Idol Remarks: RAD on AI

To the Top 12 - Don't Call It A Comeback Edition

2010-03-12T16:33:00.003-05:00

“Don’t call it a comeback…”

First of all, I have indeed missed all of you. I very much enjoyed our exchanges last season, but, alas, I didn’t anticipate having the time to watch this 9th season of “American Idol” consistently – much less properly continue my random thoughts here. That anticipation has proven to be true. I basically saw none of the auditions, very, very little of the Hollywood round, and sporadic performances of the 24-to-12 rounds. Despite that, however, I amazingly have some random thoughts about this season’s shows and some of the competitors. Via the magic of YouTube and catching some of the 24-to-12 rounds on DVR, somehow, I have been able to form some opinions that are, frankly, bubbling over enough that I must share them with my most special AI friends. So, here I go:

Ellen DeGeneres – maybe my expectations were too high. I actually cheered when I found out Paula was not coming back. I cheered further when we learned Ellen was coming on. She’s quick. She’s funny. She’s nice. She represents non-music industry you and me. I got the joke and looked forward to it. What happened? She just really seems uncomfortable doing this, like she’s lost the confidence in herself that she tells the singers they should have. And, why in the world is she commenting about singers having “pitch” problems?!? That’s that music industry catch-all word that nobody outside that world understands (and probably 60% of that world doesn’t know what the #$%* it means either). I am hoping she will find her footing when she gets in the big theater, but right now I am longing for Paula. Well, maybe I shouldn’t go that far.

Kara Dioguardi – Go away. You might recall that I looked forward to her not coming back after her fights with Simon late last season. My feelings haven’t changed. In fact, they have grown as she is now attempting to dominate the judge’s table with Paula gone. It’s close to official now: the show jumped the shark, not with letting Paula go and bringing in Ellen, but when they added Kara as the 4th judge in the first place. Go away.

Randy Jackson – Who cares?

Simon Cowell – Clearly checked out. Nine years of this has worn him down to boredom, and he must be thinking about the U.S. launch of his “X-Factor” this fall. When Simon’s head and heart (he does have one, people) are not in it, it screams, “Why should I care either.”

Now the singers. I hate to be trite and say, like so many others, that “this is the worst group of contestants they’ve ever had”, but it is a little tough to argue the other side. Up front, I don’t like any of the guys right now. Not one bit. Not even “Big Mike” (isn’t everyone already tired of the constant mentioning of that nickname?). Some of comments might be a little unfair because some I have not seen enough, but so be it. Okay, in the order of the singers I would most like to hear/see perform:

1 – Crystal Bowersox. One of the three who inspire me to hang in there to try and watch any of this season at all. Every one of her performances have been steller. She’s super confident but not in an arrogant, inspiring loathing way. And, she looks like she HATES the group songs. You have to love her just for that alone. Then, we have the drama of her health. It seems to me like she could be truly struggling with that. Did anyone notice how she had to sit down while the judges commented after she crushed “Gimme One Reason”. I am obviously hoping for the best, but I am concerned we have not heard the last about this.

2- Siobhan Magnus. Her voice has a quality to it that makes me stop to hear more. And, she’s cute. That quirky kind of cute. I am in marked disagreement with the judges about that high note she hit at the end of “Think” a couple of weeks ago (I thought it sounded REALLY off…Mrs RAD agrees), but I still enjoy her overall.

3- Didi Benami. Nothing special yet for me, but I hate to say this: the storyline regarding her good friend that passed away keeps me interested in her. Thankfully, they are not beating us over the head with the story (like Danny Gokey’s wife), but I still remember. Plus, she’s a cry-er. We are kind of just waiting for the inevitable on-stage meltdown, and that can be fascinating. Shoot me.

Big gap between those three and the rest (for me).

4 – Katie Stevens. She has the voice quality that Siobhan has. But, she has no idea what she is doing. And, why should she? She’s barely 17. I know Alison last season was barely 17 as well, but she had been singing in malls since she was 3 years old. In addition, she (back to Katie) is Disney cute without looking like she hasn’t eaten in three weeks. I want her to do well, but just don’t see it happening.

5- Mike Lynche. Everyone says he sings great, and, for sure, he’s decent. But, you can already see it going to his head, and, I’m sorry, RAD doesn’t like that.

6- Casey James. Kara, get a room! I am pre-disposed not to like this guy, but I actually feel a little bad for him with the way Kara has so openly drooled about him (which is sure to make others hate him). His singing voice means nothing to me. His guitar riffing is nice. Other than that, I don’t care.

Now the comments get really short because I don’t know or I don’t care (yet).

7- Lacey Brown. I’ve heard she can be good. I haven’t seen it.

8- Andrew Garcia. Gotta love the former gang member trying to make a better life story. Otherwise, whatever.

9- Tim Urban. Looks like a frightened puppy every time he performs. Actually funny to watch but not to listen to.

10- Lee Dewyze. Looks a little like David Cook to me. That’s all I’ve got on him.

11- Paige Miles. Who?

12. Aaron Kelly. I’ve heard others are shocked he’s still around.

And, a note on two already departeds:

Katelyn Epperly – if she made the Top 12, she would have been number 2 or 3 on my above list. She crushed me with her “Scientist” performance. She is a little pretty (in that traditional blonde, curly way), she plays the keyboards (that usually gets me), and I like her voice quality (I guess that’s my phrase this year). Oh well. Thanks America.

Lily Scott – never liked her. It was like she was trying to prove how “indie” and different she was every week in the way she dressed and the songs she chose. Any time you have to try so hard to prove you’re different, that’s a problem (for me). And, every song sounded the same to me (unlike Crystal Bowersox).

That’s it for me. The comment section is open now. Do you agree with me on Ellen’s impact (or non-impact)? Am I way off on Kara? Are the singers that I don’t know or don’t care about (yet) any good to you? I’m not sure when or if I will be back, but thank you for letting me share my too voluminous random thoughts.

Final Result - Win-Win-Win Edition

2009-05-21T10:15:00.006-04:00

Mrs. RAD, Mrs. RAD's Mom, and I watched most of the season finale of the usual fluff and filler with the sound muted. Before commenting on the actual result, a few observations on the moments that caused us to take notice (even if it was mostly morbid train-wreck notice) and briefly turn-up the volume:

* Boy, how desperate is Kara DioGuardi to stay on this show next season? The "Check-Your-Self-Respect-At-The-Door" Network strikes again. I know just about everyone (me, very included) has turned against her as the season wore on (with the crescendo coming with the double debut of that "song" she wrote), but it seemed rather pitiful that she would consent to remind us of that ridiculous feud with the obviously troubled "Bikini Girl". And, to do it in such spectacular fashion (pun pitifully intended) with her own bikini was pretty sad. Mrs. RAD said that it was just embarrassing for everyone involved (including us as viewers). Mrs. RAD's Mom felt bad that Kara's dream of a successful singing career that she so desperately wanted was never (and will never be) fulfilled and also tried to convince me that my one-year old daughter would never hate her father as much as "Bikini Girl" obviously hates hers. Fingers crossed.

* We sure did get a lot of Megan Joy tonight, didn't we? Suffice it to say that was just a visual observation, and we felt no compulsion whatsoever to hear if her singing ability had improved since her ouster many weeks ago. However, it is mildly interesting that the producers are still trying to push her on us. The only contestant to get more favoritism than her this season was Adam. Could we possibly be hearing of a FOX Television series dramedy pilot deal starring Megan (for comedy) and Adam (for drama, of course) in the very near future?

* I am probably the only one that thinks this, but, on the few occasions we saw her this season, I was always pretty impressed with Tatiana Del Toro's singing voice. But, of course, she might be the craziest, mentally unstable personality we have ever seen on this show in eight seasons. I really hope that was all a stupid act or that her family performs an intervention on her soon before it is too late.

* Ending the non-results filler part of the show with Adam and Kris dueting on "We Are the Champions" by Queen? You're kidding, right? Biased towards Adam all the way to the end I see. Can you imagine being in Kris's head when he was told they were doing that? Why not just have everyone on stage wearing Katy Perry capes embroidered with Adam's name while he and Kris duet a song from "Wicked"?

American Idol Winner Prediction: Kris Allen
Actual American Idol Winner: Kris (The best possible result for EVERYONE)

Kris is the humble underdog winner that makes for a great American story. Adam gets even more publicity for being upset than even if he had won as expected. As mentioned yesterday by commenter Curly QT (saw you on Fox NY 5, by the way), he can now sign with a record company that might have a clue what to do with him (which I guarantee "19 Entertainment" had none). Fox got the ratings of having a compelling favorite vs underdog of stark opposites finale. This was a satisfying ending to what had turned into a less than compelling season. Of course, it would have been more satisfying for me if it were Allison in the end (for goodness sakes, RAD, let it go)…

One more Mrs. RAD observation regarding Kara's song to end the season and start the American Idol Kris's career: "…so, it took three people to write that song????"

So, that's it. On a personal note, I want to sincerely thank all the readers, supporters, and commenters of this blog. It has been quite fun sharing my opinions with you, and you putting up with them and even encouraging me further along the way. I have not decided if I will back next season, so, if this is it, thank you everyone again, take care, and enjoy the music.

Now, on to "So You Think You Can Dance"!

Final 2 - Upset Edition

2009-05-20T09:31:00.002-04:00

Let’s get right into this.

Wait a minute, I have two sideline issues that I need to mention first: (a) I cannot put into words strong enough to express my disgust for that chessy mess of a song written by Kara DioGuardi. I know that every year the American Idol winner’s song is stupid, but this was just a special kind of stupid. And, (b) I’m not sure why Simon Cowell even had buttons on that shirt. That was just ridiculous. Now, on to the performers:

1. Kris Allen, Contestant’s Choice: “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers – I will admit again that I have totally underestimated Kris all season. I have thought him to be boring with a few occasional surprisingly (to me) good performances. When he sang this song earlier in the season, he showed what potential he had. Tonight, in his reprise, I believe he was even better than the first time.

Simon Fuller’s Choice: “What’s Goin’ On” by Marvin Gaye – I was very concerned when we were told what Simon Fuller (creator of “American Idol” and the Spice Girls) had chosen for Kris. This is as iconic as “One” last week. Those Brits seemingly love to throw challenges out there to give those that think are really good a chance at greatness or flopping. Kris did not flop. Far from it. The judges that did not believe he did something special to “make the song his own” were being plain dopey. I had thought “Ain’t No Sunshine” (both times) were Kris’s best performances this season. Then, he surpassed that with this song 12 minutes later.

Common Song: “No Boundaries” by Kara DioGuardi and two others – This terrible song of drivel, in my opinion, was written for the expected winner Adam. While Kris couldn’t do much with it, I will say that he was competent with it. My bias could very be showing here, but I honestly feel that he performed Adam’s song better than Adam. I hated both versions, but I tolerated Kris’s more.

2. Adam Lambert, Contestant’s Choice: “Mad World” by Tears For Fears – Oh, the drama of Adam. The lighting. The smoke. The long coat. The boots. It’s all about the “Adam Lambert Experience” as he now always feels that he has to be bigger than the song. Maybe it is because of all the hype about him and him feeling that he has to live up to it. Maybe he is bored with just plain singing (or he fears we would be bored if he just sang without all the theatrics). I don’t know. But, this performance is a primary example of why I think Adam will not sell albums. His game works the first time he does something, but I am not excited whatsoever to see it a second time. When he first did this song earlier in the season, it was surprising and haunting and stood out. When he did a second time, I (for one) did not care and actually fast-forwarded my DVR a quarter of the way through his performance. Of course, he is a good singer, but, if even he doesn’t think that is enough, I’m not going to feel bad for not caring.

Simon Fuller’s Choice: “A Change is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke – Another chance at flopping or greatness with an iconic song. When Sam Cooke sings this, you know he is singing about a change in society. When Adam Lambert sings it, it seems like he is singing that HE is the change that is coming. He has made some good choices in the past of holding back from his customary over-the-top shrieking on the right songs. Not last night with this one. Adam remains polarizing to the end. If you like his over-the-top act, then this was for you. If you never liked it, well, you know where I’m going. If you are in the middle (like me), you just want him to do it at the right times. On “Cryin’”, shriek away. On “A Change is Gonna Come”, not so much. But, maybe that’s just me.

Common Song: “No Boundaries” by Kara DioGuardi and two others – How many more ways can I talk about the awfulness of the song? Adam did the best he could and did act out the song in addition to singing it. I am not an Adam hater, so I’ll just leave this song alone.

At the beginning of this season, the son of one of my very best friends commented that Adam is “so now” or “current” (I can’t remember exactly which one). Mrs. RAD has commented rather to the opposite that Adam is more “retro-outrageous” and is not very original at all. But, while everyone has been talking about the Adam phenomenon all season, Kris has quietly shown up every week too and humbly stated this week that he belongs as well. Adam might be “current”, but that doesn’t mean he is “tomorrow” as well. He is a passing fad like Acid-washed jeans. I am having a tough time imaging an entire album of Adam Lambert songs, and I know I wouldn’t buy it. Meanwhile, as soon as Kris’s version of “What’s Goin’ On” is available on iTunes, I am getting it. As much as it is derided, there is a reason that “pop music” sells. It is popular. And, so is Kris.

Adam has his definite fan base and so does Kris. The other contestant who also had a fan base this season was Daniel Gokey. Surely, many of them have gone away and are not voting with him gone. But, for those that will vote, can you see them going for Adam?

American Idol Winner Prediction: Kris Allen

Take care. Your comments are much appreciated.

Top 3 - Ultimate Manipulation Edition

2009-05-13T09:35:00.003-04:00

Let’s just get something straight right out front: It is beyond obvious that the American Idol producers want Adam is the finals. Whether they care if he wins or not is debatable, but the outright favored-nation treatment that he is receiving is incredible (Simon picks his song, he gets the last slot – second week in a row, mind you – so that he is freshest performance is voters’ minds, etc.). Don’t get me wrong, he is a phenomenon that has taken over the show and is probably deserving of recognition (if just for curiosity’s sake alone), but the extra assistance seems unfair. However, who said life, much less Hollywood and the music industry, is fair? Okay, moving on.

3. Kris Allen, Randy and Kara’s Choice: “Apologize” by OneRepublic – The show’s producers clearly don’t care about Kris. By handing his judges’ choice over to Randy and Kara (more evidence that it is stupid to have BOTH of them), he, in my opinion, was handicapped. It is no surprise that they would pick a very recent, too popular song that could easily be compared to the original artist by the youths (that is usually a bad situation – see Matt Giraud doing The Fray a few weeks ago). And, then in this crucial moment, Kris could not find the courage to change the song’s arrangement, probably BECAUSE the judges picked it. Then, Kara crushes him for not doing it. Bad situation. But, at least some good will come out of this: Kara’s overly-defensive challenge to Simon’s criticism of the song choice virtually assures us that we will not see her next season. She might not make to next week. Anyways, back to Kris: it was good to see him at the piano, showing the he is a multi-talented musician. But, he definitely sounded soft and shaky because he clearly did not want to sing this song. He is in trouble.

Kris’s Choice: “Heartless” by Kanye West – Kanye? Really? I was on the verge of taking everything back I said yesterday about Kris picking good songs for himself, but, with the way he Mraz-ed it up, it ended up working for me for the most part. It was tough for me, however, seeing him connect with the words and meaning of the lyrics to this song when we know his cute wife is surely staring adoringly in his face as he sings it. Plus, his voice was pleasant enough, but does “pleasant” fit with “Heartless”? Let’s see if his strong fan base shoves it in the judges’/producers’ faces and carries him to next week.

2. Daniel Gokey, Paula’s Choice: “Dance, Little Sister” by Terence Trent D’Arby (TTD) – I don’t think I ask for much. But, yesterday, I asked for Daniel to get a song in which he wouldn’t yell at me. Strike one, I guess. To be honest, TTD’s original is not screamed and is soulful, but Dan is Dan. Some probably really like his energy. Some, like me, think this style for him is very one-note and trite. It was not a bad song choice though. I have been frankly tired of the almost exclusive run of ballads that past few weeks. Finally, an up-tempo song that had the crowd pumped up (even though he had trouble keeping up with the words of the song). Daniel looked in good shape after this performance.

Daniel’s Choice: “You Are So Beautiful” by Joe Cocker – My other request from yesterday: try not singing a “remember my wife” ballad. Strike two. Oh well. Despite my request(s) being denied, I have to say that this is most impressed I have been with him yet. I thought that arrangement of such a familiar song was fantastic. The choir-like middle of the song was especially gripping for me. And, this is a song was where his earnest performing-style works. I could have done without the obligatory American Idol “big note” at the end, but he had already done well enough that it didn’t matter to me. He’s done what he had to do to fulfill Paula’s prediction and the producer’s season-long desire for him to be in the finale. And, he has done it his way throughout (despite my protest).

1. Adam Lambert, Simon’s Choice: “One” by U2 – Wow, what a song choice. Very challenging to take on one of the best songs ever, but Simon also gave him a shot to do greatness (are you listening, Randy and Kara?). Plus, it probably doesn’t hurt Adam that supposedly Bono himself personally approved him singing it on the show (once again, unfair pimping). I cannot do a sufficient review on this performance without Mrs. RAD, because this very well could be her favorite song of all-time from her favorite band of all-time. Unfortunately, she was not available to watch this week. I will let you know how she feels when she is able to see it. For me, the theatrical lighting and hand gestures acting out the song were a little much for me, but, c’mon, it’s Adam. Two things are clear: Adam is in such a different league vocally than the others, and he is not afraid to take chances even with the Simon choice of an iconic song (in contrast to Kris’s possible fear of changing “Apologize”). I also could have done without the signature over-the-top screeching high notes just thrown in there for no real reason, but so what, I guess. Simon gave him a time-bomb of a song choice where he could really blow himself up and told him to defuse it. Mission accomplished (to me…we’ll see what Mrs. RAD thinks).

Adam’s Choice: “Cryin” by Aerosmith – This almost seemed like an oddly conventional choice for Adam to close the show. There was his usual over-the-top screeching again and vocal gymnastics, and I am not sure how much wide appeal that is going to have (for the AI vote or for his assured album release, win or lose). But, again, his singing ability is just beyond the other two. And, I will admit that at one point during this performance that he sounded so impressive (in his way, mind you) that I got a brief chill. Here’s my problem, as if they were not pushing him enough, Simon outright tells Adam’s fans not to be complacent, virtually campaigning for him? So, a number of weeks ago, he gives a never before seen standing ovation to him, and now this. That deserves another “wow” (and, for sure, some anger from some circles).

This is quite a contest we have here. All three have well-energized bases, and there is no clarity of how this could end up. The show will be crest-fallen if Adam is not in the finals, but it could be the best thing to happen to him. He is bigger than the show this season and does not need to win. I don’t know if he can sell many albums past the first week of release (Mrs. RAD, among others I am sure, believes that he is a passing fascination that cannot sell long-term), but, no matter. His fame has begun. Kris needs a finale win the most for a career start. As for Dan, it would be a consolation prize for the show if he were the eventual winner. I will take a wild guess and say that Kris’s fans are more determined than Daniel’s.

Finale Contestants Prediction: Adam Lambert and Kris Allen

What do you have to say?

Top 4 Results/Top 3 Preview - Moving On Edition

2009-05-12T12:18:00.003-04:00

So, a proper amount of time has passed for me to get over the injustice of last week’s vote. Who was with me in being frustrated when Allison absolutely crushed “Cry Baby” after being eliminated? If she had been that fired up on performance night, she probably would not have been sent home.

Quick Result Show Hits:

* Please, no more group songs EVER again.

* Paula, no more performing EVER again (but thank you for extending your lip-synching streak to 21 years).

* No Doubt: love ya, Gwen, but a tour being used TO WRITE a new album? I’m not sure when they actually moved to Bizarro World, but I hope her kids like it there.

With the three remaining contestants, I honestly have no guess on how this could go. I think any of them could win. The format tonight (one song picked by the performer, one song picked by the judges/producers) will be very telling (especially the judges’ pick where they could really set one or two of them up for a finale run). Here is my review and preview of the remaining guys. As you can see, I could not have been wronger about America’s support for these folks two months ago:

Kris Allen (Original Ranking: 10th out of 11) – “My wife thinks he’s cute. I don’t care. I have nothing else to say. He has no chance…”. These were my comments about Kris in my 8th Season Premiere Edition of “RAD on AI”. Wow. What did I miss? Well, a fact I certainly overlooked was that he was (and still is) the most musically talented of this year’s contestants. He plays acoustic guitar, electric guitar, keyboards, and who knows what else. And, he clearly understands music. I know that sounds simple, but it is actually complex. Why do the judges constantly carp that so-n-so “picked the wrong song” for them? Because, it is not easy. Rarely did they say that about Kris (I recall twice: “All You Want to Do Is Dance” and last week’s “Come Together”. However, I still think Kris had very few good options for him last week). Most importantly, Kris understands his limitations and sticks to his strengths: sing soft, look cute. He’s still boring to me, but he picks the right song, sings it well enough to stay in the middle of the pack, and, when he doesn’t, he has the fan base to bail him out. After last week’s disappointing ouster of my favorite and the unfortunate manner in which it went down, I now throw my full support to this underdog. With the female support that it is obvious that he has now, I think he has a little bit of a chance. It is beyond embarrassing to write that after what I wrote on March 13th. I will never ever buy your album, but go Kris!

Danny Gokey (Original Ranking: 7th) – “He’s easy to root for, but there are better, sellable folks here…” (March 13th comment). Never underestimate the power of a tragic backstory. Props to Danny though for milking it minimally and only in indirect ways. (Brief pause for a pet peeve statement: Danny, Dude, you’re 28 and should not be calling yourself “Danny”. C’mon, Ricky (Rick) Schroeder and Danny (Dan) Bonaduche led the way on this one.) And, maybe nice guys don’t finish last. I think Daniel had a fine sense of humor about his awful performance last week. If you saw his face last week after Allison’s farewell video played, you could see genuine remorse about what had transpired. (Then, give up your spot back to her if you want to set things right! Okay, RAD let it go already…). No matter what, you know Daniel is always going to lay it out there on the stage. And, America loves him even when he stinks. All I ask for now is one week where he is not yelling or singing a “remember my wife” ballad. If they set him up with that this week, and he delivers, all (well, most) will be forgiven.

Adam Lambert (Original Ranking: 6th) – “…you either have to love or hate this guy…I’ll just say that he has some characteristics that we will have to see if “Middle America” can deal with in their American Idol…” (March 13th). I’ll easily stand by my first statement. I’m not so sure anymore on the second. Without question, he is the one expected to win now. He is the only one with breakout national press and the judges and producers crave the publicity that his theatrics have brought the show. But, would it be the best of all worlds for the American Idol team if Adam makes the finals, pulls in a great TV rating, and then loses? Then, they would not have to put up with the headache of trying to repackage and market this guy to a wider audience. I frankly think that they have no idea what to do or how to write and produce for him if he wins. We’ll see if the judges’ tones change at all towards him this week or next. It could be fascinating seeing what song they choose for him to sing tonight.

I would love to see your comments about last week’s results and/or any anticipatory preview you might have. See you tomorrow.

Top 4 - Scream Edition

2009-05-06T13:54:00.002-04:00

And, then there were four…

Before we get started, I want to announce the very welcome return of Mrs. RAD’s interjections to the commentary this week after a two week absence. Let me tell you, she had some built-up American Idol frustration that needed some release after her hiatus. Thank goodness, this week’s “final four” episode provided several awkward moments for such outbursts.

To begin, the impact of the misreporting of a Neil Diamond week continues to reverberate a week later. The disappointment felt by Mrs. RAD, due to her anticipation of Kris singing “Forever in Blue Jeans” being denied, was only further exacerbated by the appearance this week of Guns-n-Roses’s Slash in the mentor role. “Wait a minute: no Neil Diamond, but instead I get Slash?!? This is a traveshamockery, and a boycott must begin!” (You don’t even want to know the reaction when I informed her that Jamie Foxx was the mentor last week.) And, one more obvious thing on this subject: Slash – in ANY mentor position?! Much less, singing? Moving on. After a glass of wine, I was able to coax her back and we un-paused the DVR…

Danny SHOULD Go
Allison WILL Go (I have no faith anymore)
The Judges (All of them, including Simon) MUST Go

4. Kris Allen (Last Week’s Ranking: 4th), “Come Together” by The Beatles – As regular readers know, I never have much to say about Kris. I understand what Kara’s “marketability” appeal of Kris is about, but I just cannot see him as a winner of the show. He has always bored me. This week, however, I could not help, for the first time, finding myself rooting for him. I would hope that the themes for the weeks are determined far in advance of knowing which contestants would be left, but, whether it was intentional or not, this was not a genre to showcase Kris’s strengths. Maybe he could have picked a better song (Mrs. RAD suggested Janis Joplin’s “Piece of My Heart” that was wrongly recommended by Kara for Allison), but I feel that he was pretty stuck in a no-win situation. Despite his struggles, the ladies seem to love him, and I have more faith in his fan base to rally to his cause and save him than just about anyone else.

3. Allison Iraheta (3rd), “Cry Baby” by Janis Joplin – First of all, ummmm, Adam has had his own hair girl throughout the competition? One that he has had for two years? Stop it. I do not even know why I am acting surprised by this revelation. I will admit when Allison picked this song, I openly cringed. You do NOT pick Janis Joplin unless you going to absolutely crush it (like this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ef-f-l2Pbn8). I definitely felt she could have lifted Grace Slick’s “Somebody to Love” to great heights (or, Freddie Mercury’s “Somebody to Love” for that matter, as Simon confused). But, after the opening line of Allison’s performance, Mrs. RAD exclaimed, “Wow. This is excellent. She sounds just like Janis, but far from in a karaoke way…”. All I can say is that she is still my favorite, that is not going to change (even if she goes), and all the judges are utter dopes. And, I am happy that she is not going down meekly. It definitely would have been trite (Mrs. RAD’s word) for HER (not Kris) to do “Piece of My Heart”, and she was right to tell those dummies so. And, yes Adam, her hair did look great finally. Thanks for the help.

2. Danny Gokey (2nd), “Dream On” by Aerosmith – So, is he trying to get me to stop saying that he is screaming at me by screaming a song that he is supposed to scream? I don’t care: Danny, stop screaming at me! And, Mrs. RAD just could not get past the satin-backed vest with the purple shirt. I have to apologize for appearing to be a Gokey-hater now, but that performance could have been seen at any University of Wisconsin frat house with a karaoke machine. This is where his tragic background story is probably going to come into play to keep him out of danger, in my opinion. Otherwise, he would be my pick to go.

A quick pause for a comment on the worthlessness that is Kara Dioguardi. Okay, that’s being a little mean, but, when she had “five words for us: ‘that was the best performance of the night’”, I dismissed it as being caught up in the moment. When she called “Studio 54” Studio 57 instead, I just forgave her for being young and confused. But, now, when you are actually in the music industry and you call “Crazy” “early Aerosmith”, as if it was supposed to be earlier than “Dream On”, then I have no excuse but to call you dumb and have no further hope for you. Please be quiet, Kara, from now on. I would rather listen to Paula rather than you. I hope you realize how bad that is.

1. Adam Lambert (1st), “Whole Latta Love” by Led Zepplin – Face it. This was supposed to be Adam’s week to do whatever he wanted to blow our doors off. I think that worked against him. He has thrived on turning whatever theme of the week on its head to entertain (some would say, shock) the audience and turn things to his advantage. But, what happens when the genre theme is turned to your advantage? Adam couldn’t seem to figure out how to surprise us and live up to his weekly anticipatory hype. I felt this song choice was too easy, and, honestly, found nothing special about it. Maybe, I’m the dummy, but I believe the judges exuberantly lavish praise upon him was a bit of over-correction after they felt themselves and Adam’s voters (whoever you are) getting complacent, which sent him to the Bottom 2 last week. Don’t get me wrong, he never performs badly, but I have grown tired of the act. We’ll see what the Midwest has to say about this.
A brief word about the duets (also known as “time fillers”):
Kris and Danny, “Renegade” by Styx – After my dog listened to the first stanza, he left the room, went to bed, and did not come back. Also, Danny, stop screaming at me.

Adam and Allison, “Slow Ride” by Foghat – Yes, they will both release albums whether they win or not. And, yes, they will have a duet with each other on those albums. And, if Kara calls Adam or anybody else on this show a rock “god” one more time, I will openly pray for the appropriate lightening strikes.

Bottom 2 Prediction: Allison and Adam

Can’t wait to see your comments on this one!

Top 5 Results - Loving The Drama Edition

2009-04-30T09:25:00.005-04:00

Bottom 3 Prediction: Kris Allen, Allison Iraheta, Matt Giraud
Elimination Prediction: Allison (with a heavy heart)

Actual Bottom 3: Kris Allen, Matt Giraud, Adam Lambert
Actual Elimination: Matt Timberfake with a fake gracious Adam hugging (and kissing) him away.

Question 1: Adam's close call - wasn't it just a matter of inevitability he would see the Bottom 3 at least once?

Answer1: Adam, more that any other contestants in years is getting wide national mention. It was seeming like that this was only a forgone conclusion of his eventual victory. But, funny things happen on the road to destiny, right? You wear a bad outfit; you don't have your best singing voice for a crucial night; and, most importantly, a competing backlash-against-hollywood movement grows and becomes loud (and/or stealthy). Now, this could form as a rallying of other contestants' base to defeat Adam or just plain Adam-haters using another contestant as their "stop-Adam" vesell (my choice would be Allison, but it is a true-crap shoot to predict this scenario). Anyways, just as Allison base rallied to her this week, after her repeated close call last week, i will anticipate cell towers in West Hollywood and NYC's theatre district will get some extra work this Tuesday night. One more thing: didn't Adam just looked like he LOVED being in this position of the Bottom 2? Loving every minute of drama that he strives to create.

Q2: Was anyone else just as impreessed by the Group medley ("I've Got Rhythm/Don't Mean a Thing)?

A2: Not that I usually watched this fluff (thank goodnees, again, for DVR technology), but i held-up forwarding and found little (if any) moment to be cringeworthy. Maybe the best they have ever done. Good job, Top 5 (even you, Phoney Adam).

Q3: With Simon trick of manipulating complacent Allison voters to the "booth", can she keep them active enough to the finale?

A3: I hate to be generic, but is now solely about song choices for her. Next week is pivotal since Ryan Seacrest already announced that we will have a "Rock-n-Roll" theme, which is seemingly right down her alley. If she stumbles with a wrong song choice, Simon will not kind. If she nails both songs (i think this is the week the performers sings two songs), everyone else will be trouble because the rest of the guys are the splitting the remaining votes.

Q4: Did Matt deserve to go?

A4: Yes, but that still doesn't mean it was an easy call. He has shown moments of talent. It's just he hasn't figured out himself to consistently go his own path. I will contend that, if Matt had sang a song this week where he smoothly paid the piano, he would not be going home. Thems the breaks.

One final thing: Jamie Foxx, Blame It - I do not care where it is ranked on the Billboard charts, but i am definitely slipping it into my mental category of worst mainstream songs I have ever heard. Yes, i'm old, but so are you, Jamie! You never want to be that pathetic older guy working the dance floor to show young you are in spirit. People just laugh at you. Believe me, I know.

Oh, Danny, I am sure you were watching your personal idol Taylor Hicks very closely. And, i fully expect you to pull the harmonica solo next or the following week.

Get ready for Rock-n-Roll Week (confirmed). This could be a REALLY good because these four can be very, very interesting.

Bring on your thoughts!

Let me know what you think.

Top 5 - Where's My Diamond Edition

2009-04-29T11:22:00.001-04:00

Okay, maybe I was just upset that I misreported the musical theme of the week (I sincerely apologize to all my readers for getting you amped-up for some Neil Diamond. I will be sure to triple confirm internet rumors going forward.) Or, maybe I was too buzzed from tequila shots to watch last night’s “Rat Pack” standards episode with any rationality. I will just say out front that I had a tough time truly enjoying anyone’s performance this week. I look forward to the posting of your opinions to see if I was the only one to feel this way.

One more thing before I launch into my countdown. I have already expressed my disgust for the show’s director (no need to research and publish his name in this space) for not being able to end the show on time. Given the problems that they have had in this regard all season, how could they think that a 5-minute tribute to the greatness of Jamie Foxx was necessary? Just asking. Moving on now.

Matt SHOULD Go
Allison WILL Go (Please be wrong)
Nobody MUST Go (I think we do have a deserving Top 5)

5. Matt Giraud (Last week ranking: 5th), “My Funny Valentine” – So, this theme of “Rat Pack“ standards was supposed to be his specialty? Because of the hat? I’m confused. In my opinion, Matt is in desperate trouble. He had another week where he tried to do too much to the song vocally and just ended up all over the place. Plus, his performance nearly put me over the edge to dreamland, but I could say that about everyone on this night as they all went the balladeer route. With the thin ice that Matt has been skating, he needed to stand out and doing the same mode of song everyone else was doing was an unfortunate choice. Get back to the piano, Dude! One last thing on Matt, Simon’s defense of him smacked of “save the one that we saved so we don’t look stupid if he is sent home two weeks later”.

4. Kris Allen (4th), “The Way You Look Tonight” – I should have given up commenting on Kris long ago. Yes, he knows who is and usually does not “over do it” with his performances. But, if who he is bores me to tears…never mind. He sang fine. Nothing special. Unless you count that growth above his lip. Somebody help me by telling what that was supposed to be, because a mustache-attempt explanation would just be pathetic.

3. Allison Iraheta (1st), “Someone To Watch Over Me” – It’s official. I’m scared. Allison, I believe, is the best pure singer and true performer on the show (I’m talking to you, Adam), but the lack of charisma for this popularity contest is an absolute concern. In addition, she is continuing to pick these slow-build songs that can lose the A.D.D. audience that is America before she gets to her “money, belt-out” part of the song. Simon sees this, of course, and is pulling out one of his oldest tricks to save her: openly and clearly telling the American Idol voters that she is in trouble to try and bring forth a rally in complacent Allison fans. I hope it works. One more thing: Randy, I may never forgive you for implying any American Idol contestant could be better than Pink. You are delusional and need to seek help immediately.

2. Danny Gokey (3rd), “Come Rain or Come Shine” – How many times can I (and many other commenters) say that every song that Danny sings sounds the same? I guess as many times as Danny is here to perform, because, folks, he’s not going to change. And, really, why should he? The judges shower praise on him week-after-week. The fawning American Idol studio audience cries sympathy tears for his life situation every week. When you have a formula that is working, there is no need to divert just because RAD is tired of you earnestly screaming at him. By the way, American Idol audience, if you are going to clap while the contestants are performing (especially on a slow-ish song), please, please, please get some rhythm (you were totally throwing Danny off at the beginning of his passionate melody).

1. Adam Lambert (1st), “Feeling Good” – Sorry, TMC, but I missed the Cher thing again. Why? Because this dude tries so hard to make it impossible to focus on just one thing like that. I mean, seriously, the spotlight, the decension of the stairs, the suit? Good grief. But, Adam does not care if you love or hate him, just as long as you are watching him and then talking about him. Mission accomplished. Simon’s line to Randy (“…saying that you are surprised by Adam being theatrical is like you saying you are surprised by a cow mooing…”) might have been his best, funniest, and truest quote in the eight seasons of the show. I put Adam in the Number 1 position with great reluctance, but the signs are getting pretty glaring. Also, do you know how angry I am that my Top 2 now are the same Top 2 that Paula predicted in the week of the Top 13? Just awful.

Bottom 3 prediction: Kris, Allison, and Matt.

I can’t wait to see what you have to say.

Top 7 Redux Results - Double Jeopardy Edition

2009-04-23T15:34:00.000-04:00

Bottom 3 Prediction: Anoop Desai, Lil Rounds, Matt Giraud
Elimination Prediction: Anoop and Lil

Actual Bottom 3: Anoop Desai, Lil Rounds, Allison Iraheta (NO!!!!)
Actual Elimination: Anoop and Lil

Question 1: What is going on with Allison?
Answer 1: I don’t know, but I’ll give it a shot. Her voting base seems to be limited (yes, to those that like great singing). She’s young and, unfortunately, she does not have the winning, communicative, and charismatic personality that it might take to win over casual voting fans in this popularity contest. Also, (and I know I have received push back on this subject), I think her outfit last night was not a vote-getter. Skin-tight black leather corset and white hooker heels made a lot of parents go and make sure their own teenage daughters were safely in the house (precious time that could have been spent voting for Allison if she had worn something “better”). Third, I believe a tangential result of Matt being “saved” by the judges last week is a rallying of Matt’s fans who were casually non-voting before this week. Those fans realized that he was in trouble (he was eliminated, for goodness sake) and the save gave them a second chance as well to keep him going (these “extra” votes keeping him out of this week’s bottom 3). Finally, how antsy did the judges (Simon) have to be looking at Anoop and Allison and realizing they were on the verge of paying for using their one-time option one week too early?

Q2: Paula as stern choreographer: did it work?
A2: Considering I wanted her off the show 24 hours earlier, it was mildly refreshing to see her be a little tough with her kiddies when teaching the routine. And, I also found it very appropriate for the gang to completely lip-synch the performance since Paula hasn’t sang a live note on stage since before the “Forever Your Girl” album. Finally, was it any surprise the best lip synch job was by Adam? What a professional.

Q3: Any comments on David Archuleta?
A3: Ummm, nope. My wife implored me to fast-forward the DVR past it because she was very sleepy and knew Archu-Grobin would surely put her over the edge. I was very grateful for the request. I hope you don’t mind if our guest commenters unleash on this particular part of the show.

So, now we finally head into what I think is the serious part of the competition. All the pretenders are gone (those that I thought to be weak – think Kris – have shown themselves to be challengers). And, I have heard that next week is Neil Diamond Week. It’s now hard to forecast who is in the most trouble, but, hopefully, Allison latest brush with elimination rallies her casual non-voting fans. I know my cell phone will be ready to go to work.

One last thing: K.C., you should have really turned down this gig last night.

Let me know what you think.

Top 7 Redux - No Safety Net Edition

2009-04-22T05:58:00.000-04:00

This edition may prove to be a little shorter than my previous postings due to my more unusual circumstances of being on the road.

First, for a general observation: maybe the contestants learned tonight that they should just ignore the week's intended format all together. The judges' ubiquitous praise for those that rearranged the songs to be other than disco for their “originality” was the obvious actual theme of the night. When the first few performers did it, I thought they were cheating a little. As the night went on, and the judges never called them on it, nay, showered compliments on those that did it, I realized the pattern. Hopefully, those that are left afterwards learned the valuable lesson: do whatever fits you best (except for you Lil…they will never ever like whatever you do).

Anoop SHOULD Go

Lil and Anoop WILL Go

Paula MUST Go

7. Lil Rounds (Last Week’s Ranking: 6th), “I’m Every Woman” by Chaka Khan – Poor confused Lil. “Be a diva”. “”Know who you are”. She is the victim of type-casting from the beginning of this process but never being able to fit the type. And, folks, I am sorry to nitpick like the rest of the judges, but the wigs are just distracting now. It is tough to say she is finally being who she is when she is looking so radically different every week. I will say this: if she sang these songs better (no matter what type of songs she did), I wouldn’t care about something as trivial as that, and the judges might be more forgiving too. My sister, who is a strong Lil supporter, commented during her performances: “Ummm, she sounds a little pitchy”. Hoping to finally get the answer to what Randy has been meaning with that for seven years, I asked, “What is that?” Answer: “I don’t know, but she doesn’t sound good.” There you go. “Death spot” first performing position plus weak performance equals bottom three (at best).

6. Anoop Desai (7th), “Dim All the Lights” by Donna Summer – Facial hair didn’t work for me. His wardrobe is a continuing disaster and is being made worse for me because it is obviously intentional. And, just like with Lil, if I enjoyed his singing I wouldn’t care about these things. He is a bore. And, what was going with that ending? It felt like he was told on the spot to end abruptly so they could finish on-time (which they didn’t again, by the way). The “but he can sing” mantra (that I have admittedly trumpeted before as well) has gotten old. End this now.

5. Matt Giraud (3rd), “Staying Alive” by the Bee Gees – My goodness, how this guy has dropped like a stone since I declared he was a likely winner. The collective American groan when they heard what song he had picked was deafening. But, at least he was truer to the week’s format than most of the others. He is in trouble with me this week because my original critique of him from Top 13 week is still true: we already have a Justin Timberlake in this world. We don’t need a Justin Timberfake (confession: not my original phrase but it is so true that it must be used in this space). It did look like, however, that he was trying to answer TMC’s call for Giraud friends to show themselves. Then again, there are a lot of unemployed actors in Hollywood.

4. Kris Allen (5th), “(She Works) Hard for the Money” by Donna Summer – He was the first in performance order to change the arrangement of the song to be anything other than disco to fit himself. At the time, I criticized thinking, “I didn’t know Jason Mraz did a remake of this song”, and I thought the judges would use the “you’re being indulgent” line. But, whatever. I have to stop hating on Kris. The judges and the people (let’s be for real: the women) love him. He can sing okay, he plays instruments, and he easily replaces Matt as a “middle-of-the-road” longshot alternative to Adam and Allison because he is, again, cutey-patuty (the last time I am saying that). And, one more thing, I have reached my point in the season when I can no longer tolerate Paula Abdul. If it was up to her, no one would ever leave and we would have 36 idols every season. I am sick of her incessant distracting dancing (and, with Lil, she danced and then STILL criticized), and I am tired of her cutting Simon and everyone else off like the show is about her. Seriously, does anyone EVER care what she has to say? Please, someone give me the other side of this. Okay, off the soapbox now.

3. Danny Gokey (4th), “September” by Earth, Wind, and Fire – I struggle to say anything about him. Earnest and passionate performer. Boy, that is repetitive of me, isn’t it? As others have commented in the past, every song sounds the same with him. I cannot imagine him selling any album past the first week even with the American Idol marketing juggernaut. What is Taylor Hicks doing these days? Oh, and back to the Paula soapbox: “One of the sexiest voices ever…” (???) She is a lunatic and must be muted at all times. Back to Danny. He is always good enough, however, to make it to the next week.

2. Adam Lambert (2nd), “If I Can’t Have You” by the Bee Gees – So, the role this week was “Make ‘Em Cry Adam”. My brother commented during the judges assessments of Adam: “Look at him, ACTING humble”. Adam, the world knows what you’re doing. But, you have to admit that his vocal range is the best this year and maybe that the show has ever had (I will have to give that last statement some thought, but no matter), and he does live up to the anticipation people have to see him every week. Maybe this nation of AI voters doesn’t care that they will never see the real Adam. Maybe, they don’t want to see the real Adam.

1. Allison Iraheta (1st), “Hot Stuff” by Donna Summer – I usually save my fashion issues for those who perform mediocre, but what is the fascination with putting Allison in outfits that make her look like a hooker from “Starsky & Hutch”? Is Randy (or Ryan, to be racially neutral) going to dress like Huggy Bear next week? Anyways, Allison’s excellent smoky Pat Benatar-like vocals made me not care that this was not a disco arrangement. She’s still my favourite.

Okay, this didn’t turn out as short as I thought it would.

Bottom 3 prediction: Lil, Matt, Anoop.

Fire away with your comments! Take care.

Top 7 Results - Someone Saved My Life Tonight Edition

2009-04-16T12:37:00.001-04:00

Before I start, a quick note about next week:

Unfortunately, I will be out of town next Tuesday and Wednesday, so the chances of me being able to post commentary for the surely momentous disco week performances are very low. Next week will most likely be a brief performance and post-results missive on Thursday. I apologize in advance. Now, on to the Top 7 results:

Bottom 3 Prediction: Kris Allen, Matt Giraud, Allison Iraheta
Bottom 1 Prediction: Matt (Simon’s Save Option truly tested)

Actual Bottom 3: Anoop Desai, Lil Rounds, Matt Giraud
Actual Bottom 1: Matt, Simon Saves! (SCOREBOARD)

Q1: Do you agree with the actual 3 bottom three?
A1: I went a bit unconventional with my picks, so we really should not be surprised by poor, confused Lil’s and self-image delusional bottom three regular Anoop’s inclusion in the lowest vote-getters. Needless to say, I am personally pleased by Allison’s vote safety even after performing in the “death spot”. Maybe her support has grown and stabilized after all. I remain baffled by Kris, but that is nothing new. I will do my best not to pick on him (unfairly) in the coming weeks if he survives next week’s double elimination (whoops, there I go again).

Q2: Why was Matt saved?
A2: Simon only had two more weeks to use it, and, let’s face it, he HAD to use it this season. He could not have a dramatic television gimmick like that and not use it. They finally had a decent candidate in Matt (remember, I had him in the #1 chance-to-win slot just last week). He sings okay much of the time, the talented piano playing ability is huge, and he’s a white guy who strives to do bluesy and R&B-ish styles (AI marketers love that stuff). There is an issue here though: as Simon pointed out, he has been in the bottom three twice, and, let us not forget, he has already been rescued before by the panel (he is a “judges’ wildcard” pick in the final 13, not an AI voters’ choice). So, I think he is just benefiting from the timing of when he came in last place (when they felt compelled to “use it or lose it”), and Simon is betting that Allison and Adam (the really talented ones who this option was truly meant for) are on good enough rolls to get them past the next two weeks to the Top 5. I mean seriously, if Adam (of all people) drops the ball on disco week, then he deserves to not be saved. Finally, on this issue, the biggest loser is Kris (there I go, picking on him again but hear me out). He is not in the top tier for me (good grief, now I sound like Randy), but I will admit that, like Matt, he sings okay, plays instruments, but, also (very differently from Matt) has “the look”. He could easily stumble in the next two weeks through little fault of his own (is disco down his alley?). And, now, the save is gone.

Quick Odds and Ends:
a. The group performance (“Maniac” by Michael Sembello) was horrible (nothing new there), but didn’t you miss the comedy of how they try handle poor Scott wandering around the stage? Okay, I do awful for writing that, but still…

b. IT’S MILEY!!! (Watchers of “The Soup” on E! will get that reference). Count me as one of the many that wish this phenomenom would end already, but the 8 seconds I did tolerate of her performance (bless you, inventor of TiVo/DVR) sounded better than I would expect (that’s a pretty low bar, folks. Don’t be shocked).

On to the double elimination week. Anoop and Lil have to be the favorites to go, and the heat is on Matt to prove he was worth saving. Lil could surprise by committing to a Donna Summer number, but that could bring forth the long knives of Paula’s karaoke criticism. Anyways, I will post commentary as soon as I can next week.

Let me know you thoughts…

Top 7 - Movie Rant Edition

2009-04-15T11:53:00.003-04:00

I am guessing that most of you who are reading this are fans (whether avid or casual) of the show and understand that some weeks are just utter stinkers. But, if there are some out there who are watching this season as their inaugural foray into the American Idol spectacle, I want to sincerely apologize for the dreck that we witnessed this week. I will grant that the general relative weakness of this season’s contestants was a factor, but last night’s display was as pitiful as they have shown. “Movie Song” Night becomes “Be as Boringly Schmaltzy as Possible” Night or (for awhile) “Bryan Adams” Night? We have been inexplicably running overtime every week, so let’s go to alternating judge teams (cutting out Simon – the only judge that sometimes has something useful to say – for half the show)? My friend Renee, I am sure, was not the only one outraged (a little strong wording by me for sure, but you get the sentiment) by this dumbness. And, then you still run overtime? This is the 8th season this director has been doing this show, right? Wow. Okay, enough of the rant. Thank you for allowing me to vent. There is probably a little more to come.

Anoop SHOULD Go
Matt WILL Go
American Idol’s Director MUST Go

7. Anoop Desai (Last week’s ranking: 6th), “Everything I Do (I Do for You)” by Bryan Adams – The simultaneous “Ugh” from my wife and I when it was told that Anoop would be doing this song must have been combined with the same “Ugh” from all right-thinking people in this nation to be heard all the way to Hollywood. Poor Anoop. Week-after-week, he is just completely incapable of finding the mid-point between foolish-looking hip-hop wanna-be and the devastatingly boring ballad singer. It’s frustrating because he IS a decent singer and a seemingly nice fella (sorry, broken record again). And, what is going on with his clothes?!? I think I would rather have his mother dress him than whatever is going on with him and/or these shameful AI stylists. He could be in trouble again this week, but he does have worse company this week.

6. Lil Rounds (7th), “The Rose” by Bette Midler – Last week, I implored Lil to forget the judges and do whatever she really wants to do. Whoops. “The Rose”?!? Really? Interesting (or not). Either she is confused about who she is (thanks again, Judges) or I am confused thinking she could be really good if she let herself go. I was also confused by Quentin Tarrantino’s lead-in as he got me excited for a “gospel” interpretation of this unusual choice of song and then was left wanting after only a hint of it. I think voters, however, are taking Lil’s side against these judges, and, as much I hate performer vs judges scuffles, Lil’s defense of herself last night might serve her well…for a week. Bottom line: strange choice of song, disappointing arrangement, but she sang relatively well enough to survive one more time.

5. Kris Allen (5th), “Falling Slowly” by Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova – Why, oh why, am I not making use of Kris’s performances to take that bathroom break that I promised myself weeks ago? You know by now that I don’t get his appeal at all, so this is where my wife’s perspective has to step in: “Boring but cute” and “why are he and Danny wearing the same outfit?” If we are talking about your outfit more than your performance, that’s probably not good, is it? We’ll see if the Cutey-Patuty Express keeps him out of the bottom three again, but I don’t think it should.

4. Danny Gokey (4th), “Endless Love” by Lionel Ritchie and Diana Ross – Boy, this is a tough one. You cannot get more cheesy than this song selection (well, my wife would say “Up Where You Belong”, one of my favourites, but that’s another story). Another high decibel “Ugh” could be heard from the nation when we were told the choice. But, it is really tough to get away from what this probably truly meant to Danny. And, just to be clear, I do not think he is playing us for sympathy votes (commenters are free to disagree, of course). He sang it fine and with usual Gokey passion, and I’ll leave it at that. One more thing: thank you, Danny, for leaving out the funky glasses gimmick this week.

3. Matt Giraud (1st), “Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman” by Bryan Adams – Uh oh. I put this guy in the number 1 slot last week, and then he pulls this “Justin Timberlake Does a Sorry Movie Song” thing? For the second week in a row, his vocals were all over the place, and this time it could not covered by a funky band and semi-dance moves. To get by week-to-week, Rule #1 - sing well; Rule #2 – don’t be boring. Matt broke both rules. We could have the true first test of the judge’s save this week on him (I don’t count last week because I think Simon was never going to waste it on Scott with Matt, Adam, and Allison still around).

2. Adam Lambert (3rd), “Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf – What can you say? My wife says, “Retro Outrageous is back” (meaning he is not as original as everyone is trying to play him up to be). My friend Lorri has stated correctly before (and should say again) that this actor is playing a role every single week. After playing Haunting Controlled Singer Guy last week, he felt it was time to bring back Wild Crazy Shrieking Rock Star this week. From the totally indulgent (AI word of the season) re-arrangement of the song to the playing air-guitar with the band, he played into the “I’m different than everyone else…this is what a rock star is supposed to be doing” role very well. Really well actually. His performances are not really my taste, but he IS living up to his weekly hype. And, he is gaining national momentum (see this Sunday NY Times story: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/12/fashion/12gayidol.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=adam%20lambert&st=cse). Could he win after all?

1. Allison Iraheta (2nd), “I Don’t Wanna Miss a Thing” by Aerosmith – And, then, there is my favourite. Love her, but I just could not get into the song. This song just took absolutely forever to build up to its crescendo, and, by the time Allison belted out the good part, I was already worried about her losing the audience. And, her being in the opening performance “death slot” is a major concern (if you are unfamiliar with my theory, if you perform first and do not crush it, people can forget you by the end of the show, and your vote total suffers). I have major fears that she (and I) could be sweating it out in the bottom three tonight and could be challenging the judges (let’s be real – just Simon) to use the save option. Yet, I still have her in the #1 position to win. Yep, I am deciding with my ears and heart.

Bottom Three Prediction: Kris, Matt, Allison. I hope I am wrong.

Can’t wait to see what you think

By the way, this is RAD even though it says, "Posted by Mrs. RAD" below. RAD is just having some technical difficulties.

Top 8 - America's Challenge Edition

2009-04-08T12:57:00.001-04:00

This week we shall have a few special guest comments. In addition to my wife’s interjections, my one-year old daughter was awake past her bedtime suffering from a cold. Needless to say she was in a very critical mood, and I am certain that I understood the timing of her occasional yells to be certain judgments towards the aspiring Idol contestants.

“Pick a Song from the Year” theme night. Knowing this, I will do my best to keep the “this song choice by this kid makes me feel from the Age of Dirt” comments to a minimum.

Kris SHOULD Go
Anoop WILL Go
Scott MUST Go

We now return to my ranking from least-chance-to-win to best-chance-to-win format:

8. Scott MacIntyre (Last week’s ranking: 8th) – “The Search is Over” by Survivor - I do give him credit for steping from behind the piano. He had been predictable and beyond boring, and it is too bad that he was forced to switch to “show a different side”. I will continue to contend that there would have been no need for this attempt if the poor dude could just sing better. I have been hoping against hope that he could improve. Sadly, he just cannot. And, my wife’s comments about his pitiful guitar playing are virtually unprintable. I do not believe my baby’s wailing during his efforts to hit high note were intended to be supportive. Sorry, Man. You cannot hold out much longer.

7. Lil Rounds (6th) – “What’s Love Got to Do with It” by Tina Turner - The malpractice by the all of judges towards Lil is bordering on travesty. Week-after-week thay almost implored her to pigeon-hole herself into the “diva/Mary J. Blige” genre. “That’s who you are”. Then, she tries to go there, and predictably, they tell her she does not who she is. Now, granted, going for the iconic Tina Turner song was a main ingredient in this recipe for disaster, but I genuinely feel sorry how she has turned into such a wanna-be looking karaoke performer. She is in deep, deep trouble this week, but, if she can survive elimination, I am rooting for her to forget the prejudiced judges (that’s right, I said it) and sing whatever the hell she wants to sing.

6. Anoop Desai (7th) – “True Colors” by Cyndi Lauper – Broken record time. How many times have I said that he sings well? How many times have I said that he seems like a nice guy as long as he is not hopping around trying to look like a gangsta fool? Nice choice of song (for a change). No matter. He bores me, which, of course, is why he keeps reverting back to his wanna-be hip-hop gimmick. Unfortunately, neither persona works. There are better singers and better performers than Anoop in this competition. One more thing, Anoop: stop staring at us when you sing. It’s creepy.

5. Kris Allen (4th) – “All She Wants to Do Is Dance” by Don Henley - If you have read these blogs before, you know that Kris is far from my favorite. So, please take the opinion of last night’s performance of someone who actually “gets” the appeal of him. I submit the comment of my wife: “Ummmm, I don’t like it…not impressed at all…” After that, we talked to each other and paid no more attention to him at all. Then, our daughter cried. I rest my case. After last week’s surprisingly good performance, I now again want him gone. He is destined for this week’s bottom three.

4. Danny Gokey (5th) – “Stand By Me”, Mickey Gilley sorta version – Wife comment: “Seriously? This was the best song he could pick from 1980? Seriously?” However, it allowed Danny to do his earnest, heartfelt, passionate performer thing. I will say half of the same thing about him that I said about Anoop. There are better singers in this competition.

3. Adam Lambert (3rd) – “Mad World” by Tears for Fears – On more than occasion, I have heard from a variety of different people this next comment: this is the one contestant that many have actual anticipation about seeing every week. They do not know if they are going to like whatever he does or not, but, the key is, they want to see it. That’s a statement. Granted, none of these commenters are from the American Idol voting-rich middle part of the country. But, let’s face it: this guy is putting on quite a show every week now and this week was no exception. Honestly, fanastic. Very haunting, dramatic, and in good voice. Good grief, I know Simon was forced to be quick in his critique, but, still, he stood! San Francisco, Hollywood and New York love this. Here’s the question you know I have had from the very beginning: America, are you ready for this?

2. Allison Iraheta (1st) – “I Can’t Make You Love Me”, by Bonnie Raitt – I’m biased so I’ll be quick. Allison is tremendous. She got up from her misstep last week and walked the tightrope to a strong performance. But, she, almost more than anyone else, has to do this every week to the end. Please see my comment from April 2nd and Simon’s reference to her “likability to America” problem for further reference. Notice, she is not in my number one position anymore…but, she should be.

1. Matt Giraud (2nd) – “Part Time Lover” by Stevie Wonder – First of all, I did not get all a flutter about this week’s performance from Matt the way the judges did. I thought it was hokey and reverted back to his Timberlake-wannabe inclination and the hat was stupid. Plus, I did not think he sang well at all with his notes being just all over the place. Our baby cried in protest as well (not good). However, this is the deal for Matt: he has the top-3 talent (vocally, performance-wise, and instrumentation-wise) for this year’s pool. And, he is much more of the down-the-middle type competitor that Adam and Allison are not. I do not say this to slight Matt. I like him overall. But, he is not my favorite.

The performances in the weeks to come are, of course, uncertain. But, if everyone brings the best of what I think they can bring, the final two should Allison and Adam. America, this is your challenge.

I would love to know what you think. Thanks.

Top 9 Results - Whew! Edition

2009-04-02T17:48:00.002-04:00

Previous Top 9 Performance Prediction:

Scott SHOULD Go
Allison WILL Go
Megan MUST Go (Default position until it finally happens)

Actual Bottom 3:

ALLISON – Second time in three weeks in the bottom three. If she had received the least number of votes, Simon implied what we suspected: she would be saved. Here’s the problem for her going forward: being in the bottom for two out of three weeks is a disturbing pattern for Simon. In his mind, maybe the pubic does not really like her and maybe she can’t win after all. If she stumbles yet again and comes in last in a coming week, I do not think Simon will vote to save her. And, I will be sad.

ANOOP – Survived the death “first performer of the night” slot and another silly bad-Indian of Hip-Hop act. Can he figure out who he truly is before his warped frat-boy self image takes him out?

MEGAN – Finally. And, she was clearly so very ready to go. But, wasn’t it perfect that with no pressure at the end (not having to sing for her life or for audience votes), she gave her best performance since being on the show? Anyways, thank goodness for us moving on.

One last note, I might have a tough time ever listening to “Don’t Stop Believin” by Journey ever again. Who’s with me?!? Thanks, American Idol for nothing.

See you next Wednesday.

Top 9 - Grumpy Old Man Edition

2009-04-01T10:56:00.002-04:00

I will admit that I had a rough time watching this week. Having no narrow themes that shoe-horn these contestants into uncomfortable genres is always welcome. I did not even mind the blatant shout-out plug to Apple by choosing “top iTunes downloads”. But, I must admit that I must be getting old and getting harder to please in each passing week. Or, maybe these contestants just stunk. Anyways, for this week, I will revert back to an old format of “The Good, “The Bad”, and “The Ridiculous”. We shall return to the “Best Chance to Win Countdown” format next week.

Scott SHOULD Go
Allison WILL Go
Megan MUST Go (Default position until it finally happens)

THE BAD

ANNOP DESAI, “Caught Up” by Usher – So, there is “Anoop Dog” in his bad-boy silly jacket, popping his collar and chest, and snarling his lips like he imagines Usher must do it. I will repeat from earlier weeks: I believe this dawg can sing really well. That’s not his problem. My issue with him is that his personal self-image was formed with his nerdy but too-cool-for school frat friends and is wildly divergent from his reality. Even down to his pitiful mustache that he is now weakly trying to grow in. This is just getting sadly comical (Full disclosure: there is photographic evidence of me at that age trying to grow the same mustache. It is just as comical). Combine this with his performance slot in the “death spot” of first, and I guarantee that, at best, he is in tonight’s bottom three.

MEGAN JOY, “Turn Your Lights Down Low”, by Lauryn Hill – And, speaking of sadly comical. I now feel genuine pity for Megan. She is embarrassed to have to nervously go out and try every week, knowing that she has no prayer of winning. I will give her this: her voice does have a unique quality about it (I do mean that is a complimentary way). But, she has no idea how use her voice to sing. And, those kindergarten dance moves? I can’t pile on any longer (this week). I’ll just say that I will give the judges the benefit of the doubt that with general prettiness, her quirky personality, and novel voice she could have been a “diamond in the rough”. However, trying to polish that diamond painfully in front of world is unfair to her, the viewers, and the ousted Alexis Grace. She could survive yet another week though due to her strong “Vote for the Worse” voting base.

SCOTT MCINTYRE, “Just the Way You Are”, by Billy Joel – Even before Scott played and sang his first note, I was through with him. Of all the Joel songs to go with it, he goes with the one so bland that Billy Joel refuses to sing it anymore (true story, look it up). Combine that with the silly Joel circa 1983 hair and my sadness for my early favorite is reaching critical mass. Did he at least sing the song well, RAD? As well as Scott can sing any song, I guess, but I have been crying out for him to get better every week. The unwarranted effusive praise from the judges should carry him for another week, and there were worse performances tonight.

MATT GIRAUD, “You Found Me”, by The Fray – Simple rule: ban all songs by The Fray. Not just on American Idol but EVERYWHERE. I don’t know what Matt was thinking. Showing us a different side? As Judge Kara implied, “…remember when you tried to show us a different side with “Viva la Vida” by Coldplay? How did that work out for you?” And, the playing in the Girl Pit was just annoying to me (I’ll admit that could just be some minor laden jealousy). But, he was also missing notes all over the place. After having this guy in my “if the season were to end today” finale, can you tell that I am a little disappointed? Kara is right again, though, when pleading that he shouldn’t go home.

LIL ROUNDS, “I Surrender” by Celine Dion – I blame this on the judges. In their unfair criticism of Lil during Motown week, they repeatedly exclaimed that she was The Diva and should “diva-it-up”. So, now she brings the Celine Dion out of the closet. Ugh. This is not her style and she knows it. She can have some “diva moments”, but, please, no diva songs. These songs are only about hitting the big notes. They are boring otherwise. Lil can’t hit the big notes (at least not like the usual suspects: Whitney, Mariah, Celine, Christina). And, I curse Ryan for using Lil’s kids for no reason other than to be stupid.

ALLISON IRAHETA, “Don’t Speak” by No Doubt – This pains me, but I saw it coming. She is too young not to stumble, and this was a bad stumble. Not a bad song choice, but the decision to try and show her musical versatility by playing the guitar was a huge mistake. She was too nervous, couldn’t keep up with the rhythm of the song, and it caused her to lose track of her vocals and the words of the song. She tried to recover in the second-half with her always strong vocal and performance presence, but, unfortunately, the damage was done. And, the outfit? She is in deep trouble. This could be the “Judge’s Save” night.

THE GOOD

DANNY GOKEY, “What Hurts the Most” by Rascal Flatts – I don’t know if you knew this, but Danny’s grandfather passed away this weekend. They were very close, and he is grieving. And, there is still the sadness of his wife. This guy packed it all into this song and was emotionally and vocally brilliant. For the first time, I am a big fan. Kudos to him and American Idol for not mentioning his tragedies even once last night as well. Surely, they will mention it tonight on the Results Show, but I am impressed they didn’t even allow possible sympathy votes.

KRIS ALLEN, “Ain’t No Sunshine”, by Bill Withers – I don’t take back anything I said about him, but he was very interesting last night. Very good indeed actually. Luckily, I did not take the bathroom break I promised myself on his performance slot last week. I still think he has no chance in the end, but, after this week’s possibly upheaval, who knows?

THE RIDICULOUS

ADAM LAMBERT, “Play that Funky Music” by Wild Cherry – And, the promised return of Mr. Shrieking Over-the-Top is here. I didn’t miss you at all. Look, once again, this guy is the most polarizing contestant they have ever had. He is also maybe their most creative. You either love him or hate him. You choose. One more thing: Judge Kara…it’s not Studio 57, it’s Studio 54! Was she kidding or just being a doofus? Hmmm.

Could this be Megan’s week? Once again, she is daring America to do it. But, I have my doubts. Allison, get ready to sweat…and possibly “sing for your life”.

I need your comments Thanks!

RAD on AI- They Are All "Awesome" Edition

2009-03-26T13:37:00.001-04:00

First of all, “Motown” theme week always has the potential to be awesome. And, while there was one moment of consequence (from Adam, of all people), I cannot say this night delivered. I put the blame of mentor Smokey Robinson. What are these amateurs supposed to do with advice like “Just do *that*” and “You’re all awesome”. Thanks, Smokey. And, by the way, the plastic surgery isn’t working out well for you.

Michael SHOULD go
Michael WILL go
Megan MUST go

10. Megan Joy, “For Once in My Life” (last week’s ranking 11th) – I am getting angrier by the week that they are wasting my time with this. For goodness sake, at some points she sounds like she is sitting on top of a washing machine while it is on the spin cycle. America, she is utterly challenging you to eliminate her.

9. Michael Sarver, “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” (8th) – Go home. You’re boring and your little daughter misses you. It was very upsetting to me when he got me excited by saying he was going to “church up” the song, then he goes out there and does *that*. I guess I was dumb to assume gospel church and not Catholic Church like I guess he meant. My wife’s comment: “I am sure this guy is good in a bar”. But, is that what we really want? End this.

8. Kris Allen, “How Sweet It Is to Be Loved By You” (10th) – The judges love fest for this guy continues, and it is still lost on me. I guess he can ride this cutey-patuty thing to the final four, but he is past boring to me. From now on, his performances will be my opportunities for bathroom breaks.

7. Scott MacIntyre, “Can’t Hurry Love” (4th) – It’s official. The blind novelty has worn off for me. Of course, you will recall that I wanted Scott to win the whole thing. But, I wanted him to win *in spite* of his blindness not because of it (ability over sympathy). His piano playing is excellent and fun, but his singing is just not getting any better. My wife’s comment: “Is everyone working with him blind as well?” I mean, seriously, salmon-colored pants, a paisley shirt, and a brown coat? This all just makes me kind of sad.

6. Anoop Desai, “Ooh Baby Baby”(7th) – There was nothing that could be done with this song to make it exciting, but I’m just happy he didn’t pick a song that had him jumping around the stage like a fool (as I am sure was his first instinct). The guy can sing though. Really. But, he cannot dress himself well. When are these kids going to get some styling help? Please.

5. Danny Gokey, “Get Ready” (6th) – I hate to repeat myself, but I cannot get past how much this guy is reminding me of Taylor Hicks. He likable, humble, fun and gives absolutely everything in his performances. But, I just think the AI voters will eventually get tired of him yelling at us and want their American Idol winner to sing better. I mean I was in the kitchen washing dishes during his song, and I still felt like he was screaming in my ear. I admit that I could be very wrong on this one, of course.

4. Adam Lambert, “Tracks of My Tears” (9th) – And, I quote: “Ridiculously over the top in everything he does. But, I think one of these weeks, he is going to show that he can calm it down as well…”. That was from my first assessment of Adam on March 13th. After that conceited, ridiculous showing last week, he needed this. Without question, the best performance of the season so far. It’s too bad that he is surely going to revert back to his shrieking, shocking, Robert Smith from the Cure wanna-be self and polarize the AI audience, which will lead to his eventual dismissal. By the way, the Robert Smith wanna-be observation is totally from my wife.

3. Lil’ Rounds, “Heat Wave” (5th) – The judges are dumb. I like the way Lil took country music head-on and seriously last week (unlike Adam), and I loved the way she did not try to “diva-it-up” this week when that was probably the safer thing to do. Frankly, I thought her “Heatwave” was hot (no pun intended), and during her performance, for the first time, I saw her having a chance to make it to end. Do NOT listen to those judges, Lil. Your instincts are very sound.

2. Matt Giraud, “Let’s Get It On” (3rd) – Corny choice of song, but this guy is very good. Starting out at the piano and then getting up from it was a master stroke. One problem for him: does anyone else find the shape of his head and facial features odd? And, does America want another Justin Timberlake clone? However, he is clearly talented. His ascendancy has finished Scott (in my opinion)

1. Allison Iraheta, “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” (1st) – It’s sad that it is just dawning on the judges that this one “could” be a contender. It is clear to me that she is best pure performer and now the best voice. And, she is going to get better. I am calling my shot now: she has to win. Any future review of her performances must be prefaced by that background.

That’s it. I need your comments!

RAD on AI- Special Outrage Edition

2009-03-19T23:25:00.000-04:00

Here America goes again!

Usually, I would not comment on the results show since the result is the result so let’s move on to next week. But, I think last night’s elimination warrants special comment and analysis:

You will recall that my current final three is/was Matt Giraud, Alexis Grace, and Allison Iraheta. And, I boldly claimed that the judges would only use their save on one of these three. Well, Alexis is already gone and here is why.

While I had Alexis in my final two, I have to be honest: I was not passionate in my support. I just thought her short cuteness, excellent voice, and motherhood was an excellent combination to the top. And, if you watched the results show, the judges wanted to save her (before she “sang for her life”). Here was her problem: Allison was in the bottom three with her. I surmise that the judges, knowing that they only have one save, are very fearful that Allison could be in the bottom again, and that’s when it gets used. She’s only 16, and it will be very easy for her to make song mistake in the coming weeks. Throw in the colored rebellious teenager hair and lack of articulation skills (c’mon, once again, she’s only 16, people!), Simon feels that it could take a few more weeks for the mass of America to realize how special this performer could be and grow on the AI voters. In addition, Alexis also did not crush the re-do of her song under that tremendous pressure (understandably), and the judges (let’s be real, it was Simon) figured that she wouldn’t be a winner in the end.

If you have not been able to tell, I’m fine with this development (despite the “Outrage” subject line), but I am all-in with Allison, so take this as you will.

By the way, my wife makes fun of me because I am passionately analyzing everything about a glamorized karaoke show. If loving the show is wrong, I don’t want to be right.

Let me know what you think…

Top 11/Just Sing and Shut-up Edition

2009-03-18T23:27:00.000-04:00

I have fallen in love with the worst-to-best chance to become the American Idol winner format of last week, so I will stick with that going forward. But, first, one overall observation: this trend of engaging in a debate with the judges when you do not like what they say must end and end now (I’m talking mainly to you, Scott, but not exclusively).

Adam SHOULD Go

Michael WILL Go

Megan MUST Go

Megan Joy, “Walking After Midnight” (last week’s ranking: 11th) – Okay, I will give her a touch of sympathy for being so sick with the flu, but it is beyond bothersome how openly the judges and show producers are shoving her down our throat. She is not a good singer when sick or in perfect health. And, that ridiculous shimmy-shimmy dance of hers is just sad. For goodness sake, she caw-cawed at us last week.

Kris Allen, “To Make You Feel My Love” (10th) – I am actually not sure why this guy bothers me, but he just does. It is probably due in part to the same reason for my ire against Megan: the judges are touting this guy…HARD, but my ears hear him very differently. One more complaint, Kris did not sing a Garth Brooks song, Paula. This is a Bob Dylan song which has been covered most recently and most excellently by Adele (I wholeheartedly recommend that you download it tonight). I don’t care what the judges say: this guy has no shot.

Adam Lambert, “Ring of Fire” (6th) – If America could vote someone off (instead of voting to keep someone on), I think this guy would definitely be finished. Right now, I only think he “could” go. He’s got his “style”, and he does not want to change for anybody. Fine. But, he did not have to be so utterly disrespectful of Randy Travis and every country music fan that watches the show with his complete dismissal of their genre. I honestly didn’t mind the performance that much, but the attitude he showed is going to linger on him and will be the reason he goes away.

Michael Sarver, “Ain’t Goin’ Down (‘Til the Sun Comes Up)” (9th) – When did Grand Ole Opry Night mean Garth Brooks Night? Whatever. This guy bores me even when he is trying to turn it up with a fast song. I swore I saw his kid yawn too. Add the fact that he drew the dreaded first performer slot and is so easily forgettable anyway, I think he is in trouble tonight.

Anoop Desai, “Always on My Mind” (8th) – Song was okay although I can’t gush over the performance like the judges. I’m just happy he finally has someone else picking songs for him (that MUST have happened, right?). I wasn’t loving the hoodie outfit though, but I’ll let that go.

Danny Gokey, “Jesus Take The Wheel” (7th) – It’s official. We have Taylor Hicks redux. Always a lot of energy. Puts everything into his performances. Not a super singer. He’ll eventually run out of gas. Taylor Hicks was lucky because his competition was weak. Danny is not that lucky.

Lil Rounds, “Independence Day” (5th) – I want a rule. Any song ever sung on the show by Carrie Underwood in her season should be banned, because anyone who sings it will always pale in comparison. Nevertheless, I was impressed with Lil for trying a straight country song and not Blige-ing it up. She is showing me courage and range. I feel better about her chances now (even though her ranking has not changed).

Scott MacIntyre, ‘Wild Angels” (3rd) – I wish he could sing better, but he still has a lot of wave to ride. But, if he keeps arguing with the judges, he will be putting himself in jeopardy.

Matt Giraud, “So Small” (4th) – This is the guy that makes Scott look bad. He plays the piano just as well and he sings better. He sung a Carrie Underwood song (very risky), but, to me, he pulled it off. By the way, this does not violate my no Carrie Underwood rule. They should be banned from singing a song Carrie Underwood sang on the show in her season.

Alexis Grace, “Jolene” (2nd) – Not at her best this week, but even her non-best is better than almost everyone else. I am really concerned, though, about the judges forcing her to “bring the dirty back”. You all know my feelings on this.

Allison Iraheta, “Blame it on Your Heart” (1st) – Simply the best contestant they have had since Kelly Clarkson (Carrie Underwood didn’t figure out stage confidence until after she won). And, she is only 16! She could stumble, of course, one of these weeks, but I will be very sad if that happens.

About the judge save option: I love it. It adds drama to the show, and it can give an obvious talent like Carly Smithson another chance after picking a bad song or something. Of course, the pressure on that saved person will be enormous afterwards, but that’s every day in show business. I think the only ones they would use the save on this year are Matt, Alexis, or Allison.

I need you comments!

RAD on AI - 8th Season Premiere Edition

2009-03-13T23:29:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone.

I have missed our AI discussions, but I felt I needed ample recovery time after blowing my prediction in my last missive before the last season’s finale.

What I would like to do in this Season Premiere Edition is to briefly discuss two things: (1) explain why I was so wrong with my David Grobin Archuletta victory prediction, and (2) the chances of victory for the remaining Top 10 contestants.

OH YE OF LITTLE FAITH
As you might recall, I went against my true feelings of who SHOULD win (David Cook) and felt compelled to go with the fave of the non-sense screaming teenage girls who I believed would blow up their cell phones with text votes and any other voting mechanisms to get their way. What I truly underestimated was extent of the audience of “American Idol” beyond the screamers. The “Silent on the DL Majority”, if you will. Face it: there are a lot of folks out there watching and voting for this show who are too cool to admit it openly. I am sure you know some of them. Anyways, the SDLM rose up to be heard and to stand up for a quality all-around musician and performer and good music (I’ll admit it: my wife and I voted 10 times ourselves). Now, if only those people would buy/download his actual album (we have not).

WHO HAS A SHOT AT IT THIS YEAR?

From my limited viewing so far this season (I just cannot get motivated to watch this drivel anymore until we get serious and get to the Top 12), I have already formed some opinions. I will list the candidates below in the order of least chance to win to best chance:

Megan Joy – This year’s Kristy Lee Cook. I know she is supposed to be quirky and funny and refreshing and commercial and whatever else, and that’s why the judges brought her here. But, I am sorry: I remained unconvinced of any real worthiness she brings to waste two minutes of my time listening to her. Fine, I get that those who are voting for her (i.e. the judges) are not listening to her but just looking at her, but, even then, what in the world is going on with that ridiculous mural on her arm? One more thing (and this goes out to all the others with children), if she continues to attempt to use her child to get sympathy votes…let’s just leave it at that I will not be pleased.
Kris Allen – My wife thinks he’s cute. I don’t care. I have nothing else to say. He has no chance.
Michael Sarver – Still forming an opinion on him. He can sing okay, but he bores me silly. Maybe, he can get better, so I’ll reserve judgment.
Anoop Desai – Likable dude. Certainly not the worst singer here. I actually think he can be a decent stage performer as well. Here is his issue though: This guy must NOT be allowed to pick his own songs anymore. He is killing his chances. I mean for real – he has tried Monica’s “Angel of Mine” (what?), Bobby Brown’s “My Prerogative” (his personality helped him get away with that bone-head pick), and this week’s “Beat It” (no extra comment needed, right?). Also, he is an extremely preppy son of first generation Indian immigrants and he is from North Carolina. I don’t even know what to say about that weird mix. Thumbs up for the Great American Melting Pot, I guess?
Danny Gokey – Well, this guy definitely knows how to give his all in a performance. I like him, but there is no greater evidence of the need for Paula to stay medicated than her virtual guarantee that he will be in the Final Two. He’s easy to root for, but there are better, sellable folks here. Huge props, though, for an excellent arrangement and performance of “P.Y.T.”.
Adam Lambert – you either have to love or hate this guy. Ridiculously over the top in everything he does, but, I think one of these weeks, he is also going to show that he can calm it down as well. He has talent, no question. But, I’ll just say that he has some characteristics that we will have to see if “Middle America” can deal with in their American Idol. He’s got the Hollywood and New York City (Theatre District) votes coming in. I’m just not sure Kansas City is rushing to the phones for this guy.
Lil’ Rounds – When she stops trying to sing every song like Mary J. Blige, I will believe in her more.
Matt Giraud – When he stops trying to be Justin Timberlake, I will believe in him more.
Scott MacIntyre (aka “The Blind Guy”) – Okay, I’ll admit it: I have been rooting for this guy since his try-out. How can you not? He could ride that wave to the final four. I just really wish he could sing just a little better, so I wasn’t hoping for him just because he’s blind. It’s still early and there still could be some nervousness in him. I hope he does get better. David Cook did. One last thing: is anyone else a little wierded-out when he’s performing and just wish he would put on a pair of sunglasses? I feel very ashamed for saying that, but it’s true.
Alexis Grace – Serious contender, but I think the judges have led her a little astray with this “naughty-it-up” thing. This girl is a mother for goodness sake. Let her be her.
Allison Iraheta – Even at her young age and only one performance that I have seen (this week’s), it is clear to me that this girl has the “It Factor”. I can already see that she can do it all vocally, and her stage poise and professionalism is a gift. My wife is very concerned about the extreme red hair turning off voters deeper into the competition (kind of like Carly Smithson’s tattoos and non-American-ness). I sure hope not.

Before I go, I have to comment on this four judge format. Either Kara and Randy has to go. They are saying the same thing every time with the only difference being Kara saying “riffs” and Randy saying “Dog”. And, finally, I wish Paula would just stop talking.

Grand Ole Opry week next week. I am very afraid of what Anoop will try to sing. I feel “Man, I Feel Like a Woman” coming on.

Take care. I need your comments