Ok, I have to get something off my chest before we get into the performances. What is up with Simon’s new half antler move. Every time I see him he has his right thumb on his temple as if he is preparing to do some sort of semi nani-nani-boo-boo move. Who does this? Tonight’s side project will be to count the HBs (Half Bullwinkles) this episode. I guarantee it will be higher than the number of performances I enjoy (I guess I’m still a bit underwhelmed eh?)
Carly Smithson, “Crazy on You” – All right then. Now we are getting somewhere. Maybe the girls will have more good showings than the boys did. It’s certainly a good start. Carly has a great presence about her and was very polished vocally on that song. Still not jumping off my couch yet, but very nice. (A-)
Syesha Mercado, “Me and Mr. Jones” – The vocals were pretty good in parts, but that was a weirdly robotic delivery. I know this girl can sing, but she hasn’t done anything to really impress yet. (B)
Brooke White, “You’re so Vain” – That was excellent. I may actually have a favorite now. The guitar worked, the subtle jab at Simon worked, and the overall performance was pretty amazing. Plus she’s an all around good girl. Right now, she’s my fave. (A)
Ramiele Malubay, “Don’t Leave Me This Way” – She missed a few notes, but the real reason this is a mediocre performance can be summed up in the word boring. (C)
Kristy Lee Cook, “You’re No Good” – Wow, three great performances in the first five. These girls may just turn AI around for me this year. I couldn’t have even told you there was a Kristy Lee on Idol this year, but I’ll remember her name now. (A-)
Amanda Overmeyer, “Carry On My Wayward Son” – As one of the few finalists that got some pre finals air time, I thought Amanda, the rocker chick, might be one to watch. Unfortunately, that doesn’t appear to be the case. I dig a Joplin inspired vocal as much as the next guy, but it seemed to be more style than passion. I’m not buying it. (C+)
Alaina Whitaker, “Hopelessly Devoted to You” – Ouch, that was bad. Awful pitch problems throughout, and just a plodding sloppy delivery. Hopefully this will be the worst performance of the night. (D+)
Alexandrea Lushington , “If You Leave Me Now” – Well, maybe those first few gals got me a little too optimistic. That was just BLAH. Nothing about it was interesting or commanding of attention. These guys have to start realizing that if you don’t stand out you walk out. (C)
Kady Malloy, “Magic Man” – COME ON! What is up? That was just another lackluster, seemingly half-hearted performance. Somebody, please step up.(C-)
Asia’H Epperson, “All By Myself” – Like that! It didn’t quite work, but at least she went for it. That was a nice risky move, but in the end the song was just too big for her. She couldn’t quite get there. But you have to respect the effort. (B)