Archuleta and Michael Johns and the balance to David Hernandez, David Cook, Jason Castro and Robbie.

I did not like the theme for the semi-final rounds it really doesn’t allow the contestants to be themselves. I don’t think it worked. We will see what the ladies can do tonight.

I think the worst performances came from Chikeze and Garrett with Jason Yeager and Luke Menard following. It is always interesting to predict who may go at this early stage I will take a stab at it anyway.

For performance alone it should be Chikeze first but I think he will make it at least another week.

My choices for the first two men are Garrett Haley and Luke Menard. Jason Yeager is a possibility as well.

Until tomorrow…

American Idol 7 - Top 24 Revealed - 2/13/08

Last night’s show opened with Ryan and Hayden Christensen sitting on top a monument in Egypt, i.e. shameless plug for the new movie “Jumper” which opens today. I guess Fox got a boat load of cash. Hayden jumps Ryan to Hollywood in time to announce “this is ….American Idol!”

It takes an hour to get the announcements with lots of crying and joy! I love the elevator ride and the walk to the lone chair in front of the judges. The pain, the agony of it all.

We will just get to the heart of the matter, the top 24 one of who will be the next American Idol.

Carly Smithson, 24, auditioned in San Diego. Carly is from Ireland and was chosen in Season 5 but had problems with her work Visa and could not appear. I did like her audition and I agree with this choice.

David Cook, 25, auditioned in Omaha. I liked David’s original audition as well.

Amanda Overmyer, 23, auditioned in Atlanta. This is our Goth rocker nurse. I like her as well so I am fine with this choice.

David Archuleta, 17, auditioned in San Diego. I really did like his original audition and what I saw in Hollywood.

Kristy Lee Cook, 24, auditioned in Philadelphia, who lives in Oregon. I liked her original audition as well but what they showed in Hollywood she seemed to kind of choke but I guess time will tell.

Brooke White, 24, auditioned in Philadelphia. She was okay but I am not impressed.

Danny Norriega, 18, auditioned in San Diego but his original audition was not shown on air. I really liked his performance in Hollywood.

Jason Castro, 20, auditioned in Dallas but his original audition was not shown on air. They really didn’t show much of his Hollywood audition either.

Luke Menard, 29, auditioned in Omaha but his original audition was not shown on air. The clip they showed in Hollywood did provide some potential.

Alexandrea Lushington, 16, auditioned in Atlanta. I did not like her audition when it was shown during the Atlanta auditions.

Ramiele Maluky, 20, auditioned in Miami. I didn’t like her audition but it could be because they started her clip with reminders of Season 3 Jasmine Tres.

Michael Johns, 29, auditioned in San Diego. His original audition was great and his Hollywood performance was spectacular. Great choice!

Syesha Mercado, 21, auditioned in Miami. I didn’t like her original audition because she was shouting but I did enjoy her Hollywood performance especially given she sang her heart out while suffering vocal issues.

Robbie Carrico, 26, auditioned in Miami. His original audition was okay and the clips from Hollywood didn’t give me enough to really determine an opinion.

Garrett Haley, 17, auditioned in San Diego but they did not air his audition. They didn’t really show much of his Hollywood audition.

Kady Malloy, 18, auditioned in Dallas but the audition was not in the episode on air. The material from Hollywood was not sufficient to really determine potential for me.

Chikezie Eze, 22, auditioned in San Diego. I did like his audition.

Amy Jean Davis, 25, auditioned in Dallas but the audition was not in the episode shown. The clips from Hollywood didn’t show much.

Alaina Whitaker, 16, auditioned in Dallas. I did not like her original audition and we didn’t see much of her Hollywood performance.

Jason Yeager, 28, auditioned in Dallas but the audition was not shown on air. The clips from Hollywood were insufficient to really get an impression.

Asia’h Epperson, 19, auditioned in Atlanta, she whose dad had just died the day before. I didn’t like her original audition and I still can’t believe she made her family wait while she auditioned. I realize her dad was dead but it irritated me when I watched her during her audition and it still irritates me. I was not impressed by what I saw in Hollywood either.

David Hernandez, 24, auditioned in San Diego but the audition was not shown on air. The clips from Hollywood were insufficient to really get an impression.

Colton David Berry, 17, auditioned in Charleston but the audition was not in the episode shown. The clips from Hollywood showed some potential. I definitely agreed to this choice versus Kyle.

Joanna Borgella, 25, auditioned in Philadelphia and I liked her original audition. I think she does have potential.

It is interesting that only 14 of the final top 24 were shown during the audition episodes. Since we continued to hear out much talent this season contestants have these people have a lot to live up to.

We have a much younger group this year as well. It will be fun to see how they can hold up to the pressure and the hectic schedule because many of them will have to study as well.

San Diego was the winner with 7 out of 24 coming from this city, Dallas was next with 5, there was a three way tie for Atlanta, Philadelphia and Miami with three, Omaha had two, and Charleston had only 1.

For the next three weeks American Idol will be on three days a week while we move closer to the top 12. Performances will be on Tuesday and Wednesday with 4 people getting kicked out on Thursday.

Voting starts on Tuesday let your fingers do the dialing. I can’t wait!

American Idol 7 - Hollywood Week - 2/12/08

We are finally getting closer to having a competition and being able to vote. It is elimination time to get to the top 24.

We learn that a total of 164 contestants out of 7 cities were given the golden ticket to La LA land (i.e. Hollywood). Hollywood auditions will be different this year. No group numbers and no eliminations on the first two days. If the contestant gets a yes from all the judges they are given a free pass to the last day of eliminations but if they get a no they get a second chance. Day three will be the bloodbath leaving only 50 contestants standing for a chance at the top 24 spots.

No group numbers, what is the meaning of this? I loved those group numbers because you really got to see the contestants good, bad, and really really ugly! I lost half my fun of watching those train wrecks.

As is usual we don’t have time to see everyone but some chosen few selected by the producers which means there better be some great talent in all the contestants we haven’t heard since if I heard it once I heard it a hundred times that this season has the best talent of any season!

Brooke White, the person who has never watched an “R’ movie. Brooke is one of the contestants who played an instrument (keyboard) and sang “Beautiful”. I liked this audition much better then her original one. She showed great musical skill and she was perfectly in tune. I wasn’t wowed but she didn’t irritate me which is always a plus. Simon tells her she has great potential and compares her to Carly Simon and Carole King. It is a yes from all judges so Brooke is safe until the final day.

We get three quick auditions with Lorena Pinot, Amy Flynn and Leo Marlowe all who weren’t given a free pass.

We then get 5 quick auditions of contestants who chose to play an instrument for their first audition to very bad results. Alisa Dixon plays guitar and totally butchers “Unwritten.”. Simon indicates she sounds like an angry girl in her bedroom screaming. Michael Sanfilippo also plays the guitar to horrid results. Alyssa Coco plays the piano but is cut off my Simon almost immediately. Shaun Barrows also plays the piano. Finally Jake Mellema goes for the drums. I actually liked his vocals but his drumming was another story.

David Hernandez was up next sans any instruments. He chooses “Love the One you’re with” and he totally nailed the number. This was a great audition, the tone of his vocals was great, his pitch was spot on and his enunciation was perfect. I actually enjoyed listening to him and they let him go on for quite awhile. Simon indicated it was the best they had heard that day, you were comfortable on the stage; Randy indicated I loved it from note one, and Paula was cheering him during his performance. David gets the free pass.

Amanda Overmyer, our Goth rocker nurse is next. Amanda we learn was in a serious automobile accident one week before her arrival in Hollywood. She was air lifted from the scene and has 12 staples in her head and several cracked ribs. Amanda goes with “Light my Fire” and again this was much better then her original audition. She rocked and it wasn’t even an imitation. I totally loved the performance. Paula, I adore you; Randy you are a throw back, you have the whole 60’s Janis Joplin vive, you are different, but Simon while he liked her he warned her not to be so one note, i.e. he knows how every song will sound. Amanda does get a free pass.

Our next montage is some contestants who do not follow Simon’s advice about “don’t forget lyrics” but do anyway. They are quick and you don’t really get to hear much.

The last contest of the first day is Ghaleb, the Latin lover with the thick accent. Once again we get a clip of him trying to come on to all the women. Ghaleb goes with “Everything I do, I do it for you” and I am sure Bryan Adams felt some electric shocks, the performance sucked big time. It was dull and I thought he was off key. He also chose to use a guitar. Paula advised him that she did not like the audition, he shouted not sang. I was not impressed. Simon compared him to a singing waiter. It is a no from all the judges but he gets his second chance.

Josiah Leming (the young 18 year old living out of his car) is up first on the second day. Josiah indicates he is more comfortable with his keyboards because he knows what to do. I think he has a very nice voice but there were a couple of off key notes. I think his original audition was better. Randy thinks he has a cool attitude and votes yes. Paula feels there is something magical about him, you make people smile, girls love you, and boys think you are cool. Simon states this is the audition I am going to remember.

We then get some quick auditions from Danny Noriega, Ramiele Malubay, Carly Smithson, Michael Johns, and David Cook. They all get a free pass to the last day.

We are then presented with a quick montage of other contestants trying out to Bryan Adams. It was so quick I couldn’t keep up with the names.

The last contestant of the second day is Kyle Ensley (our future governor). Kyle was not good and way too over the top. The judges get into a snit in discussing the results and Simon walks out.

Day two comes to an end with a total of 48 contestants getting a free pass and the remaining contestants have to try again.

On the start of day three the contestants are told there will be eliminations, if the judges feel they have a chance they will be back for the final round on day 4 but if not they are headed home. All contestants will come on stage in groups of 10 and each will sing for a few moments sans music.

Suzanne Toon and Perrie Cataldo two of our single parents are eliminated.

We spend way too much time with Amy Flynn who must have well do parents because her vocal coach is there but clearly not helping her because she gets the boot.

We then get some quick montages of all the eliminations ending with Ryan advising 40 have performed so far but only 4 have made it to the final round.

Another round of quick auditions, Kristy Lee Cooke, Jeffrey Lampkin (I had to laugh because he sang the song Motormouth Mabel sings in Hairspray Big, Blond and Beautiful), Angela Martin (another single mom) and Kyle. Angela is sent home the rest get their final chance.

Day three ends with almost 100 people sent packing.

For the final round of auditions the contestants will have the band and 3 back up singers to assist with their auditions. They had 200 songs to choose from and all were up late practicing.

David Archuleta who is 16 goes with Bryan Adams “Heaven”. I thought David also sang a home run. He had a great sound, was on key, and seemed to have great confidence. Randy indicates he is totally impressed; it was the best he’s heard yet. Paula mimes a hug with her yes and Simon indicates he is young, good looking, and has a good voice what more do you need. David has a shot for the top 24.

Kyle is shown next. He goes with “You Raise Me Up.” This was probably his best audition. He has a good voice but I am not sure he can make it all the way. Simon apologizes to Kyle for walking out and states it was a very good little audition, Randy likes it but Paula calls it safe. Kyle makes it through.

Jeffrey Lampkin goes with “A Whole New World” and he blows all of his good will. It was a total train wreck. All we hear is Paula saying it fell apart. Jeffrey is going home.

Joey Catalano breaks down and his audition was pure torture.

Sayesha is shown next who is suffering from some type of problem so she is not talking to save her voice. You would never have known it when it came time for her audition. Sayesha was hot; I think it was one of my favorites I have seen so far. Randy states she is the one to watch; you could sneak up and win it all; Paula indicates she gave the performance of her life; and Simon states she did it. Sayesha has a shot to the top 24.

Michael Johns our Australian is next and chooses “Bohemian Rhapsody”. I almost lost my dinner at the song choice but unbelievably Michael pulled it off. It was totally spot on but yet not an imitation. Michael hit every note, I actually got chills. Simon states it was the best audition of the day. Randy indicates I was a fan and I am still a fan. Paula says yes.

Carly Smithson goes with “Alone” and is pretty good; it was okay but no wow for me. She gets a yes from all judges with Simon indicating she has confidence.

Asia’h is next (the wonderful individual who auditioned even as her father was lying dead in a morgue). I will admit she sounded better then her original audition but again I wasn’t wowed but the judges let her through with Simon indicating best by a mile, brilliant.

Brooke Helvie (our beauty queen) is next and she goes with “Unchained Melody” which is a totally wrong song choice since it is one of Simon’s favorites. Brooke was totally off and the butchered high note was my fingers down the chalk board moment of the note. Brooke gets a yes from Simon but a no from the other judges, Brooke is going home.

Our final contestant on day 4 is Josiah. Poor Josiah, you can tell how young and immature he is because he has a hard time choosing a song, was uncomfortable with the band, etc. He was a total whining teenager which is too bad because I really like his voice. Poor Josiah does not take up vocal coach Debra Byrd’s offer of help. This was a very bad choice on his part.

We learn he is performing on less then 2 hours of sleep. Josiah steps up to audition and asks the band to leave, oh my indeed. Josiah goes with “Stand by me”. It was not good, he lost a lot of his credibility, and he must be right about needing his keyboard because he held the mike like without it he would collapse. I think I saw one of my favorites heading home. Randy says it was his worst performance yet, Paula thinks it was the wrong choice in saying no to the bad, and Simon is not impressed because if you are going to dismiss the band you had better be sure you are going to deliver. Yet somehow the judges’ still pass him through.

We are at the end, 50 contestants are left standing and tomorrow they get to ride the elevator and walk the walk to find out their fate.

I can’t wait to see who is in the Top 24!

Until tomorrow...

American Idol 7 - "Hollywood or Bust" - 2/6/08

Tonight producers are giving us a show of the good and bad auditions which apparently they didn’t have time to fit in the other audition shows as well as stretching out the big Hollywood moment as we move closer to getting the top 24.

We start the show with some very quick clips of some rather horrid auditions.

Luke Reeder is first and I could have done without even the few seconds of “Faith” Luke tried to produce, Luke was a shouter and he couldn’t even shout in tune. Simon indicates it was all mad from the large shirt, the strange eyes, and the horrible singing.

Victor Villegas is trying to sing some tune I couldn’t even guess at. Randy indicates he sounds like a sheep and I have to agree.

Dear readers please prepare as we have another sob story! Amy Davis who is 25 tells us she grew up poor (i.e. lower then lower middle class as she put it) with a single mother and she wants to repay her mother’s hard struggles and change her family’s future. Amy goes with “Blue Bayou” which is at least a change of pace audition song and in my personal opinion I thought she butchered the melody. Simon votes yes with little comment, Randy says he likes the possibility of you, she could do well in Hollywood if she learns a bigger repertoire of songs and changes it up a bit and votes yes. Paula says yes so Amy will be seen in Hollywood. I just totally did not get Amy or why the judges passed her through.

Tiffany McCampbell tells the camera that the Holy Spirit has told her to audition. I am scared already. God gave her a gift and her pastor has encouraged her in this endeavor (I think her pastor is the devil in disguise –sorry I couldn’t resist). We get to watch and hear Tiffany try some vocal exercises because she is trying to train her voice and get the right tone. After the exercises I am convinced more than ever this is not going to end well.

In the audition room Simon asks Tiffany where her vocal talent came from and she advises God. Simon pipes up with God just decided one day to give you this gift. Tiffany goes with “Hallelujah”. Poor Tiffany she was utterly and fantastically off key and her enunciation sucked the big one. Simon retorts with a question. Does God have a return policy? If I was given that I would give it back. I am not being rude but it wasn’t very good. Randy indicates it was not good and Tiffany is returning home without a golden ticket. As if we weren’t all ready tortured enough, she tries singing again out in the waiting room and someone shushes her! My prayers were answered!!!

To protect me from any potential government fines of indecency I am putting in a warning the next audition comments have mature themes as well as the biggest cheesy pandering of any audition story so far.

With the thrilling “Three’s Company” theme song playing in the background we are introduced to the love triangle between twin brothers Chris and Colby Lane and the third member, the completely clueless Miss Ashley Lawing. Ashley is our “Paris Hilton” wanna be with the same type of outfit, haircut, and let’s not forget her little dog too. Put me out of my misery now I am begging you.

Chris and Corey Lane have got to be two of the most disgusting individuals I have encountered. Their cavalier attitude about women, Ashley specifically, and themselves were crud and disgusting. Did we have to hear Corey say his brother gets all his left over’s, PLEASE!

The brothers Lane have chosen to audition with their own created rap song including references to the notorious Brittenum twins. Oh this is going to bad with a capital B. Poor Corey had some serious issues in starting out, he clearly forgot his own lyrics. I don’t like rap to begin with so they lose points with me right away. Their rap was stupid and a total waste of valuable time. Simon advises the audition was amateurish. Paula advises them to work on not falling apart when the forget something but to push through to the end. She felt they were charming together. Randy indicates it is a no for this competition.

Outside the audition room, Ashley is shocked they were not put through as she enters for her own audition with Panda her ugly Pomeranian puppy. The judges just coo over the dog especially Simon who is holding the dog. He threatens to steal Panda and Ashley states he can have anything he wants if he sends her through to Hollywood. Ashley is going to sing “Red High Heels” but advises the judges she is going to insert black because Panda tore up her red ones. Can we get on with this train wreck? There are no words currently in existence to describe how horrible this audition was.

I must insert further comments about our paragon of human beings, the Lane brothers since the producers seen fit to do. While Ashley is murdering musical melodies and the English language the brothers Lane admit Ashley sucks and they only told her she was better than she is just so she would try out. They were bashing a woman they both have been in a relationship and one is still her boyfriend. What is wrong with this picture? Oh I forgot who we were dealing with. They are *&(% jerks!

Inside the audition room Ashley is learning her fate. Simon advises her that he has to be honest; it was excruciating, pure torture. Ashley is in denial and can’t accept the news. Randy tells her it was bad, a no from me. Paula states you are cute, sweet but it is a no. Simon and Randy say yes to Panda going to Hollywood. Simon tells Ashley even Panda wanted to run from the room as she was singing.

Ashley leaves without her golden ticket. We end with a clip of Ashley and Corey indicating they still have each other. All I can hope is after Ashley sees this episode she dumps him brutally after she hears what he was saying about her.

Cardin Lee McKinney is next. What is up with the names these parents stick these kids with? Cardin is 20 years old and is a waitress. Cardin goes with “One Night Only” from Dreamgirls. I did not like the arrangement she used but her voice was okay, it wasn’t anything special but at least she was sang in the right key. Simon states she is a very theatrical singer, not a contemporary recording artist and votes no. Paula says yes because you have a mature voice and you can sing. Randy says yes because I think there is more to you, you can grow.

JoAnne Borgella is next. She is a plus-sized model. I noticed there was no mention of the fact she has already been a reality television winner. She won Mo’nique’s Fat Chance. JoAnne tells us all her life that people have told her she needs to lose weight, but she never lets it bring her down. I did enjoy her positive attitude. JoAnne chooses “I Love You”. What is wrong with these contestants don’t they realize they should never try to conquer Celine Dion. The song was too big for her but I was pleasantly surprised that she managed it as well as she did. JoAnna definitely has a very pleasant vocal tone, she also sang in key and her enunciation was excellent as well. I think she has potential.

Paula indicates you are stunning, beautiful tone, great vocal control, effortless, I love your voice. It was not my favorite song choice but you have a unique sound. Paula votes yes. Randy indicates he was stunned that voice could come out of you, you can sing, but your voice gets small in the upper register. Randy votes yes. Simon says no. JoAnna is heading to Hollywood. Randy and Paula advise she needs to come to Hollywood with different sounds.

Alesha Stelzel is our next contestant and we spend way too much time on someone who doesn’t have a chance to make it to the top 24 but I digress. Alesha the classic platinum blond and trust me she is the walking, living example of the dumb blonde stereotype. To illustrate this further Alesha also decides to tackle Celine with “Surrender”. Alesha was just horrendous; it was definitely my fingers down the chalkboard moment. Simon asks where she sings? Alesha responds she is taking lessons and Simon retorts with her teacher should lose his job. Alesha states people like it when she sings in public, she gets their attention. Simon found the audition to be dreadful, the notes were all over the place, it was painful, and I couldn’t even recognize the song. Randy indicates the song was completely wrong for her; she should have song Dolly Parton. Paula states she has a nice tone (please not in reality) and agrees with Randy.

I was really excited about Alesha getting the boot but unbelievably Paula and Randy tell her to go out and learn a Dolly Parton song and they would let her audition again. I was screaming at the television set NO, NO, NO! Alesha admits she doesn’t know any Dolly Parton songs. There is even more time spent with Alesha we even get Ryan giving Alesha and her mother song ideas. Ryan even sings a few bars and Ryan is a 100 times better than Alesha. Ultimately she goes with “Islands in the Stream” which she had never heard. What planet does this woman live on?

Audition number two finds Alesha announcing her choice of “Islands in the Stream” and she had to think about it for a couple of seconds. Her second audition didn’t win me over. I will admit it wasn’t as bad as the first but she could not be an American Idol and her manner irritates me. Why must I be tortured like this? Paula loves the tone of her voice and votes yes. Randy finds her very sweet, there is pure innocence in her tone (innocence my foot, it is the fact there is only air floating between her ears) and votes Yes. Simon abstains. Simon announces she is going to Dollywood. I did laugh at that retort. Alesha has her golden ticket to Hollywood and I got sick to my stomach. Randy and Paula advised her to learn new songs. After Alesha leaves Simon says he hates to admit it but you were right Paula and the judges have fun with themselves. I just don’t get it!

Next up is a quick audition for Brandi Gregorie who is show stripping off a few articles of clothing while tying to warble through L-O-V-E and Nat King Cole turned over in his grave. Simon indicated the audition ended with the weird striptease. It is a no.

Charles Randy Leviner is shown auditioning and every other word is bleeped out. Simon indicated if the show aired at 3:00 a.m. he might want to try out again. It is a no.

We then spend more useless time with Joshua Moreland aka Jay Smoove (I kid you not). Mr. Smoove is sure he has the WOW factor. Mr. Smoove goes with an original composition “Beautiful Lady”, his singing was overpowered by his ridiculous smarmy routine which included throwing out rose petals and glitter (yes glitter). I tuned out after he was explaining why he was Jay Smoove. Surprisingly I wasn’t Wowed by the audition. That comment is dripping with sarcasm in case you can’t tell.

Simon advises Mr. Smoove if he is being honest the audition was horribly over the top, corny, I hated it. It was revolting. Paula indicates while she appreciated what he brought and found his accoutrements (i.e. glitter and rose petals) special it was a no. Randy indicates you have a voice but you are not ready yet. Poor Jay goes home without his golden ticket.

We then get some ridiculous filler when the judges call in Ryan to sweep up the “accoutrements”. Ryan indicates to the stage hand he doesn’t want to stand in her way. Simon calls his attitude to her as patronizing and proceeds to sweep up for her. Why did we need to spend time on this? I will never understand.

Our next filler montage is a clip of Simon being unable to pronounce contestants names correct. What was the point? Given some of the stupid names these people have been stuck with I completely understand the problem!

Chikezie Eze is next. Mr. Eze tried out last season and didn’t make it but this time he knows he will move forward. Chikezie (need I say more about stupid names?) goes with “All the Woman I Need”. I did like the audition, I thought he had a very pleasant voice and it was just a nice change of pace to hear someone sing on key. Simon finds him interesting but not his voice, after listening to him perform I know all about you (that was a very strange comment). Paula feels he has talent, very interesting voice and votes yes. Randy apparently said yes because Chikezie comes out with a golden ticket.

Our final contestant of the night is Danny Noriega. Danny also tried out last year but fell apart in Hollywood. Danny tells us the experience happened for a reason but now he is here to prove he has what it takes. Paula asks him what he thinks happened last year. Danny feels it was a combination of his nerves and a bad song choice. Danny chooses “Proud Mary” and I liked the audition. Danny does have a good voice and I really liked some of the changes he made to the arrangement. He has great enunciation which is always a plus for me. Simon indicates you have a very good voice and appear more confident. Randy says it was a very good audition, one of the best, you have nice control, and you got a gift. Paula finds him very interesting, you intrigue me, and you don’t expect that voice coming from you. Danny gets a second chance in Hollywood.

After 7 cities and over 100,000 contestants it all comes to a bittersweet ending. Hollywood is next week and we will have our top 24 contestants. I am getting excited because our first opportunity to vote will be on 2/19/08.

Until next week….

American Idol 7 - Audition Episode 7 - 2/5/08

American Idol is visiting Atlanta for the 4th time. We are told over 12,000 people came to audition. In prior seasons American Idol has found Clay Aiken, Jennifer Hudson and Fantasia.

Since Atlanta is Ryan’s hometown we were given the opportunity to meet his Dad and Mom. How cute? In case you didn’t catch it that was sarcasm.

Once again I thought it was way too cheesy to open the show with the background music of “The Devil Went Down to Georgia”.

The first contestant is Joshua Jones. Joshua is 26 and works with glass and he loves it. By the way it was also cheesy to be playing “Walking on Broken Glass” during the montage of Joshua’s back story. Joshua chooses “Don’t Stop Me Now”. I actually liked his voice and his movements weren’t distracting to me as much as the judges. Simon stopped him and told him that he had weird eyes, it was slightly demonic. Paula indicates his voice is good but the eye movements are distracting. They ask him to try again without the eye movements but after starting they stop him because he is doing it again.

I was actually stunned because they gave him a third try and told him to turn his back so he was singing to the background image. I was laughing my head off and Simon asks could you imagine him singing like that at the finale? It was funny with Josh singing and dancing with his back to the judges but I will give him credit, he had a nice voice. I don’t think he could win though. Simon indicates it was too karaoke but apologized for the eye comment but it did bother him. Simon says no. Paula says yes and Randy votes yes as well so Joshua is on his way to Hollywood. As he is leaving he shows that taped to the back of his contestant number was four, four leaf clovers taped to the back.

JP Tjelmano (sp) is next. JP indicates he auditioned once before during Season 4 and Carrie Underwood was two positions behind him. They were audition buddies. He regrets not keeping in touch (that was just way too pathetic not to mention doubtful that Carrie would even remember him, I didn’t remember him and I watch this show like a hawk). I was chuckling to myself when he told us that people say he has star quality and there would be contestants later saying they were two positions behind JP! There was no doubt right then and there we were headed for a train wreck and the people in his life are enablers!

JP chooses a Rascal Flatts’ song, I couldn’t understand him and I have all of the Rascal Flatts albums and I didn’t recognize the song. This should give you a clue as to how horrible JP was. He was totally flat (no pun intended) and he did not have one ounce of performance skills and his dance movements were beyond horrid. JP was like a stick in the mud. Put me out of my misery now! Simon told him to get a clue, you were that bad, and my pen has more charisma then you do. Simon votes no, Randy says no, and Paula indicates you are a really nice person but I have to pass.

We are then presented with a montage of Paula who is Miss wishy washy. The entire montage was played with the tune of “I’m Just a Girl who can’t say no” in the background. The montage was clearly clips from multiple seasons because Paula had multiple outfit and hairdos. We won’t talk about how the song was totally inappropriate for the producer’s purpose. The meaning of the song in the show “Okalahoma” carries a different connotation and given the past allegations of an affair with a contestant I was just plain laughing at the song. This was just a waste of air time.

Get out the Kleenex dear readers because we have SOB STORY number one from tonight’s episode. Asia Epperson is a good ole country girl, her family doesn’t have a lot of money and she worked hard for the money (okay I couldn’t resist inserting song title here) to come to Atlanta. Before leaving to come to Atlanta she called her dad to say she was on her way to audition and very shortly afterward she gets a call from her brother advising her that their dad was in an automobile accident and was killed. Don’t call me heartless because I understand her pain but somehow she managed to continue to the audition which means the rest of her family has to put the funeral on hold, etc. Can we say selfish with a capital S! She is still young enough to audition again. She knows her dad is with her today for the audition.

Asia advises the judges she was going to sing something different but her dad died a couple of days ago so she has decided to sing “How do I Live” in his honor. Is that shameless pandering for sympathy or what? I believe Asia has a nice voice but it was fairly scratchy, but there appeared to be a clear tone. She was a bit pitchy and she totally lost it at the end. Simon indicates he likes her, it was a tough situation but she did well. Your dad would be proud of you. Simon votes yes. Paula is totally emotional and states you are very brave, your passion came through and she votes yes. Randy said you worked it out, brilliant and votes yes. Asia is going to Hollywood. Paula then totally loses it and has to get up and leave. I must be getting a cold heart because I wasn’t moved at all by this story. It just made me mad.

Next up is Brooke Helvie, our Miss South Florida Fair (trust me I am not kidding here) all pageant like with her crown. She loves Simon and she wants to prove him wrong that those performing in pageant’s can actually perform since he is always calling something as pageantry. Brooke goes with “Who’s Loving You”. I personally didn’t like it, it was okay, her voice didn’t annoy me but Brooke certainly did and I don’t even know why. Simon states it wasn’t bad and says yes. Brooke tells Simon she loves him and he says “I know.” Paula says yes and Randy indicates you have a good pop voice and votes yes. I don’t agree and would suspect she won't make it to the top 24. Brooke hugs everyone before leaving with her golden ticket.

Next up is another montage of bad contestants all trying to sing “Glamorous” by Fergie. They definitely weren’t glamorous either in dress or talent.

Eva Miller is the next contestant and Eva has ATTITUDE or at least she says she does. She absolutely loves Simon. Eva goes with “A Thousand Miles” and her performance was like a thousand miles of bad, bad, bad. Eva’s number fell off and the poor thing slipped and fell on it. I didn’t want to laugh but I did. The judges were arguing with her that the whole thing was an act but according to Eva looking in Simon’s eyes it was an accident, she wanted her dancing to entertain. Her dancing wouldn’t entertain anyone. Once again Eva must live in a world of enablers because she pleads with the judges that many people tell her how wonderful she is but when pressed with which people it came down to family, friends and her church choir, PLEASE! The judges advise Eva it is a no but she tells Simon she still loves him; however, when leaving she had something else to say, bleeped of course on what she really thought!

Alexandra Washington, 16 is next. We spend more time visiting with her 93 year old grandmother who is hanging around then Alexandra herself, which was okay with me. Alexandra goes with “My Funny Valentine”, interesting choice and she doesn’t suck but she didn’t impress me. I certainly wouldn’t spend money on her. It was okay. We get 3 quick yeses from the judges and Alexandra is heading to Hollywood.

Next is another montage of some bad, geeky male singers.

Nathan Hite also 16 and he proudly announces he is repeating the ninth grade. Nathan advises he is ready for any Simon comments because he has his own winning retorts. He will not come crying out of the audition room. Nathan chooses a song I don’t know and it is probably best because he butchered whatever he was singing and if it is a song I like I don’t want it ruined for me. It wasn’t a fingernail down the chalkboard moment but it came close. Simon tells him it was a bedroom audition, like you were alone in your bedroom singing along to the record (and what is wrong with that, I do it all the time) but not as good. Nathan starts with his cute retorts and Simon tells him does he want to listen or be a smart ass, he chooses to listen. After he finishes Simon tells him he can respond and he does. I hate to say it but Nathan’s retorts were actually funny, that portion was entertaining. I would say Nathan could be a stand up comedian. Luckily for all of us it was a no. I also laughed when Nathan was talking to Ryan afterwards and explains Simon said no because he refused to spoon with him.

Amanda Overmeyer was next. Ms. Gothic Harley riding home health care nurse! I am not sure I would want Amanda helping me at home at least from a nursing perspective. Amanda is going for the rocker chick audition. She chooses “Mean Woman” and she does have a nice growl to her voice but to me this was a bedroom audition, she was totally trying to channel Janis Joplin. The judges ask her to sing something different and she goes with “Traveling Band”. This performance made me sit up and pay attention. It was so much better, it was more natural, and her tone was really good. I think if Amanda can remain herself and not imitate others she could be successful. Paula calls her authentic, real. Both Randy and Simon say yes. After she leaves Paula says she is the female Chris Daughtry.

Next is a montage of the good and we are told the golden tickets were flying out the door.

Our final contestant of the evening is Josiah Leming. Josiah is now 18 but he left home 18 months ago when he was 17 quitting school. He mother was very disappointed. He now travels around playing and singing. He goes wherever the wind blows. Josiah lives out of his car but proudly indicates he is not homeless, his car is his home and he loves it. We get a tour of the car. He does break down and indicate sometimes it is scary and lonely but he knows that someday it will all be worth it. He came from nothing and can’t believe the opportunity he is being given. His family thinks he has been staying with friends but will now learn the truth.

I do have a heart; I have to confess this is the first story which has absolutely moved me. It brought tears to my eyes. The reason I believe this above any of the rest so far this season moved me is because Josiah was completely sincere. It was not an act. He is truly an honest person, how unusual.

Josiah is asked by the judges why he is there and he tells them he has ambition and the motivation to win. I totally believed him and it goes back to his sincerity. I note Simon tells him he believes what he is saying. Josiah goes with an original composition, “To Run”. I was very much impressed. I totally loved the song itself and I thought Josiah had a very nice presence and tone to his voice. Simon and Randy found his accent strange, like it was British, I didn’t hear it. Josiah does indicate he listens to a lot of English bands. Simon asks him to sing “Chasing Cars” which he did with relative ease having not rehearsed. I liked it. Simon again comments on the weird accent. Randy indicates he likes him, he is interesting but would see him in a band; Paula finds him intriguing, I adore you and she says he is holding back on what talent he really has. The judges give him a unanimous yes. Josiah is going to Hollywood and as he is leaving he tells them you will never regret this decision. I am human because that brought tears to my eyes as well.

Only 20 people out of 12,000 received golden tickets in Atlanta.

Tonight we have a wrap up/montage show called “Hollywood or Bust.” According to the American Idol website, this is the best of the best. I really can’t believe it, I suspect it is a montage of the good, the bad, and the truly ugly but time will tell.

Until tomorrow!