THE FULL MONTY CHRONICLES

Movies Exposed: Transformers: Dark Of The Moon

2011-08-13T18:49:00.002-04:00

THE SUMMER MOVIE OF 2011!!!!

If you see any movie this summer, make sure that Transformers is the one that see. SO AMAZING!!!! Yes it was about 3 hours but who cares when it keeps you entertained??? I can wait for this trilogy!!!! First of all, Transformers are so much win just because. I mean an alien race that mimics the physical attributes of vehicles and machines but that will kick ass!!!!! Secondly, the action in this film tops some of those with real actors. Shia LaBeouf returns as our human hero. He does a great job with continuing the character throughout the series. In this film, he becomes sort of an action hero. Just to think, he became known from a disney channel series. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley was phenominal as the female lead. As a newcomer, she really had great presence on film. Her acting was amongst the best in the movie. I hate to say this but I didn't miss Megan Fox at all. Patrick Dempsey was okay in this movie. I have seen better from him. I just didn't believe him as a villain-esque character. Douche yes but not a sinister person. The actual Transformers WERE SO EPIC!!! And then to find out that Leonard Nimoy voiced one of them is so insane!!!!

For making me laugh, cry, and sit on the edge of my seat. Transformers gets a 5/5 stars. If I had the option for more, I would give it.

Movies Exposed: Mr. Popper's Penguins

2011-08-13T18:26:00.001-04:00

I know that I am one of the few but I had never heard of Mr. Popper's Penguins before the film. So I went into this very blindly. This is not my normal type of movie to see in theaters. I really only went because my niece earned straight A's in school and Uncle Monty had to reward.

I found myself falling asleep quite a bit in this movie, which is not a very good sign. So in turn, I missed a lot of the plot. Like, I didn't understand how more than one penguin was shipped. But that is my fault for not being awake during the movie. The film had a nice warm feeling to it. I just couldn't get into it. Even Jim Carrey didn't bring enough to revive the film for me. For me the shining light was the subtle comedy by Ophelia Lovibond as Pippi. I love her alliteration and her overall presence in the movie. I just wanted more scenes with her in it.

Overall, I give it 2/5 stars. I would wait for it to come on ABC family.

Movies Exposed: Green Lantern 3D

2011-08-05T17:26:00.002-04:00

So I am a huge comic book fan, as some of you may know. I was kind of skeptical about this movie. Basically, I was pushing for a John Stewart version featuring Will Smith or Brian White. I would enjoyed that more mainly because The Justice League from the Cartoon Network was one of the most brilliant series along with The X-Men Animated Series. Anyway, I can't change the mind of Hollywood and I can't hate a film because it didn't tap into my childhood.

Plot/Storyline: I thought that the story was very well put together. I found myself rooting for Hal Jordan. I loved how they put the whole family/back story in it to make the character more realistic. The 3D aspect could have used some work but that was minor issue. I really had no major issues with the film. The Green Lantern Corp planet was AWESOME!!! The graphics kicked some major butt IMO. The fact that there were 2 villains was pretty genius. One was from the Green Lantern realm and the other was human. Very good way to keep me invested in the movie. The action in the film was great and very fast paced. With Hal flying and dodging objects. The illusions of the ring were very creative.

Characters:
*Ryan Reynolds as Hal Jordan: Very likeable character. I always perceived Hal as a bit of a jerk. However, Ryan Reynolds' portrayal definitely changed my perception of the character. After looking at the list of actors who auditioned such as Justin Timberlake and Bradley Cooper, I believe that Reynolds was a great casting choice. He managed to capture the intense physicality it took to play The Green Lantern.
4.5/5 stars

*Blake Lively as Carol Ferris: I absolutely loved the character. I felt like Ms. Lively brought this very unknown character to me, to life. I definitely wanted to see more of her on film. After doing some research, Carol Ferris becomes a super hero herself. I am looking forward to a sequel that will feature this. She was quite believable as love interest and heroine.
4.5/5 stars

*Peter Sarsgaard as Dr. Hector Hammond: This character was so creepy to me. When he started to advance in power, I was frightened. He was mental and that is what sealed the deal for me. Mr. Sargaard's acting was superb. At times, he stole the screen from our lead character. Very memorable character.
5/5 stars

*Mark Strong as Sinestro: I didn't like the character development at all. I felt like they could have written a progression to his evilness. I mean, he is one the top 20 villains of ALL TIME. I didn't see an inkling of that in this film. Maybe it was just me but I wanted to see some form of a turn. I saw so many opportunities but it never happened. I think that the actor portrayal was good not great.
3/5 stars

*Angela Bassett as Amanda Waller: I love me some Angela Bassett. Even in this movie. It didn't showcase her true talent but she is still such a convincing actress. I am totally sure that she IS Amanda Waller. I hope that more DC films feature her as Amanda Waller.
5/5 stars

*Voice acting by Geoffrey Rush, Michael Clarke-Duncan, and Clancy Brown were definitely worth noting. All of the actors fit the characters extremely well. Rush's voice had that polish and refinement needed to distinguish Tomar-Re. Clarke-Duncan provided the strength and power need for Kilowog. Brown garnished enough sinister qualities in his voice to effectively portray the villain, Parallax.

Overall, a rather enjoyable film. Great summer movie. Great acting and plot.

4.5/5 stars!!!!

Movies Exposed: Update

2011-08-05T17:24:00.002-04:00

I have been such a slacker in this area. I have seen so many movies in the past month. I might have an onslaught of reviews coming. Bear with me.

Movies Exposed: X-Men: First Class

2011-06-06T13:15:00.003-04:00

MY FIRST MOVIE REVIEW!!!! YAY!!!

So I decided that I shouldn't limit my writing to American Idol. I need to expand to something that will always be a constant. MOVIES!!!! I probably go to movies more than most people. In the past month, I have seen at least 7 movies at the theater. The people at AMC "forced" me to buy one of their reward cards because of the amount of time that I spend there. Lame. Anyway, I enjoy movies just about as much as I enjoy music. What better way to start this new venture than with the most anticipated movie of the year, IMO, X-Men: First Class.

Plot/Storyline: I thought that plot was pretty good. The continuity and actual adaptation from the comics left a lot to be desired. I understand that this is a "reboot" but if you are doing that at least "reboot" it into the proper direction. The First Class should have been Angel (the male billionaire one), Marvel Girl, Cyclops, Iceman, and Beast. Very disappointed that they decided to include only one of those characters. To add insult to injury, they included Cyclops' younger brother. Makes total sense??? With that issue aside, the storyline was developed in its own right. This was definitely a more mature/violent movie than the other ones. I did love how they tied in the opening scene from "X-Men" into the opening scene of the movie. I always wondered what happened to Erik Lensharr. I enjoyed the dynamic between Mystique and Professor X. It explains why Mystique could so easily go into the X-Mansion and Cerebro during the first film. They did a great job with making you think that this story actually took place in the 60's - 70's. Incorporating historic events and figures brought a realism to film.

Characters:
*James McAvoy as Professor X: He is a great actor definitely. But I never got Professor X from him. He brought a lot of youthful energy to the character. I do like how we saw Professor X evolve into the leader/activist that he is. I hated how they portrayed the paralyzing of Professor X. Not spoiling but just know that true X-men readers will be TERRIBLY disappointed.
4/5 stars.

*Michael Fassbender as Magneto: Wow what an incredible portrayal. He is exactly how I would imagine Magneto to be when he was younger. The angst and fervor was spot on. I wanted to sympathize with the character but I knew where he would end up. Magneto started out with a mission and just when you think that he had given up on that, he surprised you. Loved how they showed how Magneto had that charm to seduce a certain individual and manage to recruit others to join his cause.
5/5 stars

*Kevin Bacon as Sebastian Shaw: Sebastian Shaw is such a bada**. So Kevin Bacon does not do it for me. In the comics, he is such a powerhouse. He seemed kind of weak to me. Both acting and physically. Seemed very cartoonish and didn't really bring it to life.
3/5 stars

*January Jones as Emma Frost: She is such an iconic character and I think that Ms. Jones did it justice. There were moments of inconsistency but I still loved her portrayal.
4/5 stars

*Jennifer Lawrence as Mystique: Stunning. She gave a new dimension to Mystique that was toyed with in the cartoons. I saw her more as Raven than Mystique. Great character choices and great line deliveries. Best acting in the movie IMO.
5/5 stars

*Nicholas Hoult as Beast: Great portrayal of the character. So glad that they included him in this movie. Loved to see how the transformation took place. Mr Hoult did a superb job with handling the difficult task of being a Dr. Jekyll/Mr Hyde type character. Going from hiding his mutant power to having this permanent reminder of his mutation.
5/5 stars

Other characters like Havoc, Banshee, Azazel, Riptide, Angel, and Moira McTaggert were just one dimensional. They were great in their own right but nothing like the comics. I mean when did Moira McTaggert work for the CIA?

I understand that they couldn't bring in Angel because he wasn't introduced until the 3rd film. I know why they couldn't bring in Iceman. He was introduced as a teenager. But why not include Cyclops and Jean Grey??? That is my biggest gripe with film. Havoc is cool but how much cooler would it have been if it were Cyclops instead. There is always room for female characters on the team so Jean Grey would have been fine.

I totally recommend going to see it. I didn't want to give away too much but it was definitely a great movie. As a matter of fact, I will be seeing it again. Just in case I may have missed something. Overall I give it 4.5 stars/5 stars!!!!

AMERICAN IDOL 10: TOP 3 - Judges/Mentor/Contestants Picks

2011-05-19T08:23:00.002-04:00

First, let me apologize for the lack of post last week. Blogger was doing something and I ended up losing my post. I didn't have the time nor the energy to write again. I will just say that I said that James would be going home. Now that we have the Top 3, each one of them should give stellar performance each time.

Lauren Alaina - If I Die Young: I first heard this song about a week ago because one of my friends suggested that I sing this. I think that the lyrics are so sad. Lauren's performance was great during the first half but then she missed the ALL IMPORTANT modulation!!! From there, it took a turn for the worst. J Lo is right, her tone is amazing but that doesn't compensate for performance immaturity.

Scotty McCreery - Amazed: For me, it was just okay. Nothing great. Nothing bad. Just okay. Honestly, this guy could get voted off and he would be fine. I will say that I have not seen ENOUGH growth in him.

Scotty McCreery - Are You Gonna Kiss Me Or Not: I must have been listening to a different song than the judges. Now I am starting to notice flaws in him. He can't seem to sustain a note. Which really bothers me. Don't get me wrong, I think that he will be awesome in the right hands but right now he is just average to me. At this point, you should be blowing me out of the water. Making me want to listen to your more. I couldn't wait for the song to be over.

Lauren Alaina - Wild One: Not my favorite song pick for you. I think that there were tons of great songs out there for you. It still showcased you a lot which was great. There were a couple of vocal pitch problems. Most of the time it was breath support and flatness that killed the song. Other than that, I thought that it was an okay performance.

Scotty McCreery - She Believes In Me: It was better than your other songs but that is not saying a whole lot. We all know what kind of artist you will be. We knew that from day 1. It was a good pick for you. I would put this on your album. I am not so ecstatic as the judges are. I wanted more but never got it. It is what it is.

Lauren Alaina - I Hope You Dance: Great song choice for you. Simply because you have the vocal chops to pull it off. But you made a choice in the middle of the song that seemed out of character. You growled and screamed a couple of lyrics. I don't think that this song requires that. Very delicate song. Other than that, you were pretty good.

Haley Reinhart - You Oughta Know: Hats off to anyone who sings this song. NOT AN EASY SONG. Yea the verses were not as good as the choruses but her verses were better than some of the other contestant's whole songs. Hmm.... I felt like the judges were trying to throw darts at her by picking this song for her. Earlier they said you are the only one who can hit powerhouse notes but then you pick a song for her that lives in the low register besides the chorus. They even had to raise the key. Someone is trying to make it a country final.

Haley Reinhart - Rhiannon: She just looks like a star. That aside, the performance was one of the better ones of the night. It wasn't great but it definitely wasn't terrible. Loved the wind machine action!! Haley really has come into her own during these weeks.

Haley Reinhart - What Is And What Should Never Be: One of THE BEST PERFORMANCES this season!!!! I loved it, fall and all. I loved that she made the fall part of her performance. True artist. I believe that she has the most stage presence out of the 3. She is original and gritty and I LOVE IT!!!!

Well, if you can't tell, I am rooting for HALEY REINHART!!!! She has originality. Something that we haven't seen before. She took each song by the horns tonight and sang them with all that she had. I felt each performance. Anyway, it looks like the Powers That Be want a Lauren/Scotty final. To me, I think that it should be a Lauren/Haley final. I am never surprised at this point. Anything can happen.

AMERICAN IDOL 10: Top 5 - Then and Now

2011-05-05T14:47:00.004-04:00

I thought that the theme for tonight was great. I wish that they had let the parents choose their second songs. That would have been an awesome concept too. I think that everyone showed up tonight. There were no games to be played. ANYBODY CAN GO HOME!!!!

10. Jacob Lusk - No Air: What a massive mess!!!!! I mean performance and vocals. One of the worst performances to ever touch the Idol stage. First of all, who decided to auto tune the background singers???? HORRIBLE. Secondly, can someone tell Jacob that gyrating and crotch grabbing does not fit well with the song. Thirdly, singing duets as a solo never really work. Especially between a male and a female. I love that song and you made it very CRINGE WORTHY.

9. James Durbin -Without You: Hmm...Wasn't a good vocal for me. Not much to your performance. Yes it was an emotional song to you but I think that you let the song lead and take control of you. Should have been the other way around. The build up was very understated and the high notes seemed very strained tonight. I love this song but not your performance of it.

8. Jacob Lusk - Love Hurts: You had me until about 54 seconds. The first part was SO SO GOOD but then you went onto this uncontrollable vocal roller coaster which seemed to be off course the entire time. Absolutely horrendous at the end. Why did you sing it in such a bipolar manner??? You should have stayed with the beginning. And enough with the batting eyes and pouty sad face. You are not Jennifer Hudson. Just sayin'. And you definitely cracked on "Truth". Just sayin'.

7. Lauren Alaina - Flat On The Floor: Good performance from her. Not a stellar vocal but a passable one. It was just okay tonight. I think that your vocals could have had a lot more power to it. I will say that you should definitely stay in the country pop lane.

6. Scotty McCreery - Gone: Best performance from you in a while. Great job with personality, vocals, and everything. Not a perfect vocal but you showed us that you can have a lot of fun out there. I am glad that you are starting to use your upper register now!!!

5. Haley Reinhart - You And I: Yes it was risky to choose an unreleased Gaga song but she was advised to this. Isn't the job of the adviser to prevent this type of bashing from the judges by picking songs that suit the singer? I think that Haley did a great job with the song. There was not a pitch problem in it. I just felt that she didn't feel connected with the song enough to make it her own. I think the judges were either trying to fuel her fire or throw her under the bus.

4. Scotty McCreery - Always On My Mind: Great rendition. Just a pure and natural vocal. Nothing bad to say at all. Good job!!!

3. Lauren Alaina - Unchained Melody: Best version to hit the idol stage. You allowed to just sing but there were times where I felt that it was too safe. I thought that it was an EXCELLENT vocal. Very full of emotion. Just a couple of phrasing issues but other than that, it was awesome.

2. James Durbin - Closer To The Edge: He is such a showman. GREAT stage presence. I had never heard the song but it just felt right. Not the best vocal but his performance made me feel like he wanted it. Vocals were a little "pitchy". BTW I hate that word, I really think that there is a better word for it. Just didn't seem grounded. Other than that, it was a good performance.

1. Haley Reinhart - The House Of The Rising Sun: This performance showed us great vocals, bluesy swagger, and your passion to win!!!! You laid it all out on the table tonight with that one!!!
That is all!!!!

I clearly think that Jacob is out of his league and needs to head home. The remaining 4 have given a stellar performance recently. Jacob's best performance was during Motown week. Back when they had 11 singers. Now we are down to 5 and he hasn't stepped up his game. I am loving the possibility of a Haley/James final. I would love that very much!!!!

AMERICAN IDOL 10: TOP 6 - Songs of Carole King

2011-04-28T06:31:00.002-04:00

I love that they went with this theme. Carole King has such a fantastic library of music. Hopefully the contestants do it justice. Crazy to believe that we are in the Top 6 already.

9. Lauren Alaina/Scotty McCreery: Up On The Roof: Not a big fan of the song and I didn't feel anything from this performance. The harmonies were cringeworthy and the chemistry was not there. Duets are supposed to be shared between two singers that show some type of emotion or connection to each other. I didn't see it here.

8. Casey Abrams - Hi De Ho: Still not impressed by your vocals. I don't believe that you sing. You just growl, grunt, and moan well. Seriously. You make a great blues guy but even then you still have to possess some type of tone quality. With you there is no tone quality. You are like that jokester in chorus class. You have all of the performance quality but the teacher would never put you in the advanced ensemble

7. Jacob Lusk - Oh No Not My Baby: This was tricky for me. While I loved that arrangement, I didn't particularly like your singing. There were moments of utter flatness. Especially on your held notes. Good to see you have fun up there though. Just a vocal misstep.

6. Haley Reinhart/Casey Abrams - I Feel The Earth Move: They have such great chemistry. They compliment each other very well. Captain and Tenille, maybe??? This was not their greatest vocal. Their other duet was far superior to this. Haley is still a star to me. The things that she does with her voice is so underrated right now. I will say that she has the best vocals left in the competition.

5. James Durbin - Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow: Unexpected song choice for me. I loved your vocals for the most part. There were moments when it got a little shrill. There were also moments when it was vocally good. I can see you getting really complacent. Please go to the edge next week.

4. James Durbin/Jacob Lusk - I'm Into Something Good: Let's put the two male singers who infuse their songs with high notes and theatrical performances together for a duet. It was fun and the most I have seen or heard out of Jacob ever on the show. I think that their vocals compliment each other very well. You could tell that they were having a lot of fun.

3. Lauren Alaina - Where You Lead: You have such a great voice. Just the type that can sing anything. I just need you to break out more and do more with your voice. I know that you have the potential. Good song choice for you and what a cute performance. To me your best performance to date.

2. Scotty McCreery - You've Got A Friend: Way to have a sentimental moment!!! I think that this was his most heartfelt performance. Definitely your best by far. There were a couple of rough vocal spots especially in your upper register. But you made up for it with emotional vocal phrasing. Great job!!!

1. Haley Reinhart - Beautiful: Amazing from note 1!!! The transitions were so flawless and this was such a great song choice!!!! I saw a young Mariah Carey on that stage tonight. You looked and sounded beautiful. Your best performance to date!!!! Why was Randy being a hater tonight? Anyway, rooting for this girl all the way!!!!

Well it was an interesting and semi-entertaining night of AI. I am beginning to see a lot of them blossom *Haley*. I am also beginning to see some sink *Jacob*. Everyone else is kind of on the same plane. I would love to see more growth. There are maybe two that I could see winning or being successful. I would love for the bottom 3 to be Casey, Jacob, and James. Even though I am sure that Haley will replace James in the bottom. If she goes home, I will be so HEATED!!!! She had the best vocal last night and she has the most interesting voice left. Everytime I put someone as my number 1, they tend to go home. I think that Jacob has worn out his welcome. Wouldn't mind seeing Casey go as well.

AMERICAN IDOL 10: TOP 7 - 21st Century Songs

2011-04-21T21:38:00.003-04:00

21st Century Theme always worries me. This should be the opportunity that the contestants show us how relevant they will be. Most of the time that leads to some misguided and ill informed performances. Some of these contestants think that know what they are but they have no clue. This is make it or break it time as we get down to the top 7.

7. Scotty McCreery - Swingin': Okay now you are getting so predictable that it is no longer cute. I know that your lane is country but you should have a picked a more contemporary song. This song was dated and made you seem so old fashioned. Probably your worst performance to date and please please hold the microphone correctly.

6. Jacob Lusk - Dance With My Father: Well I am a little partial to this song. Luther is my musical hero. And this is one of my favorite songs. I liked the beginning and middle. Actually a lot but I despised the ending. It took away from the emotion and tenderness of the song. It made it very harsh and showy. I hated all of the key changes. It was just okay for me.

5. Casey Abrams - Harder To Breathe: I love this song and I think that you did a very commendable job with it. Great song choice for him. I just wish that he sang it better. The performance was definitely there.

4. Lauren Alaina - Born To Fly: I didn't like the song choice for you. I was hoping for something a little edgier. I know that you are still young but how good would "Last Name" have been? Good vocals nothing to make me scream but just good. I hope that you bring back some power vocals next week.

3. James Durbin - Uprising: You seem to be the most comfortable and confident in who you are. This was one of those songs that I heard before, got my attention, and forgot about until I heard it again. He commanded the stage with this one. As far as vocals, it was okay. The high screaming was okay the first time but the second was overkill. And it was out of tune. Overall, definitely amongst the best of the night. That is not saying much though.

2. Stefano Langone - Closer: I thought that this was your best performance on the stage. I mean it had charisma, solid vocals, and character. Definitely a vast improvement. I really liked your vocals on this one. Nothing negative to say this week. I am sure that not everyone is going to like this performance.

1. Haley Reinhart - Rolling In The Deep: So happy that you did this song. You gave it your own flavor. While I prefer Adele, I think that you gave a great vocal. There were some wonderful things that you did. Perfect song choice for you.

Crazy night of vocals. I think that Scotty is very safe but for me he is singing it safe so it is becoming boring. While I think that he will have a solid career as a country artist, you should sing other types of songs. Look at Carrie. Her best performance was Alone, a rock song but she has a tremendous career in music. Overall, it was not my favorite night. The best performances were even weak. My bottom 3 is Scotty, Jacob, Casey. We all that Scotty isn't going there so I will have to put either Haley or Stefano there. I am hoping that Jacob gets the boot. I think that he has ran his course.

AMERICAN IDOL 10: TOP 8 - Songs From The Movies

2011-04-13T22:09:00.003-04:00

Watching this week didn't even feel right. It was missing Pia. Am I being a little over dramatic? Probably. But it looks like it is a guys race. 5 girls have gone home in 4 weeks. Craziness!!!! Anyway, on to tonight's show. I really wasn't that interested. The theme is not one of my favorites but I was very pleased with some of the music choices.

8. Paul McDonald - Old Time Rock And Roll: On paper, this is probably one of the most genius ideas ever. However, it was executed horribly. I mean in and out of singing and shouting so many times. The chorus was a hot mess. The verses were so non musical. Almost like you were speaking instead of singing. It felt like that for the entire song. To me, this did absolutely nothing for you at all.

7. Haley Reinhart - Call Me: Your worst performance yet. I hated it for you. Not the right song for you at all. I was hoping for something a little slow to showcase your vocals. Maybe "Kissing You" from Romeo and Juliet. Oh I just got the goosebumps thinking of it. You made a lot of vocal missteps in this songs. Reaching for notes that you didn't need to reach for. It also seemed very manic.

6. Jacob Lusk - Bridge Over Troubled Water: This had so much potential to be GREAT but the over singing and dramatizing took over. There were some times where you flat and sharp. Especially during your extended notes. I don't know why you get so sassy on us. It is not called for. Not in a song like this.

5. Lauren Alaina - The Climb: You had some beautiful moments in here. There were also some disjointed moments as well. I can't wait to hear the studio version. Through most of the song, I lost some of the connection. While vocally it was good, emotionally it felt a little awkward. By this time, I should know what kind of CD you would produce and what kind of artist you are. I know neither right now. Hopefully you can really start to figure that all out.

4. Casey Abrams - Nature Boy: Definitely something very different for the Idol stage. I love Jazz and creativity. Was it vocally perfect? No. Was it entertaining and special? Yes. Did it deserve a standing ovation? No. Nothing else to really say.

3. Scotty McCreery - Cross My Heart: Just beautiful. I mean you really know your voice and the style of music that you feel comfortable in. Not your best but not your worst. Gotta love authentic country done right. I just want you to learn how to hold a microphone. It just looks very awkward and amateurish. Other than that, amazing vocal performance!!!

2. James Durbin - Heavy Metal: Clearly the most entertaining performance of the night. You totally owned that song and it was AMAZING!!!! What a wild ride!!! Nothing more to say.

1. Stefano Langone - End Of The Road: First, you sang one of my favorite songs by one of my favorite groups of all time. Secondly, I felt like you let yourself go. The runs, riffs, and inflections all had meaning and purpose. This was by far your best performance since the wild card round. Dude, you laid it down to night. I think that it was definitely his way of avenging the wrongful elimination of Pia. *Still not over it*LOL. Stefano is definitely getting my vote tonight.

So surprisingly Stefano gave the best vocal tonight. Followed very closely by James!!!! Those were my favorite performances of the night. Bottom 3 should be Paul, Jacob, and Haley. I hate to put Haley there but this was not her best performance. I really hope that she doesn't get voted off. I really hope that it is Paul or Jacob. I was happy that Jimmy gave Jacob a tongue lashing for his comment from last week. Still not completely forgiving. Excited to hear Kelly perform tomorrow!!!!

WHAT THE !$@# HAPPENED ON AMERICAN IDOL TONIGHT?????

2011-04-07T21:07:00.002-04:00

I AM IN SHOCK AND DISGUST BY THE ELIMINATION ON AMERICAN IDOL. YES I FEEL EXTREMELY PASSIONATE ABOUT THE SHOW. MAYBE BORDERING ON OBSESSIVE BUT TO ME THIS WAS THE WORST DECISION THAT COULD HAVE BEEN MADE. I MEAN SHE WAS CLEARLY ONE OF THE MOST POLISHED, ELEGANT, VOCALLY FLAWLESS CONTESTANTS TO EVER STEP ON THE STAGE. WHAT WAS AMERICA LISTENING TO? I THINK That I am calming down. I am a little enraged about this. Makes me very sick. I just have to keep saying that it is a TV show. A show which I auditioned for and I know the ins and outs. A show that is supposed to find our next great vocal superstar. Pia was an amazing vocalist. So this is what this elimination is telling me(yes prepare to taste my full typhoon of haterade):
*We prefer Jacob's sad sobby faces and annoying manneurisms. I guess they prefer his out of key shouty runs and his threats to America about not being able to look in the mirror. Whatever dude!!!
*We prefer Casey's growly vocals and his comedic relief during results shows. We also prefer his chewed endings of words and not so perfect pitch. Why did we save him? Betcha that the judges wish that they had the save for tonight!!!!!
*We prefer Paul's unpronounced vocals and whispers in the mic. We prefer his prancing around the stage and impromptu greetings to the audience DURING his song.
*We prefer Stefano's disconnection and strained vocals as he sings yet another R&B ballad. We prefer his throaty singing and weird vowel placement.
*We prefer Lauren's boring song presentation. We prefer her lifeless singing and abandonment in every performance.

As far as Haley, Scotty, and James, I am actually hoping that one of them wins. This is just crazy to me. This early in the game. Yea maybe when it got to top 4 or top 5, I might have been not so surprised. But you are telling me that Pia Toscano is as good a singer as EJ Day, Corey Clark, Camille Velasco, Ramiele Maluaby, Megan Joy, and Andrew Garcia. Yea this is the company that she keeps as coming in 9th!!!! CRAZINESS!!!! I am no longer mentally connected to the show. I will continue to write my blogs but I could care less who wins now.

AMERICAN IDOL 10: TOP 9 - Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame

2011-04-06T21:37:00.003-04:00

I love this theme because the artist are in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for a reason. The library of songs is tremendous. So many good songs from so many artists. Let's hope that they don't disappoint. On a side note, I keep saying that I will post videos from a song that is done on AI. I am a little behind. So look for an onslaught of them on Thursday or Friday!!!

9. Jacob Lusk - Man In The Mirror: Hmm...I don't know how I feel about this. I love love this song. One of my favorite Michael Jackson songs ever. I don't think that you did it justice. It was a little shouty in the middle. To me, it was a sloppy performance. You are slipping. It just seemed very disjointed and choppy.

8. Lauren Alaina - Natural Woman: Talk about a disconnection. First of all, she is 16 and her singing this makes it feel so pageant like. Secondly, that high note had no connection at all. It came out of left field. Third, it had no emotion in it whatsoever. This song is a passionate song. It was just bland and nothing to me.

7. Casey Abrams - Have You Ever Seen The Rain: This song was a perfect fit for you vocally. Thanks for bringing out your bass. One thing to watch is the chewing of the end of your words. Good song choice. It was good not great. The word chewing really bothers me though.

6. Stefano Langone - When A Man Loves A Woman: Thumbs down for the song choice. I was hoping for something a little different and unpredictable. But no. You gave me another R&B ballad during Rock and Roll week. It was an okay vocal but it sounded like Tiny Dancer and If You Don't Know Me By Now. Just didn't do it for me.

5. James Durbin - While My Guitar Gently Weeps: This was okay for me. It did show a softer side of James. There were moments of greatness and then there were moments of wrongness. The beginning started out very shaky. Didn't show off your vocals well. Then you got to the middle and it was great. Then the end came and you just had to throw one in. I don't think that the song called for it so it felt inappropriate. Sort of like having someone sing Fabulous at your wedding ceremony (True Story). Anyway it was just okay.

4. Paul McDonald - Folsom Prison Blues: This was the best Paul performance yet. Finally I get him. I don't know if it was the song or him but it worked. Worked very well. I could actually understand the words. That was a great performance. I felt like I had paid to see that concert. Way to reel me in.

3. Haley Reinhart - Take A Little Piece Of My Heart: This is one of those songs that have so much gusto and angst. Haley gave it to us!!! I think that she was very good vocally. There were a couple of parts in the performance that seemed a little amateurish. Like the way that she flails her arms everywhere. But other than that, she did a great job. Someone is picking up some steam.

2. Scotty McCreery - That's Alright Mama: How many times can I say this? This guy could leave the Idol stage now and get a record deal from anyone in Nashville. I am telling you, they would be a fool to not sign him. Seriously, He wowed me in the performance department. It was such a fun song for him. He enjoyed it so therefore we all enjoyed it. His bass voice was so crisp and spot on. He evened showed a little versatility in range!!!! Great job!!!

1. Pia Toscano - River Deep Mountain High: Normally when a contestant promises that they will do something it normally fails. But this one......PASSED WITH FLYING COLORS!!!! First of all, I LOVE THIS SONG both by TINA and CELINE. Now I can add PIA. She gave us crazy ad libs, vocal prowess. Did you hear the audience when she did that note at the end? They were in shock. They didn't see it coming!!!!! Only question is....Why did J Lo have to put a damper on that stellar performance? I mean I know that she is a judge but she didn't have any kind of critique until it came to Pia. Do I sense a little jealousy Miss Lopez?

The show was pretty good. It got way better towards the end. I think that our bottom 3 should consist of Jacob, Lauren, and Casey. Would not be surprised to see Stefano or Haley down there either. I think that Jacob is going home. I mean, he went first and his song was not great at all. That comment that he made about "If America doesn't vote for me, they didn't look in the mirror." First, it didn't make sense. Secondly, never threaten or belittle the people who have your votes in their hands. He gave some great vocals but I would not be sad to see him leave and be the first male eliminated. Very male heavy right now so one of them has to go. I really really hope that another guy does not win this season. 3 guys have won the title in a row. We need to break up the metonymy. GO PIA!!!!!!

AMERICAN IDOL 10: Top 11 Redux - Elton John Night

2011-03-30T20:48:00.002-04:00

You have no idea how much I love Elton John songs. Kind of like my guilty little pleasure. I don't have the guts to sing his songs though LOL. I actually fell in love with his music during American Idol Season 3. Yea his music may be a bit boring but I still think that it is GOOD music!!!

11. Naima Adedapo - I'm Still Standing: Change only works if it is firm and grounded. That performance was not anywhere near confident. Risky yes confident no. When you went into the chorus, the opening note was always shaky. Reggae is awesome but maybe not for American Idol. I think that you might be in some real trouble. This is one of Elton's greatest songs. You showed that you don't have the vocal chops to stay in the competition especially against these other girls.

10. Casey Abrams - Your Song: I know that I am in the minority but I did not like this performance. It was one of those "Less is More" comeback songs. It was vocally weak. Even the last notes that all of the judges were swooning over. Not a good performance for me. I hate when people change the endings of words like "Live-mmm" or "You-ah". I just didn't like your performance.

9. Paul McDonald - Rocket Man: The opening of the song was so great for your voice. When you got to the chorus, it got a little uncomfortable for me. Just didn't seem like the song was suiting you. Like you never settled in the key. I did like your voice on this song. Best performance yet for me. Still not a great performance.

8. Thia Megia - Daniel: Another great song by Elton John. Thia has possibly the best vocal tone in the competition but she has some major pitch issues. She is too young to really know how to handle her voice. Man her tone is so good. I can almost tolerate the pitch issues but I love her tone so much. It is so frustrating.

7. Scotty McCreery - Country Comfort: Good country song for him but with this being the forth week of competition, his songs are starting to sound the same. Now I still believe that this kid needs to get to Nashville quick, fast, and in a hurry. I don't know if he is going to win. He needs some variety in his life. This was one of his better performances. He seemed more confident. Just not sure if another country ballad is going to win him any fans.

6. Stefano Langone - Tiny Dancer: I love love this song. Stefano's voice was a perfect fit for this song. Some of your vowels tend to be a little slender which makes your pronunciation a little off. Other than that, it was vocally good. Not great. But good.

5. Lauren Alaina - Candle In The Wind: This was a great song for you. Man, you sounded like a great country artist on this. I need to hear you do some Dolly Parton now. It just started off a little sharp but other than it was very heartfelt. You made it your own and that was wonderful.

4. Pia Toscano - Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me: First time hearing a female sing it and I LOVED it!!! But it is Pia and she can sing any ballad!!! With that being said, how can the judges ask her to sing an uptempo song during Elton John week? She was vocally great!!! Not her best but it was definitely good. If she is sticking to her word, I am so excited for River Deep, Mountain High. LOVE that song done by Tina Turner and Celine Dion!!! I am still a huge Pia fan!!!

3. Jacob Lusk - Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word: You just went on and SANG that song. I mean it built and that is always great. Take me on that emotional rollercoaster. I just wish that I could watch you perform. When you make those "Stank" faces, it is so distracting. No need to have the pouty scrunch face going on when you are holding that long note. You are probably the most dramatic contestant that we have this year. Look out Broadway!!!

2. Haley Reinhart - Benny And The Jets: I love it when a singer just lays it all out there. I mean she sang with angst and solidity tonight!!!! Some people are going to hate it but I am loving it. I was feeling it. Great job!!!!

1. James Durbin - Saturday Night's Alright: Whoa dude Flaming Piano!!! Need I say more. It just rocked and it was a solid vocal from you. In a night of sleepy ballads, you took it to another level. This is playing it smart. Give them a performance different from your competitors. I mean you worked the crowd and you sang well. What more could I ask for??? Oh, forgot about the split jump!!!!

Tonight got a little boring. Okay it got a lot boring but we did have our first flaming piano!!!! I think that they did a good job. Nothing really was a signature song tonight but everyone did okay minus a couple. I think that Naima is in some serious trouble. I think that she needs to pack her bags tonight. Oh, that was harsh. I can't decide if Casey, Thia, or Stefano will be joining her. I would love to see Paul go but that is not happening anytime soon. Still don't get the appeal. Well we shall see tomorrow. 2 going home = big time TV drama!!!!

AMERICAN IDOL 10: Results from Top 11

2011-03-25T16:18:00.002-04:00

Well I don't normally post on the results show unless it gets crazy or shocking. Last night was definitely one of those nights. Just bizarre craziness!!!!

*The medley was actually pretty good. Stevie Wonder was definitely the highlight in that one. I am always so amazed by how high his voice is. The contestants really seemed to enjoy themselves. I loved the dressy side of the contestants. It looked very classy.

*Hulk Hogan??? Really American Idol??? And the Ryan getting punched bit was so over the top. I enjoyed the whole wrestling bit with James and Paul. It brought some realism to the competition. Pia with the football paint....AWESOME!!!! She would be such a cool friend.

*Jennifer Hudson's performance was okay. I just can't get over the title of "Where You At?". Grammar much. I know that R. Kelly wrote it. R. Kelly is not one of my favorite artist. Anyway, I still love Jennifer!!!

*On to the results....Why is Paul not making trips to the bottom 3??? He is clearly the worst singer in the bunch. Stefano and Thia in the bottom 3 was not really surprising. Casey in the bottom 3 was completely unexpected. Then Casey gets the lowest number of votes. WOW. Didn't see that one coming!!! Did you hear the audience? How much they roared when his name was called? I would have never expected that at all. So I loved how the judges didn't even let Casey sing because they knew that they were going to save him anyhow. So happy to have the save out of the way but what an awkward week to do it in. The tour now has 11 on it. Wow Idol way to be dramatic lol. Just a night full of craziness. Sucks that 2 will have to go home next week. If Casey doesn't stop with the growling, it could very well be him and Thia. Hopefully this scared some of the contestants and we will see some people in it to win it.

AMERICAN IDOL 10: TOP 11 - MOTOWN NIGHT

2011-03-23T20:54:00.002-04:00

Here we are again. Another Motown night!!! I think that this is a theme that they recycle every year. And when they bring it around, I always wonder, don't they want these contestants to be contemporary??? I am very interested to hear what the contestants do with these songs. I can't wait.

11. Paul McDonald - Tracks Of My Tears: Sad thing when this is the first time that I really got to hear the background vocalist. Which means that the lead vocalist was not very interesting. I thought that this was horrible. Definitely the worst of the night. I don't understand the appeal or draw to this guy. Yes he has a unique voice but he is not even really singing the correct pitches. People were upping their ante tonight and we need to get this guy out of here. I know that he is the "Vote For The Worst" pick, so I know that he is going nowhere anytime soon.

10. Stefano Langone - Hello: Wrong song choice. There were so so so many songs that you could have chosen. Just didn't connect enough for me. The song just felt like notes being placed. I don't know. Something was off and I can't pinpoint it but not your best at all.

9. Scotty McCreey - For Once In My Life: For once, I didn't like the vocal as much as I did in previous performances. I could sense that you were not comfortable with this song. I appreciate it that you changed the arrangement to fit you. You seemed to cut off the ends of your phrases. Almost like you were out of breath. Not your best tonight.

8. Thia Megia - Heatwave: This is probably your most enjoyable performance yet. Thank you for going uptempo. There were moments that I felt that you were not sure of yourself. I loved your voice on the song. The bridge didn't work for me. I just wanted you to do more with it. Drop your stylist LOL. What is up with the horrible dresses? Overall, this was a good performance for you. There were no pitch problems. Good job.

7. James Durbin - Living For The City: Not my favorite song choice. There were some cringe worthy points in this performance. Especially when you held the note at the end. It just wasn't in tune. I liked the beginning more than anything. All of the bridge was out of tune. Just watch it when you get into scream mode. Not my favorite performance but I still liked the front part of the song.

6. Casey Abrams - I Heard It Through The Grapevine: I loved the soulfulness of it. It felt just right and gritty enough. Just watch all of the grunts and such. They did get a little carried away. You have such an old soul to me. I hope that it is all not an act. I really hope that it is genuine. You did have a vocal misstep at the very end with the word "mind" but I forgive. Overall, very solid performance. Just be careful of the grunts.

5. Lauren Alaina - You Keep Me Hanging On: I hate it when contestants do this on Idol. Almost every contestant that has done this song has gone home. I think that it will be case here but it is a horrible song choice. Lauren,you get it right for me besides the one line "And there ain't nothin' I can do about it". That line just disturbs all connectivity of the song. Anyway, you did a great job.

4. Haley Reinhart - You Really Got A Hold On Me: So you made one of the songs that I can't stand very likable to my ears. You remind me of young Mariah. You attacked that song with so much angst and fearlessness!!!! I thought that it was definitely your best performance to date. At least you are taking chances and risks. Watch the growling. It can get a little excessive at times. Overall, great improvement!!!!

3. Pia Toscano - All Is Fair In Love: Yes it was a beautiful ballad. But I want to hear you do something different. Last week was just a ballad with a mid tempo beat attached to it. But girl, you know how to hit some notes!!!! It is so soothing to listen to you but I worry that you are going to do this every week. This was your week to do an uptempo song. Motown week??? Love your vocals as always.

2. Jacob Lusk - You're All I Need To Get By: YES!!! This is what I have been waiting for from you. Dude this was such a great vocal. I LOVE this song. I got the goosebumps from your vocals. On a side note, watching you was a little distracting. Just a little too much going on. But the VOCALS were incredible minus the scream at the end. Vocal tone was amazing. I was just enough to give us some of your flavor. So happy that you didn't scream the song!!!!

1. Naima Adedapo - Dancing In The Street: YES!!!!! That is how you entertain!!! Not only did you perform but the sound of your voice fit so well with this song. Great song choice for you. You go adding African dance, African drums, and reggae to the song!!!! You owned that stage!!! Your best performance by a long shot. *Big ups to the extraordinarily talented musician Dontae Winslow for playing the trumpet for her song. Did you hear how awesome that was??? AMAZING!!!!

So way to shake things up contestants. I can't even begin to tell you who is going home. Naima really shocked me with her performance. I thought that it was one of the best overall performances of the night. Jacob got me back on his train. Man, he can sing!!! My bottom 3 consists of Paul, Stefano, and Scotty. We all know that Paul and Scotty aren't going anywhere yet. So I think that Stefano, Thia, and Haley will take the bottom 3 spots. Haley doesn't deserve to go there but she has been there for the past 2 weeks. The judges really threw Stefano under the bus tonight. It felt like they wanted him to go home. I am thinking that it will be Stefano leaving tomorrow. I wish that we could just get rid of Paul. I would go see the tour if that happened. Maybe the judges will use their save and put 11 people on tour!!!!

AMERICAN IDOL 10: Top 12 - Songs From Their Birth Years

2011-03-16T20:41:00.002-04:00

First of all, I HATE THIS THEME!!!! They have done it so many times but it always falls flat. Literally. We had some really bad performances tonight. Just flat out missing notes and out of breath performances. Why haven't the producers gotten the clue that this theme just does not work????? UGH!!!! Another thing, I know that we have a production team this year but some of these arrangements are so out of sorts. I mean they are really bad. What happened to the beautiful orchestra that we used to have?

12. Paul McDonald - I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues: Really, what are you sipping on before you come on stage? Your performances always feel so drunk to me. Like something that I would see at a bar during karaoke night. Pretty bad with the pitches. I never made it there. Yes you have an interesting voice but the song was all over the place for me. One of the worst performances to hit the stage. It was off tempo and felt out of sync at times. Just not good for me at all.

11. Naima Adedapo - What's Love Got To Do With It: So aggressive. Not the right song for you and what was up with the ARRANGEMENT???? It was like trying to piece a puzzle together but with pieces from 5 different puzzles. Nothing worked for me. The ending!!! The end just came out of left field with the jazz descent. What was up with that??? Just a manic, aggressive, and flat version of a song that I really like.

10. Jacob Lusk - Alone: Really??? Really??? Really??? Why did you choose ALONE? I love Alone and everybody who watches Idol knows that Carrie Underwood took this one and branded it as hers. Unless you are truly going to top her, you shouldn't even have looked at it. I mean there had to have been plenty of songs from you to choose from. Less is so so much more for you!!! PLEASE!!! I can't take the over running and over melismatic way that you sing everything. And does everything have to be up in the rafters. It gets so shouty, screechy, and absolutely cringe worthy. Just out of tune up there. I think that you have a good voice but can to take it from a 10 to maybe a 4. PLEASE!!!!

9. Casey Abrams - Smells Like Teen Spirit: I was with during the first 10 seconds but then you completely lost me. I really like this song. You kind of made me it very screamy and crazy for me. I did not like this for you AT ALL! Mad props for picking the song but you have got the commitment to perform this song. You were flat in spots and sometimes there was not even a tone present just a screamy pitch. I think that towards the end you tried to play the funny guy and it didn't pay off. But in a night of ballads and very weak performances, you might come out on top.

8. Karen Rodriguez - Love Will Lead You Back: Boring =( Really boring. You had my attention about 3/4 of the song in but then you lost again because I felt like the Spanish wasn't as strong as I wanted it to be. Just vocally weak. You moved the mic every time that you had any kind of power note. Better than last week. Just left a bland taste in my mouth. You needed to wow us if you had any hopes of staying.

7. Thia Megia - Colors Of The Wind: You get the award for most predictable song choice. I know that 1995 produced more songs than that. BORING again!!!! Girl, your tone is so good. Just do something with it. Also, know your words!!!! Yep I heard the mess up. Better tonality this week but still BORING!!!!!!

6. James Durbin - I'll Be There For You: You are definitely our bonafide rocker. I felt that you didn't ground yourself in the key until about 15 seconds in. It sounded a little sharp and a little flat in places. Not your best but not the worst of the night.

5. Haley Reinhart - I'm Your Baby Tonight: One of my favorite Whitney songs. She gets props for singing the bridge like she did. All of those words. Great!!! At first, I was not feeling. Then she got really into and let loose. I just wish that she would look like she is letting loose. Vocally, she singing but she just looked so scared at times. Yea, the whole lipstick thing. LOL. Anyway, pretty good vocal especially during the bridge.

4. Stefano Langone - If You Don't Know Me By Now: Not a fan of the song but I like Stefano's voice on it. I felt it. Just watch the ad libs. They tend to get a little repetitive. And also the last note was under thought. You ran out of steam and then tried to regain in the last few seconds. Just a few things. Other than that, you are the bomb vocalist!!!!

3. Lauren Alaina - I'm The Only One: Yes!!! I was totally hoping that you would sing this!!! The lower notes weren't as solid as the upper register. When you got into the chorus, I got all into it with you!!! I love true solid singing. And you had the FLU!!!! Singing like that with the flu is amazing!!!

2. Pia Toscano - Where Do Broken Hearts Go: First of all way to sing all over that HORRIBLY PRODUCED track. She gets extra points for that. The arrangement sounds like it belongs a Disney morning show or something like that. You have one of the best vocals out of any one in the competition. When you hit that high note during the break, I knew that you were for real. Not a force to be reckoned with. For me, one of the best in the competition.

1. Scotty McCreery - Can I Trust You With My Heart: True Authentic Country Artist ready now!!!! Really this dude is what AI has been looking for in a male country artist. He is so good at what he does. He may not win but I am so happy that his voice has been heard. Can he just go to Nashville now and release a CD? He is going to do so well in the country genre with the right people. Nothing more to really say.

So tonight almost bored me to tears. I had some high hopes for some contestants but they are letting me down. I need them to step up their games and try to win!!!! My bottom 3 are Paul, Naima, and Jacob. I am so sure that Jacob won't touch the bottom 3. Paul has too many fans so he won't be there either. I am saying that the bottom will be Karen, Naima, and Haley with Karen going home. I really want to see Paul go. We shall see what happens!!!

AMERICAN IDOL 10: Top 13 - Songs From Their Favorite Artist

2011-03-09T22:00:00.003-05:00

I hate themes like this. They are so so broad!!! Can't wait to get to real themed nights.

13. Karen Rodriguez - I Could Fall In Love: Sorry but this was one of the worst vocals of the night. The song was too low and slow for you. You should have picked a more uptempo Selena song. I didn't like until the last 20 seconds of the song. There, you gave us a little Beyonce flavor but that is not enough to save you from the horrendous beginning. Bottom 3 for sure.

12. Paul McDonald - Come Pick Me Up: I tried tried tried to get into it but nothing was working for me. I think that you have an interesting voice but it seemed out of tune and never grounded for me. I literally sat for a minute and scratched my head after this performance. Your skipping across the stage was scaring me. I honestly thought that you were drunk or high or something. I just don't get it.

11. Haley Reinhart - Blue: I felt like I was listening to someone at the County Fair. Not because it was a country song but because it bored me to tears. LeAnn's original version is way better. To me, you did nothing different and brought nothing to the table. I think that is a killer voice in there but it has this hard affected vocal shell around it. I know that you want to sing differently but you rely on what you know, which is the growling and the guttural sounds. I would love to hear you just sing a song. This made me want Kendra back!!!!

10. Jacob Lusk - I Believe I Can Fly: This was such a disappointing performance for me. What was up with that key change???? YIKES!!! I literally cringed all over. It got shouty and screechy towards the end. No need to stay up in the rafters. The male voice is like a roller coaster. You never want to get stuck at the top. Once you get stuck it is hard to come down. Take a moment and regroup. Man, it was a rough performance. Tone in the beginning was great but after that it just got really bad.

9. Thia Megia - Smile: What is up with the arrangement? Producers get this together please. Her tone is so good. I am telling you I could listen to her sing anything. Now if we could get her to think above the notes. She flats out a lot. I want to be on pitch so badly sometimes. She can really sing. She is just flat most of the time.

8. Naima Adedapo - Umbrella: Who do you want to be? Are you the sultry eccentric jazz singer or the reggae infused hip hop hook singer? Really? You freaked me out with the dancing in the beginning. It took guts to do that and to also go all reggae on us in the middle. BREATHE!!!! All that dancing winded you out. Not my favorite song choice. I would have suggested "Take A Bow".

7. Ashton Jones - When You Tell Me That You Love ME: Not the song choice that I was expecting for you. Let me get this out of the way. It's a ballad. You DO NOT have to say "Hey" before or after each build up part. It does not call for that. As for the rest of the song, you actually sang it well. I just don't know if this was the performance to get America on your side. I liked the arrangement with the autotuned background vocals. Good touch Rodney Jerkins.

6. Lauren Alaina - Any Man Of Mine: Girl you can SANG!!!! I was worried with this song because it does not have a good track record on the show. But I think that you sang it very well. It did a little manic at times but you are so good that you don't have to try that hard. Just have fun and relax.

5. James Durbin - Maybe I'm Amazed: I like his voice. I think that he has a great tone quality to his voice. I even liked the song choice. Hmmm am I becoming a fan??? Only time will tell. I thought that this was a good vocal. You are a real rocker on this show.

4. Stefano Langone - Lately: Yep you can SANG boy!!!! I love this song. I am actually digging the arrangement. It gave it a different spin that made it match your voice. Now I want to hear you do some Ne Yo. I don't know it just reminded of "Closer". Good job!!!

3. Pia Toscano - All By Myself: What a classy songstress. Those power notes are definitely there. You can definitely sing. It got a little funky during the key change but other than that, IT WAS AWESOME!!!! Especially that last little sequence. You know to just deliver. You hit each "All By Myself" with the same amount of power and consistency. That is very hard to do. Hats off to you.

2. Scotty McCreery - The River: Yes Yes Yes. True authentic country singer. I feel like that was your song. Just nice clean vocals. I really liked it. Dude, this was awesome. Not much more to say.

1. Casey Abrams - With A Little Help From My Friends: I loved it!!!! Do you have a shimmer of becoming Taylor Hicks 2.0? Yes. But lets hope not. You showed us different textures and nuances to your voice. You went from soft and gentle to hardcore and gritty in 1 minute and 40 seconds. Dude when the music broke and you came in with those vocal runs, I got the goosebumps. GREAT!!!!

Yea so I think that this was a good night. Some great performances but also some really bad ones. I think that the bottom 3 should be Paul, Karen, and Haley but I am sure that it might be Naima, Ashton, and Karen with Ashton or Karen going home. Karen going home would not bother me but I don't want to see Ashton go yet.

MY PREVIEW REVIEW OF THE TOP 13!!!!!

2011-03-08T18:04:00.003-05:00

Well the judges surprised us (not really) with picking a Top 13. They did it back in Season 8 and all of the internet Idol fanatics were buzzing about it. I was surprised that they did the Wild Card as a "Sing For Your Life" scenario. I LOVED IT!!!! It brought drama and edge to the show. I think that they should do that with the bottom 3 each week. I think that X Factor does that. Can't wait to audition for that. Anyway, this season's Top 13 is an eclectic group of individuals. I will say that they are better than last season's group minus a few. I am excited for their performances even though the theme is so generic. Songs from your favorite artist? Who are the creative minds over there? Here is my perspective of the season 10 Top 13:

13. Haley Reinhart - First of all, how did she get into the Top 10? America, are you listening? That was one of the worst versions of Fallin' that I have ever heard. Kendra was a way better vocalist. Every time we see her on the screen, she is doing the same type of singing or lack there of. She is always growling and trying to hit notes that she shouldn't and can't. She is always squatting too. She better fix that before tomorrow night's performance. I don't see her lasting long but America did vote her into the Top 10.

12. Karen Rodriguez - I can only hope that you bring it this week. I think that you such a nice person who has a heart of gold. Those are normally the contestants that go early. I don't know if you vocally strong enough to hang out with the big dogs. I like you and your stage presence but I think that you might get overwhelmed at this stage in the game. PLEASE make me retract my statement.

11. Ashthon Jones - I LOVE YOU!!!! I think that you bring something different to the table. You have the stage attitude and the vocals to compliment. I don't think that America likes you very much though. I mean they didn't vote you into the finals. The judges did. You may have come across as too confident. I think that your confidence is just enough. I would love to see you pull out a ballad that will show off your vocal capability.

10. Naima Adedapo - You are totally unique. Very unlike any contestant that has ever been on this show. That would work for you or against you. I know you probably want to stay true to yourself but I think that you should try something a little more commercial to start off with. I know that you can sing your butt off but it is all about gaining those fans.

9. Paul Macdonald - Seems like a nice guy. I fear that he may get swallowed up by the competition. How can a guy who sounds like he does make each song sound different? I have a feeling that all of his songs will start to sound the same. He may go earlier but I think that he has the public support. Everyone seems to love this guy.

8. Casey Abrams - The funny guy of the season. There are times when that works in your advantage but you have to have the vocals to back it up. I like him but I think that bluesy shouty type of singing is going to get old fast. Hopefully he does a more subdued performance. More than likely, it will be bluesy since it is "Favorite Artist" week on Idol.

7. James Durbin - At first, I thought that he was trying to be the copycat of Adam Lambert. After hearing his performance, I am starting to see how he is truly a hard rock kind of singer. Adam was more theatrical like Meat Loaf (Bad comparison). James is a definitive rock singer. Hopefully he is versatile enough to get further in the competition.

6. Thia Megia - What a tone this girl has to her voice. Yes she was horribly flat at times. But the tone quality of her voice is so lush. I just hope that her nerves and confidence don't get in the way. I just hope that she picks that showcase her amazing voice.

5. Lauren Alaina - She just seems like so much fun!!!! She has a killer energetic voice to go with that great personality. I think that she has this young vibrant thing going for her. Complete opposite of Thia, who is the same age. Just make sure to show that sing with the best of them.

4. Stefano Langone - Yea, so dude came out of left field when he sang for his life last Thursday. I mean, WOW. I probably enjoyed it more than some because I know how hard it is to sing that song. Unfortunately, I sang it at my father's wake. Digressing....He wore it out. He laid his heart and soul on the stage. When he finished, I shouted "Judges, I dare you to not put in the finals". If all of America felt the same way that I did, there is no way that he is going out early. Unless he just butchers whatever song he is singing.

3. Pia Toscano - Another one that was hiding in the shadows and then emerged at the right time. Gorgeous voice!!! She knows how to sing. She, out of everyone, is probably what American Idol execs are looking for. Someone who can sing, has poise, and looks pretty. Hopefully she doesn't sink or get voted off too early.

2. Jacob Lusk - Amazing singer. He was good last week but not great. I hated J Lo's Luther comparison. Anyway, he has the most potential to grow beyond belief week after week. He has a great fanbase and he is probably going to be the most versatile when it comes to knowledge of music. I expect a lot out of him. As we all know, after Ruben won, men of color have not done well in the Top 12/13.

1. Scotty McCreery - I know that some of you will be really shocked. I am a huge fan of his last performance. It was extremely dead set in his lane of singing. I totally get him as an artist. Randy was so correct when he said that you were authentic country. He would be a huge hit in country music RIGHT NOW!!!!

I can't wait for tomorrow night's performances. I am pretty sure that this order will change after tomorrow. Some people normally bring their "A" game and some people drop the ball.

AMERICAN IDOL 10: Top 12 Girls

2011-03-03T18:37:00.002-05:00

Back once again for another go round at American Idol. First of all, I didn’t realize that the entire Top 24 format had changed. This does not the contestants a chance to prove themselves week after week before the Top 12. Not my show so I can’t change the rules lol. So here is my recap (Just a reminder: I just listen to the mp3’s. I can normally tell is someone is moving around because they are out of breath lol)

12. Julie Zorrilla - Breakaway: I felt like I was watching the talent portion of an episode of Toddlers and Tiaras. Really??? This is what you come with. That dress was hideous. Absolutely horrid. I even cringed when you sang the song. Especially the high notes. Just out breath, flat, horrendous. The first complete mess from the top 24. Made me wonder why they even picked you. I think that I may be too harsh but this was a painful performance. It just didn’t come across well.

11. Rachel Zevita - Criminal: I must admit. I have never been a fan. You completely changed the song. Normally when you do that you should do it for the better. This was hardly recognizable. Your vocals were so breathy and under pitch. It just felt dead to me. Nothing special. Nothing at all.

10. Ta-Tynisa Wilson - Only Girl In The World: What is up with the song choice? Yea it is great song to sing at the top of your lungs when you are IN YOUR CAR. For American Idol, not so much. Trust me I have made some bad song choices but they have never been during the nation’s most popular televised vocal competition!!!!! Well onto the actual performance, it was okay. I liked your energy. Some of the pitches were everywhere though. I know that there is a voice there but this song did not allow for that to shine.

9. Haley Reinhart - Fallin’: First of all, wasn’t’ this song banned from being performed on any idol stage. Or was that just my rule. Anyway, this did nothing for me AT ALL. It just sounded a more immature and rougher performance of the original. Alicia, I would beg American Idol to take your songs off of any list. Felicia Barton from season 8 was the only one that did any of her songs any type of justice. Back to my thoughts, it was just OK. Nothing major but nothing minor. Just middle of the road.

8. Kendra Chantelle - Impossible: Mmm Mmm Mmm. This was good. Yea pretty good actually. Your voice is amazing and I love this song. I did feel like you were a little nervous and unsure. But those pipes are there. Especially when you did the high notes. I just wanted you to hold on to them longer. I hope that you go through but maybe you will be a great wild card choice.

7. Karen Rodriguez - Hero: Nice vocal tone. Just a pretty voice. So floaty!!! I thought it was okay but I didn’t have any power in it. It was just pretty. I am glad that you did something different with the song. I think that you are very likable so I like that about you LOL. Great effort we will see if it was enough to get you into the top 12 or 13!!!

6. Lauren Turner - Seven Day Fool: Great song choice for your voice!!! Just watch your downward runs. They sometimes got hung up and cut off at the end. Just a little sloppy. Nice vocal tone. Very current. I don’t get the Bette Midler comparison but hey it is what it is. I hear Christina more than anything. But hopefully you get to be Lauren.

5. Lauren Alaina - Turn On The Radio: It was an okay performance. I don’t get all of the comparisons so early in the game. Very good voice. Very good song for you but I felt like I was at a middle school talent show. I don’t know why but that is the vibe that I got from it. I am pretty sure that you are a lock for the top 12.

4. Naima Adedapo - Summertime: Yes Jazz Singer!!! Vocally pretty flawless. You just have this finesse about you that I love. It is something that this competition needs. You have my vote definitely. Just hope that you fit well into this show. Still some great talent.

3. Thia Megia - Out Her On My Own: GREAT TONE!!!! Now I don’t if Steven and I were listening to the same performance. Her pitch was nowhere near perfect as a matter of fact it was pretty flat on the higher notes. I think that her actual vocals are superb. That beginning was chilling. I just want her to think of being on top of the notes rather than just singing them. Still this is great for 15. When I was 15, I wouldn’t have been able to do this. I can’t wait to see what else she does.

2. Ashthon Jones - Love Over Me: Can she perform or what???? Man she had me captured during the entire song. Yea I am not a big fan of the song but she performed so well that I don’t need to be. Her personality is so so good. I am rooting for this girl a lot. If she doesn’t get the fan votes, the judges would be fools to not pick her for a wild card. She is bad.

1. Pia Toscano - I’ll Stand By You: WOW!!!! You came out poised, elegant, and confident. You just stood there and sang the heck out of that song. Now I see why you got the last slot. I love the tone of your voice. Do I dare say it? Hmm…I think that your voice sounds like Celine Dion’s. And I LOVE Celine Dion!!!! The girls better step their game up. This is Pia’s to lose IMO.

So with the new format in mind, 7 girls will be going home on Thursday. I would rather lose 4 girls and 10 guys. But I always favor the female voice though. I think that Pia, Ashthon, Lauren A, Thia, and Naima. For some reason, Karen or Lauren T. may get one of the spots. I hope the sympathy voters don’t get Julie in there. She had one shot and she blew it!!! Can’t wait for the results show.

AMERICAN IDOL 10: Top 12 Guys

2011-03-01T22:50:00.001-05:00

Yay I am back at it again. I know that I didn’t finish last season but I just lost interest. Plus I was busy with performances and rehearsals. But it is all good. Anywho, I am back to blogging and I hope that I can stick with it. For those of you that don’t know, I only listen to the audio when I do my blog. It is a vocal competition right??? Lets get to the recap:

12. Jordan Dorsey - OMG: First of all, REALLY???? Did you think that this was a great choice for American Idol??? No dude!!! I was making the scrunchy face during the entire song. I didn’t understand your vocal choices during this song. I guess a lot of cockiness comes back to bite you. We didn’t even have to do anything. Just NO!!!! You could have done this in ballad form and it would have been great. That is what I would have done but what do I know?

11. Brett Loewenstern - Light My Fire: I thought that I would like your performance but I didn’t really like it. I was annoyed by the way that you said “fire”. It was closed off at the end. Also, ANNUNCIATE your words!!!! I didn’t understand any of your verses. Hopefully if you stick around, it will be better next time.

10. Stefano Langone - Just The Way You Are: Not good. Those high notes, first of all. Why did you choose to do them if you were going to be straining the entire time? Ugh. Not a knock but Bruno Mars has a difficult time hitting them so you shouldn’t have done them. Or you could taken the song into a different direction and done acoustic. Then head voice could have come into play. Look, it just wasn’t good at all.

9. Robbie Rosen - Angel: The entire song just felt disconnected for me. You have, what could be, an amazing voice. It just needs to be guided in the right directions. All of the head to falsetto stylings are not necessary. I think that 1 in a song is plenty. Just didn’t feel right for me.

8. Jovany Barreto - I’ll Be: Hmm, well it was just ok. Yea just okay. Nothing special. Nice vocal tone and key change transition. It was just okay. And you don’t want to be okay in this competition.

7. Tim Halperin - Come On Over: Not a great song choice for you. But I really like your vocal tone. I definitely can hear the potential in your voice. Just not a good song choice for you. I can tell that you are more comfortable behind the piano. I can’t wait for you to get to that stage of the competition.

6. Clint Jun Gamboa - Superstition: Nice energetic performance. Great way to start the show. I had all of these preconceived notions of you but I am glad that you toned it down a little tonight. Really good. Some great choices there.

5. Jacob Lusk - A House Is Not A Home: First things first, J Lo, NEVER SAY THAT SOMEONE HAS TAKEN LUTHER’S PLACE. No one ever will. Okay now that that is out of the way, it was a good vocal. Definitely showed that you can perform and sing. Just wasn’t as solid as I wanted it to be but it was good.

4. Casey Abrams - I Put A Spell On You: What a fearless performance!!! Great job. You definitely showed us your bluesy side. My only worry is that you will get tripped up on theme nights. Great in your genre of music but will that convey well. Time will tell.

3. Paul McDonald - Maggie Mae: Nice quirky performance. You looked so comfortable up there. Vocally, you are one interesting dude. Can’t really say that I have heard a voice like your voice in a long long time. I really dig it.

2. James Durbin - You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’: Yes!!! You sounded like a bonafide rock star. I thought that you brought the right amount of energy, stage presence, and vocals to make you a contender. I was so with Randy on the high notes. I was so afraid that you would do that throughout but you did it the right moments. Definitely in your pocket tonight.

1. Scotty McCreery - Letters From Home: Wow. Just listen to the vocals. Oh man. I got the goosebumps during the first portion. He is concretely the male country star that Idol has been waiting for. For 17, he is AMAZING. The tone of his voice is so controlled. Yes I am on the Scotty train!!!!!

So I think that Jordan pulled out the worst vocal of the night. I hope and think that he will be heading back home on Thursday. I think that Jovany, Stefano, Robbie, and Tim have to be worried about the other spot. I think that it will be Jovany. He was really early and his song was just okay. Stand in the middle of the road and you will always get hit. (Just made that up, I am taking full credit for it, thank you). Well see ya tomorrow when my girls hit the stage. I am looking for some knockout performances from them.

AMERICAN IDOL 9: TOP 5 Frank Sinatra Night

2010-05-04T21:33:00.002-04:00

After the major upset (for me) with the voting off of Siobhan Magnus, I thought that I would not continue watching anymore. But it would be wrong of me to discontinue the blogs and to stop watching after I have watched every season since it first started. Hate to break a tradition.

5. Casey James - Blue Skies: Ooh, Casey. This was horrid. Flat and sharp all over the place. You looked so out of place. I was horrendous. I don't think that I said it enough. HORRIBLE!!! The worst that I have seen at this stage of the competition. I think that this performance really exposed your vocals. Yes, Kara was definitely right about the "lamb" vibrato or a tremolo. Horrific performance.

4. Lee Dewyze - That's Life: Can someone help me get aboard the Lee train because I don't see it. He is shouty and out of tune with no phrasing capabilities whatsoever. I don't think that he should even be considered as a final two contender. I wouldn't have put him in the top 12. I didn't care for him. If Idol wants to drown itself, they would allow Lee to win. He is like a mix of Taylor Hicks, Danny Gokey, and a very bad David Cook.

3. Aaron Kelly - Fly Me To The Moon: You showed a lot of confidence but I agree with Simon. It was still very mousey for me. I think that you have an outstanding country voice and I like that you stay true to that with every genre. I thought that it was one of your best performances but is that really saying a lot during Top 5 week?

2. Crystal Bowersox - Summer Wind: You looked nice but the vocals could have been a lot better. Especially from a frontrunner at this stage in the show. Don't get too comfortable or cocky. You haven't won yet so at least look like you care. Sorry that I got on that tangent but that bothers me more than anything. On to your performance, It was very laid back and very different for you. I thought that it was good but not great.

1. Michael Lynche - The Way You Look Tonight: Why do I find myself pulling for him? I think that he is cocky, arrogant, and he reminds me of me when he is performing. All qualities that I dislike. Maybe I am rooting for him because he is definitely the best vocal tone left in the competition or maybe because I vicariously want to live through him. Good song choice. I could have done without all of the physical drama. The vocal drama was great for me.

I think that it is bad when you are looking forward to next week. Actually I am looking forward to the end of the season. I can't wait for it to be over. It is very painful to watch artists do this to themselves. They don't give it their all. They are so inexperienced. Enough venting, on a happier note, I think that I have a good chance of getting involved in another idol competition. No promises but it was worth a shot. Check out MyndJack Radio Idol. If I can't win American Idol, I will try for all of the other competitions that are similar. I like singing different genres so this one should be awesome.

AMERICAN IDOL 9: TOP 6 Shania Twain Week

2010-04-27T23:39:00.002-04:00

I love Shania's music so much. I am such a fan of her albums. I didn't think that it would be a great fit for Idol.

6. Lee Dewyze - You're Still The One: This is one of my favorite Shania songs. I think that Lee pretty much screamed the whole song. Can anyone else help me understand why he is one of the favorites in a singing competition? It was a very rough interpretation. Just sharp and then just flat. All over the place for me. I don't know what the judges are thinking.

5. Casey James - Don't: I think that this is definitely one of your better performances. I am still not a fan of your voice. But you did a good job with this song. I think that your weak vocals are getting in the way though. I do think that time is winding down for you.

4. Crystal Bowersox - No One Needs To Know: It was a good performance but for Crystal, it was subpar. It just felt like a performance that she just wanted to do to get it over with. For me, it was her worst performance but she is fine compared to her competition.

3. Aaron Kelly - You've Got A Way: Another classic Shania song. I liked Aaron on this song. I felt him. He was in his zone. It was probably one of my favorite performances by him.

2. Michael Lynche - It Only Hurts When I'm Breathing: He always delivers vocals for me. Definitely a real singer. Yea, he may be cocky but he can still back it up with something. The song fit very nicely in his voice. Good Job!!!!

1. Siobhan Magnus - Any Man Of Mine: Yes. I loved it. I know that a lot of people will hate it but I LOVED it!!!!! Her vocal tone was there. Her power and confidence was back. Amazing!!!! Please keep it up.

So for me, Siobhan came back with a vengeance. I am happy that she is back for her ballad rut. I think that Lee took a turn for the worse. Hard to tell who is going to go home this week. Casey was in the bottom last week and he had an okay performance. I may be his turn or it could be a shocker with Lee. I just hope that it isn't Siobhan, Crystal, or Michael. Those are my top 3.

AMERICAN IDOL 9: TOP 7 Inspirational Songs

2010-04-20T23:04:00.001-04:00

7. Casey James - Don't Stop: Please stop singing the same type of songs. Man, I have had just about enough of you. Does anyone else not hear his uncontrollable vibrato? Vibrato can be controlled. You just have to focus. Bad song choice.

6. Tim Urban - Better Days: Well, there is not much I can say about this performance. It wasn't bad and it wasn't great. Good/Average is the best that I can give it. You are improving though.

5. Michael Lynche - Hero: This went nowhere for me. It was like you were singing it as part of your shortened set at a bar. Then the band didn't want to do it anymore so all of the energy was sucked from it and it just fell flat. I hope that this is your last misstep. I would really like to see you crack the top 4.

4. Aaron Kelly - I Believe I Can Fly: First off, 10 points down for the song choice. I knew that this one was coming for you. It was so predictable. Now with that said, I think that you did a decent job with the arrangement. Key change and all. I still think that you need to work on your vocal stamina. Other than that, pretty good.

3. Siobhan Magnus - When You Believe: Hmm... I did not like the song choice for her. She did an okay job with it. It was verging on boring but she still has one of the better vocals. I wish that someone would point her back into the right direction. Her semi finals and her "Paint It Black" were phenomenal. Now she needs to start pulling out the big guns.

2. Lee Dewyze - The Boxer: Beautiful. I just wish that you would have such a guttural sound on every song. Probably one of your best vocals by far. Everything was in the key!!!! Good work. Everyone has been saying a Lee/Crystal final. I still don't want it but I could see it as a possibility.

1. Crystal Bowersox - People Get Ready: Leaps and bounds above the rest. This is why: you have originality, truth, and vocals. Yes you cried at the end but hey girl that just made you less one dimensional. I was so happy that you started acappella. When that is done, you are just showing everyone that you are the real deal. Out of all of the contestants, I would trust her with the title the most.

I would like to sum up the night by saying that Crystal is by far the one that I truly deem a vocalist. I mean in seasons past we have had all types of battles. Contestants who gave their all, not just to win it but to showcase who they are and what they enjoy doing. Letting the passion of their life shine. Crystal is the only one who is laying it all out on the line. I just don't feel it from anyone else. I am telling you if Angela Martin was in this competition with Crystal that would be your battle. (Still upset about that decision). If Crystal doesn't win, the credibility is completely out the door. It is already 90% there. That would just send it over the edge.

As far as results, I am hoping that Casey gets the axe but I am sure that it will be between Aaron, Tim, and Siobhan. For some reason, I think it may be Siobhan going home.

AMERICAN IDOL 9: TOP 9 Elvis Week

2010-04-13T23:16:00.003-04:00

9. Andrew Garcia - Hound Dog: NO!!!!! What were you thinking? The arrangement was so horrible. Your vocals were lazy and lacked any kind of stability. I did not like it at all. Just a terrible performance from you. It was one of those performances that will definitely get you sent home. Please don't become the Scott Savol of season 9.

8. Casey James - Lawdy, Miss Clawdy: I don't get the appeal for this guy. His vocals are annoying and he is never vocally stable. I always forget about him and he just dissipates after every show. I am starting to hope that his time is up tomorrow.

7. Tim Urban - Can't Help Falling In Love: This was okay for me. Not super great but not horridly wrong. I honestly hope that you don't go home tomorrow. I see progression. I didn't want to see it but it is there. Now only if your vocals weren't that boring and plain.

6. Katie Stevens - Baby What You Want Me To Do: Hmm... I want to like her. I really do BUT it is like she is trying to be a singer that she is not. She has a good voice but I feel like she is trying so hard right now. She is overdoing it a little. That is just my opinion.

5. Aaron Kelly - Blue Suede Shoes: This was an improvement over last week. It was solid. That is pretty much all that I can say. Your vocals seem to be getting stronger as your confidence is
building.

4. Lee Dewyze - Little Less Conversation: MUCH BETTER than last week. At least, you were in the vocal pocket. I just don't know if you are the American Idol. I feel like you are a combination of watching David Cook, Chris Daughtry, and Kris Allen. Those 3 guys are separate but for some reason I see a little bit of them in each of your performances. Not a bad thing but definitely not a good thing.

3. Siobhan Magnus - Suspicious Minds: You just can't deny her vocals. Her pure voice is amazing. I am a fan. I know that this was Elvis week but I wish that she would sing some Leona Lewis. Their vocals are similar. Back to this performance, it was pretty good. I loved it.

2. Michael Lynche - In The Ghetto: YES!!!! This was good. He has such a great voice. As a singer, I tend to listen to females but Big Mike is a great singer. He stripped it down and took his time with it. I don't like his cockiness or his attitude but his vocals cover it very well. I am glad that they used the save on him (Even though I thought is was an act).

1. Crystal Bowersox - Saved: YES!!!! I love her so much. This was such a great performance. It was so natural. So raw and real and fearless. It is always good when you make me like a song that I have never heard of before. Kudos!!!!!

Well, I hope that my bottom 2 will be the ones going home. I doubt it for one of them though. I am sure that Andrew Garcia will be packing tomorrow. It is a definite toss up for the other spot. Katie Stevens, Siobhan Magnus, Aaron Kelly, Lee Dewyze, and Tim Urban all have targets on their backs. I am going out on a limb and saying that Katie Stevens gets the other axe tomorrow.

AMERICAN IDOL 9: TOP 9 Lennon/McCartney Songbook

2010-04-06T22:57:00.002-04:00

American Idol is really boring me this season. No one is performing with gusto. I really wish that they could get it together.

9. Casey James - Jealous Guy: Not a fan of this performance at all. His vibrato is a lot to take especially on songs like this. It almost got to the point of unbearable. I don't think that you are a vocalist at all. I like you on the songs like Power Of Love. Your voice suited it just fine. But just to stand there and sing a ballad. It just doesn't work.

8. Lee Dewyze - Hey Jude: I did not like this as much as everyone else did. He was shouting that song the whole time. And really with the bagpipes??? It would have been cool but it came across as cheesy. Mainly because he didn't fully commit to it. I think that we need to re-evaluate Lee.

7. Aaron Kelly - The Long And Winding Road: Is he just copying David Archuleta??? There have been comparisons but this doesn't help matters. It was definitely not up to Archie standards but it was okay. His voice seems to be getting tired.

6. Andrew Garcia - Can't Buy Me Love: Decent arrangement. I loved the Go-Go vibe that was going on. It was an okay vocal. Nothing stellar. That one note was horrendous. You didn't quite make it.

5. Katie Stevens - Let It Be: It was by far your best vocal. It was just a little flat in tonality but it was still your best. I would have liked to hear someone else sing this. It was okay.

4. Michael Lynche - Eleanor Rigby: Hmmm....this was okay. I liked the arrangement a lot. The vocals were decent but there was something missing. I needed for you to be more grounded in the song. Not my favorite vocal from him.

3. Tim Urban - All My Loving: Happens to be one of my favorite songs. He did a good job with it. I was very shocked. VERY SHOCKED. His vocals were pretty solid and he did something with the song. Good job.

2. Siobhan Magnus - Across The Universe: Good vocal. I appreciate the subtle vocal. It gave us a chance to hear your vocal tone. It is so lovely.

1. Crystal Bowersox - Come Together: I was so happy to see you choose this song. It fit your vibe so well. Some of the falsetto notes were a little shaky but an overall good vocal. I really like your style.

Well I don't know about tonight. It was pretty dry as far as vocals. I can not believe that Tim Urban is my favorite guy from tonight. Unbelievable. Just because I did that, I bet you that he will go home.

Bottom 3 should be: Lee, Casey, Aaron with Aaron going home

Bottom 3 will be: Tim, Katie, Aaron with Tim going home.

AMERICAN IDOL 9: TOP 10 R&B Night

2010-03-30T22:26:00.002-04:00

R&B night on American Idol. What are we in for? I am kind of mad at the song choices. I really wanted to hear some great songs instead of the American Idol standards.

10. Didi Benami - What Becomes Of The Broken Hearted: Very all over the place. It was boring as well. I was hoping that you would shine this week. You totally bombed for me. There were so many songs that you could have done that would have killed. The end was a TRAINWRECK!!!!! Ouch. I am so sure that there were better songs out there.

9. Tim Urban - Sweet Love: It was just so vanilla to me. Nothing different. Like I was listening to someone perform this at a retirement home. Not crazy good but not bad. Just right smack in the middle. Reminds me of John Stevens a little. Playing it safe can get you sent home though.

8. Aaron Kelly - Ain't No Sunshine: Very shaky vocal. Not solid at all. I think that you were nervous. It was just bland for me. I think that you have a lot of potential. Keep working at grounding your vocals.

7. Siobhan Magnus - Through The Fire: Not a bad vocal but not a great one. There were some iffy notes but you can still sing. Your vocal tone is so good. You just have to be certain of the pitches. Be careful to not get too high and out of control. You tried to tackle Chaka and it was okay. Those are some big shoes to fill though.

6. Casey James - Hold On I'm Coming: I liked this song for you. Yes, you may have forgotten a few lyrics but the sound of your voice was great. Especially for this song. I would love to see a little less cookie cutter from you. Switch it up a little. Take some risk.

5. Lee Dewyze - Treat Her Like A Lady: I would like to say that I am not a fan at all. He is my least favorite contestant but he did a great job with this song. Nothing more really to say.

4. Katie Stevens - Chain Of Fools: Wonderful vocal. Powerful and just where you need to be. I still feel like I don't know who you are as an artist. Overall pretty solid vocal.

3. Andrew Garcia - Forever: Thank you for bringing it back. I don't what has changed but I like it. I feel like you have your mojo back. I loved the toned down version of this song. Great song choice. You stayed in the key and you added your vocal charisma to it. Awesome.

2. Crystal Bowersox - Midnight Train To Georgia: Excellent. She is the most comfortable to me. Just like Fantasia, Melinda, and Clay. She is so pro at this. I think that it is her's to lose. Definitely. Not the best of the night but very very close second.

1. Michael Lynche - Ready For Love: One of my favorite songs. Wow I really really loved your performance. It was subdued and heart felt. It was real. I don't typically like male singers but you took me there this week. I LOVED IT!!!!!

Good night even though I was not a fan of some of the song choices. I was shocked by a couple of contestants. They managed to at least gain my support. Some also dropped on my radar. What a difference a week makes. It was almost like some of them just wanted to get on the tour. My bottom 3 are Aaron, Tim, and Didi. I think that Tim and Didi may definitely go in the bottom. I think we may get a surprise visit by Siobhan or Casey. I think that Didi will go home this week. I hate to say that because I really liked her during the first week of the finals. We shall see.

AMERICAN IDOL 9: TOP 11 Billboard Number 1's

2010-03-23T22:17:00.003-04:00

I did not get to watch the show but I have great sources who allow me to hear and see the performances. I try to only listen to the audio because we are looking for the best singer. Well here is my take on the night:

11. Andrew Garcia - I Heard It THrough The Grapevine: REALLY???? I had him pegged as one of my early favorites. Now he is totally dissapointing. He has totally lost his way and I feel like he is just going through the motions. This performance was nothing at all. Just nothing. Ughhhh!!!! So frustrating. ENOUGH.

10.Paige Miles - Against All Odds: Can she please be sick again? This was horrible. Absolutely horrible. So breathy and out of sync. Notes were all over the place. It was also a horrible song choice. She should have done Hero (Sidebar: I won CSM Idol with that song. I, at least, did something different and was able to stay in tune. Check it out.) I felt like I was at a bad middle school talent show. Now a days, even those talent shows are way better than this. I don't what she was thinking. Looks there will be 4 girls on the tour this year.

9. Tim Urban - Crazy Little Thing Called Love: Vocally boring. It was a "just there" vocal. The arrangement was a little awkward. He really bores me. Even with this great Queen song. I remember when Fantasia did it. She knocked it out of the park. This version, not so much. Just okay.

8. Didi Benami - You're No Good: Very pitchy but I still like the timbre of her voice. It is okay. Not my favorite song choice for her. I loved her so much last week. I hope that she can get that back.

7. Lee Dewyze - The Letter: It was okay. Not as good as the judges made it seem. I could finally understand some of the words that have come out of Lee's mouth. His pitch is far from perfect and he needs a little more refining. His voice reminds me of Bucky Covington. Bucky has done well for himself over the years. I think that Lee will benefit from the same.

6. Katie Stevens - Big Girls Don't Cry: Good overall. I think that she is slowly but surely finding her way in this competition. She does have a couple of pitch of problems that she has to work out. Other than that, I think that she is progressing.

5. Michael Lynche - When A Man Loves A Woman: The piano intro was awesome. I actually liked the arrangement a whole lot. The first half was so great. Honestly it was but when he got to the second part, he was doing too much for me. I loved the subtlety of the beginning. He is smart for going the R&B route. I think that it was one of his better vocals.

4. Aaron Kelly - Don't Wanna Miss A Thing: Good for being sick. The tone of his voice is great. I love it when he is not screaming. I liked it. I could listen to him sing anything though. Not really a fan of the song choice but it worked for him. He is becoming my favorite male contestant since Todrick is gone.

3. Siobhan Magnus - Superstition: I love this song but only when Stevie does it. I think that Siobhan did okay with it. For me, it just wasn't as good as last week's performance. I want her to get out of the screechy realm and deliver as great solid vocal. She is a great performer and something about her makes you want to root for her.

2. Casey James - The Power Of Love: I LOVED this performance. This is the first Casey performance that I really liked. The others were tolerable but this song was the perfect fit for his voice. Great job.

1. Crystal Bowersox - Me And Bobby McGhee: What a great song choice for her. She sounded so natural singing this. She is amazingly refreshing. All of her vocal choices have been so spot on. So seasoned. I could listen to her on the radio RIGHT NOW.

The bottom 3 should clearly be Andrew Garcia, Paige Miles, and Tim Urban. I have this gut feeling that Paige Miles will go home this week. I would love for it to be Andrew Garcia but his youtube fans are probably dialing away. I think that Didi may find herself in the bottom. This is a very important week because this decides who goes on tour.

AMERICAN IDOL 9: TOP 12 Rolling Stones Week

2010-03-16T20:32:00.003-04:00

So tonight is the night of The Stones. Pretty much the fathers of Rock N' Roll. I think that, just like Beatles night, we are going to have some really good breakout performances. I am sure that some of our more experienced singers are going to have a ball game with this night. On the other hand, our more novice singers are going to have to fight really hard. Should be interesting.

12. Tim Urban - Under My Thumb: BORING!!!! I was totally rooting for him. I think that he could have a decent voice but he does not know what to do with it. His vocals weren't actually that bad but this was such a horrible arrangement. I am sure that all of the teen girls in America will be texting away. I think that American Idols should have an adult only rating. No more travesties like last week. Please.

11. Andrew Garcia - Give Me Shelter: Something just didn't sync for me. It was so under. It lacked rhythmic consistency and energy. Pitch was continuously under. Some of the riffs didn't work either. Hmm....a little bit of a mess for me.

10. Paige Miles - Honky Tonk Women: Her best performance. Moments remind me of Trenyce. Illness not a factor, this was an okay performance. Her big notes are definitely there. I would like to her what she does when she is better. Her runs and riffs need to be a lot cleaner though. Good song choice for her though.

9. Michael Lynche - Miss You: He is vocally ok but he is starting to personally annoy me. I was so there with him especially during his video package. His falsetto is a lot more solid than most others in the competition. I just hope that he can get his attitude in check.

8. Lee Dewyze - Beast Of Burden: He could potentially be very good. He just really needs to open his mouth and sing. His tone is very current and nice but I think that he needs to gain some more confidence. Great potential.

7. Lacey Brown - Ruby Tuesday: Her vocals are not grounded enough for me. She almost seems a little unsure of herself. Definitely her best performance to date. I can not wait to see what she does with other types of songs.

6. Katie Stevens - Wild Horses: Going into this night, I had it in my mind to not like anything that you did tonight. But how could I not like something about your performance? You didn't give me any reason to not like it. Your tone is so much mature than it should be for a 17 year old. I loved what you did with the song. You hit and held all of the right notes.

5. Casey James - It's All Over Now: It was bluesy and executed very well. You should sing like this more often. It felt very true to me. Very good job. Not one of my favorite songs though. The ending could have been a lot more solid. Overall, good job.

4. Aaron Kelly - Angie: BEST PERFORMANCE for you!!!! The song was perfect for him. Now I want to learn the song. He was dynamically great for being so young. He pulled back at the right moments. It was so connected. Great.

3. Didi Benami - Play With Fire: This performance reminded me of Natasha Bedingfield. I love her!!!! Yes, you missed a couple of lyrics but you recovered. I was truly impressed by your tone and your phrasing. It was so good for me. Emotionally strong performance.

2. Crystal Bowersox - You Can't Always Get What You Want: I thought that this was an amazing vocal. She did everything right with the song. Yea, she doesn't run around the stage but that is what makes me like her. She is just cool to me. I was grooving with her for the entire song.

1. Siobhan Magnus - Paint It Black: EVERYTHING FOR ME. It had the dramatics, vocals, arrangement, and climax that I needed. It should have been on the soundtrack for Alice In Wonderland. That section leading to "The Note" was phenominal. Crazy amazing.

MY BOTTOM 3: Tim Urban, Andrew Garcia, Paige Miles

REAL BOTTOM 3: Lacey Brown, Paige Miles, Andrew Garcia

MY PICK TO GO HOME: Andrew Garcia (Tim's song was boring but Andrew was just bad vocally tonight. I really wished that he could live up to his hype. Frustrating. )

WHO WILL GO HOME: Hmm.... Paige Miles or Andrew Garcia. Maybe even Lacey Brown.

AMERICAN IDOL 9: Top 12 Preview

2010-03-12T20:06:00.003-05:00

First I would like to apologize for the lack of post. I have been going through Post Show Syndrome. Missing the cast and crew of RENT at Kensington Arts Theatre. Okay back to Idol. Not the top 12 that I was hoping for but it will do. I think that 4 that got eliminated could easily replace 4 of the top 12. No Paige, Katie, Tim, or Aaron. I just think that the Top 12 stage will swallow them whole. Alex was just beginning to get his nerves back on track. Katelyn had one bad performance. Todrick was entertaining and a seasoned pro to the stage. Lilly was just meant to be there. I need to stop crying over spilled milk (where are you Angela Martin????). Here is my ranking and what I think of each contestant.

12. Aaron Kelly - He is totally going to crack under the big stage. I liked him but he seemed to get worse as the weeks went on. I can only hope that he does well but I have this feeling that this may be the end of the line for him.

11. Tim Urban - So here is my theory for him. He is going to get better and Vote For The Worst will drop. Therefore, he will be losing his backing and he is out here like that. Unfortunate but bound to happen.

10. Lacey Brown - Out of the females, she has the weaker voice. I don't know if she will triumph enough to overpower the other females.

9. Katie Stevens - I am not a fan. I think that she is like so dry. Vocally, she does not have the maturity and the experience to hold a match to the other girls.

8. Paige Miles - I would actually rank her a little higher. Something about her. I like it. I am sure that we will get to hear her real vocals this week. I am pulling for her. What a great story that would be. She could be like the Phoenix. Rising from the ashes.

7. Lee Dewyze - I don't get it with this guy. Not my cup of tea. I think that he is not as good as Simon says that he is.

6. Casey James - Another one that is not as good as the judges put him out there to be. But I think that he has a better chance.

5. Andrew Garcia - Youtubers will keep him around for awhile. I think that he has lost his way a bit and hopefully can find it back.

4. Didi Benami - I love this girl's voice. It is lighter but very solid. I think that she can do well on the big stage.

3. Mike Lynche - Big guy with a big voice will definitely be the last man standing. I think that he could very well give the girls a run for their money.

2. Siobhan Magnus - I hope that she is not the shocker elimination but I can listen to her sing anything. Her vocals were so pure and then she went for powerful. LOVED IT!!!!!

1. Crystal Bowersox - Overall greatness. Great image, great vocals, great song selection. So innocent to the monster because she had never seen the show before. I am betting her to win the whole thing.

Since next week is Rolling Stones Week, I picked some songs that I would sing if I were a contestant or that I would like to hear,

Start Me Up
Shine A Light
Time Is On My Side
You Can't Always Get What You Want
Paint It Black
No Expectations
Miss You
Get Off Of My Cloud
As Tears Go By (I would totally sing this)
Angie

AMERICAN IDOL 9: TOP 10 Guys

2010-03-04T09:26:00.002-05:00

Well I am DVRless and it sucks. So I have to rely on great websites like www.rickey.org and others to provide me with the goods.

10. John Park - Gravity: Not interesting at all. I think that you have a good voice but I was bored to tears. I literally walked out of the room to get a tissue and forgot that you were singing until I came back to my seat. Not favorite song choice and I am afraid that this may send you packing.

9. Casey James - I Don't Want To Be: Umm... I believe that some bar in Chattanoga, TN is missing it's favorite karaoke singer. There was nothing different, nothing special. Blah Blah Blah is all I heard. Definitely a downgrade.

8. Tim Urban - C'mon Get Higher: This was okay but nothing to knock me out of my seat. Good song choice but vocally not ready yet.

7. Jermaine Sellers - What's Going On: Nice vocal tone but I feel like you have lost your way in this competition. You just do TOO MUCH. You can sing the melody with slight varied inflections but to railroad all over a song is not the way to go. If you don't go home this week, I am sure that the printed tickets home should have your name on it next week.

6. Andrew Garcia - You Give Me Something: One of the most interesting voices in the competition. The song was horrible for him though. Not the right choice for him at all.

5. Lee Dewyze - Lips Of An Angel: GREAT Song choice but not a great vocal. Vocals were all over the place. Just not grounded enough for me. Hmm... I say that you will still be in the top 12.

4. Aaron Kelly - My Girl: Another not so great song choice. Everyone knows that you should never choice this song for American Idol. Still I like your voice. I think that you can do well in this competition. I just don't think that we need another Justin Bieber. Please do not take this advice. This is the one time that I disagree with Simon.

3. Alex Lambert - Everybody Knows: I love this song. Your voice works so well on this song. The last note was kinda not settled but I will take it over last week. You were so much more confident and vocally controlled. I LOVED it. More of that.

2. Todrick Hall - What's Love Got To Do With It: I must say that on paper this sounds like a disaster but excuted well, it is short of amazing. I loved it. Really. Last week was a horrible arrangement. This arrangement was FANTASTIC. He is doing everything in this song that I would have done with it. If he gets voted off this week, I will be extremely upset. This was a great vocal and no one can deny that.

1. Michael Lynche - A Man's World: AMAZING!!! My favorite guy performance of the season so far. Vocals were spot on and the stage presence was phenominal. This performance made me feel like you wanted to win. Great job.

AMERICAN IDOL 9: TOP 12 Guys

2010-02-26T07:45:00.001-05:00

Not as bad as the girls but still not great. I thought that some of these guys were going to blow it out of the water but instead they crashed and burned. I know at least 24 other singers who could knock these contestants out of the box. Anyway on to the blogging:

12. Tyler Grady "American Woman" - I don't even remember this performance. Well I reviewed the performance and it was absolutely awful. The "Oh" 's were so flat and out of character. He has nothing but a 4 note range. Not a fan and he did not live up to his expectations. I remember his first audition and it was great. Too bad.

11. Todrick Hall "Since U Been Gone" - REALLY??? I mean who does he think that he is. He COMPLETELY changed the song. It is one thing to put your own spin on a song and completely another thing to totally make a new song out of the same lyrics. The latter is what Todrick did. It was so cocky and self indulgent. He makes me cringe. I am really not a fan. Too much too early.

10. Tim Urban "Apologize" - The beginning was actually okay but it was totally the wrong song for him. His falsetto was near non existent. Not a good showing for the guy who comes in at the last minute. Well look at Felicia Barton last year. She was a last minute replacement but she came out with arms swinging. This guy just seemed like a filler. Felicia was a real contender. Okay I digress. Tim just wasn't good.

9. Jermaine Sellers "Get Here" - It started out great. I loved his tone but 30 seconds into it he was wailing away in that annoying head voice. Ugh!!!! You don't have to use it. The first 30 seconds were awesome. Someone please tell him that it doesn't work. All of the runs and riffs and melismas are not needed. Can you just sing a song straight forward?

8. Alex Lambert "Wonderful World" - I love his tone but his nerves are going to get the best of him. It was the most awkward and uncomfortable performance of the night. Vocals are unique and at least in tune. I like him and I wish nothing but the best for him. He needs to deliver a great performance next week.

7. John Park "God Bless The Child" - Lovely voice but a horrible song choice for him. Just singing no personality or charisma. Vocals were a little sloppy. There were a few good vocals choices but not enough to make me jump up and shout. Definitely needs to do a lot better next week with a totally different song.

6. Lee Dewyze "Chasing Cars" - Good song choice but not crazy about his vocals like some people are. He sounds like a combination of the male singers out now. Not original but okay.

5. Casey James "Heaven" - I like this song. For him, I thought it was good. He has a unique voice. It is interesting and has a haunting quality to it. I am expecting better though. I think that he has what it takes to make it to the Top 12.

4. Michael Lynche "This Love" - Interesting vocals. I can learn to like his voice. He did play it really safe. Interested to hear more from him.

3. Joe Munoz "You And I" - Great vocal tone. I guess it is the latino flair. Seemed very comfortable on stage. I think that we should have heard more about him during the earlier episodes but we got more of Andrew Garcia. Very good performance.

2. Andrew Garcia "Sugar We're Going Down" - Original and awesome. Probably not his best vocal but he knows what to do with his voice. I really really like this guy. To me, it was sort of a safe performance.

1. Aaron Kelly "Here Comes Goodbye" - He is good. Great country artist for sure. Plus we have a connection. We both won the Disney World American Idol experience!!!!!! Anyway, I defiinitely would like to hear more from him. His vocal tone is amazing. I remember 16 and I was not as confident or as vocally great as him. For that, he gets major props. Almost reminds me of a male Carrie Underwood. Top 5 at least for me.

Guys were a little better than the girls but still not slaying me with the vocals. Hopefully once this week is over and the nerves have left the building, we can get to the real singing.

AMERICAN IDOL 9: TOP 12 Girls

2010-02-23T23:22:00.002-05:00

Well this was a little underwhelming. I guess it could have easily been the nerves of the first live show. I was expecting a whole lot more. All we have been hearing is how awesome the girls are this season. I don't know about that. Could this be another year for the guys to win? Too early to tell but if I were going by tonight's performances, none of the girls would take it.

12. Janell Wheeler "What About Love" - One of my FAVORITE songs ever. She butchered it for me. I did not have the angst that it should have had. It was almost like a electric blue iced cupcake. It looks like it could be hardcore and rough. Once you bite into it, it still is sweet and good. She tried to pull off this rock song. Looks great on paper but in reality, not so much. For some reason, I am sure that she will make it through to next week.

11. Ashley Rodriguez "Happy" - Nice voice but that was it. Pretty girl but that is it. Boring. Nothing to this song at all. Why was the key so low? Leona's key would have worked just fine. I don't know. Nothing more I can really say.

10. Lacey Brown "Landslide" - Very interesting vocals. I actually like her voice. She seemed out of sync for the majority of the song. I love this song as well. I really like her vocals. Reminds me of Cyndi Lauper a lot. I really hope that she gets another shot but the judges ripped her a new one.

9. Katie Stevens "Feelin' Good" - Not a very good vocal . I like the tone of her voice but I am not super impressed like everyone else seems to be. First, I strongly dislike this song. I just think everyone tries to put their own spin on it but it always falls flat unless you are Michael Buble or a singer like him. Secondly, her notes were all over the map. I would like for her to be a more grounded vocalist. Thirdly, be 17!!!!! How fun would a Katy Perry song have been for you? Or even a subdued Pink song?

8. Haeley Vaughn "I Wanna Hold Your Hand" - Not as bad as the judges made it seem. I loved it because I could totally see the type of artist that you aspire to be. I would suggest trying to keep up with the rhythm of the band. It seemed a little awkward. I would also like to see something a little lower. Your upper register can verge on the line of shrill. Other than that, I liked it.

7. Paige Miles "Alright Now" - Victim of no air time, 1st out of the blocks, and bad song choice. Another interesting voice. I was not expecting that type of voice at all. I did like some of vocal choices. You had fun and you know how to entertain. Just focus on your vocals. Try not to be so much early Christina with all of the vocal inflections. Just SING!!!!! I hope that you can make it to next week.

6. Lilly Scott "Fixing A Hole" - Not my favorite song choice. I like your vocals. I like your style. Not completely sold just yet. Not horrible. Not great.

5. Michelle Delamor "Fallin'" - Breaking a rule: Singing this song at any American Idol round/audition. But I like that she made it her own. Good vocals. Nice and interesting tone to her voice. Very curious to see what she does with something that is not so predictable.

4. Katelyn Epperly "Oh Darlin'" - Not as bad as I thought that you would be. Really soulful performance. Actually quite good. I do agree about the style thing. I just didn't work for me. I little too Madonna-ish from the early 80's. But vocally, among the best.

3. Didi Benami "The Way I Am" - Perfect song choice. Her voice is like silk for me. It just flows so effortlessly. I would love to see more personality.

2. Siobhan Magnus "Wicked Games" - Such strong solid vocals. I loved it. Even though I did not like the song choice, I think that it worked for her. The transition to the head voice was awesome. It really was. I did not know what to expect from her but I got great vocals. Awesome.

1. Crystal Bowersox "Hand In My Pocket" - Yes. I loved it. One of my favorite Alanis songs. Maybe a little less harmonica but that is who she is. I love that she comes with that already. She just makes me feel good when she performs. Can not wait to hear more from her. Please do some Annie Lennox or 4 non blondes "What's Going On". PLEASE!!!!!

I must say overall not too bad but I was expecting way better. You know this is the 9th season. I need these contestants to come out with guns blazing!!!!! Well I say that Janell, Lacey, Paige, Ashley, and Haeley are in danger this week. Wouldn't be surprised to see any of them go home. I am hoping that it is Janell and Ashley. Just because Didi and Michelle, their counterparts, blew them out of the water. Everyone has a battle for a particular spot.

Janell vs. Didi - Pretty Blonde
Haeley vs. Paige - Black Girl (I hate to put it that way but it is truth)
Katie vs. Katelyn - The Teen Pop Star
Lilly vs. Crystal - The Indie Artist
Lacey vs. Siobhan - The Quirky One
Michelle vs. Ashley - The Latina Diva

Jermaine vs. Todrick - The R&B Divo
Aaron vs Alex - Cute Teen Heartthrob
Joe vs. Andrew - Latino Balladeer
Casey vs. Tyler - Cougar Bait (lol I just laugh at these words)
Lee vs. Mike - Big guy with a big heart
John vs. Tim - Frat boy

Let the casting begin!!!!

AMERICAN IDOL 9: Dallas Auditions

2010-02-06T18:18:00.003-05:00

I can not wait to get to the good stuff....

THE BAD

Julie Kevelighan - Aww I almost feel really bad for her. She is one of those people who are so disillusioned.

Dexter Ward

Vanessa Johnston

THE GOOD

Lloyd Thomas

Kimberly Carver

Erica Rhodes

Dave Pittman - I liked everything about this guy.

Todrick Hall

Danatoya Thompson

Stephanie Daulong

Christiana Spear

Maegan Wright - AWESOME

Now off to Denver....

AMERICAN IDOL 9: Los Angeles Auditions

2010-02-06T18:09:00.002-05:00

Is it me or is this season becoming a little boring? On with the auditions....

THE BAD

Neil Goldstein - Seemed like he was going to have a panic attack. He was SOOO sweaty. YUCK

Jayson Wilson

Jesse Chang

Martin Perez

Damien Lefavor - Just a weird audition

AJ Mendoza - HORRIBLE AUDITION!!!!!

Austin Fullmer - Over the top!!!

Jason Greene - Really????

THE GOOD

Jim Ranger

Mary Powers

Tasha Layton

Chris Golightly

Andrew Garcia - MY FAVORITE!!!! EXCELLENT VOCALS

Now off to Dallas....

AMERICAN IDOL 9: Orlando Auditions

2010-02-05T21:51:00.002-05:00

Straight to the point....

THE BAD

Theo Glinton

Jarred Norrell

THE WHY'S

Brittany Star James - Not impressed at all

Cornelius Edwards - REALLY????

THE GOOD

Seth Rollins

Jermaine Purifoy

Shelby Dressel

Jay Stone

Janell Wheeler

Kasi Bedford

Bernadette Desimone

Amanda Desimone

Matt Lawrence

The next four episodes coming soon.....

AMERICAN IDOL 9: Chicago Auditions

2010-02-05T21:45:00.002-05:00

Right to the punch....

THE BAD

Curley Newborn

Allanah Halbert

Brian Krause

Harold Davis

Chantelle Graczkowski

THE WHY NOT'S

Amy Lang

THE GOOD

Katelyn Epperly - I can only hope that she at least makes the top 24

Charity Vance

Angela Martin - She has always been one of my favorite contestants. I know that she has auditioned for 3 seasons. I really hope that this is her season. I really like her.

John Park - GREAT VOCALS

Paige Dehausse - One of my favorite vocals

Justin Ray

Keith Semple

Marcus Jones

Off to Orlando =)

AMERICAN IDOL 9: Atlanta Auditions

2010-02-05T21:32:00.003-05:00

Back from Slackerville. Just been so busy with work and rehearsals. Now that I am stuck in the house, I guess that I should really put this blog back together.

THE BAD

Dewane Robinson

Kristi Marie Agronow

Jesse Hamilton

Lathan Davenport

Hansel Enriquez

Blake Smith

Lamar Royal

THE WHY NOT'S

Lauren Sanders - I thought that her voice was okay. Why not keep her with her friend? I would have said yes.

THE WHY'S

Noel Reese - Nothing special. Not my type of voice.

Skii Bo Ski - Really??? I though that he was hideous.

THE GOOD

Miriam Lemnouni

Tisha Holland - I LOVE THIS GIRL!!!! Her voice was great for me.

Jermaine Sellars - I remember him from Sunday's Best. I really didn't like him on that competition. But now, I am so excited for him to hopefully make the top 12. I loved his audition.

Vanessa Wolfe

Holly Harden

Mallory Haley

Carmen Turner - Definitely the better singer.

Bryan Walker - Awesome vocals.

CHICAGO auditions next!!!!!

AMERICAN IDOL 9: Boston Auditions

2010-01-14T10:53:00.002-05:00

So we have started the start of my true obsession, American Idol. I have watched it for every season and can tell you every contestant that has made the top 10/12 since the show started and do it in order of elimination. Just FYI. For some reason, I am not too excited about this season. I think that it is the absence of Paula. I really liked her. But oh well. I thought that Victoria Beckham fit in quite well. She definitely would have made a great permanent fill IMO. Anyway on to the auditions.

The Bad

Janet McNamara

Pat Ford

Derek Hilton - This guy made me laugh. Super funny how he switched voices.

Mere Doyle

Andrew Fenlon - I completely agree with Kara. I would have killed to have been given the shot to audition for the judges of American Idol.

Bill Bloom

Michael Ryan

Lisa Olivero - At least, she was featured for another "asset". That was funny.

Ryan Keane

Norberto Guerroro - I didn't know if it was a girl with a facial hair problem or a guy who need to lose the hairdo. The Latoya Jackson comparison was priceless. Thanks Simon.

The Why's

Claire Fuller - From the 10 second clip, I was not that impressed at all. I am sure that she will not go far.

Amadeo Diricco - I agree, he is a nice guy. He does have a powerful instrument but I thought that he had horrible vocal control. His personality may take him far. May be used to help promote the good vocalist in the Top 24.

Benjamin Bright - It was okay but not Hollywood material. He will flop soon.

Mike Davis - Again, another charming guy but not a great vocal. I would not have sent him through. He could be the one that grows in the competition.

Joshua Blaylock - I agree with Simon. He sounded like a 13 year old. For 28, he has a lot of work to do.

Bosa Mora - I LOVED his parents but I am not a huge fan of his vocals. I think that he could have done a whole lot better. Maybe he will step it up in Hollywood.

THE GOOD

Maddy Curtis - What a lovely tone. For 16, she is amazing. There was a calmness and stillness about her that I like. She just stood there and sang a difficult song.

Jennifer Hirsh - Loved the jazzy version of this movie classic song. She has a nice jazzy quality to her vocals that just come natural.

Jess Wolfe - Her vocals were different and solid. I liked her rough tone. Great for the show.

Luke Shaffer - I really liked his whole package. Great vocals, great look, and awesome personality. Voice was very current.

Ashley Rodriguez - AWESOME. I liked everything about her. She better make it far.

Tyler Grady - Liked him a lot. I really like the 70's/Jim Morrison vibe that he gives off.

Justin Williams - Took me a while but I like him. I don't know if he has the vocal chops to make it further than he did last year.

Leah Larenti - AWESOME. I loved what she did with the song. She knew her boundries and she expanded herself all over. Highs and lows and different keys. Great.

Katie Stevens -AWESOME VOCALS!!! I loved it. She better make it to the top 24.

Not too many exciting male vocalist but the females are rocking my socks. Off to Atlanta.

Back in FULL FORCE for American Idol Season 9

2010-01-12T21:12:00.004-05:00

Hello all,

It is so hard to believe that I have not blogged in over 2 years. Wow. I have done so much and have encountered so many great people. I have just been SO busy. But I am back just in time for American Idol season 9. My thoughts on tonights show will follow soon.

MELTING POT

2007-11-30T15:27:00.001-05:00

I am super excited because today I get to go to the Melting Pot with a few of my friends. The Melting Pot is expensive but it is so good. It is fondue restaurant with 4 courses: Cheese Fondue, Salad, Main Course or Wine Fondue, and Chocalate Fondue for dessert. I have been once and I loved it!!!! I am going again and I am sure that I will love it even more!!!! Check out the website at www.themeltingpot.com

Family Profile #3: My Oldest Brother (1 of 8)

2006-10-21T08:20:00.000-04:00

Reference Name: Vietnam

Date Of Birth: 6/23/58

Favorite Memory: Spending the night at his house after I had graduated from college to talk about life and what to expect.

My oldest brother was not really there when I was growing up. I don't know a whole lot about him but I do know that he served in the Vietnam war. There were moments where I believed that he was crazy. He was a little violent when I was in high school. I thought that the war may have something to do with that issue. He married a woman from Africa. I never really liked her. She seemed like she only wanted him for the easy passage into the US. In about a year, they got divorced. They do share a child together. The child, who will call Viet Baby, has not been around me much. When we are together, she seems so smart and much like an adult. She is only 10. Well beyond her years in intelligence. Now back to my brother, he has become a lot more settled since the divorce. He is almost 50 years old and I want nothing but happiness for him. He is a good guy and I hope that he finds the right woman.

Family Profile #2: My Father

2006-10-20T13:42:00.000-04:00

Reference Name: Daddy

Date Of Birth: 8/20/39

Date Of Death: 9/11/05

Favorite Memory: Coming to both, my high school and my college graduation.

My father was an interesting character. When I was growing up, he was my hero. I looked up to him so much. I was a daddy's boy. I guess because I was the youngest boy. My father was a truck driver for as long as I can remember. He would always bring home goodies every friday. My younger sister and I looked forward to it. It brought so much joy to our lives. Somewhere along the line, the relationship between myself and my father faded to zero. I guess I held a lot of resentment towards him for something that he did to me. When I was 8 or 9, I auditioned for the Mickey Mouse Club. I was totally ready for this. I remember being so confident at such an early age. My dad did not like the arts or didn't like the entertainment field. So I auditioned and I made the final cuts. My mom and I were so excited. We were to fly out to Florida in a couple of days. At that age, I felt like I was on top of the world. I couldn't wait to tell my father. When my mom and I told him, he was very displeased and was extremely against it. I was heartbroken but I was not deterred. Yea I looked at that as an opportunity that was missed but my passion for music grew. Well after this, my father and I were always at odds. I wanted to participate in things such as musicals, chorus, band, and various other school clubs. My father wanted me in autoshop and sports. He was so upset that his youngest son was turning into a musician and going against the grain of his other two sons. I was just being me. Anyway, my father was very distant in my school life. He never came to a concert or event. I was very active in HS and I had a lot on my plate and I really needed my father there but he wasn't. Well when I was a sophomore in HS, my father was diagnosed with Kidney Disease and Diabetes. This impacted him tremendously and immediately. Within that year, my father had to quite his job as a truck driver because he was losing his vision. He started going on dialysis three times a week. About a month after that, he went completely blind. Forcing him to really depend on others and be little more humble. I remember that my mom and I would take turns taking him to the dialysis center. I had to take my father to dialysis every morning before school and my mom would pick him up. This became the daily routine for the rest of my high school days. We really never had a lot of conversation between each other but I did it out of pure love. My father even showed up to my HS graduation. Well when I left for college, I always called my mom but never talked to my father. I didn't hate my father it was just that we never found anything in common. When my mom died in 1998, my father truly felt like he was on his own. Throughout my years at college, I would stay in contact to check up on my father but nothing beyond that. The family was extremely impacted by the death of my mother so I didn't want him to feel like I would totally leave him by the wayside. Our bond did grow stronger eventually. I moved in with my father after I graduated from college. At first, it was a little rocky. We argued over phone calls and groceries and such. I needed to realize that I was no longer a teenager but I had to realize that it was still his house. He would monitor my calls all of the time. He always asked questions about my sexuality. It became a heavy burden upon me. Even though things were getting better, I still realized that I needed to be an adult. So in May of 2004 I moved out on my own. It seemed like that move made our bond grow even stronger. Now I felt like I was truly his son. I would come to visit my father on weekends and try to take care of him as much as I could. I would take out for steak dinners every once in a while. My father had a hard time taking care of himself later on. He moved in with my sister who lived down the road. I remember having to go down to that part of the county to sing at a funeral for the father of a friend. So afterwards, I stopped by to see my sister and my father. Well my sister had left to do some shopping and my niece was at home with my dad. I decided to take them out to get something to eat and enjoy their company. My father wanted a burger and fries with an ice cream cone for dessert. It was odd for him to want this but I obliged and we went to this new diner. Well afterwards he wanted to go back to his house. I wasn't sure if I should take him there but I did. I took to the house and told my sister where he was. All was fine I thought. I get a call the next morning at about 10 am. It is from one of my sisters. She tells me to come to my father's house immediately. I arrive at my father's house to find out that my father had committed suicide that night. My father shot himself with a gun that we never knew that he had. I was totally shaken up. I felt my world crash down. Almost instantly, I felt at blame for the entire situation. I couldn't help but think that I was the cause of his death. I often wonder what would have happened if I didn't take him back to the house. What if I had just let him stay at my sister's house that night? Questions began to roam through my mind. I still have some to this day. I was changed once again. I miss my father. We developed this weird relationship that ended on a tragic note. Wow.

Family Profile #1: My Mother

2006-10-15T01:35:00.000-04:00

Reference Name: Mom

Date Of Birth: 5/24/39

Date Of Death: 11/18/98

Best Memory: Singing to her at her birthday party. She was standing front and center and everyone else was talking and ignoring me. I was 15 at the time. She is and will always be my biggest fan.

I miss my mother very much. She died when I was 18 from Breast Cancer. I remember visiting her in the hospital a lot because it was about 30 minutes from my college. I would go and sing to her and try to make her smile. She was uncomfortable and I knew it. That is probably what hurt me the most. To see her lying there and not being able to help. She would always ask me to sing to her. She was by far my biggest fan. I could always trust her and ask her for advice. I remember seeing the smile on her face when I graduated from High school. I was on the platform so my parents got special seating. She was so happy about it all. I remember when I told her that I got accepted to the college that I wanted to go to. She was so proud of me. I tried to call my mom every day that I could during my freshman year of college. It was rough being a freshman in college away from your parents and your home. I remember one phone call in particular. It was April 1998. My mom called my dorm room. She didn't sound like her usual self. So I asked her what was wrong. She told me that she had breast cancer and that the doctors had given her about 6 months to live. Immediately, I cried. To realize that the one person that showed you any type of love would be taken away in a matter of months was so heartbreaking for me. I was literally crushed. At 18, I was not ready to deal with the pain, the loss, and the sorrow. After the phone conversation, I remember sitting in my room crying for hours. That whole summer was spent making sure that my mom was taken to every doctor's appointment that I could take her to. I changed my life forever. I know longer was a teenager. I was forced to grow up due to circumstance. At the end of the summer, I had the hardest time going back to school. I almost dropped out but my mom wouldn't have it. So I went back to school in the fall but my mind was so focused on my mother that I really wasn't there. The only thing that kept me focused was going to daily chorus rehearsals. For those of you that don't know the Morgan State University Choir, you should know that they are one of the best choirs in the world. They traveled everywhere. Since my freshman year, I had the priviledge of being a part of the Morgan State University Singers, which was the advanced and traveling choir. Because I was a freshman, I always felt intimidated by the other guys in my section. But my sophomore year, I came out of my shell. I became a leader. Well on November 18th, 1998, the choir was rehearsing the Brahm's Requiem. A beautiful piece. Very passionate. On that day, my voice elevated beyond belief. I remember everyone looking at me and saying that there was something special about my voice that day. Dr. Carter, the great maestro, even called me out for a solo that day. He used me as an example for my peers. The one thing that puzzles me is that my voice never got tired. It was like angels were singing for me. I left the choir rehearsal feeling uplifted and confident. I remember going to the cafeteria with a few friends. While we were eating, I notice that my room mate walks in from the exit. I thought that was kind of odd. He came over to me to tell me that my sister was outside waiting for me. So naturally, I took my tray up and went to meet my sister. My sister informed that my mom had passed away. At that moment, my heart hit the floor. I lost all sense of realness. I was completely lost. Without any pause, I got into the car and we drove to my sister's house where my mom was. I was not prepared to walk into the door. I stayed outside for a long time. Everyone was telling me to come in but I took it really hard. So I went in to say my final good byes to my mother. I think I cried for every step that I took. It was a heart gripping moment. One that I never wanted to feel again. I told my mom that I loved her and I would do everything in my power to make her proud. So now, I strive to be the best that I can be for myself but also because I know that my mom is looking down on me and pushing me every step of the way. Some people want to make it in the business to be rich and famous. I don't. Yea it is nice to have that with it but at the end of the day, I just want to do what my mom always wanted me to do. She is my driving force.

Welcome/Background

2006-10-09T11:45:00.000-04:00

Welcome.

My name is Montario. Monty for short. Why Monty? Because people have a hard time pronouncing my name. Just a little about me. I am a 25 year old African American male who lives in Southern Maryland. I have 2 brothers and 5 sisters. I am #7 out of 8. The youngest boy. I skipped 2nd Grade, somehow. I don't why but it happened. I graduated from high school in 1997. I moved to Baltimore and attended Morgan State University in the fall of 1997. My mom died of Breast Cancer in 1998. I went on to continue in school and graduated in May of 2003 with a degree in Vocal Music. I moved back to St. Mary's County to move in with my father, who was blind and had kidney disease. I was a substitute teacher for a year before I decided to teach full time. So that I could be closer to my new school, I decided to move out of my father's house. I moved in with a friend and his brother, who is now my friend as well. I finished my first year of great teaching with a bunch of success. My chorus won many competitions nationwide. Who could ask for a better first year? At the start of my second year, I was faced with tragedy. My father decided that he wanted to depart earlier than intended. He committed suicide. One of the most emotional and tragic turns in my life. I will admit that I have not been the same. I decided to resign from teaching at the moment. I went to New York to be a part of a show that will remain nameless. The show had to cut a couple of people and so the "newbies" left first. So here I sit, back in St. Mary's County, trying to finish a demo and find a way into the business permanently. Music is my heart and soul. It is the one thing that has kept me sane. Well I hope that you enjoy. I plan to use this blog as a diary and possibly a ray of hope for aspiring performers.

Much Love,

Monty