Top Eleven Perform!

It left me "confused, but kind of happy!" The Top Eleven Perform!

Tonight’s show opens with lots of Ryperbole about the stakes being higher, yada yada yada, and THIS IS AMERICAN IDOL!

Then, again, we are treated to the funniest addition to Idol ever: the judges walking upstage in a row. Kara and Randy are holding hands, Paula has such a funny swagger, and Simon is wearing a thin old white-ish t-shirt.

It’s Country Week! Can we get a “YEE-HAW!?” Randy Travis is the guest mentor, and he seems like genuinely nice guy. Awe.

First up is Michael Sarver. What the heck was this? It was a song with a million words all squished together that I never have any desire to hear again. I was also a little worried about the microphone, with his squeeze and release procedure. My question is: can we please vote for the harmonica player. He was awesome. Overshadowed Michael by far.

Allison was next. Good voice but too much running around! I kept thinking she was getting out of breath. This girl has such a good voice – in a sultry, rocker chick sort of way. I just hope lots of voters think so too.

Next was Kris without his guitar. Awe, he can sing. It was nice, and the judges called him a “tender puppy.” Probably safe.

Lil Rounds was next, wearing a red dress with a matching dinner napkin tucked into the front. I thought she was great. She told the story, and then let her big voice out in the edge. I even got that teary-eyed country song thing going on. The judges apparently had all kinds of ideas of what OTHER songs she could have sang. Give me a break. She was really good, and safe. A weird thing that is happening this season, is that Paula is actually making a lot of sense. She said Lil’s vocals were “spot on.”

Then, the most awesome thing of the night happened: Adam Lambert went into another world. This “Ring of Fire” took us into the underworld of some weird dracula-like scene, full of snarls, the sitar, black gloves, tight pants, high collars, etc. Do you think Adam is really a vampire? I can see it. I think this was the strangest thing I’ve seen on idol, and I have to say, I LOVED it. Like Randy said, it was like Nine Inch Nails doing country. “It was young, fresh, and hot.” Adam is all drama, and now I look forward to all the lip snarls, the sultry looks into the camera, and the drama. He can do it, because the boy can SING! Simon did not like it at all, but the rest of the judges were okay with it. Kara said, “It left me confused, but kind of happy.”

Next was Scott McIntyre. His piano playing is absolutely AMAZING. I think he’s safe, but his last couple of songs have sounded similar, and I was thinking he’d better add a little variety next time. He seems humble and sweet. I hope he makes it another week.

Alexis was next. She sang Jolene, I thought it was alright, but the judges weren’t loving it. They thought it was “okay,” it showed her soft side, and again had lots of ideas for other songs she could have sang (Randy and Kara.) Hmm, I hope she stays.

Danny Gokey was next. He sang, Jesus Take the Wheel. It was really comical how he kept messing up in front of Randy Travis, and I was a little worried. Then, he started singing and was awesome. His jacket was a little weird – I love that Simon pointed that out and that Matt Giraud said it looked like he was going to jump out of plane. Danny was solid. Safe.

Then, the biggest surprise of the night (next to Ring of Fire) was Anoop! Wow!!!! His voice is actually quite good! You take away all the weird dancing stuff, and he can sing! I actually liked his song a lot, and the judges were loving him. He was not surprised by all the good comments. (Cockiness or confidence? Comments, anyone?)

Megan Corkery was next, wearing two boob slings, gold eye shadow, and her tattoo sleeve. And, looking quite beautiful as usual. She was okay. The judges couldn’t stop talking about how sick she was, so she might just get lots of sympathy votes. Plus, the website that shall remain nameless has picked her as their pick. She might be safe, but is close to the bottom for sure.

Last up was Matt Giraud, on the piano again. I was happy to see this. He is better there, and I like him. He did a great job – his voice sounded great. The judges loved him. It’s only going to help him to have the power spot of the last performer of the night.

Okay, let’s hear your comments. What was stranger – Adam’s song or Anoop’s recovery?

Top 13 Eliminations: Two Go Home

Elimination Night – Top 13, Two sent home

Yey! Idol is only on two nights this week! Can I get an AMEN?!

Here we go, off to see two contestants ousted.

Let’s get to the important stuff: the outfits. Ryan is wearing a suit again, looking very fancy. Randy is posing as a frat boy in a sweater. Kara is a villain from a Disney movie, borrowing something from Maleficent’s closet with a menacing neckline. Paula is showing more skin than I’ve seen on her in a long time, and better be careful not to pull a Janet Jackson tonight. Simon is of course, in black, in honor of the two cuts tonight, I’m sure.

Ryan now tells of the new rule. I had to rewind to make sure I got it all right. They are allowed one “save” this whole entire season. If they use it, no one will be eliminated that week, and the next week two contestants will be eliminated. Okay, that’s one more thing for the point calculators to have to figure out on PopPool, and I know they are all over it.

Next we get to see the mansion the contestants are staying in… not too shabby. I couldn’t figure out who the guy in the beanie was who always wanted to live in a house like that. Oh, it’s Adam without the signature hairdo. Who knew?

Next is..... da da da daaaaaaa..... the Group Song. The whole time I was trying to watch Scott and see how he was doing, and then come the lyrics, "Oh Darling, I was blind....." That just doesn't seem nice. And, here is the big question: Why is Danny the only one who got a DANCE SOLO? Was his dancing so awesome last night that we needed more? That is going to kill him if he keeps doing that.

Next, we get to the Ford Vommercial. Please tell me they weren’t part of the government bailout. If they got bailed out, only to spend millions on Vommercials like this one that left the contestants giggling at each other, I think they owe all Americans a payback.

Finally we get to some results. Michael – safe. Allison – safe. Jasmine – please come to the center of the stage and stand there indefinitely. Matt – safe. Kris – safe. Megan – come to the center of the stage. Jasmine goes home. No save from judges. Then she sings again, I push the ff button as many times as possible, only to be told that Kanye is up next.

Kanye. Wow. I’m wondering if he likes himself at all, or if he thinks he’s at all cool. Hmmm. He needs to attend a self-esteem workshop. This was actually one of the best parts of the show for me because I now know that I can actually be surprised. Questions: Why the gloves? Why the towell hanging from his pocket? Is he planning on dripping so much sweat that he needs a huge towell to mop his sweaty face while singing only one song? What were the huge poufy sleeves of the female backup singer made out of and why? Why was the male backup singer wearing a bullet-proof vest with lots of pockets? Is he a cub scout/police officer? Or, does Kanye periodically threaten him with a gun? Last, but certainly not least, why the industrial welding masks on the band? Feedback please.

Then, during the commercial break I finally realized where I’ve seen Danny Gokey before: the Verizon commercial guy.

Oh wow. We actually get more results. There is a God. Scott – safe. Alexis – safe. Danny – safe. Anoop, go to the center of the stage. (He did not seem at all surprised.) Adam – safe. Lil – safe. Jorge – go to the center of the stage.

Then, out came Kelly Clarkson to sing “My Life Would Suck Without You.” I really like her amazing voice, but my life would suck if I had to listen to that song again.

Finally, we are told that Jorge is going home, and Puerto Rico will be flooded with the tears of millions. Not really. If they had voted that much, he would still be in.

What do you think of the results?

Top 13 Perform!

Top 13 Perform!

Tonight we were treated to the judges walking from downstage to the front, and Ryan Seacrest walking down a flight of stairs….. Oh, what a thrill! You could tell they thought it was ridiculous as well. And, here we go! Two hours of American Idol!

Paula apparently ran into a seagull on the way tonight, and the remains were pasted to her chest. Kara was suspiciously covering up her neck with a giant bow, Randy was again sporting the colorful bead necklace that he probably proudly made, and Simon was looking somber in GREY. Paula wins for the outfit, and receives extra points for tons of “rouge” and gold sparkly eye shadow and questionable sobriety. Awesome.

First up was Lil, wearing the other strap of Paula’s dress, pre-seagull encounter. She was solid. Safe.

Next was Scott MacIntyre, aka Art Garfunkel. Come on, stylists – a little help here. I heard a rumor that he can’t see very well. The piano has finally arrived! He was good. Nice, sweet, good. Safe.

Danny Gokey was up next. Apparently he comes from a big family that sings all the time. Awe, he’s cute. They noticeably left out talking about his wife, which was a smart move for him. (Did you guys know that his wife recently died?) He sang really well, channeling Taylor Hicks’ dancing at times, and will be safe. He admitted that he’s not used to dancing and singing at the same time, which was honestly quite endearing. For sure – SAFE.

Michael Sarver was next. I think he’s a “rough neck” or something. I don’t know, really, because they never mention what he does. I’m so glad Simon pointed that out. This guy can actually sing. He was in tune, and solid. I think he just might be safe.

Next, was Ja$mine Murray, wearing a pink negligee and sporting eyes that seemed very far apart tonight. She looked good, sang okay, but might be in danger.

Kris Allen was next. We learned he’s been married for five months and wears matching aprons with his wife. It’s kind of sickeningly cute. Then, he shows up with his guitar, which kind of makes him cuter. He doesn’t even have to play it. He’s probably safe.

Allison Iraheta was next. Sixteen years old from Salvadorian parents. This girl showed her rocker self again, was solid, and Randy called her “one to watch.” I hope people don’t get tired of her. I like her, and hope everyone else does, too. She is probably safe, but I’m not sure.

Next was Anoop Desai. We learn he is an only child and apple of his parents’ eye…. Awe. Spoiled. He picked, “Beat it,” which is song that hovers around the same note for its entirety. Bad choice. The judges didn’t love it, and I would say he’s going to be out, except I did notice that the crowd loves him. Hmmm, he could actually be safe. Disturbing.

Jorge Nunez was next. This was kind of weird. Randy said it was the wrong song choice. Kara felt there was no emotion. Paula added nothing new (shocker) and Simon said it was corny and old-fashioned. I didn’t like it, and all of Puerto Rico better vote for him or else he’s probably out.

Tenth up was Megan Corkery. She sang Rockin’ Robin, looked pretty, of course, and actually added a “CAW, CAW,” at the end. Um, robins don’t say “caw,” right? The judges basically felt it was a bad song choice, and didn’t show who she is. She could be out, but maybe will stay in because of her looks.

Then, Adam Lambert gets his turn. I’m sorry, but he is just really good. He is confident, and can really sing. He is a little over-the-top. Okay, a lot. But, I don’t really care. He can sing. The judges loved it, and felt the over-the-top thing was fine while singing Michael Jackson. This also produced a great Paula comment: “My eyes are transfixed on you…… you marry fashion with music, etc.” I predict he is safe.

Matt Giraud had to follow Adam, and I think he did well. He had his piano, seemed confident, and sang well. I hope he stays.

Last was Alexis Grace. She is so darn cute. Her dad, Jerry Garcia, is also a musician. She did a good job, but the judges warned her not to over-sing. She was good. Safe.

Okay guys. Today is the day to get your picks in. Which TWO do you think will go home tonight? It’s time to order the top 13. Get your picks in by 5:00 PST. Don’t forget, you can “hedge your bet,” and pick two to go home tonight, and can pick a different two to be in the #12 and #13 spots in your game 1. That way you have a better chance of getting at least one right.

And, what do you think? Who’s going home?
Chime in. Leave a comment.

Top 12 revealed!, I mean top 13!

Our Wild Card show started with lots of Ryperbole about the "power of tenacity," etc., etc., but do you think the judges already had their minds made up? I kinda do.

Jesse Langseth had the spot of doom, going first. She sang great, had a lot of "swagger," and looked awesome. Sorry, you're out.

Von did not wear his hat, as he was told not to, but Randy made a comment about the last time he liked it better, the hat and all! Man! What's Von supposed to do? Well, he tried to pull his voice back from full tilt, and it didn't go over that well. Von's out.

Ricky Braddy sang really well, loosened up, and had fun. He has a great voice, but the judges proved that this show is about more than a great voice. Out. = (

TatiDrama actually sounded great. She can sing. Simon gave her a bad time about singing that song for the 3rd time, and also all of sudden she has a Puerto Rican accent that we haven't heard that much before. So, the judges are finally letting the drama go. Can we all say "Amen?!"

So, the winners are:

Matt Giraud, bringing back the soulfulness.

Megan Corkrey, with all her quirkyness and wierd dancing and good looks

Ja$mine Murray, because she's cute and actually has a voice.

Anoop Desai, because he is fun and gosh darn it, people love him.

What do you guys think? I know that we now have to rank our top 13 instead of 12!

Top 9 revealed, and 8 Wild Cards announced!

American Idol did it: an hour show with lots of action! We now know the top 9, and the eight wild cards were revealed. All this in one hour!

We still had the Group Song - which was all about stairs and chairs. (Did they do any of that because of Scott MacIntyre?) We still had Simon in the requisite black shirt in honor of the 9 slashings. And, we still had to hear 3 of the songs again from last night. They couldn't let us off that easy.

The last of the top 9 are:
Lil Rounds (Wow! What a shocker!)
Scott MacIntyre .... After all, we need to hear him with the piano, so say the judges.
Jorge (Come on, we need a little Latin flavor)

Woo-hoo! I called it!

Wow! And there are still 20 minutes left in the show! Not so much filler. Nice! And, we get to find out that there will be 8 Wild Card picks, chosen from the judges.

Here they are:
Von Smith (Hmm, what do you guys think?)
Jasmine Murray (I'm not surprised..... "You're so commercial, Ja$mine")
Ricky Braddy (Yeay!)
Megan Corkrey (Commercial)
Tatiana Del Toro (TatiDrama.... gag!)
Matt Giraud (good!)
Jesse Langseth (? comments, anyone?)
Anoop Desai (Duh.)

Alright, what do you guys think?

Top 36, round 3!

"Get ready for two hours of American Idol!" (Aaaaaaahhhh, how am I going to do it?)

Then, along comes Ryan with lots of Ryperbole (thank you, Linda Sharp for that term,) about how they've put their lives on hold, blah, blah, blah.... and then:
Brace yourselves, folks, because "This is American Idol!"

Alright, I've decided I don't really like the new format. I don't like losing NINE contestants over night! It's such a bummer. Especially on a night like this, when I want at least 6 of them to go through.

First up was Von Smith. Gosh, he seems sweet and cute. Nice range of voice, and kind of spazzy as a performer. The judges thought he did a great job, is coming into his own, and he reminded Simon of Clay Aiken, saying he sang very well. I think that's okay to say, and so did Von, saying he's very successful, etc. Think Spam-a-lot, the musical, Von. His mom and (sister?) seemed very proud of him, and that was sweet.

Next was Taylor Vaifamua. She seemed a little nervous, and I kept thinking she was not as good as Alicia Keyes. The judges thought it was a little boring, a bit bland, and left Kara a little cold. She said she wanted to go shopping with Taylor, to find out who she is. WHAT? Luckily Simon spoke up about that one: "I don't get the shopping thing." Thank you, Simon. She's probably gone. None of us will get to go shopping with Taylor.

Alex Wagner-Trugman was next. He's cute, nerdy, and quirky. He can sing, but what is this? He's trying to cough up something! And, OMG, he looks just like his dad! The judges thought he was very entertaining, but has to get rid of the "ridiculous growling." Yes! And, Out!

Next was Ariana Asfar, looking as "cute as a button," said by Kara earlier. This was really wierd. The arrangement of her ABBA song made me write, "What was that?" It was so wierd, pitchy, shouty, and just not good. When I expected the melody line, here comes a wierd rift. Simon thought it was absolutely terrible in most parts, and the rest of the judges weren't feeling it either. No more button girl.

Ju'not Joyner sang next. The beginning was a little boring - showing little range, and then, he started sounding amazing! I really liked this. His voice was "smooth and fluid," as Kara said. Like a nice chai latte or something. Yummy. I hope he makes it, but he probably won't. Adding the comment about a cortizone shot in his butt probably didn't help, but was a little interesting. Mumble mumble cortizone shot in my butt.... mumble, mumble, .... because of smoke.... ??? I could investigate a little if I actually CARED.

Kristen McNamara was next, AKA "who are you?" No more pink hair or wierd clothes. She actually sounded really good. This girl can sing! Amazing! Her problem is that she doesn't have an image that she has stuck with. If she makes it, it will be only because of her voice, and nothing else.

Nathaniel Marshall was then up. Remember NathanYELL from Hollywood? He sang "I would do anything for love," and it was a little creepy, because I was thinking that he probably would do anything, and then Simon said it out loud! This boy can sing! I thought he was a fun entertainer, and his outfit was memorable. Later Ryan and Simon had some headband fun. Ryan, always with some homophobe inuendo called it a garter, which Simon did not want any part of. If he makes it, I will credit the website that shall remain nameless, and fans of campiness.

Next was Felicia Barton. Who????? Really, who? She's the girl they cut, and now brought back because Joanna Pacitti had to leave. Again, she was not as good as Alicia Keyes, but she wasn't bad at all. If she makes it it will be amazing, because no one has ever seen her. But, look at what happened with Kris Allen. It's possible.

Scott MacIntyre was next. I don't really like to watch him, but he has feeling in his singing. The judges all don't think he is the best singer of the 36, but really want him back to play the piano. Actually, I want to see that too. And, I want to see what they do with him in the group songs and the dancing. That will be a challenge, but I know he will be up for it. He seems nice, thankful, and willing to work.

Kendall Beard was next up. She got the kiss of doom from Paula, "You have the best outfit of the night.... you look awesome.... I hope you enjoyed it," (because it will be over for you after this.) She did look great, but was a little pitchy, a little "shrilly," according to Simon. She's probably out. I will be bummed that we won't see the "alligator dance" by her dad again. And, maybe there are a lot of country fans out there who want to hear more.

Jorge Nunez was next, singing "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on me." My favorite line was, "by LOOSING everything.... " Other than that, he mostly lost his accent. Paula was so proud of him, and Jorge had tears of joy at the end. It was pretty endearing, and I liked him a lot more last night than ever before. I love that he said he starts thinking in Spanish, and that was a cool moment.

SURPRISINGLY last (not,) was Lil Rounds. I'm sure this was a complete shocker to all. She sang like a seasoned Diva, and if she doesn't come back after the pimping from the judges, I will completely shocked!!! She got the pimp spot, applause, the big back story, and if she's not in the top 12 tomorrow.... well, we all know she will be.

Who do you think the top 3 will be? I say Lil Rounds, Jorge, and Scott. (But, I say Ju'not, Kristen, and Felicia deserve to stay, too.) I really don't like this format. Too many cuts. What do you think?

Results, week 2 top 36

I'm just going to post a few highlights from last night's results show:

Jeanine Vailes' plaid shirt and SUSPENDERS with her shorts.

Kai Kalama's t-shirt with a crooked skinny tie printed on it. (What WAS that?)

Matt Breitzke's lack of dancing during the group song. He really looked uncomfortable.

Matt Giraud's constant hip movement during the song.

Allison's red shoes.

This leads me to the question: Are they at the point yet where they get personal stylists?

Adam and Allison are in the top twelve, which is no big surprise, but the surprise of the night was that Kris Allen made it in! He amazingly overcame NO ONE EVER SEEING HIM BEFORE, and got a spot in the top 12. Incredible!

So, do you think anyone from this group will get a wild card spot? Megan? Jesse? Let's hear your thoughts!

Top 36, round 2!

Last night we got to see the next 12 contestants in the top 36. After warnings of "no second chances," by Kara, "they better bring it," by Randy, "I hope they pick the right song," by Paula, and "it's too late for advice," from Simon, we jump right in. Bring the lamb(ert)s to the slaughter!

First was Jasmine Murray. She was blah to me. What a bummer! She started weak, stayed basically weak, was a little off-key, and did nothing for me. The judges were disappointed, and in Simon's words, Jasmine might be "a couple years too early" for the competition. The judges saw their golden dollar signs, Ja$mine Murray, falling to the wayside. She looked great, and maybe we'll see her in the future!

Next was Matt Giraud. He has such a great voice, but the song he sang showed no range. Another bummer! The judges felt he lost the "bluesy soulfulness" from before and they weren't blown away. This is sad, because he can do so much better. I doubt we will see him in the top 12, which stinks because how many other dualing piano players will we ever see?

The next victim was Jeanine Vailes. (Who?) I don't think I've ever seen her before, and I actually watched ALL the previous shows. First of all, she has the best legs in all the competition, and the judges all thought so too. At least she got that award, because everything else was wrong about her song. Pitchy, painful, overdone. Sorry, and goodbye.

Next up was Nick Mitchell, appearing as Norman Gentle. His dad looked disgusted at the very beginning of the song, but later seemed so proud. Can you imagine the emotions he's felt over the years as father to Norman Gentle? He was the most entertaining performer so far, and I wouldn't expect anything less. (But, this IS the third time he has sang that song.....should we say, one-trick pony?) So, if he goes through, it has to be because America wants some (of the same) comedy. His singing was not bad. Simon called it "atrocious," and "horrific comedy." I don't think he'll make it, but Paula seems confidAent that there are plenty of stages for him. Who knows what she's thinking.

Finally Allison Iraheta is up. Ryan asks her how school at American Idol is going, as she basically says nothing interesting AT ALL! Then, the girl gets up to sing "Alone," and the girl can SING! She was the best so far, by a long margin! She "blew it off the box." Thanks, Randy, for those eloquent words. She was amazing. She performed with confidence, and acted like she does it every week. The judges all thought she was great, and Simon said, "I am very impressed by you." I hope she makes the top 12.

Next is Kris Allen. (Who, again?) I don't think I've ever seen him. I thought he had a very nice voice, and seems like a nice guy. He was completely in tune, which is helpful in a singing competition. Kara thought it was the wrong choice, but all the other judges disagreed, and thought he did really well. If he does make it, I think it will be a miracle, because he might suffer from WE HAVE NEVER SEEN HIM BEFORE, so who is his fan base?

Next is Miss Gorgeous Tatoo Sleeve Single Mom Megan Joy Corkery. This girl is so incredibly pretty, it's almost unbelievable. She has a nice unique voice. She showed some wierd dancing - kind of quirky - but it doesn't matter because she's much too pretty to make anything look bad, even her whole entire tatooed arm. Randy said he loves "the smokey jazz thing." Kara says she's a "package artist," and with the right song, she could make it big right now. She might make it through.

Next is welder Matt Breitzke. He has such a nice voice, and when I closed my eyes I REALLY liked his voice. It's just the boring performance and feet glued to the stage that are going to be the end of him.

Jesse Langseth was next. Another single "mo-ther." I like this girl. Spunky, red hair, different. I was hoping her performance would be better, but, as Randy said, "it didn't blow us out the box." What? Randy? Nothing like picking one phrase and sticking with it all night. The song DID have about a 5-note range, and as Simon said, I think she's a little forgettable. I don't think she'll make it through.

Next was Kai Kalama. He did not blow me away. He was okay, a little pitchy, and the judges thought he was a little "old-fashioned." Simon thought he'd be a really good back-up singer, (which I think is a great compliment - if it was for ME.) I don't think he'll make it. And, did anyone notice how much taller he was than Ryan and that his head was about 1 1/2 times the size of Ryan's?

Next was cute Mishavonna Henson. This is year two of Idol for her. This girl has a very good voice! The judges all think she is a great technical singer, she's very put-together, and don't really know what to do with her. Hmm..... I don't think that's going to get her very many votes.
This is wierd, because she's a great singer! Obviously, there is so much more to American Idol.

And, mysteriously last, was Adam Lambert. Hmmm, how did that happen? Adam shows up with the great choppy hair, lots of silver bling, and a voice that is AMAZING. Okay, he was AWESOME. I know he is trying to tone down the musical theater side of himself, and he can overdo it a little, but this guy is so good. His range is incredible, he is so comfortable on stage, he has amazing technique. Like Paula said, he is in a league of his own. I am a fan. If he doesn't make it through it will be a crying shame, and American Idol will have to apologize to the world for not making sure he goes to the final 12. I think he'll make it. I love the reference to Twilight that they gave him. That will score him some points for sure. I think he even said that he loves those books. Ooo, and he can read? More points.

Okay, I think the top guy will be Adam, the top girl will be Allison, and the next closest will be Megan. What do you guys think?

Top 36, Eliminations week 1

Obvious, obvious, and surprise!

So, what do you think of the three who are advancing, and those who are not? Remember, there is still the Wild Card three, so someone else from this group could still be in the top 12.

Casey - out. (duh)
Stephen - out. (okay)
Alexis Grace - in! This one seemed obvious. I loved her dad, aka Jerry Garcia, crying happy tears.
Ricky Braddy - out. (who? no, really, we didn't see him until yesterday)
Jackie Tohn - out. Bummer. I kind of liked her.
Anoop - out. (okay)
Michael Sarver - in. Surprise!! Wow. This surprised me, and I have to say I'm happy about it.
Brent Keith - out. (Fine with me.)
Stevie Wright - out. Thank goodness. That was really bad yesterday.
Tatiana Del Toro - out. But have we seen the last of her? I doubt it!
Danny Gokey - in. Good! (Did you guys know that his wife recently died? I'm just mentioning it because they never talk about it or show pictures or let anyone know. So, I'm just letting you know.)

Here's the deal. Don't feel bad for Casey, she already has bikini photos on a calendar, and will be fine. Stephen Fowler is already in the music industry. Jackie Tohn apparently is also an actress and has had lots of roles. Anoop - he's smart, educated, no worries there. Anne Marie - she's already a singer. That's what she does. Brent Keith - heck, he's already been on Nashville Star!
Check out this link about that: http://www.ew.com/ew/package/0,,20007164,00.html. Stevie Wright - she's so young, she'll be fine. Tatiana Del Toro - I was a little worried that she was going to faint from disappointment for a minute. I'm also worried that she may be the wild card girl later.

Questions: Did you enjoy the Carly and Michael appearance and duet? I personally fast-forwarded through 90% of it, wondering why I liked Michael so much last season. What was I thinking? And, who was crying in the Red Room besides Jerry Garcia? Was it Anne Marie's brother? Boyfriend? Adam Lambert's double? Brent Keith's BFF? And, where was the other BFF Jamar? And, what will happen with Tatiana?

Okay folks. Chime in! What do you think of the first 3 of our 12?

American Idol Top 36, "Weak" one of eliminations: The Performances

Top 36, “Weak” one of eliminations: The performances.

After all the weeks of auditions, seeing only seconds of some in the top 36 and seeing too much of others, we will finally get to see and hear complete songs by all survivors! It seems too good to be true! Here we go!

Ryan leads us off with lots of drama: “Now they face the toughest judges of all – you!” Um, Ryan, America’s not that tough. Remember Sanjaya?
Next we get to see our judges. Randy is wearing minimal bling with just a scarf. Laying low. Kara actually says something like, “Aaaah, I’m scared,” about being on live T.V. Simon is apparently gracing us with his presence, back from the U.K. where Ryan says he’s been for 6 months. (What?)

Then, the judges all get to say something – some words of advice to the contestants, as we have two hours to fill. Randy says they need to blow us away vocally; they need to be in it to win it, or some other winning slogan taken from a high school coach. I’m waiting for him to say they need to give 110%, and go for the glory! Awesome. Next Kara says again that she’s a little bit nervous, and tells the contestants to “Be yourself…..” and then says she’s been under the table, all over the table, …. And Ryan stops her thankfully. Paula then says something extremely profound: “You have to make the magic happen in 1 minute 20, this is all your dream…. You look to the right, look to the left, whoever is better, you’re going home.” What? Oh no, she really is crazy. Ryan says “That sums it up.” Simon says there are no second chances. Three are going through. He likes Ryan’s hair, and references Single White Female, trying to say Ryan wants hair like his. Hmm, I really don’t think so, Simon.

Ryan tells us some more stuff that we know by now: 1 girl, 1 guy, and the next person with the highest votes goes through this week. Then he tells us the theme is the Billboard top 100. Wow. Can you please pick a broader topic?

First up is Jackie Tohn, 28, from New York. They show her audition with the sun shade falling over again, and apparently saving her from a negative comment from Simon. She says she’s never wanted anything more. Her goal is to get Ms. Abdul upon her feet. (Fail.) What the heck is she wearing? It looks like a halter top, black tights, and a red weight belt with basketball shoes. She actually looks like she’s having fun singing, she seems comfortable on stage, and packs a powerful punch with that raspy voice! Randy “likes her trousers,” is not blown away by her vocals, and thinks she’s a good entertainer. Kara says she can work a stage and has a big personality. Paula says she got her up dancing. (Okay, so she didn’t fail.) She wasn’t perfect, but perfect is boring. She’s a true performer, all fell in love, blah blah blah. Simon said she was ungainly, gimmicky, played the clown. (Just the outfit, Simon.) She didn’t do herself any favors. He didn’t like the trousers or what she was wearing at all.
Then, something weird is happening tonight. They have parents or spouses or friends up in the Red Room, and they might have to answer some of Ryan’s questions, or might not get any screen time at all, who knows? Jackie’s dad says he’s extremely proud. Her mom says that Jackie should just be herself, have fun, etc. Jackie says she wanted to show that she is a rockin’ entertainer. Then she proceeds to do….. da da da duh!!!! Number Fingers! Aaaaah! They’re back! Already? I wasn’t prepared. Neither was Jackie’s mom, who actually looked embarrassed at that moment. Commercial break.
We are back in the Red Room, with Ryan and Ricky Braddy, 26, from North Carolina. Who? I don’t recall anything about this guy from previous weeks, but apparently Ryan knows a great back-story about Ricky serving chicken fingers. Yawn! Ricky now has to “Do what makes me happy.” Apparently wearing a purple velvet jacket and singing “A Song for You,” is what he’s talking about. This guy can actually sing. He has a really nice voice. Good thing he’s gotten so much time on the show, and people will be waiting to vote for him. Nope, we had to see the back stories of some people who are now cut from the show instead.
Paula was up on her feet during his song. Randy said he had beautiful tone and a nice voice. Kara said “You killed that.” Amazing, effortless, good job. Paula said you weren’t featured; you deserve to go very far. Simon said he’s not jumping out of his chair – great voice, but no star quality. You are a shy guy who lacks confidence. Then, we go to the Red Room and see why. His parents are wearing matching shirts that say the Braddy Bunch.
Commercials, then an iTunes plug.

Third up is Alexis Grace, 21. At her first audition, the judges told her to “dirty herself up.” Well, whatever she did, she looks amazing. Black dress, heels, pink hair streaks. And, she can sing! Randy said you have the dirt, the soul. “I’m loving you.” Kara says the genie is out of the bottle. (I think it’s a code spy thing.) Paula says you have so much soul, passion, confidence, you are cute and petite, inside you are large, a quiet confidence that I love. (She makes more sense the more tired I get.) Simon says she’s the best so far of the three. He throws out a comparison Kelly Clarkson. (No you didn’t!) Labels her the “one to watch.” We go to the Red Room, where her dad just arrived from the 60’s. I think her mom is also embarrassed by the Number Fingers.

Next there is a tape problem, and then we get to see for the first time since his audition, Brent Keith, 29. He says he’s living paycheck to paycheck. (Um, so is most of the world, Brent.) He decides to sing “Hick town”…. Because “this is who I am.” He is really cute, but that song has a range of about 5 notes! Bummer. I think he’s going to be out because of this. I started listening to the backup singers…. Where are they anyway? They are sounding good. I know I’m bored when I’m more interested in the back-up singers.
Randy likes him, and his “country roots.” (Did you notice his dimples, Randy?) Kara says he played it safe tonight, and that it wasn’t rangy enough. (I called it!) She wants him to take more risks. Paula wants “America to remember the auditions…. His falsetto.” (Umm, Paula, remember we weren’t there. We only got to hear a few seconds of him.) Simon said he was forgettable. Not original. Then, Brent says, “Personally, I don’t think country fans will forget that.” (Oyo, a little cocky, and playing the country card. Wow.) In the Red Room, Brent’s wife says that she always believed. Awe shucks.

After the break, we have Stevie Wright, 17, who soon turns into a train wreck. She is nervous, off-key, and even seemed to not even have enough air behind her voice at a couple points. Her song had a range of about 4 notes, and I was actually a little embarrassed for her. She seems nice, and this sucked.
Randy said, “Wow. Not hot for me.” Kara agrees, and feels that her song had nothing to do with who she, Stevie, is. Paula says this is not the Stevie Wright we fell in love with. Not the right song. Simon says it was terrible. She was nervous, she was out of tune, and she has a zero chance of going further. Then, we have to go to the Red Room, where Stevie’s mom says she doesn’t get it about the song choice issue (Ooo, I bet she picked it!), and Stevie looks likes she’s trying really hard not to cry!

Next up is Anoop Desai, 22, with two caterpillars above his eyes. He sings, “Angel of Mine.” The back-up singers sound awesome on this song, too, and I can really hear them. Again, something is off if I am focusing on them. Good vocals at the end of the song, though, by Anoop.
Randy says he was a little sharp, but he is still a huge fan. Kara agrees with Randy. He didn’t nail it. Paula says that America has connected with him in a LARGE way. (Easy Paula.) Simon says the song was too grown up for him, and too serious, but that he has MASSIVE likeability. In the Red Room, his parents were given really no face time. What? No fair!

Casey Carlson, 20, was up next. She is super cute, and chooses to sing a song by the Police, because it’s one of those songs that make you feel good. (Uh-oh, I feel a train wreck is coming.) Not only was her singing weak, but she seemed a little off in her timing. Also, she had some seriously weird facial expressions.
Randy said, “Ooo, that was not good for me.” Karaoke. Kara said that everything about that was wrong and that she fell really flat. Paula said that “guys think you are exquisite, beautiful,” but it just didn’t work. Simon said it was atrocious, but she looks good. Up in the Red Room, Casey’s mom said that she loves her and that she rocked the stage. Casey’s mom is sweet, and then she tries to get votes for her. Cool mom or a little too pushy?

Next up is our Oil Rigger, Michael Sarver. He seems like a great family guy. Then, he starts singing! His song shows no range, and is he off-key? My husband even pipes in with, “Geez, that sucks!”
Randy says it started rough. (Duh, Randy! It was rough the whole time!) You didn’t perform it that well. Kara says it wasn’t his best performance. You are likable. Paula says, “I’m not going to be as hard as they are.” (What did you just say?) Simon says this is a tricky one. They like him, and he hopes America gives him another shot. (Wow, they really want him in this one..)

Next is Anne Marie Boscovich, 22. She looks great in her blue dress. Then, she proceeds to take on “Natural Woman.” She has a great voice, but it is not doing justice to that song. Then, they show Ted Dansen in the audience for the 57th time.
Randy says that it wasn’t the right song. Kara says that song is so big. Paula says that she “gave it her all.” Simon says that her voice is not good enough for that song. Then, she proceeds to go to the Red Room and “sits on the hard part.” Ryan, who is obsessed with sexual innuendo, can’t help but make a comment about that.

Stephen Fowler, 26, from Ohio is number 10 of the night. I am so worried. that he’s going to forget his lyrics AGAIN. He chooses Michael Jackson’s “Rock with You,” and because of this should have his head examined. He has a good voice, but it was just weird.
Randy says pitchy, not good. Kara said he’s not connected to the song; Paula says that singing that song is the kiss of death. Simon says that that was a pointless performance, and that it was corny.
We don’t even get to go to the Red Room, as Steven’s wife is at home. She’s busy!

After the break, we get none other than Tatiana del Toro, 24. Tatidrama is wearing what appears to be a party dress. No weird flowy dress like the audition? And, through tears, she tells us that she’s not going to let anyone get in the way of her dream. Tears. Drama, etc. And, she’s going to sing a Whitney song! Then, she starts singing, and SHE SOUNDS GOOD! Really good. I had an “ew” moment when she was gyrating and singing “making love the whole night through….” Ew again. And, at the end of her song, I had to rewind to see her facial expression again. Eyes closed, head back. Verrrrrry dramatic. I actually laughed out loud.
Randy said she had some moments, and she actually can sing. Kara said it’s like a roller coaster ride with her. Who are you? Paula is not used to this “demure” Tatiana! (Oh, good word, Paula!) Simon says she is a complete and utter drama queen, and she’s desperate to be famous. She is also better than he expected. Simon and Kara like the old Tatiana.
Ryan is in the Red Room with Tatiana’s “cousins,” because “in Puerto Rico, we are all cousins.” (Could this actually be true? This explains a lot about her.) Then, Tatiana says, “America, this is my dream and it’s up to you to keep it alive – gracias.” She really has to be joking. That is just too campy to be serious.

Suspiciously last, is pull-at-your-heartstrings-with-my-back-story Danny Gokey, 28. Heck, even if he didn’t have such a bittersweet story, I would still like him. I wish he was my BFF. But, his real BFF Jamar was there in the audience, offering his devotion forever along with a few more facial piercings. When Danny said he was going to sing “Hero” by Mariah Carey, I said, “Uh-oh,” thinking Don’t Do It! But he sounded really good. Really really good.
Randy called him the “redeemer of the night,” and blazing hot. Kara said you are great; incredible (along with several table thumps with her hand,) Paula said, “You are stellar. I have two words with a hyphen: Sold-out Arenas.” (Thanks Paula for announcing your statement.) Simon said it was not fantastic, but it was good, and that he is a very very good singer. Danny said that he pictures people rising about and knowing there is a future ahead. (What’s not to like about that?) No Red Room for Danny, as his BFF was right there in the audience. And, here’s the best part: No Number Fingers!

Okay, who are your favorites so far of these twelve? Chime in.

American Idol Season 8: Countdown to the Top 12!

Hey Idol Fans,

We've made it out of Hollywood week with 36 contestants. Those of us that have been watching the show for a while know that this is a little different than previous seasons. We normally have 24 contestants going into the final elimination rounds leading to the top 12. If you haven't been watching, now is the time. We have 4 weeks to go before the top 12 contestants are announced and the fun begins. Here's what you can expect over the next four weeks.

February 17 - 18: Group 1 performs (first 12 of the 36) and 3 contestants advance to the top 12
February 24 - 25: Group 2 performs and 3 contestants advance to the top 12
March 3 - 4: Group 3 performs and 3 contestants advance to the top 12
March 5: Wild card round and the final 3 contestants advance to the top 12
March 10: Top 12 perform and our fun begins
March 11: Week 1 results show and the American Idol '09 game begins on PopPool!! If you haven't registered, go to http://poppool.com and sign up.

Enough of all the formalities. I want to know what you think about the contestants so far. Have we seen enough crying for this season already or what! Who are your favorites? Who do you think is going to make it to the Top 12 and who are you ready to see go home?

Let us know that you're thinking.

Season 4 Finale!

What did you think of last night's finale?

I was thoroughly impressed with the absolute athleticism of the dancers! They are probably in the best shape of their lives now, and they are amazing to watch.

What was up with the Scottish routine? And the parasol fu-fu dance? There were some interesting costume choices, that's for sure.

Once again, Adam B. Vary from entertainment weekly does a great job recapping, so I will post the link here:

http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20217452,00.html

It's great. Read it. ....... And, don't forget to vote!