'American Idol' seeks a Diamond in the rough

April 29, 06:33 PM

I got no thrills from Dolly Parton Night. Mariah Carey Night didn't thrill me at all. So tell me why, should it be right, that I'm hoping to get a kick out of Neil Diamond Night? Would the American Idol Tuesday (April 29) Two-fer Tribute to the Jazz Singer live up to my expectations?

Singer: JASON CASTRO
Song: "Forever In Blue Jeans"
My Take: If Andrew Lloyd Webber's lite opera excesses crushed Jason and Brooke White last week, this should be a much friendlier theme, since Neil Diamond has been famously and successfully covered by all manner of artists and his greatest strength isn't necessarily his vocal range. The key to Neil Diamond is selling the snot out of every earnest, irony-free word, and Jason's dreamy sincerity is well-tailored for the material. The song starts off too low for him and I don't exactly know what he's singing about, but it's pleasant and friendly and as it moves higher, Jason sounds decent. He's got "September Morn" coming next, which means that Clifford the Muppet won't be singing "Shiloh," which I'd have pegged as a slam-dunk for a contestant who probably has several imaginary friends of his own. Tonight's format is wonky, as the judges will have to be taking notes before giving a cumulative evaluation after the second performance.

Singer: PRESUMPTIVE AMERICAN IDOL FINALIST DAVID COOK
Song: "I'm Alive"
My Take: Boy, I'd have bet the farm on David "The Leader" Cook rocking "Solitary Man" tonight. Like Jason, David's back on his guitar this week. And, like Jason, David's discovering that Neil Diamond's baritone isn't easily reproducible if your vocal range tends more comfortably to the higher notes. I don't instantly know what arrangement of the song this is, but I know that David really struggles with the earlier, lower parts of the track. Does this clip feel truncated to anybody? Maybe it's because David is actually handling the melody on his guitar, but it takes him a long time to approach the chorus and by the time he begins to look and sound at ease, the song is over. I guess that's the way several Diamond songs are structured.

Singer: BROOKE WHITE
Song: "I'm a Believer"
My Take: This is another Jason Castro-suited track, since I don't usually think of Brooke as being particularly playful and I do think of Jason as being ready-made for 1967's doofiest pre-fabricated boy band. Why wouldn't we have raised any of Neil's songs by an octave? That wouldn't have been so hard, would it? Because Brooke is also trapped trying to battle through a song that's just too deep for her voice. She gets Paula on her feet, but to me this performance comes across as much much more work than it should, and her smile seems forced when juxtaposed with her laboring, breathless vocals. I absolutely want to give Brooke credit for trying something different, for going rousing and campy when Neil Diamond could have provided her with plenty of wide-eyed spiritual options, but there's a reason she doesn't usually go down this path.

Singer: PRESUMPTIVE AMERICAN IDOL FINALIST DAVID ARCHULETA
Song: "Sweet Caroline"
My Take: Somebody looked at Li'l' Archie's demographics and realized that he was tracking poorly in the New England area, so they assigned him Red Sox Nation's favorite Diamond hit, "Sweet Caroline." The Idol audience is unprepared to sing along, but maybe they're confused by the arrangement. Or perhaps they're perplexed that Archuleta is singing an up-tempo song, but he's performing it with the exact same mannerisms he's brought to the message songs he's done for the past six weeks. The arm sweep, the closed eyes, the tremendous absence of tangible pleasure, it's a David Archuleta Special. The kid doesn't have a clue what he's singing about when it doesn't involve homelessness or disease and as meaningless as "Sweet Caroline" is, he makes it even more of a muddle. But he's in tune.

Singer: SYESHA MERCADO
Song: "Hello Again"
My Take: Why didn't anybody do Neil Diamond's version of Kaddish from Jazz Singer? That would have been awesome. Jason has, after all, shown eagerness to tackle languages he doesn't exactly understand. Like English. Anywho... Syesha's the night's first performer with a properly arranged song. She's got the song under control from the beginning and she handles her full 90 seconds without a low-register mumble. This has been one of the worst produced Idol episodes I can remember. The format stinks, the musical arrangements haven't been worthy of the songs and if you know Syesha beginning her song seated, you shouldn't start from a camera position behind the morons waving their arms inappropriately in the mosh pit.

POORLY PROGRAMMED JUDGE INTERLUDE:

Randy says: Jason was OK, David Cook was in the zone, Brooke was better than last week, Archuleta is da bomb and Syesha's in the zone.
Paula says: In one of the most awkward moments in recent Idol memory, Paula says she loved Jason's first song, but wasn't impressed with the second and that he didn't do enough. One problem: Jason's only performed once. Ryan looks embarrassed. Paula looks flustered.
Simon says: Jumping in to save the addled Paula, Simon tears into the singers, calling Jason forgettable, David Cook "just above average," Brooke "a nightmare," David Archuleta "amateurish" and Syesha "old-fashioned."

THE SECOND SONGS:

Singer: JASON CASTRO
Song: "September Morn"
My Take: If you're Jason, how do you bounce back from Paula telling you your second performance wasn't good enough before you give your second performance? That's tough. Even if Paula hadn't warned me, though, I might have diagnosed that Jason had gone into into an insulin shock back stage, because he delivers his second performance in an utter coma. There's no connection to the melody, the audience, the lyrics or much of anything. It's like he's checked out.
Master Shake, Frylock and Simon Say: Randy calls it just OK and he doesn't understand what Jason's doing around at this point. Paula urges him to get out of his comfort zone. "Oh Jason, come on," a frustrated Simon says, wondering what happened to the Jason they put through. The problem, Simon, is that the Jason you put through was good enough to make the Top 12 or maybe the Top 10. He isn't good enough to still be around at this point.

Singer: PRESUMPTIVE AMERICAN IDOL FINALIST DAVID COOK
Song: "All I Really Need Is You"
My Take: This is a much better arrangement and performance for David. I'm still lamenting the absence of his "Solitary Man," or also perhaps one of the Rick Rubin-produced songs off of Diamond's last album. He still finds a way to put just enough edge into the song's second half to recover some of the David Cook flair that was missing in the first performance. This wasn't a bad night for David, but he should have blown the competition away.
Master Shake, Frylock and Simon Say: Randy thinks it was blazing. Paula's proud of David's song choice, telling him that she feels like she's already looking at the American Idol. Simon calls the second song "brilliant" and contemporary.

Singer: BROOKE WHITE
Song: "I Am... I Said"
My Take: Oh great. A song about declaring your individual voice in a sea of alienation delivered by a singer whose voice is cookie-cutter and whose need to be loved is near-pathological. It's a song about bicoastal dislocation and I don't care if Diamond gave her permission, but if you're from Arizona and you're living in LA, you aren't lost between two shores. Really, she takes the song out behind the woodshed and spanks all of the meaning out of it. She ends every line with an odd, up-beat squeak, but I guess she picks up by the chorus. This is a song I really, really like. I'm going to have to get out my iPod (UNPAID PRODUCT PLUG!) to listen to the original at the commercial break to clear the taste from my mouth.
Master Shake, Frylock and Simon Say: Randy says it was a nice job. Paula thinks that Brooke reclaimed her vulnerability. Simon wants to repeat how much he hated the first song, but he thinks this one was better. Brooke makes sure she thanks everybody.

Singer: PRESUMPTIVE AMERICAN IDOL FINALIST DAVID ARCHULETA
Song: "America"
My Take: There are some unexpected and uncharacteristic rough patches to Li'l Archie's handling of some of the higher notes on what is truly Diamond's most magnificently cheesy song. [The judges won't mention that pitchiness, but they should be made to listen back to the beginning.] All of the second songs have been better arranged than the first and after croaking out those early notes, David comes through with a find performance that becomes predictably uber-serious at the end. Since I view Archuleta as having a strong Faith Healer vibe about him, I'd have killed to hear him sing "Brother Love's Traveling Salvation Show," but nobody asked my opinion.
Master Shake, Frylock and Simon Say: Randy raves. Paula's happy, but her comments are incoherent. Simon thinks it was a was a smart song choice for David's demographic. Really? This season we've seen premature exits for the show's two foreign contestants (three if you thought Ramiele left early). Is an anthem celebrating unfettered immigration and the realities of the American Dream really so well-suited? Would Michael Johns and Carly Smithson agree?

Singer: SYESHA MERCADO
Song: "Thank the Lord for the Night Time"
My Take: Syesha pulls a nice 180 from her first performance, going with one of Diamond's signature spiritual tracks, which sounds much less like a work of White Chocolate affectation when she does it. Personally, I get a kick out of Diamond's revivalist preacher shtick and Syesha plays it to the hilt as well, complete with hand-clapping. She's also the night's only singer to prowl more than a well-worn three-feet of the big Idol stage.
Master Shake, Frylock and Simon Say: You know what Randy's loving? It's that Syesha's in her zone. Paula all over the place with her joy. Simon suspects Syesha will be in trouble because her second song wasn't memorable enough. It isn't exactly going out on a limb to say that a performer who's taken up residence in the Bottom Three might be in trouble.

TONIGHT'S BEST: To my mind, Syesha did two songs that were completely different and that showcased a breadth of personality and succeeded both. Nobody else did that. David Cook's second performance was very strong. Archuleta was reliable.

IN DANGER: Jason Castro was overmatched on both songs and by all rights he should be going home, though I don't doubt that Syesha also be in jeopardy. I don't doubt that Brooke's fans will love her mangling of "I Am... I Said," so that should keep her safe, even though her version of "I'm a Believer" was indefensible.

Agree? Disagree, Brooke White Fans? Who do you figure's in danger?

And, as always, check out Zap2it's Guide to American Idol.

Comments

I just hope that the death slot kills off Jason's chances of being back next week.

I loved that the AI producers realized that they wouldn't go over w/o the judges comments between round 1 and 2 therefore decided that it just wouldn't be right for them not to go over therefore let's see what the judges can do to help us go over - at least we got a classic Paula Abdul moment out of it.

Rishi | Apr 29, 2008 6:45:52 PM | #

I was pulling for YDA on "Kol Nidre".

Adam B. | Apr 29, 2008 6:46:37 PM | #

Ok - I loved the Paula "licking toad" moment too. That was great. She looked clearly perplexed. But what I loved more about this episode was that it proved that David A CANNOT sing an uptempo pop song well. The guy will have a great career like Clay Aiken or Josh Groban - singing "adult pop contemporary". Does anyone think he's a true top 40 artist? His range is limited and he's honestly getting boring. He looked like a kid (yes I know he is) singing today. David Cook, in my opinion, is the only one with potential mass appeal and will probably be the most successful - unless Jason/Brooke can write great songs and do that whole singer/songwriter thing. I wish Randy would stop pushing David A. Listen to Simon everyone (and Paula this week).

Todd | Apr 29, 2008 6:57:42 PM | #

Paula just proved teh entire show is scripted and fixed. I wonder if the singers know???? Very dissapointing

3man | Apr 29, 2008 6:58:48 PM | #

Uh Daniel I think you need to edit your Judges Interlude for Simon. And correct me if I'm wrong, I thought Simon called Syesha's first performance "old-fashioned".

Tonight was TERRIBLE. Everyone was average or sucking bigtime. Is it such a big deal that Paula looked like an idiot? Wasnt she just judging the rehearsals?

I agree with what Daniel said though about most.
Jason's first was pleasant but his second was as bad as last week.
Cook was mumbly on the first and missed a lot of notes in the beginning of the second song.
Brooke was blah on both. 2nd was more believable.
Archie was um...KINDA having fun? Pitchy on the first but better on the 2nd.
Syesha was pitchy on the first again but nailed the 2nd.

Hyvent | Apr 29, 2008 7:03:11 PM | #

Hyvent - Yup. Think you're right about that. I've fixed it...

Adam - I'd only wanna see Li'l' Archie do "Kol Nidre" if he accompanied himself on the cello...

-Daniel

Daniel | Apr 29, 2008 7:08:19 PM | #

Ok was Paula drunk tonight or what, I mean that had to be so embarrassing. The only Idol that I was impressed with was Sayesha, and she is the one I am voting for tonight, I like Jason but tonight he totally sucked, I say goodbye.

Nancy | Apr 29, 2008 7:10:48 PM | #

"It's a song about bicoastal dislocation and I don't care if Diamond gave her permission, but if you're from Arizona and you're living in LA, you aren't lost between two shores."

Lake Havasu blues, perhaps?

Claire Voiant | Apr 29, 2008 7:18:36 PM | #

Mr. Fienberg, so you've changed PAIWDA to PAIDA and now to PAIFDA. No longer think he'll win eh? The way it's lookin, it should be PAIWDC.

Syesha's second song was the best IMO.
Cooks arrangements are so good it covers sub-par performances and vocals. He had that smug look tonight. No doubt now he will win.
I don't think I can watch Archie while he does that "arm sweep". Doesn't anyone tell him that it looks awkward? I liked his vocals on his 2nd song...although his voice cracked which was pretty funny.
Brooke & Jason bottom 2. I hope it's Jason.

Hyvent | Apr 29, 2008 7:37:02 PM | #

Yer crazy. Brooke rocked both songs. She's awesome. David Cook? Booooring song choice. Bottom two-worthy.

Juan Figuroa | Apr 29, 2008 7:45:10 PM | #

You either get Jason or you don't and I happen to love him along with many others. He is the only original amateur in the competition. David A was on Star Search and was not good enough to be signed to any record deal. Carly made a record where Randy is VP and it as a flop. Each of which have a story. Jason is an amateur and wow what great singer he is and poised as if he was like David A and sang his entire life. So if AI is about finding new talet, he is the guy of the season. Otherwise the ratings will continue to drop. What about David Cook pretending to play the guitar!

lotty | Apr 29, 2008 8:29:31 PM | #

Jason played in a relatively successful local band in the Dallas area and was a regular on a semi-scripted MTV reality series, lotty.

In what weird-a** world does that make him more of an amateur than David Cook?

-Gavin

Gavin | Apr 29, 2008 8:34:38 PM | #

I don't understand any David Archuleta praise at all. The judges always want some thing different, something that shows growth, something risky, something contemporary. He does none of this and gets praised, and don't say its cause of perfect vocals, cause he has a thin and very weak upper register which prevents any exciting sounds, and has many pitch problems that never get brought up. Its pretty obvious who they want to win the show, and thats one of the problems with idol this season. plus i havent heard onw track from David A., that would be played on a Top40 station. Just MY thoughts, I'm sure there are many who disagree with me and think he's the best thing since slice bread.

JAT79 | Apr 29, 2008 8:38:03 PM | #

I think that Jason and Brooke are the bottom two. I thought that from the week Michael Johns was eliminated and I've been wrong for three weeks now. That makes it seem to me that it could end up with one or both of the David's or Syesha. Maybe they'll be like season five and the whole top five get record deals.

cm | Apr 29, 2008 9:06:04 PM | #

Strictly speaking I thought Brook and Jason were terrible. Really these two haven't done anything new or different at any point on the show and is just happy staying on their safety zones. But because this is "Fanboy Idol", it will unfortunately be Syesha who will be cut (although she did really good).

David C's second song was really good. And he definitely WAS playing his guitar. I donno what that guy above was talking about.

RR | Apr 29, 2008 9:22:23 PM | #

I just wanna say two things. Jason does not deserve to move on. And the this is the best Top 5 ever. That award goes to Season 5 with Elliott Yamin, Daughtry, Kat McPhee, Paris and undeserving winner Taylor. Those guys are much better vocalists.

Ritchie | Apr 29, 2008 9:24:28 PM | #

Darn, I never edit before I post, I really should. I meant to say this is NOT the best Top 5 ever.

Ritchei | Apr 29, 2008 9:41:13 PM | #

Good analysis of the evening, honestly, I think Jason Castro just needs to flippin' go home. Three or four weeks ago, actually, but whatever. Brooke has been floundering for weeks, and David Archuleta has been giving the same vocally quite adept but formulaic performance on every. Single. Song. (Tonight I noticed the voice cracking a bit on some of those notes, but that's just a minor detail compared to the issue of his unfortunately bland stylistic choices.)
For me, the ideal top two are David Cook and Syesha. David's been providing new and different songs and arrangements--despite the fact that they may not all be his own--week after week. Syesha is a contestant I couldn't have cared less about until the past few weeks, when she seems to have actually stepped out of whatever lull she spent the bulk of the competition in and actually showed some power and personality. She's got the vocal chops and the stage presence to earn a spot in the finals. Unfortunately, being realistic with America means you have to do more than that--I think it'll probably come down to the two Davids, and as more contenders drop out, they'll have to rally behind one or the other, and that'll be the real determining factor. It's all about popularity, sadly enough, but sometimes that syncs up with talent, and that's okay too.

lacrymosa | Apr 29, 2008 10:02:54 PM | #

That being said, I think Paula is more a Meatwad than a Frylock, wouldn't you say?

lacrymosa | Apr 29, 2008 10:05:11 PM | #

For the second week in a row, Sayesha has done a really nice job! I hope that she gets through this week. It would be a shame for her to be rewarded for such a good night with an elimination. Seriously, has anyone in this show's history been in the bottom 3 as much as this poor girl?

And, Paula needs to take fewer crazy pills on show night.

Cat | Apr 29, 2008 10:44:26 PM | #

Dont you think that paula having a prepared comment on jasons second song makes the show seem predetermined and paula to stoned to be judging others?

jeffie | Apr 29, 2008 11:00:37 PM | #

Isnt obvious that david cook is under contract and buying better arrangements than others. Also the sound is turned up more for him than da or jc!

jeffie | Apr 29, 2008 11:06:55 PM | #

Oh Paula, you always bring the funny when you're buzzed.

Sean | Apr 29, 2008 11:19:37 PM | #

Also, Michael John's by all rights should still have been around by this point to sing "America" and rock it the frack out.

Sean | Apr 29, 2008 11:48:47 PM | #

Simon made a prediction on Oprah weeks ago that the top 4 would be David A, David C, Brook and Jason. Brook and Jason could'nt sing if someone did the singing for them. Syesha cannot do anything good enough for Simon no matter how well she sings, then he tells her she's the one in trouble tonite. If she is the one voted off, then I do believe this show is fixed and Simon already knew who was going and staying. I happen to think this is one of the worst bunch of singers they have had, certainly not the best as they keep saying. The only one left now with any marketability would be David Cook. I am sure some would disagree but listen to the radio and you will hear his style of music all day long. If Brook or Jason do not go home and Syesha does, I am done watching. I will know that Simon has the say and all the voting in the world won't change what he wants!

Nola | Apr 30, 2008 12:49:43 AM | #

Jeffie - What do you mean by buying arrangements? That makes no sense. Thay don't buy arrangements of songs.

Daniel _ You are wrong Jason doesn't deserve to go home. Archuleta does. Except the producers see dollar signs in Archuleta (I don't know why but they do. They cut away from him when he forgets the words and call his performance perfect(last week). They ignore obvious voice cracks (tonight) and call him the bomb. Jason is much cooler, relevant, and believable. He doesn't deserve to win. That honor goes to David Cook. But Jason should be final two. He has been much more consistent then the other three contestants. Actually Carly probably deserved to be final two. David Cook is so far ahead of the rest of the compettition it's not even funny. Maybe they are pimping Archuleta still so it seems like someone might have a chance of beating Cook. But I don't even thing the producers believe Archuleta is better then Cook at this point.

Jason S. | Apr 30, 2008 2:18:39 AM | #

To Nola: "The only one left now with any marketability would be David Cook. I am sure some would disagree but listen to the radio and you will hear his style of music all day long."

Are we sheep? Must we all listen to the same thing? My I-Pod has Israel Kamakawiwo'ole (Somewhere Over The Rainbow - bought before Jason Castro sang his version), Sting, Sarah Brightman, Nickelback, Celtic Woman, Gosh Groban, Il Divo, Shania Twain, Dave Matthews Band, Enya, Bryan Adams, Eric Clapton... You get the idea. Some people LIKE variety in their music! Just because someone else sings a different style of music from what you prefer doesn't mean that they aren't any good. I'm 54 and saw Daughtry in Calgary at a Nickelback concert last year and I had a blast! I also had chills when Jason Castro sang Hallelujah! I happen to love Jason's voice. That does NOT mean that I think the other contestants on Idol can't sing. They may have better technique than Jason but he is the only one that I feel a connection to from this group. His is also the only CD I will be picking up when it becomes available. 'Nuff said?

Carol | Apr 30, 2008 2:56:16 AM | #

Daniel Fienberg: Your review this week was insightful and accurate but I found next week's to be repetitive and biased.

Paula | Apr 30, 2008 3:17:43 AM | #

So what was the deal with Paula rating Jason's second song BEFORE he even sang it?!
Is it all FAKE?? WHAT THE HECK IS GOING ON HERE????
And WHAT is wrong with Paula?
Anyway, I like Brooke and voted for her. I think we all know that David C. is going to win, so what's the point really.

Grace | Apr 30, 2008 3:19:15 AM | #

Jason Castro is unique,different and staying true to his genre. And, he has the least experience at singing. Isn't that what AI is all about. Do you guys only listen to one type of music. I listen to all kinds. Broading your collection. I love to listen to Jason. It will be his CD that I run out to purchase.

bab | Apr 30, 2008 3:20:22 AM | #

Does David A. remind anyone else of a cruise ship singer?

Seacrest's Shirt | Apr 30, 2008 3:55:51 AM | #

I think they ranked from top to bottom:
David Cook
Syesha Mercado
Brooke and David A - tied
Jason
Jason deserves to go home on the basis of his poor performance, but I would not be at all surprised to see David A sent off.

Barb L | Apr 30, 2008 4:05:51 AM | #

Regardless of Paula's flub......Jason Castro was still terrible. The pothead Muppet really should have gone home a long time ago. Maybe this week we'll get our overdue chance at seeing that happen. Between his stupid hair, his very thin singing voice, his idiotic facial expression (suggestive of either a mental disorder or prolonged drug use, or both), and that stupid gold chain and cross he wears......he's a complete loser.

As for the others, Brooke was horrible, David A (he with the great voice) had some average performances, Syesha is trying too hard, and David Cook only did well on his second song.

Angie | Apr 30, 2008 4:22:28 AM | #

you know we all get hooked on these reality shows but the bottom line is money, money who will make the most money for everyone.as for the singers is it rigged? is it based on talent? i think all the hype gets everyone going and lets not forget the phone company is getting rich off all the votes and tex messages.

Theresa | Apr 30, 2008 4:41:08 AM | #

Ummmm.... Question? Isn't Ramiele American? I mean, she isn't white, but that doesn't make her "foreign".

Nonnie Muss | Apr 30, 2008 5:35:19 AM | #

Don't you think it's about time we completely ignored Paula's critique? It has never made any sense in the past and after last night she has proven that nothing she says matters. I think she should be replaced by whatever celebrity mentor they're having that week. She is completely useless. And as much as I agree that Jason hasn't been doing well the past 2 weeks, I still love him and hope he gets to stay. I think he's unique and as someone else said, the only true amateur singer. If that's what AI is really all about.

Robyn | Apr 30, 2008 5:58:20 AM | #

Why hasn't anyone brought up that Paula also called Syesha Brook before the last comments. Go back and listen for yourselves. How do you get a plain vanilla white girl confused with Syesha? Paula was on something last night.

dan | Apr 30, 2008 6:01:56 AM | #

Dan, thank you, I was wondering when someone else would mention the whole Brook/Syesha Paula flub.

Does anyone else think Simon was making those comments about Syesha after her second song because he knew it would get people voting for her? Remeber what he said to Carly last week? He apologized for praising her because he thought it may have been the reason she didn't get enough votes. Simon's comments to Syesha last night were a deliberate attempt to KEEP her on the show, not get her voted off.

Chris | Apr 30, 2008 6:11:12 AM | #

I think that Paula was commenting on dress rehearsal. In any case, it was odd and hilarious and embarrassing all at the same time.

Brooke's first performance was ridiculous. I kind of liked her second one.

David Cook is tops for me, and I also voted for Syesha last night.

Cannot stand Archuleta. I think he must be bribing someone (or his dad is) to get all the high marks, when he is clearly a one-trick wonder. Kind of like Ruben, the judges decided they love him and won't say much bad about him. Boo.

Astrid | Apr 30, 2008 6:12:50 AM | #

Ramiele is filipino and born in Saudi Arabia (not sure how that happened)

Pookie | Apr 30, 2008 6:31:15 AM | #

It seems like all the AI contestants had professional experience (record deals, star search,other bands). But I haven't heard if Syesha has?
Anyone?

jt | Apr 30, 2008 6:31:27 AM | #

Dan - I so caught that too! lol. I must say, loved not hearing the judges till the end - lets do that every night!

I must say that I barely remember last nights show. It may have something to do with Carly getting kicked off last week. I like DC, but at this point I really don't care, as I think he will have an album out anyway.

People talk about the show being rigged - talented singers get the boot and less talented singers stay. But I feel the show basically reflcts the state of pop music today. There are some artists that make it to the top, and they are not exactly great singers. But they have great images, looks, personality etc. and generate $$$. Just look at the Jonas brothers. IMO, they whine through that song that is out now. Maybe that reflects my age - but I still can't understand how people (kids?)listen to it.

MDEP | Apr 30, 2008 6:31:48 AM | #

David A (yes, I like his voice) is playing "younger" uptempo songs. The problem is he doesn't "own" the stage. Yes, Clay and others couldn't dance but at least Clay did these really long notes and other things with his voice. David A needs to grow as a performer, though yes, the judges see dollar signs. David C did a good 2nd song, and Syesha gets less credit than she deserves> Jason or Brooke should go, but it might be Syesha. David A might finally make it into the bottom with that dreck-y "Caroline" but if he does, he won't get the boot. Dan, your reviews crack me up, but why did you not say that David A is dressed as Elvis from Jailhouse Rock?

John | Apr 30, 2008 6:35:23 AM | #

Yeah I noticed Paula calling Syesha Brooke too. definitely something special in her punch last night. Either that or she is as dumb as a board. Her rating jason's second song was the most classic f-up hilarious moment she's ever had. And that is saying a WHOLE LOT. CLAssic TV.

I believe she watches the dress rehearsal and figures out what she's going to say during the regular show and she just got confused last night because lots of times they have to reshoot things and she didn't realize where they were in the show or if they were just taping for a later moment or something. But it really proves how dingy or drugged out she is.

Maybe her and Jason were smoking out before the show.

Jason S. | Apr 30, 2008 6:37:11 AM | #

Pookie - I can tell you how it happened. Her Mommy and Daddy fell in love and then they.......

Jason S. | Apr 30, 2008 6:38:36 AM | #

Great re-cap Daniel.

I agree with most of the posts. David A. needs to go. He's always the same. I think he's too young to be in this competition. What will eventually happen is the pre-teen girls' votes will be split between David A. and Jason and both will be in the bottom two.

David Cook and Syesha were by far the best of the five last night.

Peace.

JVice | Apr 30, 2008 6:49:05 AM | #

Big Brooke White FAN here! and yes i voted like a hundred times... but anyway - here's my thoughts. DAVID COOK - great on both songs... you can always count on him to be edgier and "original" and to update old music. BROOKE - amazing on both counts although "believer" was too low for her...the second song got me all kinds of excited! but i'm biased. DAVID A. - boring on both songs. JASON CASTRO - boring and lazy and useless and a waste good pixels on my tv. SYESHA - first song was awkward - second song was Great! I think she's ready for Broadway!!

Winners in my world: David Cook and Brooke White

***Paula is so great... she just kept on going and going without any clue that she wasn't making any sense. But gotta love her!!!!

ed | Apr 30, 2008 6:54:34 AM | #

Obviously, Paula's flub is because she had everything written from the dress rehearsal. The judges, or at least Paula, already have their minds made up on what they are going to say BEFORE they sing that evening. So if they do a crappy job, the judges don't hear it, case in point, David A's pitchy notes in his second song.

Now I must say I disagree with the take on Jason tonight. I can't say his songs were memorable, but I really think that Neil Diamond songs are his niche. He at least had fewer funny facial gestures *during* the song. :-)

I will have to say that Jason, Brooke, and David A have changed very little and all their songs have sounded the same this whole season.

Syesha has really come a long way, but I agree with the judges as I too think she belongs on a Broadway stage. I really think she would be happy with that.

That said, our home is voting for David Cook as I think he has the most all around talent of any of them. Some say he's cocky....well can I say I don't know too many in the music business that aren't. I think there has to be some amount of cockiness to get anywhere with so much talent out there. Go David C!

D | Apr 30, 2008 7:18:56 AM | #

I love Neil Diamond, and I even had forgotten how much until I heard all of the songs being performed last night. Not that the contestants did all of them jsutice. I just don't care for David Cook and was never so surprised when the judges loved his second performance. Syesha was fun and I really like Archie. I can't even consider the complaints against him; they don't affect me negatively. I think he's by far the best one, and I don't care how much money "they" make off of him. I like what I like (and don't what I don't!) I am hoping each voter is individual in his/her choices, not behaving as lemmings and listening to the complaints of others.

MrRight | Apr 30, 2008 7:23:25 AM | #

Wow quite a variety of opinions here today:)
.......
--Agree with Jason S on why happened to Paula. She is ridiculous though and I really don't think the judges should watch the performances before the live show, but just my opinion.
--No one blew me away last night but David C and Syesha were the best overall. Individually I liked David Cs second song, Brooke's second, both of Syesha's, and Jason's first. David A just ok.
--I think Simon's comment of Syesha being in trouble backfired (look at dialidol) but possibly on purpose. He might have known it would actually help her for him to say that.
--I do think Syesha is talented and consistent. Her problem to me is she doesn't connect. She doesn't seem comfortable unless she is acting on stage and not being herself. She definitely should go to Broadway though, I don't think she can stand out enough as a pop artist. She doesn't deserve to leave yet though. But i think the other finalists just connect more, have more unique sounds, and have more rabid fanbases. I find things about each of them enjoyable and endearing. But David C has been the most consistent with the most originality and most stand out performances. I want him to do well regardless of this show. If anyone is interested go to MTV.com and read the nice article about David Cook from interviewing one of his former bandmates. I would love to hear an original song by him on the show.
--PLEASE give them a broad theme next week so they can choose a wide variety of songs, maybe something from todays radio to make it relative?

Erin | Apr 30, 2008 7:24:37 AM | #

i also don't understand the constant praise for archie...i HATE HATE HATE the vocal runs he does (which we all know randy loves), and every time i hear him sing, i just yearn to hear the original. why can't he sing a song straight?

as for paula, i think it was a complete embarrassment to the show. i've done some work on canadian idol, and what i find interesting is that on CI, the judges aren't present for the rehearsals, so they come in to the live show fresh.

and paula changing her story ("i thought you sang twice" "oh i'm looking at my notes for david cook") took away a lot of credibility, because it proved not that the show is fixed, but that the judges pretty much have their minds made up about the performances based on rehearsals. i wouldn't be surprised if that was the final straw for her and she won't be back next season (we can only hope!)

leor | Apr 30, 2008 7:27:28 AM | #

I really dont get the bad comments about Syesha. She sings hard songs, hits every note, and looks really good doing it, IMO. Jason should be gone this week, or Brooke. I usually like David A, but he was kinda boring this week. None of that really matters cuz Cook is going to win it all. Would like to see Syesha for a couple of more weeks anyway!

Butthead1 | Apr 30, 2008 7:34:38 AM | #

All I can say as that I hope Syesha's fans come out in full force. 3 or 4 weeks I would have been fine with her going, however the last two weeks she has been much better than Jason or Brooke and added some much needed liveliness, she won't win the competition, however she and the audience don't deserve what happened last week. Jason shoudl be going home. As for Paual maybe the key change after the first half minute of "Blue Jeans" made her think he'd gone into "September Morn"? It is difficult and hard to keep track that 5 contestants have sung once, now they will sing again!

Bob | Apr 30, 2008 7:45:18 AM | #

It's past time for "Dreadshow Bob" to go home.

Chris | Apr 30, 2008 7:53:31 AM | #

I agree with LEOR: Paula was a complete embarassment to the show, even more than her usual wacky self. AI really needs to be looking for her replacement ASAP. Paula tried to cover up her mistake by saying that she must have read her comments for David Cook instead of Jason. But she started to say that "You didn't bring your charm that we love about you", which is clearly Jason's attribute, NOT DAVID'S. Seriously, she must have been reading her notes from the rehearsal. I adore Jason, but he just didn't look like he was interested in his song selections. Syesha will probably be the one leaving tonight, even though Jason or Brooke probably deserve to be in the bottom two.

On to the actual performances, only Syesha and David Cook really stood out for me. Syesha belongs on Broadway, and DC should be a successful Top 40 singer. Once again, Archuleta shows us that he can only do a "Josh Groban" version of a song, except his voice isn't as distinct as the actual Josh Groban's. Brooke messed up "I'm a Believer", which is such a familiar song to everybody, since it was recently on the Shrek soundtrack.

Paige | Apr 30, 2008 7:55:53 AM | #

Daniel, thank you, for my money your comments were dead-on. And I was praying for ANYONE to do Brother Love's Travelin' Salvation Show. Oh, well.

Love David C., but I also miss Chikezie. For me the truly memorable moment of this season is still his take on She's A Woman. He and Michael Johns should still be here in place of Jason Castro and Brooke White.

Beth | Apr 30, 2008 7:57:03 AM | #

I voted for the first time this season. Twice for David Cook, and seven times for Syesha. They're the only two singers I even want to hear, and if Syesha goes home after last night's performances, it will be a shame. She's got the best vocal range of them all. It's time for Brooke and Jason to go, they should already be gone. I would have much rather heard Carly's take on Neil Diamond than Jason or Brooke.

Can someone please, please, please take Li'l Archie's Melisma License away? Please?

Siansonea | Apr 30, 2008 8:09:00 AM | #

Archuleta is part of a Yankee conspiracy to dilute the power of a Sox rally song. He needs to go.

Casper | Apr 30, 2008 8:10:57 AM | #

Please Please send Jason "Jar Jar Binks" Castro Home. I can't stand watching him "sing" anymore !!!!!

Lily Bird | Apr 30, 2008 8:11:24 AM | #

Did anyone else notice that before evaluating Syesha for her second song, Paula called Syesha -Brooke! What? This chick needs to be checked into a center.

Kevin | Apr 30, 2008 8:18:42 AM | #

Syesha will get, or got all of Carlys votes I would think.

Also, dump Paula and bring in Debbie Gibson. She is more of an Artist then Paula ever was.

Ray | Apr 30, 2008 8:41:57 AM | #

I'm pretty sure I read early on (season 1 or 2) that Simon said he does not attend any rehearsals so that he can react to the actual live performance. That may be why he so often finds himself telling Paula and Randy that they are going to listen back to the show and realize their commentary was off.

I think it would be better if they all heard it for the first time live, but Paula's head might explode if she had to come up with something to say on the spot. The poor girl cannot even deliver lines she's got prepared in front of her.

PM | Apr 30, 2008 8:59:48 AM | #

JASON HAS GOT TO GO HOME!!! He can't sing a a phrase without taking several breaths, and we have to suffer as he puts the mike next to his mouth. That's singing?? I beg to differ!!!!
I agree what Angie had to say about Jason. He IS A POTHEAD MUFFET, and as a former teacher, you look at him, hear him speak with no rhyme or reason, and you know he needs a lot of help to keep up with the rest of the class. How can someone like that represent American Idol when he didn't know that "Memory" was sung by a cat??
During his first song, I left the room, and watched Hidden Potential during his second song, and NO, JUSTIN DOESN'T HAVE ANY HIDDEN POTENTIAL!!
SYESHA did a wonderful job last night and DESERVES to stay. Get rid of Justin so we can have a REAL COMPETITION!

Delorez B | Apr 30, 2008 9:55:31 AM | #

This is what's going to happen: Syesha is going to be voted off, Jason is going to be safe, and me and my family are going to stop watching this show.

However, I hope I'm wrong and that Simon dissing Syesha saves her!

edgar | Apr 30, 2008 10:08:06 AM | #

Okay, let's get serious about what a singing idol is.

They are someone who is pleasing to look at (for the most part). You can envision posters on the bedroom walls of little kids.

They are someone who, if their song came on the radio, satellite, whatever you would still want to listen after the first 10 seconds.

They are someone, when you listen to them sing, you can say "Yeah, I'd pay to listen to this person for 90-minutes in concert."

The only one who comes close to filling all three criteria after all these weeks is David Cook (although he doesn't look like an Idol). He can mix up his repertoire and you don't always want to turn him off after 10 seconds.

Can you imagine trying to listen to David Archuletta for 90-minutes? He can't sing. No radio Music Director would get past the first few notes of anything he sings. They wouldn't program his music at all.

Jason Castro will enjoy much success on the coffee house circuit.

Brooke White can open her own little cantina in Arizona somewhere and serenade the rattle snakes and scorpions into her old age.

The others are so unremarkable I can't think of them off the top of my head.

Richard | Apr 30, 2008 10:09:09 AM | #

I too LOVED the Paula screwup, one of tv's greatest momments ever. I think she has 2 prepared answers, a good comment and a bad comment prepared ahead of time on the same sheet. Only she forgot she had to choose one and read both of them. HAHAHA

The World | Apr 30, 2008 10:13:34 AM | #

David Cook rocks my socks!!!Syesha was pretty good too.

iAMaVampire | Apr 30, 2008 10:23:52 AM | #

I really don't understand why this season continues to be considered the best ever. I enjoyed season five much more. Nobody this season is like them. After the show seven of the top twelve of that year got their own recording contracts. I don't see that happening this time around. This is a VERY boring top five.

Penny | Apr 30, 2008 10:31:40 AM | #

Wow not the best night.

Jason, please leave you suck

David Cook was good again

Brooke, give you props for doing something different, and on the second song you didn't start over.

David A. I thought both songs were boring, How he made 'America' boring is beyond me. Michael, Carly or even KLC would have been welcomed relief

Syesha, was actually overall I thought the best of the night. Her second song she showed some personality.

Jason should go, but I guess he will join Brooke in the bottom two and Brooke leaves.

jbw | Apr 30, 2008 11:05:51 AM | #

Penny- I don't think anyone, from the comments I have seen, thinks this is the best season ever. The producers and judges said that to get people interested at the beginning of the season. They actually say that every season before it starts. Many people would agree with you that S5 had the most amount of talented people. Even Randy might- he has been quoted as saying how awesome Elliott and Katharine are- and they are the only Idols included on his recent 'Music Club' album
........
While I don't extremely dislike any of these current 5, none of them truly excite me ever besides David Cook.

Erin | Apr 30, 2008 11:12:02 AM | #

Syesha? Are you all listening to the same show I am? That second song was a terrible rendition of something you might see at a theme park.

S-no-sha. BYe BYe

bd | Apr 30, 2008 11:14:38 AM | #

My take on Paula's review: the judges have seen the rehearsal so more or less already know what they sound like and what the arrangement will be. Ryan stressed several times during the first half hour that no judge's comments would be given until AFTER both songs. However, after constantly rushing everyone, he all of a sudden announced they would do quick comments BEFORE the second set of songs. Paula is confused enough and this just threw her off even more. So she looked at her notes from rehearsal and the faux pas occured. Cut her some slack. I blame Ryan.

Please get rid of Jason. He needs to return to the Cabbage Patch farm and join his adopted brothers and sisters.

Ken | Apr 30, 2008 11:19:48 AM | #

Does anyone know whey David Cook has "AC" on his guitar and he even had it on his jacket last night. What does it stand for?

Tina S | Apr 30, 2008 11:34:45 AM | #

Syesha was the best overall tonight, by far, followed by David C. The rest completely forgetable. I am now feeling bad for David A., he is clearly a 1 trick pony, Josh Groban or Clay Aiken incarnate. While people do like that music, it is not for me, and he still looks awkward when he sings. Jason and Brooke are just simply overmatched vocally by the others, but I can see Brooke having decent country-light pop crossover appeal, with Jason, well, getting baked and singing in coffee houses his whole life.

As for Paula, who knows. But am I the only one who heard her call Brooke "Syesha". She says she doesn't drink, but man she looked loaded last night. First time this season, it usually happens much earlier.

wilsonclan | Apr 30, 2008 11:41:26 AM | #

LAST NIGHT DAVID COOK WAS THE BEST LIKE AL PREVIEWS WEEKS...

BROOKE WHITE DID A GOOD JOB. FIRST WITH THE GUITAR AND SECOND WITH THE PIANO.

JASON CASTRO... WOW . WHY HE'S STILL IN THIS COMPETITION. THE LAST TWO WEEKS DID A GOOD JOB. BUT LAST NIGHT, WHAT HAPENNED? IF YOU LOOK CLOSER WHEN HE PLAYS THE GUITAR HE STANDS UP, BUT WITHOUT THE GUITAR HE ALWAYS SEATS. HE WITHOUT HIS GUITAR IS OUT OF THE COMFORT ZONE.

SEYSHA! DRAMA QUEEN... SHE KEEP BELEIVING THAT SHE IS AN ACTRESS AND A GREAT SINGER. MAYBE THE SECOND ONE, BUT SHE IS SO FULL OF HERSELF THAT IS COSTING HER TO BE IN THE FINALS... I KEEP SAYING THAT SHE BELEIVES THAT SHES THE BEST

DAVIS ARCHULETA... MY FRIEND STOP SINGING THE SAME KIND OF SONGS. BORING BORING AND PREDICTABLE, NOTHING NEW. LAST NIGHT WAS PITCHY ALL OVER THE PLACE. I HOPE HE MAKE THE BOTTOM TWO TONIGHT SO HE CAN REALIZE HES NOT THAT GOOD AS THE JUDGES SAID.

BOTTOM TWO...

I WISH... SEYSHA
DAVID"ARCHIE"
WILL BE... JASON
BROOKE WHITE

RICHARD (PUERTO RICO) | Apr 30, 2008 11:46:36 AM | #

Tina S. - I'm assuming the "AC" stands for "Adam Cook," who would be David's brother, the one with cancer...

Gavin | Apr 30, 2008 11:50:09 AM | #

Haha. Paula's gaffe does nothing but prove the show is scripted and fixed. Wonder why Jason Castro looked like he didn't care.. If i knew I was pre-determined to leave I wouldn't care how crappy my song was either.

scott | Apr 30, 2008 11:52:09 AM | #

I think David C should win, but I bet David A. will - too many teenybopper fans that will vote non-stop for him.
I'm in the minority, but I actually like Jason. He definitely could have used someone to really push him on that second song - maybe he was too stoned - but at least he's different than the usual. Syesha has impressed me the most of late. She deserves to stay.

walt | Apr 30, 2008 11:58:39 AM | #

I don't think there is Top 40 radio anymore, just a mish mash of sorts when it comes to music so all the David Archuleta bashing whether he is Top 40 material is rediculous and even if he is Adult Contemporary, that certainly hasn't hurt Clay Aiken and Kimberley Locke one bit. What I don't understand is why David Archuleta get's pounded for finally as every one is saying an upbeat song and changing it and the same can't be said for David Cook who essentially is doing what David A has done...they both are interchangable but the one difference is David A is getting pounded rather rudely while David Cook is coming out like he is the 2nd coming of Jesus!!! As for Sayesha's performance, first round she totally tried to Whiteny Houston the song but it failed and the 2nd song, I didn't feel a connection, it was just rather blah!!! I think it should be her time to go cause it's obvious that Jason's fan base is a bit bigger.....

aiken4olivia | Apr 30, 2008 12:02:11 PM | #

I hope people regret not voting for Carly and Michael now...this bottom 5 is 3 mediocre singers you could find at any theme park or church choir (DA, B, J), one decent singer (S), and one likely winner (DC) who would probably do better NOT to win the competition and sing whatever crappy inspirational AI song that the suits choose as his first single.

Why do I hate this show every year and why do it keep watching it? So frustrating!

Jen | Apr 30, 2008 12:24:33 PM | #

edit--why do I keep watching it???

Jen | Apr 30, 2008 12:25:14 PM | #

David Archuleta shouldn't win, but he will.

Now before and of his fans start yelling at me in response, I think he can sing good... he's got a great voice. But he's not well rounded like David Cook and Carly are... those two can sing BOTH rock/up-beat and ballad/slow songs equally as well (really selling them and making them believable and come across as natural). But David Archuleta is only strong in the ballad department... of the about 4 up-tempo songs I've seen him do he's failed to sell them, make them seem natural.

My first thought last night with the Neil Diamond songs were, "Cool, he's finally going to do up-beat". But as he performed them I thought "Wow, he's actually managed to make an up-beat song sound like a ballad". By that I mean he over sang both of them, there was no deep register or "rock" sound in his voice... the words were delivered in the same manner as his ballads were. This further cements my belief he's a "one trick pony" (can only do ballads) and is why he shouldn't win and David Cook should instead, but the avid fanbase will probably push him through.

Steve | Apr 30, 2008 12:33:32 PM | #

Paula's gaffe simply confirms that the woman is unable to think on her feet and articulate a coherent thought. Perhaps if she were to remain seated and focus on the performance instead of dancing around shakin' her groove thang during the songs, she might stay focussed.
Have to agree with one thing - the producers in charge of tonight's show should be taken behind the woodshed. That was pathetic - I've seen more polished and smoother-running high school productions than what was aired on FOX tonight. Amateurish and almost unwatchable, thanks to the producers!

Corey | Apr 30, 2008 12:44:53 PM | #

Jason goes home tonight. Brooke & David Cook are the top two.

nwb | Apr 30, 2008 12:59:17 PM | #

Diolidol has Syesha on top Followed by David C. Archuleta is in trouble on that site for the first time since the competition began. Jason and Brook are the bottom 2 respectively. Could go either way. Maybe America got it right this time.
Anyone know who Votefortheworst is voting for these days?

Chris | Apr 30, 2008 1:09:27 PM | #

I have to tell you that this is the first season I have watched of AI, and every single week the performances are mostly bad. In all of the USA, are these really the top singers? Pathetic. Oh, and I agree with Robyn - I think Paula should be replaced by whatever celebrity mentor they're having that week. Wonderful idea.

Idolator | Apr 30, 2008 1:17:38 PM | #

What say we all pitch in and raise enough money to buy Mercado a pair of shoes. Is she just in from the barn or what?

Danny | Apr 30, 2008 2:53:47 PM | #

Jason has my vote!! Just because he messed up one week doesn't mean he's bad. GO JASON!!!!

etk | Apr 30, 2008 3:06:57 PM | #

ok I dont think the show is skrepted
at all ok I just think paula got confused. which happeneds to the best of us if I had the kind of problems she has I woud get confused to.And plus if the show was skrepted simon woude not be able to say any of the things he says to the contestents.

chris overton | Apr 30, 2008 3:21:32 PM | #

Isn't Paula on pain killers for chronic pain? I VAGUELY recall a story about her on TV awhile back, 'twas an attempt to explain why she looks and acts the way she does on the show.
David Cook deserves to win, but like Chris Daughtry, he might be better off if he doesn't. I do wish he'd ditch the smug look, at least until after he wins.

Doodles | Apr 30, 2008 5:09:39 PM | #

I should be on pain killers because I had to watch Archie sing the same old boring chum he always sings. Oh and there was a post many many posts ago by a lady saying she listens to artists like Nickelback because she likes variety. That makes me laugh because they've only ever wrote one song, they've just figured out a way to play it 50 different ways.

barly | Apr 30, 2008 6:33:19 PM | #

barly - OMG, talk about missing the point of my post! The over 80 artists in my I-Tunes library covers quite a large VARIETY of music styles. I guess including Nickelback as one of my examples offended your love of pure Rock? Is Daughtry a better example?

On another note, GO JASON!

Carol | Apr 30, 2008 9:58:20 PM | #

Yeah, Go Jason! Go home! Should have been gone before Carly or even stinky Brooke! Cute or not his singing isnt even in the same league as the rest!

| May 1, 2008 6:27:33 AM | #

DCook's AIRNIY was, as Simon says, brilliant. His artistic interpretation of the angst and passion in Diamond's lyrics is stunning. It bears listening to again and again. That dude knows music, and knows how to sing. His performance alone made the show worth watching (and taping.)

Winterview | May 1, 2008 7:30:02 AM | #

David's AC on his guitar (and sometimes jacket) stand for both his brothers. Adam, the one with cancer, and another brother Andrew. Has been doing that for years.

Sally | May 5, 2008 2:13:31 PM | #

First,all of these singers are very good and I enjoyed every one,but why are they already crowning an American Idol (David Cook) a couple of judges have stated on TV that they think he will win. They can feel that way,but don't say it out loud where the other contestants hear that and then have to go out and perform.I think that is very unfair.

Sharon | May 6, 2008 6:53:42 AM | #