AI 8 2/26/09 The Second Reveal or now there are 6

What have you done America? THIS IS AMERICAN IDOL!

There were 25,000,000 votes cast after last night’s performances. I guess I need to up the ante on my voting and switch to four phones instead of three.

We begin with a group number. I was not exactly impressed by the choice of song and the band was excessively loud practically overpowering the contestants.

Cue first video showing us this group’s journey to the stage. This simply allows them to stretch out the reveal.

FOX must be really struggling with revenue since Ryan had to tell us to watch the commercials very carefully in order to catch a hidden Audition. It was not hidden very well and the audition was atrocious.

We then have to cue another montage of last night’s audition highlights. TIME WASTER!

The first contestant to advance to the top 12 is Allison Iraheta and America clearly is getting better with their voting or they are paying more attention to my blogs. Since the results went my way, I will take the credit. I have to mention Allison looked great tonight, better then last night. I loved it when she said, “She was friggin’ happy!”

The next group up is Megan, Matt, Jeanine, and Kris. Kris is moving to the top 12 and Ronald got up and did a happy dance. To borrow from Allison – I am frigging HAPPY! This can only mean Norman is going home – Yeah!

I did enjoy Kara calling Simon on his crap, asking, “Do you ever shut up?” Way to go especially since she was really explaining some things to the contestants waiting for the reveal.

When Kris started singing, you could tell he was very happy and sincere about being there. Since he did not have to worry at that point his performance tonight was 1,000 times better than last night.

Thank you America for voting correctly! Keep it up or I am tracking you all down.

Cue a repeat video montage from the Season 8 opening episode, video highlights of the last 7 seasons. This was a major time waster!

Brooke White is here to plug her new single oh I mean sing. Brooke still cannot dress right but I have to say she looked great. I liked the hair and make-up. The song did not do much for me but oh well!

The last five contestants are brought center stage: Jasmine, Kai, Mishavonna, Adam, and Nick/Norman. Jasmine, Kai and Mishavonna are sent back to the couch. This leaves Adam and Norman, which pretty much eliminated the surprise.

I loved Simon explaining he went home and prayed for 5-6 hours and he is trusting he and God have a good relationship. Laugh out loud funny!

Nick’s journey ends tonight and I guess he is really going and Ronald jumped from the chair screaming and running around the room thrilled another nightmare ends.

Adam moves in to the Top 12. I also thought Adam performed better this evening as well.

We now have the first half of our top 12 and it is shaping up to be a very interesting line-up. We have four men and two women so far.

Our final group of 12 is up next week and they include:

Ju’Not Joyner
Scott MacIntyre
Nathaniel Marshall
Jorge Nunez
Von Smith
Alex Wagner-Trugman
Arianna Afsaa
Kendall Beard
Kristen McNamara
Lil Rounds
Taylor Vaifauna
Felicia Barton - Felicia is the substitute for disqualified Joanna Pacitti. It appears she was disqualified not because of her prior recording contract but she had friendships with two executives of 19 Entertainment (the producers of American Idol).

Until next week…

AI 8 2-25-09 Semi-Finals Round 2

Last night’s show begins with our group of 12 contestants standing on the stairs while Ryan explains where else can we have a welder, a bartender, a font designer and a comedian all-vying together, of course, THIS is AMERICAN IDOL!

What was up with Ryan last night? He was a bit causal in jeans and sneakers, highly unusual for him. I guess he did not bring along enough wardrobe choices given his daily schedule.

I was also happy to see the judges back in their proper order at the table starting with Randy. There are some things, which should not be messed with.

Ryan once again asks the judges what advice they have for the contestants. Randy says bring it on, Kara reminds them they have no second chances and need to show their strengths, Paula says pick the right song, and Simon indicates it is too late for advice.

The theme continues to be songs from Billboard’s Top 100. This is a big list so song selection is always critical. Let us get started with the dish!

Jasmine Murray

Jasmine chooses “Love Song” for her audition. Jasmine was clearly nervous and the beginning of the number was terrible, it was way too low and flat. I do not believe she ever found the pitch and the background singers were excessively loud as well. I think Jasmine has a good voice given she was the only one who saved her group number and there were a couple of seconds when you could really hear what her voice would sound like but this performance was off from beginning to end. This is not a great beginning.

Randy – there were good and bad moments. It was pitchy throughout, you should have done something by Rihanna, and it just did not work.

Kara – you are so commercial but this was all over the place, it started out too low for your register, it was not your best.

Paula – I have to agree with Randy and Kara, you gave it your all and tried to interpret it in your own way but you sang all around it and went off-pitch, you definitely have confidence.

Simon – I was disappointed, you have the look, the attitude and the confidence but you did not sing well. I do not think the song choice is going to help you.

Matt Giraud

It is unfortunate the contestants cannot play their instruments until they reach the Top 12 because Matt clearly needed his piano. I have to say I hate holey jeans and Matt’s jeans looked like he got them from a homeless man – come on you cannot wear some decent jeans. Matt goes with “Viva La Vida” which is not a great choice for him plus it is way too current, come on Cold Play just won a Grammy for this song last month. Oh my, what is up with the strange vibrato, it is like his voice has its own echo. Matt was also not able to hit the high notes, he was flat, flat, flat! In addition his diction sucked, you could hardly understand what he was saying.

Kara – you blew me away in Hollywood, I was not blown away, your bluesy, soulful vibe got lost in the song, you are a good singer but this song did not show your best side

Paula – you were good in Hollywood, this was a risky song, this performance was better than the rehearsal I saw, but you at least went for it.

Simon – this was verging on a horrible performance, it wasn’t just that the song was bad, it was also the way your performed it, like a wannabe pop star, it was not comfortable to watch. I like your voice but this was not a good choice of song.

Randy – you have mad talent but this was not good.

Jeanine Vailes

Oh no, we have someone trying to imitate Haley Scarnato! Jeanine this is a singing competition, those short shorts and the long slinky legs will not take you far. Jeanine chooses “This Love”. This was another totally awful performance. What is happening tonight? The entire vocal was off key. She had a really strange rhythm, which was not in sync with the background singers. I realize she tried to make some changes with the song but those ridiculous runs were not needed and were distracting. The entire performance was a freaking mess. I was happy when it was over.

Paula – your have great legs, this is season 8, you have great legs, this was not the right song.

Simon – it was terrible, you chose the wrong song, it was painful to watch and you were struggling with it. I agree you have nice legs.

Randy – I agree you do have nice legs. It was the wrong song, it was pitchy, the best part of the performance was the end, and I was dying over here watching you.

Kara – it was so overdone, everything about it was wrong

Nick Mitchell aka Norman Gentle

Why is this contestant here? This was utterly ridiculous. Does Nick/Norman know any other songs then “And I’m Telling You I’m Not Going”? I took away points for his stupid outfit but gave some points for the changing of the lyrics i.e. his pleading not to be going but it is the only point he got from me. The entire song was off key, the antics were not entertaining and his making out with the American Idol logo was bordering on sickening. I was not entertained by the performance, I found it torture to watch and I was happy when it was over. This was a waste of my time. It makes me mad because there were contestants who could sing but they were sent home for this. Give me a freaking break! I was blown away when Ryan answered Norman’s question and said he did not deserve to go through but it is up to America. Way to go Ryan, I totally agree.

Simon – I believe I am speaking on behalf of America when he prays you do not go through to the next round (I do not know about the entire country but Ronald is praying he is going). This was the most atrocious performance we have ever had on this show. It was horrible comedy.

Randy – it was entertaining but the vocals were not happening.

Kara – we remember you, you wear the same shirt each week just like Simon (OUCH!), you are not terrible (EXCUSE ME!) but you are not right for the music industry.

Paula – this is America and singers come in all shapes and sizes, you were channeling Olivia Newton-John (what because he had a headband on – come on) and Jerry Lewis but this is not the stage for you but there are plenty of other stages.

Allison Iraheta

Allison looked great, she actually dressed like a 16 year old – how original? I am not loving her hair color but she stands out in a crowd. I have to say it, Allison could pass as Kelly Clarkson’s sister, I swear the resemblance is uncanny and it goes to the vocals as well. Allison is tackling “Alone” by Heart, which is normally a poor choice for most contestants. Carrie Underwood pulled it off but it is rare. I have to admit Allison was freaking good. She really poured a more bluesy rock sound to it. She has a natural rasp in her upper register. Allison had total control of her voice and the crowd. The audience really connected with her. Given she is only 16 she has a powerful vocal instrument. There were a few squeaks when she went for the power note but she covered it well. Allison is a totally different person when she is performing. The best so far this evening but after Norman anything would be an improvement.

Randy – strange night, we have had bad singing and comedy and then you came and blew it out of the box, there is some real singing, you were rocking it, one of the hottest of the night.

Kara – you are serious, you do not realize how good you really are, you need to get comfortable and fight the stage fright but you have some serious chops, with the right song, you would have a huge hit.

Paula – you could sing the telephone book, for 16 you are very seasoned given how you worked the microphone stand, congratulations, incredible, you are a lot like Kelly Clarkson (DUH!)

Simon – You are the best so far by a mile, you were boring upstairs when you were talking to Ryan but on the stage you had confidence and turned into a completely different person on stage, I was very impressed, I think you are the one to watch.

Kris Allen

Kris dresses well, thankfully. He is going with “Man in the Mirror”. I love this song but I am not sure it is a good choice. Kris started way too low and very rough but he rallies by the chorus. He has a good voice but he had some pitch problems. I will give him points for diction and he was really connecting with the background singers, the harmonies were flawless. Kris can perform once he got over his nervousness he was having fun and had great energy. Kris definitely has the entire package pretty face and a good voice but I do not think America has seen enough of him and this performance was not memorable enough to get them to vote unless it is for his good looks.

Kara – the front half was pretty rough but the back half was way better, it wasn’t as good as your Hollywood performances, it was the wrong song, I can’t see you doing this sort of music, you have talent but this didn’t show me the person I fell in love with in Hollywood, where is the soulful voice.

Paula – I totally disagree, I think you showed your personality, you would have made the writer’s of the song proud (I was impressed Paula knew their names) you were charming and confident, it showed.

Simon – I agree with Paula. You are not the best singer but you showed confidence and personality, I am quite proud of you, the girls will like you, I think you put forth the effort and it may pay off for you.

Randy – I agree partially with Simon, I was happy you were able to rock the performance without your guitar

Megan Corkrey

I am not sure why but I find the tattoo on her right arm totally distracting. What was up with that dress and those pom pom balls over the bodice, it looked horrible and when she was doing her strange dance movements (if you could really call them that) they were bouncing around, it was crazy. Megan is going with “Put Your Records on” and I did not like this at all. She was horribly off-key for almost the entire performance and I think it was totally out of her range.

Paula – you won everyone over at your original audition, you picked the right song, you are interesting, relevant, you did everything right, I love you.

Simon – “you are a funny little thing, aren’t you?” The song started well but then you over sang the second part of the song. You are gorgeous. I hope America votes for you because you stand out, your current; I just wish your vocals had been better.

Randy – I am a big fan, you are interesting, and you have the whole Adele, Duffy, Amy Winehouse vibe going, nice job.

Kara – you are already a packaged artist, you stand out, and with the right song, and you could have your defining moment.

Matt Breitzke

Poor Matt, what kind of hotel are these contestants staying at where he could not even find an iron. The shirt he was wearing looked like he took it out of a laundry basket after it had been all wadded up for a week. I think he could have tucked it in as well. Matt looked very sloppy. Matt goes with “If You Could Only See” and it was basically good karaoke. There was nothing special about it at all. Matt’s dancing really sucked, I was not sure if he was having a seizure the way he was jerking around. Good heavens.

Simon – I really like you but I hated the song. I am frustrated, I definitely would have tried to talk you out of the song, if I had known about it, the song did not suit you and the performance was uncomfortable. You have not done yourself any favors.

Randy – the performance was boring and did not show how great you are, it was a rock song, it needed more edge but I like you and I wish you luck.

Kara – everyone likes you but this did not highlight your talent, it fell flat, you can sing, this was just a poor song choice.

Paula – the song did not celebrate who you are as an artist

Jesse Langseth

Jesse is going with “Bette Davis Eyes”. I totally love this song but the majority of the target audience probably has never heard this song. Jesse looked great but this performance was again simply good karaoke although she had some serious pitch problems. This is a very unique song and Jesse just could not pull it off. Since she said, she missed her daughter during her introductory video she will not have to fear she will be seeing her very soon!

Randy – it was okay, the song was cool, not exciting, you need to show your range, this has a 5-note range; we need to see what you can do.

Kara – this is your best look and you showed some sexiness in your performance, you took some risks but the range was not great, there were some good moments

Paula – you are captivating, I will remember you, you are cool, and it was not the perfect song.

Simon – you are forgettable, you have a good voice but I do not see anyone jumping to vote for you.

Kai Kalama

Is Fox so poor they cannot hire a hairdresser or buy a comb? Kai’s hair is very distracting. The fact I am paying more attention to your hair then your singing is because this was not a good performance. Kai goes with “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted”. I think Kai has a good voice but he had some serious pitch problems and he was not able to control his breathing, he was gasping for air towards the end. This was just a safe performance and again good karaoke. Kai did not make it special. I give him credit for the energy in his performance and his enunciation.

Kara – I like you a lot, there were pitch issues but you did give it your all. I think the song was a little old-fashioned, we have not seen the contemporary side of you yet, there were some good moments and some less then good moments.

Paula – I like these throw back songs, you did fall off pitch, and you have the chops to do well if you work hard

Simon – I have heard many performances like this over the years, it was old-fashioned, corny and it was like a wedding singer. There was nothing distinct or memorable about this, you would make a good backup singer.

Randy – it was so safe.

Mishavonna Henson

I am not sure her name would serve her well; she needs a nickname or something because I cannot imagine hearing any one shout out “Mishavonna, Mishavonna”. She is going with “Drops of Jupiter”. This is a freaking strange song choice and she has to change the pronoun, which is always distracting, at least to me. I did not like this performance at all. I think she was trying way too hard and was forcing the vocals. She has a pleasant enough voice but there were some very strange notes and not in a good way. There was nothing about this, which worked for me.

Paula – you can sing, but this was not a good choice of songs

Simon – the song was okay but you are very serious, you are technically a good singer but it left me cold, you act like a 50 year old.

Randy – song choice does not always matter as long as the singer really rocks it; you needed to sing something young, this did not show off your voice enough.

Kara – you are very put together but you need to loosen up, you are a good singer but I cannot tell where you would fit in the music industry

Adam Lambert

Adam got the money spot, yeah! Adam what is up with the black fingernail polish, this was a little over the top even for me which is saying quite a bit. Adam is going with “Satisfaction” and this was truly the best performance of the night. Adam has exceptional vocal range. He is a true performer and he was connecting with the audience in a big way. This was an energetic performance and although he did not stifle his musical theater background, as he wanted to, who cares, the man can sing! This was the best vocal and the best performance of the night.

This was a very lackluster group of contestants except for the two standouts.

I did spend two hours voting my little fingers off but I only voted for Adam, Allison, Kris and I gave a few to Kai. I was able to rack up 837 votes last night. Adam received 426, Allison 203, Kris 205 and Kai 3 votes.

If you look, at performances, Allison will be the top female vote getter and Adam should be the top male vote getter. The question is who will be the next top vote getter. I am hoping for Kris but I have a really sinking feeling in my stomach that ridiculous Norman Gentle will be the third. Do not ask me why it is just a horrible feeling I have.

Until tomorrow…

AI 8 2/18/09 The First Reveal

Happy days are here again! Put on a Happy Face! Smile! Joy to the World! Fly Me To the Moon! Can you see where I am going with this? I am freaking jumping up and down with joy because HH is going home. I have not screamed so loud nor did such a long happy dance in quite awhile but I am still dancing on cloud 9.

While Ryan opened the show with “Take nothing for granted, this is American Idol” I was hoping for the right results.

America managed 24,000,000 million votes. Yeah!

Cue the first montage, which showed the journey of our contestants tonight – LAME! It also included HH laughing, oh the pain, the pain!

We were then presented with a group number and they chose “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz. I love this song and the group just did not do it justice. Alexis seemed to be the only one with any rhythm and they gave solo bits to most of the contestants who bombed last night including Stevie Wright. I was not impressed with this number at all. The whole thing was pointless and uncomfortable to watch.

We now have to cue another montage of highlights from last night, pointless filler! I almost fell out of my chair and shouted a few naughty words when Ryan said HH turned the night around. What the f*^k?

We then had some pointless banter with the contestants when you know they all are thinking get this torture over with now. Once again, HH is getting excessively much airtime. I am screaming again; when she says, “I am humbled to be here”, oh give me a break. We once again had the whole Paula jewelry discussion. Enough. If I was Paula, I would be worried about another stalker!

It is time for some eliminations:

Casey Carlson and Stephen Fowler are not going through while Alexis Grace is now in the Top 12. Alexis has to sing again.

Ricky Braddy and Jackie Tohn are the next contestants who are not going through. Next up is Michael Sarver and Anoop Desai. Michael is going through. Now there is the surprise of the night. There apparently were only 20,000 votes separating them. I guess good looks and I need this for my family back-story is paying off for him but I do not see him going very far in the competition. Michael is going to have to work hard to survive.

Our next montage is about the opening of The American Idol Experience at Disney World in Florida. I so want to go and be a judge! It was the first time all seven formal Idols were on the stage at the same time. They showed a great clip of Carrie Underwood and David Cook singing, those two should record together.

Ryan says it is time for the next two contestants to come forward and out walks Carly Smithson and Michael Johns. They were looking great. Michael has an album coming out in May. Carly and Michael performed “The Letter”. It was a great arrangement and these two rocked the house. They clearly outshined most of the contestants from Tuesday night.

Our next elimination is Anne Marie Boskovich, Brent Keith, and Stevie Wright. They are all going on.

The final two contestants are Danny Gokey and HH. We naturally had to have a commercial before hearing HH is going home and the angels in heaven were singing at that moment.

I have to say if looks could kill, Danny would not be here. It was actually scary watching HH and Danny hesitated before hugging her, I am sure he thought there would be a knife sliding into his heart. HH was so holding down the rage that was flowing through her; she could have channeled the dark side of the force at that moment.

Danny sends us off with an encore of “Hero” which defuses the situation while HH is crying in the background.

For some strange reason the show will be on Wednesday and Thursday next week. This is going to throw off my whole routine.

The next group of 12 is:

Megan Corkrey
Kris Allen
Mishavonna Henson
Matt Breitzke
Allison Iraheta
Matt Giraud
Jasmine Murray
Kai Kalama
Jesse Langseth
Adam Lambert
Jeanine Vailes
Nick Mitchell aka Norman Gentle

Until next week…

AI 8 2/17/09 Semi-Final Round 1

This is American Idol and the semi-finals are finally here. America can now take control and push this competition forward.

We have a new set and the judges are sitting in a different configuration but the comments provided in the same order starting with Randy.

I am afraid we are going to end up with the mosh pit again and I will not be happy but we will have to wait for the final Top 12.

Let us buckle down and get to the meat of the show. Ryan has to get some hints from the judges. Randy tells them they have one shot; you need to blow us away. Kara tells them to fight their nerves, you cannot let them get to you, be yourself and go for it. Paula tells them this is their dream, you have a minute and a half to make magic. Simon was Simon, too funny!

The theme for tonight is hits from the Billboard 100. Let us pray the contestants remember song selection is everything.

Jackie Tohn

Jackie is up first and explains she wants this more than anything else. I have to mention the horrible background when she was singing it was very distracting. I was not impressed with her outfit although the belt was a bold choice. Jackie goes with “A Little Less Conversation” and the arrangement sucked. Jackie had some really horrible rough notes and her jerky movements were irritating. I will say she was having fun but she was trying to entertain more than blow us away with her vocal talent. This was not a memorable performance.

Randy – I was not blown away by the vocal but you can definitely entertain.

Kara – you can work a stage and you have a big personality but the vocals were not terrific.

Paula – you got me up dancing, I love you, and I remember you the most from the auditions. Your vocals were not perfect but perfect is boring. You are a true performer.

Simon – you have a good voice but you played the clown, it was gimmicky, you did not do yourself a favor, you were silly instead of good.

Ricky Braddy

Ricky’s parents should be shot for their “Braddy Bunch” t-shirts – give me a freaking break. The producers on the other hand have shortchanged Ricky because we have not heard or seen much of him. Ricky chooses “A Song for you” and he is great. I thought it was a great song choice, he had very good control of his voice, there was great tone, he really connected with the song, and I felt the emotions of the song. His enunciation was excellent. Ricky needs to work on some performance skills but his vocals were spot on. The great falsetto at the end was unbelievable.

Randy – Season 8 starts here, you have talent, unbelievable

Kara – you killed that, the arrangement, the riffs, your interpretation, you made it seem effortless

Paula – I am proud that American gets to see how talented you are, you deserve to go on

Simon – I am not jumping out of my chair like the others but it was good. My only issue is you do not have any star quality. You have a great voice but no charisma. You are a nice, shy guy.

Alexis Grace

Where has this contestant been hiding? Alexis went with “I Never Loved a Man” and she was hot. I loved her outfit including the killer shoes. The string of pearls was a great touch. Thankfully, she has toned down the hair, I liked the new style, and while it came close, the hair did not cover her one eye. I was impressed by her performance. Alexis can sing and she can sing well. The power she possesses, she sold the beauty and soul of the number. Alexis gave this a soulful, sultry, bluesy feeling. Totally awesome performance. She knows how to work the crowd.

Randy – you found the dirt, you found soul, you worked it out, and I love you

Kara – the genie is out of the bottle, you have come out of your shell; you are a new girl, great job!

Paula – For a 21 year old, no one would expect so much soul, passion and confidence, fantastic, wonderful

Simon – you are the best contestant by a mile, you have soul and self-confidence, you are the dark horse in this competition, this is like looking at Kelly Clarkson when we first sat up and took notice

Brent Keith

You have to love live television since the video for Brent did not work at first. Ryan handled the situation pretty well but the video rolls. Brent goes with “Hicktown”. Brent knows how to perform; he worked the crowd and has a decent vote. Given Brent was unable to win on Nashville Star I cannot really see him winning American Idol. This was a good performance with decent vocals but he does not stand out. While his good looks may win him some votes, it will not be enough.

Randy – I like what you did with it, new age but with an old country swagger, I liked it

Kara – I like you but this was a little safe, it was not rangey enough, you need to take more risks.

Paula – it was a safe song but I do see you as a country artist

Simon – you blew you shot, you have a nice voice, but it was not original enough, you made no impact, you blew a massive opportunity by being forgettable.

Brent you do not argue with the judges, it is the kiss of death. Learn from those who have gone before you.

Stevie Wright

Poor Stevie she was so out of her element. How nice she was only nine when the show started in 2002 and is now old enough to be here. The background for her song sucked as well. This has to be one of the worst performances ever. The beginning was so rough it was scary. It was the fingers down the chalkboard moment. There were times I could barely hear her and she was mumbling which is something I hate, lyrics are to be enunciated, it is a song not an instrumental piece. There was absolutely nothing redeemable about this performance. Stevie was never on pitch. This was a total let down. Her outfit was atrocious.

Randy – this was not good

Kara – you are trying to be young but you picked a song that does not fit you

Paula – I have to agree with Randy and Kara, this was not the right song, and it was in a low range

Simon – this was terrible, you were out of tune, really nervous, you have gained some experience but there is no chance of you making it through

Anoop Desai

Anoop goes with an interesting song choice “Angel of Mine”. I did not like his performance and the song was not very fun compared to the goal he had in his video introduction. His vocals started out rough but he worked it out by the end, the ending notes were great. Anoop can sing and he was selling the emotion but it was not a top 12 caliber performance.

Randy – interesting song choice, a little sharp, you didn’t settle in, not your best

Kara – it is a hard song, you did not nail the riffs but you have great potential, I believe you, you really connect with the song

Paula – America has connected with you (really?), you are showing a different side of yourself, sharp or not you have a Brian McKnight thing going on and you should be here for a while.

Simon – I think it was too grown-up and serious for you, you do have massive likeability.

Casey Carlson

Give me a freaking break, Casey chooses “Every Little Thing She Does is Magic” what is this girl thinking. This has to be one of the stupidest song choices in a long time. I was digging the outfit but her hairdo was just plain dumb. The arrangement of this song was very strange and she had horrible pitch problems. The whole picking songs and then having to change the pronouns caused her to be very tentative. There was not a single note, which was good. This was a total train wreck from beginning to end. Please put me out of my misery quickly. What was up with the strange facial expressions? She could not even win a karaoke contest.

Randy – this was not good, it was weird, completely wrong, strangely karaoke

Kara – “everything about that was wrong”, you picked a Police song, no one touches the Police, you needed a girl anthem, the entire performance was overdone, I had high hopes for you but you fell flat

Paula – guys think you are hot and that is part of the package (but you still have to sing) but the performance did not help. Your phrasing was off, it did not work, and the song was too out of your reach

Simon – the singing was horrible and you could not have picked a worse song, you did not show what kind of an artist you could be, I hated the whole thing including the arrangement, it was terrible karaoke

Michael Sarver

Michael is a likeable guy but I do not think he is really right for the competition. Michael chooses “I Don’t Wanna Be” and hopes to encourage others to be themselves. Poor Michael attempted some dancing but just looked ridiculous. Overall, he has a decent voice but the beginning was rough and it was awhile before he pulled it together. Michael could go far on Nashville Star.

Randy – you can definitely sing, it started out pitchy and the first verse was weird I wish you would have done something with soul

Kara – the song is a great crowd pleaser but this was not your best performance, you are likeable

Paula – you did a real good job and showed a different side of yourself, the way you switched the mike from hand to hand was very distracting but you did Gavin proud

Simon – this is tricky, I like you but it was not the best vocal, if you make it through it is because people like you

Anne Marie Boskovich

I totally did not like Anne’s outfit, it was not attractive on her. She also performed in front of another stupid background. Anne goes with “Natural Woman”. I did not like this performance at all it was way overdone. Her voice was decent but she was not in control and she was trying way too hard. This was barely good karaoke.

Randy – not the right song choice, it fell flat

Kara – this song is so big, it felt a bit old fashioned, and you should have sung a Sara Bareilles number

Paula – you were better tonight than in your auditions, you played it safe

Simon – if we were looking for the best hotel/cabaret singer you could be in the running, the simple truth is your voice is not good enough, you were very, very old-fashioned, you may have ruined your one chance

Stephen Fowler

These contestants clearly are not paying attention, song choice is everything and Stephen goes with “Rock with Me”. The entire performance was off key. What was up with the strange phrasing? The background singers sounded better than Stephen did. Everything little thing about this performance (if Kara can use it so can I) did not work, it was rough, it was cheesy, and his expressions were crazy – he looked like he had constipation and his voice cracked at the high note. I was not rocking to his vocals. This was scary.

Randy – this was a horrible song choice, you were pitchy, and you were right under the notes

Kara – I liked you better when you forgot your lyrics at the piano, you were playing from the heart, and this song did not let you connect

Paula – you remembered the lyrics, you should have performed the David Cook song this week, this song was the kiss of death (oh my god, this came out of Paula), it was disappointing

Simon – the performance was pointless, the arrangement was bad, you are going to watch the performance later and realize you made a huge mistake it was corny

Histrionic Hyena (HH) aka Tatiana Del Toro

I am so past being able to be open-minded about this contestant but her video introduction sent me over the edge. At least I did not have to hear her laugh but the almost tearing up was just too obvious of a ploy. The whole I have had to fight every step of the way to get here and she is not going to let anyone get in the way of her dream. Apparently, HH does not know I am an enemy and I intend to crush her dream where American Idol is concerned. Heaven help us she is going with a Whitney Houston song, you cannot out diva the divas you freaking drama queen. “Saving All My Love for You” was atrocious. HH has a horrible lower register; I could barely hear her at the beginning. HH seemed pretty nervous and was very stiff on stage. What was up with the horrible dress? There were a couple of good notes but overall this performance was just plain bad!

Randy – there were some good moments but you did not pull it all together

Kara – you are like a roller coaster ride, I am not sure I like this reserved persona; you have not shown us where you would fit in this industry

Paula – you are the most talked about contestant this season, good bad or indifferent, there were some pitchy moments the demure Tatiana confuses me

Simon – you are a huge drama queen and all you want is fame, you are desperate to be famous, the demure thing does not work, you need to be crazy again

Danny Gokey

Danny’s performance was the high point of the evening. He does pick some bizarre songs and “Hero” by Mariah Carey is one of them but somehow he pulls the rabbit out of the hat. I suspect being a choir director helps because the arrangement was very good for his voice. I actually got chills during his vocals and I have to admit it brought tears to my eyes. If you package it right I will buy it. This was a killer performance, he showed great control of his voice, the way he moved from his lower register to the upper register was flawless and the ending note brilliant. Hands down the best performance of the night.

Randy – you are the redeemer of the night, it was blazing hot

Kara – you are the hero, this was incredible, great

Paula – I have two words – sold-out arenas.

Simon – it was good but it was not as fantastic as the other three have indicated, you are a very good singer and I like you

Well folks I had a slow night in voting. I managed only 725 votes. Danny got 374, Alexis got 157, Ricky got 125, Brent got 27, Stevie Wright 5, Anoop 17, Casey Carlson 5, Michael Sarver 5, Anne Marie 5 and Stephen Fowler 5. HH received zero!

It will be an interesting results show.

My predictions are Danny and Alexis as the top vote getters and while I believe, Ricky should be the third I think Anoop will actually get in. Here is hoping they bring Ricky back for the wild card episode.

HH is going down and she better not be brought back for the wild card show.

I am sure it will be nail biter of a results show tonight but at least I can look forward to Michael Johns and Carly Smithson performing a duet. They sounded great together during the Idol Tour last summer.

Until tomorrow…

AI 8 - 2/11/09 Hollywood The Final Judgment

This is American Idol’s Final Judgment as Ryan continuously spouts throughout the two-hour episode. This has been the toughest week of their lives and tonight everything will change for some.

We are visiting a big Hollywood Mansion and the walk to the chair of doom is through a beautiful garden and then some nice hallways and into a very large elegant room where the judges are perched on some very large red thrones. I was surprised about how close the chair of doom was to the judges this year.

As promised from last night’s tease, some of the contestants will have to sing for their lives. Oh the tension, the drama, who will be in and who will have their dreams stomped to the ground?

There are 54 contestants sitting in the holding room, this is going to be a long day!

Anoop Desai is the first to face the judges. Kara explains that he has continuously surprised them but he still had some issues in Hollywood but we have unanimously decided to put you through.

Von Smith realizes he has had a tough time but this is why I am alive. The judges ask Von how he feels he has done during the week. Von addresses Simon’s comments from the first round. Von’s parents are singers and he takes their advice very seriously but understands he has to do what he needs to do and his parents were not happy about his choice of song for the final round but he is happy he made the choice. Simon explains his song choice influenced the judges’ decision and he is through.

Next is our first sing-off between Cody Shelton and Alex Wagner-Trugman who through the competition have become very close friends. Cody chooses “Love Remains the Same” and is okay. Alex goes with “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” and he was brilliant. Alex clearly won the sing-off. Oh my I am right, the judges go with Alex.

Adam Lambert who I absolutely believe should be in this competition is next to visit the chair. Simon explains they liked him in Hollywood, but they have to look at his whole journey. They have to consider whether he will win and whether he would make a good recording artist. As if, this is why almost the entire third season contestants have never been heard of since and let us not forget he who should not be named but I digress. Simon indicates the decision was unanimous but not good news, its great news. Adam is through. Freaking yeah!

Taylor Vaifanua is the first female to take the long walk. Randy gives the good news she is through.

We then get a very quick montage of yeses for Jasmine Murray, Arianna Afsar, Casey Carlson, Megan Corkrey, Mishavonna Henson and Stevie Wright.

Next to walk is Joanna Pacitti who is very concerned because of the many times she forgot her lyrics. Paula explains they are not sure who she is as an artist. Joanna responds by indicating she has done her best but she thinks she is improving. Kara calls her out on the fact she has already had her shot in the music industry so when is she going to step out and show who she is. Joanna answers now. Simon thinks she just needs a break. The judges tell her she is participating in Season 8.

We are provided with a quick montage of three men getting the boot. It was so quick I did not have time to write down all their names. One was T.K. Hass.

Kendall Beard is next. Paula tells her she is commercial but her song choices were not good and did not put her where she needs to be but she is through.

Our next sing-off is between Kristen McNamara and Jenn Korbee. Jenn is first and goes with “Not Ready to Make Nice” and it was not very good, she was off pitch and she was not selling the emotion of the song. Kristen goes with “I Will Always Love You” and she sounded better. During the judges deliberation Simon simply asks whether they want the attractive blond (Jenn) or the other. Kara says they might as well just bring in a bunch of models. It is time for Kristen and Jenn to hear the news. Kara tells Jen she made a poor song choice and she has not connected with her songs. Paula tells Kristen her clothes are off-putting and they are not sure who she is. Simon is bored and cuts to the chase telling Kristen she is through and he thinks it is the wrong decision.

Alexis Grace walks next and the judges jump to the chase and tell her she is through.

Scott MacIntyre is next. Kara thinks he struggled during his initial audition because he could not play his keyboard. The judges are unanimous and he is through.

Lil Rounds faces the judges next. Simon tells her sometimes decisions are not as clear-cut as people think and this is one of those situations. She is through. As she leaves, Simon tells the rest she is a “good old-fashioned” singer. I am not sure I agree with that but time will tell.

We then get a quick montage of three female contestants told no.

We get yet another sing-off between Frankie Jordan and Jesse Langseth. Frankie is first and frankly, she sucked, it was just terrible. She sang in a weird lower register. Simon stops her and tells her she has made their decision a lot easier. As she goes, Kara indicates she is soulful and she liked the song choice. Jesse is next and she sounded much better but Simon did not like the song choice. It is time to face the judges and Jesse is going through. Simon tells Frankie, “If it’s any consolation, you wouldn’t have won anyway” and then says he does not think Jesse will win either. Kara tells Frankie she just did not stand out while Jesse does.

Cue the next montage as Ryan explains the final judgment process started in Season 4. We then get a quick round of nos.

Allison Iraheta is next and the judges send her through.

Next up is the montage of best friends Danny Gokey and Jamar Rogers, the bromance. They have been each other’s support. Danny Gokey is up first and the judges ask him how he feels he did. Danny tells them considering the pressure he has been under he thinks he did well. He explains there is always room for improvement. Simon tells him it is about being relevant and different; there are a lot of good singers out there. Danny says he is relevant and different. The judges say that is a good answer and he is through. Was there any doubt on this one?

Jamar Rogers is next. Kara says he took some risks in Hollywood and is not sure they paid off. Jamar is going home. I am not surprised because of the drama it creates but more about this later.

We then get some very quick yeses for Ricky Braddy, Matt Giraud, Ju’not Joyner, Jorge Nunez, and Brent Keith.

Stephen Fowler is next up in the chair. The judges ask him how he did and he says he did not do well. They ask him if he made the right decision leaving the stage and Stephen tells them no, he regrets that decision. He should have just continued playing until he was able to get back on track. Paula tells him he is through based on his talent.

Our next contestant is Nick Mitchell aka Norman Gentle who continues to get way too much wasted airtime. I am over him big time. Nick explains he hopes to go through and promises to do anything the judges want him to do including washing Simon’s car. Nick tells the judges he has had the time of his life. Paula explains they have spent more of their deliberations on him than anyone else. Give me a freaking break, it should be no! Paula likes him because he stuck to who he is because otherwise he should not have auditioned at all. Nick has two passions singing and making people laugh. I do not think he can do either but I do not get to vote, at least not yet. Kara is not sure how to react to this serious Nick. Nick is through. I am sorry, Nick has not shown he can actually sing yet he gets through while Jamar has proven he can sing yet is sent home. This was a ridiculous decision.

Jackie Tohn is next. Randy tells her it was a unanimous decision she is through.

Histrionic Hyena (HH) makes the long walk why we are subjected once again to all the ridiculously annoying video of someone who should not be here at this point. I can at least take comfort when Simon tells her to stop being annoying. HH is wearing a bracelet from Paula’s jewelry collection and we have to hear about the fact the matching ring sold out and she just cried and cried, give me a f*^king break. Oh no, Paula is not taking the ring off her finger and giving it to her. I am seriously going to blow a gasket. Simon snaps it is generous of Paula to promote her jewelry on television. Simon tells HH the decision was not unanimous but she is through. WHAT THE F*^K? OH, MY FREAKING GOD I DID NOT JUST HEAR THAT, THIS COULD NOT BE HAPPENING! I totally let loose with some very colorful phrases, which would have been bleeped as I told the judges what I thought. I know they cannot hear me but it made me feel better. I was so totally pissed off and upset about this that after the show was over I had to mediate for two hours with soft, peaceful ocean sounds playing in the background. I calmed down some but I am still festering about HH getting a chance for America to vote. They have not exactly been rational in their voting habits.

We have our next sing-off between Nathaniel Marshall and Jackie Midkiff. Jackie is first and he does a fair job but it was bland. Nathaniel is next and we finally get his back-story. Nathaniel has moved around between relatives. It appears his mother was in prison for something related to drugs but Nathaniel explains his mother has taught him what not to do. He spent most of his time with his grandmother who is disabled and in a wheelchair. We get the shameless plea from his grandmother that American Idol is his chance to shine. He loves to sing. Nathaniel can sing and he totally nailed his sing for your survival number. Nathaniel wins the sing-off but Randy tells Jackie he was almost through and should try again next season.

We then get another montage of yeses for Jeanine Vailes, Kai Kalama, Annie Marie Boskovich and Kris Allen.

Ryan then explains we are down to the final two and there will be a sing-off between the two blue-collar workers Matt Breitzke and Michael Sarver.

I will digress here to say the producers are whacked. They clearly did not edit these contestants in order nor do they have any quality assurance. At this point I have counted 34 yeses and we have two final contestants, WHAT? It is obviously this is a fake out, come on why waste my time!

Matt sings first and sounded good but not fantastic while Michael sounds much better. Simon explains he likes both of them but he is not sure either could win and Paula agrees. Simon tells them they have put them in the same position and Paula says this means they are both through.

Therefore, the final 36 have been revealed and voting starts next week. The first group of 12 is Casey Carlson, Stephen Fowler, Jackie Tohn, Ricky Braddy, Anne Marie Boskovich, Brent Keith, Alexis Grace, Michael Sarver, Stevie Wright, Danny Gokey, Anoop Desai and HH.

This year we are having three groups sing with each group consisting of six males and six females. The top male and top female vote getter becomes part of the final 12 along with the next top vote getter regardless of gender. We will then have one final wild card episode to obtain the final three contestants of our top 12.

MY ONLY GOAL AT THIS POINT IS TO ENSURE HH IS SENT DOWN IN FLAMES NEXT WEEK! I am asking no I am begging each of you to watch the show next week and I want you all to vote, vote and vote some more. I have not heard them sing so I do not care which three you vote for but we have to ensure there are no votes given to HH. Do not let me down or I will track you down and the consequences will not be pleasant. I intend to get everyone I know to vote next Tuesday night so we can send the annoying HH home.

Here is the final list of the 36 semi-finalists:

Male:

Kris Allen
Ricky Braddy
Matt Breitzke
Anoop Desai
Stephen Fowler
Matt Giraud
Danny Gokey
Ju’Not Joyner
Kai Kalama
Brent Keith
Adam Lambert
Scott MacIntyre
Nathaniel Marshall
Nick Mitchell
Jorge Nunez
Michael Sarver
Von Smith
Alex Wagner-Trugman

Female:

Arianna Afsar
Kendall Beard
Anne Marie Boskovich
Casey Carlson
Megan Corkrey
HH
Alexis Grace
Mishavonna Henson
Allison Iraheta
Jesse Langseth
Kristen McNamara
Jasmine Murray
Joanna Pacitti
Lil Rounds
Jackie Tohn
Taylor Vaifanua
Jeanine Vailes
Stevie Wright

The one positive thing about this episode is we got to hear most of the top 36 sing through video clips, which was really nice. As far as I am concerned, the men have it over the women by a mile. They will be the ones to beat depending on who actually makes it to the top 12.

Until next week…

AI 8 - 2/10/09 Hollywood One Last Chance

Here we are on the countdown to the semi-finals. Who will be going through and whose dream will come crashing at their feet? After 103,000 auditions, we are down to the wire as Ryan so dramatically reveals.

Our episode begins at the end; all the contestants are sitting in their various rooms waiting to hear the news of their fate. Oh the drama of it all.

We must now go back to the start of Day 4 and reveal how we reached this point. I only hope we actually get to hear the contestants sing tonight.

By the way, once again we have an issue. Last Wednesday night Ryan revealed 75 contestants were through to the next round but as Day 4 began, we were down to 72. Were three contestants booted for some unknown reason or do we have someone who cannot count. We need some continuity here folks! I digress.

All 72 contestants will perform one last song; they will have the band and back up singers. If they choose, they can accompany themselves with an instrument. There will be no comments from the judges. The judge’s response will be the announcement of the fate of each room.

Adam Lambert chose lucky number 1. I have to say he chose an interesting song, “Believe”. I personally loved what he did with the arrangement and he had great control of his voice. He took a techno dance tune and changed it in to a ballad; this was a David Cook trick. It was spectacular. It was amazing how he displayed an incredible upper register. Adam totally rocked this audition.

Matt Giraud being the dueling piano player he is uses a keyboard and he blew me away with his rendition of “Georgia on My Mind”. Matt looked like a performer on stage, he was relaxed and really changed up the song turning it into a really bluesy/soulful song. You could tell the judges were very impressed. This is the first time where I really had a connection to Matt as a performer.

Jamar Rogers chooses “Hey There Delilah”. I am digressing but I hate his outfit and he is too old to be wearing a baseball cap in that manner. I was not impressed with this performance. It was okay but he did not really shine. It may have been the song but he was not on his game.

Danny Gokey went with “I Hope You Dance” which was also an interesting song choice and man Danny can sing. He freaking nailed this number. I totally loved this version as he improved on the original. It is too bad it is not during a performance show where I could download the number on ITunes. I think Danny is already a frontrunner in this competition.

Anoop Desai goes with “My Prerogative” and he is good. I was not blown away but he deserves to move on.

Jorge Nunez was up next and he was okay but once again, I was not blown away; however, to be honest his video clip went by fast to the point I could not even figure out what song he was singing.

Scott MacIntrye also chose to play his keyboard. Scott is a confident performer especially taking a chance on not only singing a song by another Idol Contestant but one, which was used as a goodbye song during the show. Scott went with “Home”. Scott succeeded where most fail.

Kendall Beard makes a stupid choice with “Before He Cheats”, come on do not sing other Idol’s hits you idiot. It was a stupid song choice and her execution sucked. She was off key and had some ridiculous stage moves.

Stevie Wright chose “Bubbly”, we did not hear much but it was okay not great.

Lil Rounds went with “If I Ain’t Got You” and was also okay but did not blow me away.

Kristin McNamara also went with an Idol winner song trying to tackle “Because of You”. What is wrong with these contests? Kristin tried to make it a little bit country and fell flat! It was just atrocious.

Mishavonna Henson gets some airtime with her story but not her performance. Her voice was okay but I did not hear enough for me to judge.

Histrionic Hyena (HH) see last week’s blog if you do not remember who this is gets too much airtime once again. HH’s outfit has to have been the worst I have ever seen which went along with a very horrible performance of “Black Velvet”. Naturally, HH feels incredible about her audition. I was laughing out loud with the Idol producers counting down the number of songs she has attempted during Hollywood week since she never listens to the judges just starts singing another song. I am praying for a quick exit for HH.

Alexis Grace also decides to murder “Before He Cheats”.

Kevin Hoffpauer went with “I’m Yours” and I was thinking not in a million years, you blew your chance.

Jasmine Murray goes with yet another Idol winner’s song when she tackles “Tattoo” by Jordin Sparks. Give it a rest. Jasmine’s voice is pleasant enough but there is no Spark (no pun intended) while she is performing, she is outright boring.

Nathaniel Marshall my favorite drama queen went with “Disturbia” while playing the guitar and was unbelievably good. I thought he nailed the number. I did not love the outfit though.

Joanna Pacitti totally murdered “If I Ain’t Got You” all the while forgetting the lyrics. Give me a break.

Casey Carlson tries “Tattoo” as well and does not come out smelling like a rose. A contestant who also stumbles over the lyrics.

Poor Stephen Fowler, he totally blows it, then starts over, and blows it again. He simply gets up and leaves.

I am also over Nick Mitchell aka Norman Gentle. What is up with this guy? Why do the judges keep passing him through? I am over him and cannot wait for his departure. Norman chooses “Georgia on My Mind” and after Matt’s performance he does not even come close to doing the number justice, it is all vaudeville antics and very little singing.

Anne Marie Boskovich goes with “I Hope You Dance” doing an okay karaoke version of the original.

Ju’Not Joyner went with “Hey There Delilah”. It was okay but not outstanding.

Kaylan Loyd sings “If I Ain’t Got You” and I was thinking I am glad you do not have me because you are awful.

Leneshe Young picks “Love Song” and she blows her chance. It was one of the worst renditions I have heard.

Kai Kalama is having problems with his voice but he still managed to stay on pitch. He has to do something with his hair.

Michael Sarver was not as good in this final audition as he was in the group number. It was okay.

After numerous montages of the contestants sweating it out in their various rooms it is late in the evening of Day 4, Simon is off to England leaving Kara, Randy and Paula to pass on the news.

Room 2 gets the first visit and they get a yes. The members of this group include Alexis Grace, Kenny Hoffpauer, Jasmine Murray and Nathaniel Marshall.

Room 3 is next and they get the big fat boot! It was during this elimination where Ronald stood up and clapped because Michael Castro is going home. Yeah!

Room 1 is next and they are safe which includes Adam, Danny and most of the good singers so their fate was not in question.

Room 4 is last, this is where HH is, and I am only praying she is on her way out the door. The judges are building up to the big reveal when Matt just asks, “So, it’s a no then”. It was funny. Oh crap, it is a yes. I cannot believe I have to deal with HH again. This is not drama it is freaking torture.

The one big positive of the episode was we heard more of the contestants sing.

My rant for this episode is song choice. Clearly, the contestants were not limited to just a few songs since there were some very interesting choices while the rest seemed to go with the same songs. These contestants have to realize song choice is everything!

On tonight’s episode, the judge’s will be making another cut to 36. We are visiting the judge’s mansion and the long walk for the contestants to the much more comfortable chair. It also appears the judges may be giving some contestants second chances as we see a clip of Simon asking Michael Sarver to sing for his survival.

Until tomorrow but only if, I do not have a stroke if HH makes it to the semi-finals!

AI 8 - 2-4-09 - Hollywood Round 2 The Heartache of Group Numbers

This is American Idol and we are preparing ourselves for the tears, joy, and tragedy of Hollywood Round 2 and the infamous group numbers.

I must rant about the producers and editors of these episodes. On Tuesday night, Ryan clearly announces 104 contestants are moving on to Round 2; however, last night when the episode opened we were advised 107 contestants are competing in Round 2. What the f*%k! How hard is it to get some good quality assurance here? Clearly, someone is unable to count.

Realizing there are many who do not like group numbers reasoning we are looking a solo American Idol and cry foul as someone goes home because someone else did not put their all into the group effort. My position is no one is an Island. Many individuals handle the production of an album not just the artist, no matter how talented. Besides the obvious need to create drama for the show, the purpose of this exercise is to see how people can work together which you clearly would need to do in the industry. You do not want to burn bridges if you wish to succeed.

My second rant revolves around the actual lack of hearing all the groups sing. We had much drama and tears for 30 minutes before we heard one note. Give me a break!

Tatiana or as she will be known going forward Histrionic Hyena (HH) and Katrina aka Bikini Girl (BG) received too much airtime. I was over them before the episode started and they just irritated me more and more as the evening wore on.

I will skip summarizing all the drama and get right to the comments related to those groups or contestants we actually got to hear last night.

As the performances began, Simon explained to all the contests “If you forget the words you are out – no exceptions!” This really ups the ante and I was quite excited to see who goes because of just that error.

The first group is White Chocolate, which included India Morrison, Matt Giraud, Kris Allen and Justin Williams. They chose “I Want You Back” and they were fantastic. Everything worked from the rapping, the choreography, and the harmonies. The judges agree and all move on to Round Three.

The next group montage we see did not fare as well both because they forgot the words but also could not get the vocals they needed. Those leaving are Maryn Azoff, Austin Sisneros, J.B. Ahufa, Shelby Swartwood and Julissa Veloz.

I am not sure why but Jorge Nunez and Nick Mitchell aka Norman Gentle moves on.

Next up is Team Action Squad with Alex Wagner-Trugman, Ryan Pinkston, Ann-Marie Boskovich and Emily Wynne-Hughes attempting “Don’t Stop”. Alex and Ann-Marie were good while poor Emily stumbled over the lyrics and Ryan was just awful. Emily is sent packing so I guess her band will be going to Europe after all along with Ryan who provided the night’s best laugh when he explained he felt manipulated and insulted and saw a part of Paula he had not see before. Paula is evil, the way she looked at him so the producers put in some CG effects of Paula’s eyes turning red and laser beams shooting out of them.

The next montage caused me to laugh again when we get a series of the bad and Simon asks for a crate of Advil and indicates I do not want to do this anymore. Come on Simon at least you are being paid to sit there.

Next up is The Rainbow Coalition including Danny Gokey, Jamar Rogers, Taylor Vaifanua and another contestant I could not write their name fast enough taking a big risk singing a capella. They choose “Somebody to Love” and it was freaking fantastic. This group knows how to work together flawlessly. I stood up and clapped for them.

Our next group has Jeremy Michael Sarver, Adam Lambert, Matt Bretizke and Jesse Langseth performing “Some Kind of Wonderful” and it truly was. This was another group who nailed the number. I stood up and clapped again.

Team Diva is ready for their train wreck after all the drama from the day before. We have Rose Flack, Jasmine Murray, Lauren Barnes and BG. Yes BG, she of I have to rest because I have scoliosis and had been wearing heels since 5:00 a.m., then was sick, and poor me only had 3 hours of sleep. The Divas went with “Mercy” and Jasmine Murray was the only member who totally nailed her portion, she has a great voice. Poor Rose forgot the words. Jasmine Murray was the only member to move on to round three. Poor BG, she proved once again what a bitch she truly was. Kara and Paula were shocked by her behavior. At least Simon finally called her on her drama. I also loved Kara was the one who delivered the bad news! Yeah, one of my hated contestants is going home, one more to go.

David Osmond was sent packing and we did not even get to hear his group so we are not sure why. I have to say that cut surprised me because if anyone knows how to work in a group it would be him.

We have two final groups. The first one includes HH. I am only praying the drama of the day before will send her packing, please, please – pretty please! Can I say this was an annoying train wreck? HH messes up the lyrics and Muna Hiluf was so off pitch it was scary. Oh crap, the entire group gets to move on to round three. Excuse me, what happened to you forget the words you are going home. I am totally pissed off with the fact HH gets another shot. I had a diva fit stamping my feet and shouting a few words, which would have clearly been bleeped out. HH’s reaction to getting through was way over the top, everyone is a part of me, and you are all in my heart! If I am part of your heart, it is the dagger plunging into it. HH is going down.

Our final group is Team Compromise with Nathaniel Marshall, Kristin McNamara, and Nancy Wilson. There proper group name should have been Drama Queens! Given we spent much of the first half hour of the show being exposed to their train wreck of trying to work together I am not expecting much. This group goes with “Mercy” as well. Nathaniel camps it up but at least he can sing. Nancy totally blew it and Kristin was okay. The judges were not happy and indicated the number was very uncomfortable to watch. Simon indicated it was clear the backups sounded like they were trying to sabotage the one singing the lead. Nathaniel and Kristin move on to round three while Nancy is not. Nancy is bleeped, bleeped off and has a total melt down backstage. Oh, joy!

Group day is over and Ryan explains 75 singers are moving on to Round 3. I wonder what the number will be on next Tuesday’s show.

Next Tuesday we will get the final performances and Wednesday will learn the identity of the top 36.

Until next week…

AI 8 - 2/3/09 Hollywood Week Round 1

We finally have made it to Hollywood and the Kodak Theater (Home of the 81st Academy Awards broadcasting on February 22, 2009 by ABC)!

Our opening montage provided clips of the various audition cities along with all the heartache and joy of those winning or going home. There were also the clips of the upcoming Hollywood week, which includes lots of crying and the bleeping of what the contestants are actually saying.

From over 100,000 auditions, only 147 would be American Idol contestants made it to Hollywood, which means two people who received a golden ticket was unable to attend.

Simon explains they get one shot so it will be the most important day of their lives; we are looking for a star!

This year everyone attends American Idol Boot Camp with their stylists and vocal coaches along with hair and makeup. Good heavens those stylists suck! Every year I should have that job and those contestants would dazzle! Then for some reason we have special mentor Barry Manilow as a guest – what? I thought the producers were going for young and hip this year. Barry’s advice is you need preparation meets opportunity; you now have the opportunity so your job is to prepare. You need to make the songs your own; the judges really want you to succeed.

The group is split in two; one group will perform on day one while the other group plays in Hollywood and on day two it reverses. Those performing will come out on the stage in groups of eight, they will each sing a capella and then the judges will make their decisions. If you do not get through you are on your way home.

Naturally, we are not going to hear everyone sing which irritates me because then you cannot judge on whether the judges are correct.

Let the fun begin.

In the first group, we are only shown only two performances, Lil Rounds and Dennis Brigham. Lil goes for Whitney and I thought she was really off, she was not on pitch at all and was trying way too hard, however, Kara disagrees with me and indicates I liked you from the moment I first saw you, your boldness and braveness make you a good artist. Dennis Brigham is just downright horrible but at least Simon agrees with me, your facial expressions were over the top, this was horrible. Of the eight Lil, Asia and Alexander are passed through the other five are heading home.

Dennis naturally does not take it well and explains you are sending the wrong message to America and you suck as judges. Dennis tells Simon for a rich man you have some cheap pants, you need a new wardrobe. Simon says you have reinforced my decision and have a nice life.

Cue montage of the second group having fun while the rest of the first group is stressing out and we hear quite a few dismal auditions. The judge’s need a break but Kara and Paula tell Ryan things have gotten off to a rocky start except for Lil and all I can scream is WHAT!

In the next group, we see only Nathaniel Marshall, Anoop Desai, Jasmine Murray and Rose Flack. I really liked Nathaniel, I thought his vocals were great but his outfit and hair sucked. Paula tells him he has beautiful vocals, you are talented but were hindered by song choice because it did not show your range. Simon asks why he chose that song and Nathaniel breaks down and explains that he has been through quite a lot and music has been his anchor. I must have been feeling warm and fuzzy last night because Nathaniel’s emotional answer actually moved me. Anoop tries Stevie Wonder and I thought he was simply okay. Jasmine Murray was excellent. Kara indicates you have natural raw talent. Finally, Rose is shown in a boot camp clip where she tells vocal coach Debra Byrd she is here for her parents and does not want to let them down. These rehearsals have shattered her confidence. Rose attempts “Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay” and I was not impressed. She is okay but there is nothing special or outstanding about her voice. In this case, the judges pass the entire group on to round two.

In the next group Stephen Fowler, Jorge Nunez and Von Smith are given airtime. Stephen Fowler was spectacular, his voice was crisp, clear and sounded fantastic. Paula tells him he nailed it and Randy was excited he was able to slay such a tough Stevie Wonder song. Jorge was next and in my opinion sounded great. This audition was 100 times better than when we saw him in San Juan. Von Smith who I liked during his original audition was just way too over the top; he tried to put in some ridiculous runs and was trying to out power the best divas. I still think he has a good voice but needs to tone it down. Simon indicated it was indulgent nonsense, a horrible annoying performance. It is interesting of this group only Stephen, Jorge and Von move on to round two.

Cue the next montage, which are some very quick performances and the judges ranting about song choice. I swear these contestants are clearly not American Idol experts because song choice is everything. They need to read my blog and take my advice. I could help every one of the contestants pick the right song.

In the next group the focus is only on Nick Mitchell or should we all scream f^&king “Norman Gentle”. Norman chooses “And I’m Telling You I’m Not Going” and provides a ridiculous over the top performance. Did I hear the judges screaming about song choice? Randy says he is hilarious, you can sing and you have skill. What the f^&k? Simon states you are boring as Nick and annoying as Norman. Paula wants him to sing something stripped down which causes Norman to start taking off his shirt so Paula has to clarify her comment, i.e. with no gimmicks. Nick moves on to round two along with Frankie Jones and Scott MacIntyre although we do not get to hear them.

Cue the next montage of all the contestants sent home on day one reacting to their getting the boot, which then merges, to the opening of day 2 with everyone trying to get into the zone!

We turn our focus to Jackie Tohn who I really do not like. I hated her outfit as well. I thought her performance sucked. I could not understand one single syllable uttered. It was a mess. The judges disagree with me big time. Randy says I like you as you are wild. Paula finds her the most memorable out of everyone who has auditioned. Give me a friggin break. The judges allow Jackie through which leads into a stupid montage about how everyone becomes life long friends but Jackie cannot even remember the other contestant’s names. Enough of this crap.

This montage leads to best friends Jamar Rogers and Danny Gokey who auditioned together. They are glad to be each other’s support through this process. Jamar is up first with “California Dreaming” which is okay but nothing special. Danny on the other hand goes with “Kiss from a Rose” and he absolutely nails this number. It was by far the best vocal of the evening. I was totally blown away by the performance, and it was very moving. Paula tells him he is fantastic, you are ready to record an album. It appears Jamar and Danny is remaining together for now as they move on to round two.

Our next montage was of contestants going on to the next round although they were not identified.

Oh, crap we get more wasted airtime with “Bikini Girl”. Katrina Darrell is receiving entirely too much promotion, which scares me. Give it a rest on kissing Ryan and enough with her swimsuit top with the big stars – just shoot me now! I realize she made it here because of her body not her voice. I really, really, really absolutely hate this contestant. “Bikini Girl” tells the judges “I’m the next American Idol because I am” which will happen over my dead body! Tell me she is not going to attempt “Breathe”? This performance was just a cluster f**k from beginning to end, please put me out of my misery. Kara says when you started I thought it was better than your first audition but it did not end that way. Paula agrees with Kara. Simon on the other hand believes the women are being too harsh on her and agrees with Bikini Girl it would have been better with the music. This would happen in what universe? Randy agrees with Simon. Bikini Girl moves on and Ronald almost loses his dinner. Kara tells her to leave her number in the bathroom and Bikini Girl says I told you she does not like me. Well bitch, join the crowd!

We then have a montage of goodbyes including Jessica Furney, Sharon Wilbur and Patricia Lewis Roman.

Our next clip is of Jeremy Michael Sarver and Jesus Valenzuela. Jeremy is really good. Randy indicates the best of the day. Jesus flames out and does not take it very well. Give me a break Jesus, you only made to Hollywood because of your whining brats!

The next group includes David Osmond, Erika Wesley (from Portland Oregon although I am ashamed to admit it) and Emily Wynne-Hughes. David sound excellent and picked a good song. Emily practiced “I Put on a Spell on You” during boot camp and felt very comfortable but at the last minute, she goes with “Excuse Me Mister” which was okay but wasn’t that polished. Kara indicates you were memorable during your original audition but this song did not show what you are about or where you can go. Paula indicates it was not the right song and Simon indicates he expected more. I laughed out loud when Emily’s mother yelled at her for the last minute song switch. The group moves on to round two except for Ericka. Ericka cannot go quietly and tells the judges she cannot be the only one from the group cut. What can she do to change their minds? She continues to beg pleading it is her husband’s birthday today. Give it a rest! Simon and Paula get into a spat over the whole thing. I am just glad it is over.

We see another clip of yeses for Alexis Grace, Brent Keith Smith, Anne Marie Boskovich and Adam Lambert without hearing anything of their performances.

In the end, 104 people get a second chance.

Cue the preview for tonight’s episode, which is Group Numbers. The train wrecks are coming and I am extremely excited!

Until tomorrow…