Worse Story: The judges have apparently clued in to the disaster that this group of contestants are and are now trying to CTA by talking them up. Truly this week they seemed to me, to grossly exaggerate the success of some of these performances.

The Best:

Siobhan Magnus

Song: Paint it Black

First Impression: Well, I liked it because she used so much of the stage and went for the “Adam Lambert –Over-The-Top-Drama-Award.” She wasn’t perfect, but she certainly wasn’t boring.

 Judges: Randy: “that was hot!” Ellen: loved her “look and sound.” Kara: “having flashbacks of Adam Lambert.” Simon: “the standout performance of the night.”

 Aaron Kelly

Song: Angie

First Impression: I’m not an Aaron Kelly fan, but this week he surprised me. He picked a perfect song for his age and delivered a very connected, emotional performance.

Judges: Randy: “It was hot.” Ellen: “A great song choice.” “A standout performance.” Kara: felt him powerfully connect to the song. Simon: “one of your strongest performances.”

The Worst:

 Tim Urban

Song: Under My Thumb

First Impression: Seriously Tim, you should have song this song before you got neutered. This is a song full of menace and you have none. Awful. He’s extremely lucky he’s one of the cute ones. And the reggae arrangement – horrid. Bad, bad, bad.

 Judges: Randy: “I didn’t get it,” “it didn’t serve you or the song.” Ellen: “it didn’t wow.” Kara: “applaud you for doing something different…you made it your own.” Simon: “it didn’t work…a crazy decision.”

 The Rest:

 Michael Lynch

 Song: Miss You

 First Impression: Very Well done. He adapted the song to his style and ran with it. Impressive, though I didn’t feel any of Simon’s “moments.”

Judges:  Randy: Who’s in it to win it? Randy things the dawg  “slayed it.” Ellen: “what’s not to love about that?” Simon, “a tiny bit desperate.” He didn’t love his dancing.

Didi Benami

Song: Don’t Play With Fire

First Impression: Someone’s playing with fire, but it’s not Didi. Boring! Also, she thinks that by looking angry she puts meaning behind this song. I think this is a bad song choice for her anyways. She can’t deliver the menace behind this lyric.

 Judges: Randy does think she’s on fire. Huh? Ellen liked it too. Kara felt she had intensity. Simon agrees with them and he’s a fan: “solid, not brilliant.”

Casey James

 Song: All Over Now

 First Impression: Good but not memorable. The nice occasional growl in his voice.

 Judges: Randy: likes him in this vibe. He “loved it.” Ellen: “fantastic.” Kara, “tonight you are a rock star.” Simon, “like an audition” he didn’t “use the stage” to “do something incredible.”

Lacey Brown

 Song: Ruby Tuesday

 First Impression: I’m torn with Lacey, I can hear the complexity of her singing style, but it’s incredibly affected. Tonight she did not connect with the song emotionally.

 Judges: Randy: “Most interesting so far.” Ellen: thought her stage behavior was oddly timed, “it was a bit sleepy.” Kara: “50/50 for me.” Simon: thinks she’s overly staged and planned – she’s got to let go.

 Andrew Garcia

Song: Gimme Shelter

 First Impression: I just don’t think Idol is for Andrew. He’s not at home in this arena. He just looks awkward.

 Judges: Randy: “pitchy everywhere.” Ellen: thought it was “his best yet.” Kara: didn’t feel any emotion –missing the connection. Simon: lukewarm about him, hopes he’ll stay around.

Can you people stop talking about Straight Up????

Katie Stevens

 Song:  Wild Horse (tragic that the worst voice gets the best song)

 First Impression: She can hit the big notes, but anything requiring subtlety is a mess. To stay in she will need to stay with belting songs. This song is also way to old for her.

Judges: Randy: “a very strong performance.” Ellen: “started pitchy,” “sounded so good once she got into it.” Simon: “the only week where you have chosen a really strong song.” In the second half he thought she lost it, but overall “well done.”

Lee Dewyze

Song: Beast of Burden

First Impression: Good, but I didn’t find it interesting.

 Judges: Randy and Ellen liked it. Ellen wanted a bit more from him. Kara: “you’re growing faster than anyone…tremendous growth.” Simon: “not shining…chose a safe song.” Simon wants him to have a moment.

Paige Myles

Song: Honkytonk Woman

First Impression: Once again, so, so. She did work the stage nicely, and hit some big notes, but she also hit some bad notes.

Judges: Randy: “you did alright.” Ellen: thinks she has star quality on stage. Simon and Kara impressed with her performance since she has laryngitis.

Crystal Bowersox 

Song: You Can’t Always Get What You Want 

First Impression: I expected her to own this night. She was good of course, but she didn’t blow me away. I do hold her to a higher standard.

Judges: Randy: “not my favorite performance.” Ellen: “liked seeing her personality,” and felt her let go. Kara: liked her and felt she was so “easy to watch.” Simon: thought she was good as always but that Siobhan beat her tonight.

The Best

Tim Urban

Song: Halelujah

First Impression: I love this song so I’m a bit prejudiced right off the bat, but I think he did a fine job with this and really put his heart in it.

Judges: Randy: “you did a good job.” Ellen leapt on stage to tell him he was, “fantastic.” Kara: “your in it!” She loved his honesty. Simon: by far his strongest performance so far.

Michael Lynch

Song: This Woman’s Work

First Impression: His vocal and intensity were very strong. He really showed off what his voice can do. However, the bizarre arrangement of this great Kate Bush song was pretty bad. If you’ve never heard the original – do seek it out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7TupvVpxY_U 

 It’s about a man waiting to see if his wife will live through a difficult childbirth, and realizing he’s taken his wife for granted and that he might loose her. I’ve doubted Michael in the past and I will say that he really surprised me with this vocal. There’s more to his voice then what I’d heard before tonight.

Judges: Randy: “Really? Crazy!” Ellen: “one of my favorite songs, it was so beautiful it feels like the show just began.” Kara: it made Kara cry. Simon felt he “100% nailed it” and that it was the “best performance of the live shows so far (and Michael was the last performer of the show.”

The Worst

Andrew Garcia

Song: Genie in a Bottle

First Impression: OK, but I don’t think this is going to really make a difference for him. I feel like he’s kind of flamed out…

Judges: Randy: “it didn’t quite work for me.” Ellen: “great song choice,” but it could have been better faster. Kara: felt the song had little melody – “it wasn’t great.” Simon: “a little bit desperate.”

Aaron Kelly

Song: I’m Already There

First Impression: Argh. He was pitchy and warbling. This song was too big and too old for him. He should go home for this. Awful.

Judges: Randy: “job well done.” Ellen: “you’ve sounded better.” Kara: the song is “not relevant to your life.” Simon: “not a great vocal,” but “it had emotion.”

The Rest

Todrick Hall

Song: Somebody to Love

First Impression: A big vocal, well delivered. He didn’t redefine or own the song, but it was entertaining. I didn’t think he totally connected with the song, it was a little insincere to me.

Judges: Randy: “Todrick is back! You proved that you can really sing.” Ellen: “a brave young man,” “it worked…I commend you.” Kara: not sure about the emotional center of the song. Simon, “you’ve told us who you are – a Broadway singer.” Simon was happy he at least tried to be entertaining.

Lee Dewyze

Song: Fireflies

First Impression: He brought some backbone to this sweet but edgeless song. It seems an odd choice though – its current version is so distinctive and it’s still all over the radio. Don’t know what to make of it exactly. He can certainly sing though…

Judges: Randy: confused but ultimately he felt it worked out. Ellen: a few pitchy moments, but she thought it was great. Kara: “you looked confident” she’s glad he stepped up, “you made the song a better song.” Simon feels there’s nothing to rave about.

Casey James

Song: You’ll Think of Me

First Impression: Nicely done. Memorable? I’m not so sure, but I did want him to keep singing.

Judges: Randy: “a little bit of a safe choice.” Wants him to bring his edge. Ellen: “thought it was great.” Kara: “better then last week,” but she’s still “missing that spark.” Simon: “your second best performance.”

Alex Lambert

Song:  Trouble

First Impression: Competent, I like his tone, but not original enough.

Judges: Randy: “good song choice,” “didn’t wow me.” Ellen: “getting better and better, ” “you can see how sweet and vulnerable and real you are.” Kara: “the only thing standing in the way of you winning is you right now, you have so much.” Kara things he’s needs to just let go. Simon: thinks he needs to relax and have a good time.

The Best:

Crystal Bowersox

Song: Give Me One Reason

 First Impression: A great competent performance as always, but I just don’t think she’s ever current or relevant. Maybe when we get to theme weeks we’ll see something new.

Judges: Randy’s “a fan.” Ellen, “the best performance of the night.” Simon thinks she’ll definitely be in the Top 12. Simon thinks she’s the one to beat.

Lilly Scott

Song: I Fall To Pieces

First Impression: A perfect song choice for her. She is such a natural it’s amazing to see. I think she’s the one to beat – not Crystal.

Judges: Randy, “it was hot tonight,” “well done.” Ellen, “loved it,” “loved you.” Simon, didn’t feel it had the “wow factor.”

Didi Benami

Song: Rhiannon

First Impression: Wow. Spectacular. Just perfect. She made this song her own, and brought something truly new to it – I understood it differently than the thousand times I’ve heard it before – I will download this performance.

Judges: Randy, didn’t love it but thought it was better. Ellen, liked what she did with the song, and liked her resilience. Kara, “one of my favorite moments of the show so far this season.” Simon, “head and shoulders above anything we’ve heard tonight.” Felt her whole performance was a “wow moment.”

Lacey Brown 

Song: The Story 

First Impression: Quiet, emotional and sweet. She really is a charmer, vocally and her charisma shines forth so strongly. Maybe if it doesn’t work out on AI she should go into acting or selling jewelry on television! I hope it works out for her though, because I’d be happy to hear her recordings. 

Judges: He thought it was a little sleepy, but her best to date. Ellen agreed. Kara enjoyed her vocal gymnastics, she’s “back on her path.” Simon, didn’t love the song, but she sang it really well and it sounded like a song on the radio. He wants her to do something more memorable. 

The Worst: 

Katie Stevens 

Song: Breakaway 

First Impression: She’s just good, not great, and she was pretty flat, in some places. If you can’t control your lower register – don’t go there. Nothing’s worse then sounding like a frog in distress. 

Judges: Randy thought the song was too big for her; it didn’t “work for him.” Ellen like that she chose a young song, but she didn’t feel it. Kara felt she just hasn’t figured out who she is as a performer. Simon thinks she’s been confused by all the advice and he agrees with Kara that she hasn’t found he style. He gave her “ten out of ten” for trying hard. 

Paige Myles 

Song: Smile 

First Impression: I think Paige may be gone after this performance. The whole things seemed off key, really painful, in the wrong key? Bizarre. Maybe she is sick? The arrangement was odd. She seemed like a contestant who had already been eliminated and was almost crying her way through the final performance on Idol. 

Judges: Randy loved the song, but it didn’t work. “It went completely flat.” Ellen felt it was sad and flat. Kara felt it was “all wrong.” Simon – a “horrible arrangement” and performance. 

The Rest: 

Siobhan Magnus 

Song: House of The Rising Sun  

First Impression: To my ear a nearly perfect rendition of this song. The problem is, what’s the relevance? Are the kids calling in familiar with this “so old no one knows how old it is” tune that’s generally agreed to be about prostitution in New Orleans? I’m guessing they’re not. It was beautiful but possibly a tactical mistake. 

Judges: Randy loves her unpredictability and uncoachability. Ellen says she’s, “spectacular.” Kara loved the a cappella beginning though she’s still confused about who Siobhan is. Simon felt the whole thing fell a little flat and didn’t have a memorable star moment. 

Katelyn Epperly 

Song: I Feel The Earth Move 

First Impression: Utterly derivative and dull. Just cause you have big hair, does not make you Carole King. Zzzzzzzz….. There was just no point to this. Simon’s gonna get her. 

Judges: Randy: “felt very put on;” Ellen: “not the song to choose to wow people with;” Kara: “going through the motions;” Simon, “it may have been a mistake for you tonight.” 

Thoughts After The Show 

I declare this the best show of the season so far as there were four rock-solid, star-caliber performances. It’s no surprise to my readers that Lilly Scott was one of those. 

I’m starting to get really excited about the upcoming theme weeks! What will Crystal Bowersox do with Disco week? 

I’m afraid though, that as the girls get whittled down, that we will start to see that Didi Benami, Lacey Brown and Lilly Scott are all chasing the same “quirky angels” vibe and it could get annoying. 

I think Kara made a really brilliant comment tonight summing up this year’s talent falling into two camps: people who know who they are as performers, and people who don’t. It’s so clear that Crystal Bowersox and Lilly Scott know exactly what the want to sing, and how they want to perform. 

I expect that this will be the last mile for Paige Myles and the end of the road for country sweetie Katie Stevens, although it’s possible Katelyn Epperly will get the boot too. 

Unfortunately I’ve got no time for a big commentary today. Here’s how the Top Twenty did:

Boys are up first, the girls are switched to Wednesday due to Crystal Bowersox being ill.

The Best

Tim Urban

Song: Come On Get Higher

First Impression: Nicely done, heartfelt and emotional. The best performance of the night so far to me — great song choice by Tim.

Judges: Randy didn’t get it, didn’t hear anything special about it. Ellen didn’t like it, doesn’t feel any charisma, and once him to be an actor. Kara, liked the song choice, but felt he didn’t make it his own. Simon, thought it was a “marked improvement on last week” and that he was “more relevant tonight” than the other performers. Simon thought he did great.

Andrew Garcia

Song: You Give Me Something

First Impression: The first really emotional performance of the night. I didn’t love the vocals at every step, but he’s real, and he understands how to perform.

 Judges: Randy, felt it was “pitchy,” wants him to sing “singer-songwriter” songs. Ellen heard a few pitch problems, but really liked his performance. Kara, still waiting for a performance like Straight Up. Kara felt he played it too safe. Simon is frustrated by his song choices, wants him to be more original – and knows he can be.

 The Worst:

 Todrick Hall

 Song: What’s Love Got To Do With It?

 First Impression: I’m so over this song, it’s hard to care about this performance. Todrick does a very nice job with this, but I don’t care, and I don’t connect emotionally.

Judges: Randy doesn’t like the arrangement, still likes Todricks voice. Ellen thinks he should bring his dance moves, and choose a younger song. Kara doesn’t like his “all over the place” arrangements. Simon thinks he should go back to dancing.

Jermaine Sellers

 Song: What’s Going On

First Impression: Jermaine the Holiday Inn by the airport hopes you’ll be there in time for the late show. Just awful. Horrible arrangement, pitchy singing, and god help us, scatting.

Judges: Randy, “wasn’t a great performance.” Ellen, “loves his style,” but not the song. Kara felt there was too much going on. Simon, “you water down the songs,” did too much with the song, and it seemed old fashioned. Wanted him to just sing the song straight. 

Jermaine, btw, is depending on God to get him here next week.

Aaron Kelly

Song: My Girl

First Impression: This was pretty bad in many different ways. Aaron is simply too inexperienced to know what to do with his voice. He has potential, but not in the short-term.

Judges: Randy thought it was OK. Ellen didn’t like the song choice. Kara really liked it and she likes him. Simon didn’t like it and felt it was “all over the place,” “he needs to work out what kind of artist he wants to be.” Simon felt the song was old fashioned, but Kara disagreed.

The Rest:

 John Park 

Song: Gravity

First Impression: I like John and I think he delivered a solid performance, but I’m not sure his voice can go the distance.

Judges: Randy felt it was a bit flat and not interesting. Ellen thinks it’s a good song choice for him, would like it to have more emotion. Kara, missing the connection with the audience.  Simon thinks he’s in trouble.

Lee Dewyze

Song: Lips of An Angel

First Impression: I don’t believe he improved on the original in any way. Not memorable.

Judges: Randy liked that he’s trying to take chances – he liked it. Ellen, felt the passion in his singing. Kara thought it was “a big improvement” feels he’s a current, commercial performer. Simon feels he’s the best singer, but he has no confidence. He’s got to step up and connect totally with a song.

Michael Lynch

Song: This Is A Man’s World

First Impression: I loathe the song, “hey little ladies, we made the whole world, but despite all of our accomplishments, it’s nice to have you around.” Ugh. I won’t hold that against Michael, but he does not overwhelm me. Ultimately I think his voice falls short of having star wattage. It gets the job done, but it doesn’t have the tone or power that I wish it had.

Judges: Randy loves it and gives Mike a standing ovation, Ellen thinks he set the standard for the night, Kara hears “an artist” tonight. Simon, “from a pussycat to a lion,” and “his best performance so far.”

And the ladies: 

The Best:

Crystal Bowersox

Song: Long As I Can See The Light

First Impression: Boy can she sing. The problem is, it’s not 1968. I just don’t see her current relevance. She a throwback, and though it worked for Taylor Hicks, I can’t imagine it working for a girl.

Judges: Randy loves her truth. Ellen loves her “pure, raw natural talent.” Kara, “effortless, centered, and focused,” “you hit a new level.” Simon, “vocal was incredible,” “she’s a serious artist.”

Lilly Scott

Song: A Change is Gonna Come

First Impression: Unlike Crystal Bowersox, Lilly does a throwback vibe that feels fresh. This girl is the real deal, with an amazing original voice and she’s completely at ease on stage. My only critique would be that the guitar didn’t add anything to this performance.

Judges: All kinds of love from the judges. Simon feels she proves the judge’s points about making things relevant. Though he prefers the vocals of the other throwback tonight.

Katelyn Epperly

Song: I’m Going Back to The Start

First Impression: Katelyn really shined on this number. A nearly flawless vocal, and a nice take on a Coldplay favorite. She put her heart in this and I loved it.

Judges: Randy, “really liked it.” Ellen, she liked her piano playing, felt it was a little to slow, in her mind. Kara, “I kind of love you.” “You have an incredible instrument.” She’s switching around too much. “She’s got to figure out who she is.” Simon thought she was “a million times better than last week.” But he said she needed to work on not being “corny.”

The Worst:

Haeley Vaughn

Song: The Climb

First Impression: Hearing Haeley sing this song reminds me once again that I would like to hear a really good singer sing this song. Haeley didn’t belt it, and own it, and I don’t think Miley Cyrus ever does either. I think the song is better than either of these girls. Do you think Adam Lambert would be willing to stop by and sing it to me? Haeley’s performance was a pitchy, screechy and overall irritating. I’m losing my faith in her.

Judges: Randy, “excruciating” it was wrong for her. Ellen didn’t feel her connect to the song. Kara likes her stage performance, but needs a lot more training. Simon, “complete and utter mess.”

Michelle Delamor

Song: With Arms Wide Open

First Impression: This song didn’t suit her at all. She doesn’t have a big enough voice, and her arrangement was pretty bad. A painful performance to my ear.

Judges: Randy, felt she didn’t do enough with the song, but he liked her outfit. Ellen liked the outfit too and that she changed up the song. Kara, “my favorite performance of yours ever.”

Didi Benami

Song: Lean On Me – My initial response to hearing this song choice was to gag. Yuck.

First Impression: Oh, who cares? … Nothing new here.

Judges: Randy didn’t like this soul song for her, showed off her flaws not her strengths. Ellen, loves her voice, but didn’t like the song choice. Kara, “it wasn’t good,” “felt like a karaoke bar.” Simon didn’t like it on any level – “a wasted opportunity.”

The Rest:

Lacey Brown

Song: Kiss Me

First Impression: Whatever you want to say about her singing, this girl does have sparkly-eyed charisma. I think her song choice (or Kara’s choice) was very good for her, though in some of the quick sections she seemed to lose her breath a bit.

Judges: Randy, liked the song choice, didn’t feel it was special. Ellen, thought it was adorable and that she was great; the right song for her. Kara, liked it, but she didn’t push it, she needs to do more. Simon says she isn’t showcasing herself as an artist. She’s not having an impact.

Paige Myles

Song: Walk Away

First Impression: I didn’t care for her version of this song. It didn’t do anything for me. She can sing, but this song did not show off her voice.

Judges: Randy, “liked it but didn’t love it.” Didn’t like her song choice. Ellen though she did great, and really performed joyfully. Kara, liked it, but felt she missed the anger in the song. Simon felt she has “failed two weeks in a row” and has chosen bad songs. She has to come and nail a big song.

Katie Stevens

Song: Put Your Records On

First Impression: I’d call it a copycat version, but she can’t sing as well as the Corinne Bailey Rae. So it was a bad copy, with some pitchy moments. Overall forgettable. 

Judges: Randy, the performance had “some bright moments,” but not great. Ellen, still thinks she’s not singing a song that’s right for here age. Kara agrees that she needs a better song that’s right for her. Simon is also frustrated;  Katie’s not defining herself. Simon thinks she will stay around.

Siobhan Magnus

Song: Think

First Impression: She mostly delivered this song, but she didn’t make it her own: some strong moments, but overall forgettable.

Judges: Randy, “It was dope, you slayed it.” Ellen “loved it.” Kara loved it. Simon finds her unique and talented, thought her performance was mixed. They were all very impressed with the big note.

Boys are up first, the girls are switched to Wednesday due to Crystal Bowersox being ill.

The Best

Tim Urban

Song: Come On Get Higher

First Impression: Nicely done, heartfelt and emotional. The best performance of the night so far to me — great song choice by Lee.

Judges: Randy didn’t get it, didn’t hear anything special about it. Ellen didn’t like it, doesn’t feel any charisma, and once him to be an actor. Kara, liked the song choice, but felt he didn’t make it his own. Simon, thought it was a “marked improvement on last week” and that he was “more relevant tonight” than the other performers. Simon thought he did great.

Andrew Garcia

Song: You Give Me Something

First Impression: The first really emotional performance of the night. I didn’t love the vocals at every step, but he’s real, and he understands how to perform. 

Judges: Randy, felt it was “pitchy,” wants him to sing “singer-songwriter” songs. Ellen heard a few pitch problems, but really liked his performance. Kara, still waiting for a performance like Straight Up. Kara felt he played it too safe. Simon is frustrated by his song choices, wants him to be more original – and knows he can be.

The Worst

Todrick Hall

Song: What’s Love Got To Do With It?

First Impression: I’m so over this song, it’s hard to care about this performance. Todrick does a very nice job with this, but I don’t care, and I don’t connect emotionally.

Judges: Randy doesn’t like the arrangement, still likes Todricks voice. Ellen thinks he should bring his dance moves, and choose a younger song. Kara doesn’t like his “all over the place” arrangements. Simon thinks he should go back to dancing. 

Jermaine Sellers

Song: What’s Going On

First Impression: Jermaine the Holiday Inn by the airport hopes you’ll be there in time for the late show. Just awful. Horrible arrangement, pitchy singing, and god help us, scatting. 

Judges: Randy, “wasn’t a great performance.” Ellen, “loves his style,” but not the song. Kara felt there was too much going on. Simon, “you water down the songs,” did too much with the song, and it seemed old fashioned. Wanted him to just sing the song straight. 

 Jermaine, btw, is depending on God to get him here next week.

Aaron Kelly

Song: My Girl

First Impression: This was pretty bad in many different ways. Aaron is simply too inexperienced to know what to do with his voice. He has potential, but not in the short-term.

Judges: Randy thought it was OK. Ellen didn’t like the song choice. Kara really liked it and she likes him. Simon didn’t like it and felt it was “all over the place,” “he needs to work out what kind of artist he wants to be.” Simon felt the song was old fashioned, but Kara disagreed.

The Rest

John Park

Song: Gravity

First Impression: I like John and I think he delivered a solid performance, but I’m not sure his voice can go the distance.

Judges: Randy felt it was a bit flat and not interesting. Ellen thinks it’s a good song choice for him, would like it to have more emotion. Kara, missing the connection with the audience.  Simon thinks he’s in trouble.

Lee Dewyze

Song: Lips of An Angel

First Impression: I don’t believe he improved on the original in any way. Not memorable.

Judges: Randy liked that he’s trying to take chances – he liked it. Ellen, felt the passion in his singing. Kara thought it was “a big improvement” feels he’s a current, commercial performer. Simon feels he’s the best singer, but he has no confidence. He’s got to step up and connect totally with a song.

Michael Lynch

Song: This Is A Man’s World 

First Impression: I loathe the song, “hey little ladies, we made the whole world, but despite all of our accomplishments, it’s nice to have you around.” Ugh. I won’t hold that against Michael, but he does not overwhelm me. Ultimately I think his voice falls short of having star wattage. It gets the job done, but it doesn’t have the tone or power that I wish it had.

Judges: Randy loves it and gives Mike a standing ovation, Ellen thinks he set the standard for the night, Kara hears “an artist” tonight. Simon, “from a pussycat to a lion,” and “his best performance so far.”

Katie Stevens

Janell Wheeler – Janell is out

Didi Benami

Ashley Rodriguez – Ashley is out

Bottom Four Boys:

Tim Urban

Joe Munos – Joe is out

Tyler Grady -Tyler is out

Alex Lambert 

Well I would certainly have kept Tyler over Alex Lambert or Tim Urban – but it’s already starting unfortunately – cute boys can beat talent. Gross. At least Casey James has talent to go with the cute. 

On another note, and speaking of cute boys, Kris Allen delivered a great performance of “Let It Be” to raise money for the crisis in Haiti.

Please donate by buying his single of the song on iTunes or going to the American Red Cross website:

http://american.redcross.org/site/PageServer?pagename=ntld_main&s_subsrc=RCO_ResponseStateSection

The Best

 Todrick Hall

 Song: Since You’ve Been Gone 

First Impression: Todrick came to play and brought his “A” game, a totally effective and restyled version of Since You’ve Been Gone. Slammin! 

Judges: Ellen: “a great performer” liked everything but the chorus. Randy: didn’t like that he completely changed the song. Kara agreed. Simon: A “dancer trying to sing,” thought he “murdered the song.” I completely disagree and I bet America does too.

Casey James

Song: Heaven

First Impression: Well, let me go on record as saying, I hate blonde guys as a rule, and Bryan Adams songs for the most part, but this guy’s got an outrageous amount of charisma. He’s also so comfortable with himself, his voice, and his guitar; I suspect he’ll be very hard to beat in this competition. He really brought the star power.

Judges: Kara was verklempt, and overcome with the vapors. Everyone else really liked him.

Andrew Garcia

Song: Sugar We’re Going Down

First Impression: I waited all night for Andrew and he doesn’t disappoint. He seems like a pro already. He did a great job with a complex song – the opposite of Michael Lynche’s boring approach. He proves that you can add a lot of nuance to a rapid-fire song.

Judges: Simon was disappointed, felt he was too serious, thought he was forgettable. Kara didn’t like the song as an acoustic version. Randy didn’t like it. Randy is a big fan of his as is Ellen. They all hope he’ll be back.

The Worst

Jermaine Sellers

Song: Get Here

First Impression: I tuned out halfway through this performance, apparently I found it boring.

Judges: Ellen: didn’t feel his emotional connection to the song. Randy: felt it was too old a song. Kara, and Simon agreed. Simon felt he over sang and blew it totally.

Tim Urban

Song: Too Late To Apologize

First Impression: OK, though over styled in some sections. I don’t think Tim is a force to be reckoned with unless he gets the “cutie-pie” vote.

Judges: Simon: “We made the right decision not putting you through the first time around,” felt he was all around weak. Kara: felt the music “overpowered him.” Randy, “none of it worked.” Ellen: didn’t like the song, but thought he was adorable.

John Park:

Song: God Bless the Child

First Impression: I like John, but you could hear his nerves in his voice that was a bit tight, and there were several pitchy moments.

Judges: Simon: didn’t feel that he has a big enough voice for the song, no emotion, flat delivery. Kara didn’t feel connected to the song. Randy and Ellen didn’t like the song choice. Ellen liked his voice.

Alex Lambert

Song: Wonderful World

First Impression: it may be a wonderful world, but that was a dreadful, painful performance, pitchy, awkward, and yucky to watch.  Alex has a long way to go to become an idol contender.

Judges: They all like him, but they all think he’s got to get it together, or he’s out. He’s not ready.

The Rest

Aaron Kelly

Song: Here Comes Goodbye

First Impression: A boy taking on a man’s song and not delivering. Aaron is not on his fifth wife, third divorce, what have you. This song was all wrong for him, and the vocals were only so, so.

Judges: Simon: “quite a good performance,” but not confident, song was not memorable. Kara: “likes pop-country” for him, and that he “did a great job.” Randy: thinks he has a great voice for his age. Ellen: looks forward to him continue to get better.

Joe Munos 

Song: You and I

First Impression: I didn’t love this performance, but he’s got nice potential and he will get the “cutie pie” vote.

Judges: Ellen: felt he was very comfortable on stage and sounded good. Randy: thought he did a good job, though not perfect. Kara: liked his daring song choice, felt he had a great performance, the best so far. Simon: doesn’t see his star power, “forgettable.”

Tyler Grady

Song: American Woman

First Impression: A letdown for me. I didn’t feel it, I didn’t hear it, I wanted it to be over; too bad because I like Tyler.

Judges: Simon: Unhappy with his graduation from “pretend to be a rock star school.” Kara, Randy and Ellen: “Style over substance,” “going through the motions.”

Lee Dewyze

Song: Chasing Cars

First Impression: Tuned out again. Am I just tired or are these performers tired?

Judges: Ellen: likes the tone of his voice, though he made a few mistakes. Randy: “didn’t like the song for him” wants him to rock harder. Kara: “the song has a small range” which didn’t work for him, he needs a bigger song. Simon: “thought it was the best performance so far.” Lee’s “a naturally good singer.”

Michael Lynch

Song: This Love

First Impression: A nice competent performance – he’s definitely good on stage. However, this song didn’t show of his vocal abilities. It’s too rushed.

Judges: Ellen: thinks he’s “infectious” a few pitch problems. Randy: likes him and his “persona.” Simon didn’t love his performance – nothing unique.

This was a pretty disappointing Men’s night for American Idol. I only truly enjoyed Casey James, Andrew Garcia and Todrick Hall – and it’s possible no one else liked Todrick though. It’s OK, I don’t mind it out on a limb!

The judges, as usual, gave wildly conflicting advice: be unique, don’t be unique, do it your way, well not too much. Do they really think they are helping? Oh and Ellen, you told one of the contestants that he shouldn’t rely on his looks. They should – you can win this thing, or come very close, on dimples power.

Tonight we get to hear our Top 12 ladies. I’m pretty excited to hear them have a chance to shine.

Before they sing there’s a little silliness about Simon flirting with Ellen. Even though that’s fabricated, I think it’s right to separate them. Simon represents the past, and Ellen, the future, of the show.

Paige Myles

Song: It’s Alright Now

Intial Thoughts: I didn’t like this. The song was OK, but her performance didn’t have any emotional heft, no connection with the audience or material. Her voice sounded rather thin and her outfit was an unfortunate choice.

Judges Reaction: Simon thinks she has the best voice? He didn’t like her song choice. Kara disagreed; she thought the song was brilliant. Randy didn’t like the song, thought it was a great job. Ellen thought she was great.

Ashley Rodriguez

Song: Happy

Intial Thoughts: She sounded nervous to me, like her throat was closed; I didn’t connect with it at all.

Judges Reaction: Kara: “There were moments that weren’t great.” Randy, “you did a good job,” but didn’t really set herself apart. Ellen said she was predictable and safe. Simon, “thought it was clumsy,” felt she was “going backward.”

Janell Wheeler

Song: What About Love  Heart? Really? Ugh. I just don’t want anyone but Heart to sing Heart. Let’s see what Janell can do…

Intial Thoughts: Double Ugh; very pitchy, flat and weak all-around. Yikes.

Judges Reaction: Randy felt it was a bad song choice. Ellen liked it, heard a few sour notes. Simon heard moments he liked. Kara likes her, didn’t like the song – to big for her. Likes her voice.

Lilly Scott

Song: Fixing a Hole

Intial Thoughts: Great, beautifully interpreted original version of a Beatles song. Her voice is pure and bright.

Judges Reaction: Ellen “loved it” and felt she was truly original. Simon: “the best so far,” not feeling the “starpower.” Kara really liked her and could feel that she was comfortable on the stage. Randy likes her indie honesty.

Katelyn Epperly

Song: Oh, Darling

Intial Thoughts: She delivered a great vocal, I didn’t hear any flaws, but it wasn’t a performance that had any surprises. She normally has a pretty cool personal style, but I don’t like what the stylists did to her.

Judges Reaction: Simon didn’t love her performance, but he likes her. Kara can see she’s experienced. Kara didn’t like the red lipstick and style (here, here). Randy, liked her straight forward, not affected vibe. Ellen “thinks she has a great voice,” but thought the performance was a bit “pushed.”

Haeley Vaughn

Song: I Wanna Hold Your Hand  I’m a wee bit scared of this song choice, but I also like the fact she picked something sweet given her age.

Intial Thoughts: I think this girl has the most amazing range and potential, but she needs a producer to keep her on track – in the groove. She’s very close to being annoying. A really great performance that seems dangerously close to going sour at any moment. Sort of like watching an Olympic athlete go to the limit: will she get the gold or crash? At least she’s exciting.

Judges Reaction: Randy and Kara heard a few bum notes, but they love her boldness. Ellen says she “shines.” Simon “verging on terrible,” “a complete mess.”

Lacey Brown

Song: Landslide – “Oh shit” is my reaction. You either knock this song out of the park or we hate you – no pressure.

Intial Thoughts: She did a pretty good job with that. Her voice is unusual, a little bit Stevie, a little bit Betty Boop. I really didn’t like the male back-up singer in the arrangement; he was very distracting. I think if they’d had another week to rehearse it could have been great.

Judges Reaction: Randy: Didn’t think it was the right song, and thought it was pitchy and terrible. Ellen thinks “she’s better than that” performance. Simon: “thought it was quite depressing,” and “indulgent.” Kara: “it felt forced,” the wrong song, but hopes she stays around another week.

Michelle Delamor

Song: Fallin’.  Tricky song choice, Alicia Keys OWNS this song, and the vocals are tough…

Intial Thoughts: Wow. No doubts about her abilities; big voice, controlled range, and an emotional performance, but not an original one.

Judges Reaction: Ellen, “that was fantastic,” can see her doing even better, even though it was “amazing.” Simon: “Did very well,” but it wasn’t different, thought she looks “fantastic.” Kara heard a few off moments, and wants her to become more unique and a better technician. Randy: wants to see her take more risks.

Didi Benami

Song: The Way I Am

Intial Thoughts: “You –eww-eww-eww,” I like Didi, but I not so into this very affected singing style. We only need a few Nora Jones types. I hope we won’t have a whole season full of warblers.

Judges Reaction: Simon: Didn’t like the warbling type either. Thought it was “quite dull,” but does like her. Kara, liked her making changes, and taking risks, felt it was a bit “pitchy.” Randy, didn’t see the star quality – felt it was sleepy. Ellen felt it was “a little low-key” and not the right choice for The Top 24.

Siobhan Magnus

Song: Wicked Game  Hmmm. I wonder what she’s going to do with this?

Intial Thoughts: This is what Simon means when he says “indulgent.” She wanted to sing this song for some reason, but not so we would enjoy it or because it suited her voice. She started way to low and the key was bad throughout. For me it was almost painful.

Judges Reaction: Kara “kind of liked her” on this song. “Pretty good.” Randy: “Tough song.” Thought she chose a song that wasn’t big enough. Ellen “really liked it.” Simon, “we don’t know what you’re going to do,” but he wasn’t really clear on whether or not that was a good thing.

Crystal Bowersox

Song: Hand in My Pocket – Seems like a great choice for her.

Intial Thoughts: I really like her, though I don’t know if she belongs on AI. She’s so darn real – what you see is what you get. A breath of fresh, honest, air – I would gladly watch her perform any day. I like the sound of the harmonica, but I don’t think she’s doing herself any favors playing it. It doesn’t look good on TV!

Judges Reaction: They love her originality too. Ellen would vote for her because she wants to see more of her. Kara, Randy and Simon all want her to stay and push to be more original and own the stage.

Katie Stevens

Song: Feeling Good –Why? Why? Why? Sorry but between Nina Simone and Adam Lambert – this song is done. Stick a fork in it…

Intial Thoughts: She did OK with it, but her stage presence was really awkward. If you don’t know how to shimmy – or you don’t have the goods, please don’t try, you’ll only embarrass yourself. She’s young though and certainly has the voice – hopefully she’ll refine her performance style over time.

Judges Reaction: Ellen felt the song was old for her, and off. Simon, agreed with Ellen, and found it “annoying.” Kara felt she was pitchy, but hopes America gives her another chance. Randy felt she was going sharp a lot, and the song was to old for her.

After it’s all over I feel a bit let down by most of the performers. Only Lilly Scott was truly original and did a positive memorable performance. Haeley Vaugh’s performance was also memorable, but I wouldn’t exactly call it positive, but I want to see more of her – I want her to have a chance to mature. Many others picked terrible songs, or safe songs. I think my biggest disappointments were Ashley Rodriguez and Didi Benami. Ashley didn’t bring her “A” game, and Didi poorly copied the current crop of jazzy warblers – I expected and hoped for more from them.

I think that the ladies in danger of going home are: Paige Myles, Ashley Rodriguez, Janell Wheeler, and Lacy Brown.

I hope the boys bring it tomorrow. I’m particularly looking forward to Andrew Garcia. He’s the standout boy for me so far. I genuinely like to hear him sing and play.

So here is the raw data dump:

Ellen – what’s with the owl look? Something about her make-up made her look like an owl. Overall her judging was laced with humor, and a bit like Randy Jackson – if he communicated clearly.

The biggest surprises today were Mary Powers really bringing it and Didi Benami wowing the judges.

Katie Stevens – great and very poised –and through to the next round.

Skiiboski – paced and acted weird – I didn’t think he sang poorly, but he’s out.

Andrew Garcia – I’m really looking forward to Andrew – a great cover of Straight Up – with straight up starpower Kara said, “that was genius.”

Vanessa Wolfe – Before she sings my heart is in my throat – I want this for her – she’s obviously so sweet, but it doesn’t come together, and I’m sorry. And then she breaks my heart by saying, “I blew it, I’m sorry momma” OMG, poor baby.

Cornelius Edwards – split his pants to get to Hollywood – not enough to move ahead – he should have brought a pair of breakaway pants

Maegan Wright – flat pitchy and way to nervous. She’s out.

Amadeo DiRocco – Over sang? Clip to brief to tell. He’s out.

Janelle Wheeler – well done, played guitar OK, really a professional performance “amazing,” “well done” from the judges.

Haeley Vaughn – to me a bit of an awkward performance, on guitar and vocal, however, her talent does shine through – she needs to leave the guitar behind

Mary Powers – great powerful performance – I liked her much better today than at her audition.

Jay Stone – beat box nightmare – and he’s out. I’m relieved.

Lilly Scott – beautiful performance, sweet voice with range and style – did we see her before?

Michael Lynche – great performance, to bad his family allegedly can’t keep their traps shut.

Tim Urban – Has a very pretty quality to his voice, but he is pitchy, inconsistent – maybe he can become more confident- he goes through

Justin Williams is out – sorry girls, I know you think he’s pretty, but seemingly, so does he. He just reeks of insincerity to me – or trying to hard.

The Jersey Sisters out. Page Dechaunce (sp?) out.

Maddy Curtis – I think she picked a so-so song, but her natural talent is stunning. She doesn’t go through.

Casey James – great bluesy performance on guitar. He really came alive and livened up the room. He moves on.

Didi Benami – Glides on through with a strong performance that even Simon had to like.

Crystal Bowersox – More bluesy Joplinesque singing. She makes it through, but I don’t think she can win.

In the clip they also showed that guy who looks like Animal from the Muppets – he made it through.

To see how my season-wide handicapping is going check out my Season Nine Favorites Page