'American Idol' Top Eight Fails to Inspire

April 08, 06:32 PM

Wednesday night will be all about pleas for charity, but Tuesday (April 8) night's American Idol is all about pleas for your votes. In other words, it was business as usual as the American Idol Top Eight sang Inspirational Songs.

Singer: MICHAEL JOHNS
Song: "Dream On"
My Take: Applause to Michael for believing that '70s rock anthems can be inspirational, too. I suspect that most of tonight's contestants will figure that if it isn't maudlin and dreary, it isn't inspirational, so good for Michael for going a different direction. The Aussie keeps tackling some of the greatest rock vocalists in history, going after Steven Tyler with the same not-quite-the-real-thing effort he brought to his covers of Freddie Mercury and Jim Morrison. His range really just isn't big enough to for the Mercurys and Perrys, especially the higher he gets (musically, not in the Jason Castro way). I'd say that Michael plays the closing falsetto decently, though I it works better if you weren't raised on the sort of New England classic rock stations that play this Aerosmith favorite as part of every 10-song block.
Beezus, Ramona and Simon Say: Randy thinks this is an important week, a chance to see who can really win this thing. Randy doesn't buy that Aerosmith is in Michael's wheelhouse, questioning the song choice. Michael wisely goes all Fievel Mousekewitz, insisting that in America dreams can come true. Kristy Lee Cook is backstage raging at his show of immigrant patriotism. Paula can't disagree more with Randy's words, slobbering that Michael sounds as good as he looks and that her Chihuahuas will respond to the high notes. Simon is reserved, calling it both a very good performance, but still not the side of Michael he most likes.

Singer: SYESHA MERCADO
Song: "I Believe"
My Take: See? This is exactly the sort of song I'm fearing for the rest of the night. This is bland treacle that only played for Fantasia because of the rough edge that she brought to everything, that rasp that cut right through the banalities. Syesha doesn't have that same voice and the closing falsetto is utterly dreadful. Seriously, as inoffensive as the rest of the performance may have been -- Syesha has fine pitch and OK range, but she lacks even an iota of nuance and diversity -- the falsetto is Chihuahua-explodingly bad.
Beezus, Ramona and Simon Say: Randy thinks that it was Fantasia's special connection to the song that her version and that Syesha didn't have the same connection. Paula dares to say that you can't compare the two of them. You can't? An American Idol contestant singing an American Idol winner's coronation song? Paula mutters something about Fantasia being Syesha's idol and that this was one of her shining knights. Simon gives her technical points, but says it was missing the wave of emotion.

Singer: JASON CASTRO
Song: "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"
My Take: Oh, Clifford the Muppet! If ever there were a week to whip out "The Rainbow Connection" this was it. He comes close, though, bringing out a ukulele, which he can only barely play. Musically, it's a blessed relief when the strings section chimes in. This is what Jason does best, light and frothy vocals that require absolutely nothing more than a lilting whisper. Since that's all his voice really is, this may be Jason's most Jason-esque performance to date. If Jason made you swoon before tonight, you're probably a puddle on your couch. If you're one of those people going, "Stop making those silly faces and sing something more difficult!" then Jason probably won't have won you over.
Beezus, Ramona and Simon Say: Yo, Randy tells Jason what. Then he raves that it was blazing, molten hot. What was? That performance? I'd go as far as "nice" or "pleasant" or "groovy," but "molten hot"? Paula thinks Jason has a definitive voice, causing Randy to interject that it was like a record. Yes. It was. Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's record, right down to the weirdly reordered lyrics (not nearly as good, but whatever). Simon, all smiles, calls it fantastic.

Singer: KRISTY LEE COOK
Song: "Anyway"
My Take: Did Kristy accidentally ruin most of her wardrobe by washing it with a bright red shirt? Because this is an outfit she's recycled three or four times now. To be fair, it's a splendid showcase. I think this may be the very best Kristy's country-ready voice has sounded all competition. Some of the notes sound sharp-ish to my ear, but they're sharp-ish in the way that country songs often sound to me. Kristy may have been unfairly maligned for her hideously arranged Beatles songs and she may have been unfairly propped up with "God Bless the USA," but this is the first time I think we saw the Kristy from the very first audition, the pretty girl with the solid voice. She's not spectacular, but she doesn't need to be ashamed to be around.
Beezus, Ramona and Simon Say: Randy actually loved that. Paula agrees that this was her finest night so far. Simon thinks she was "very very good indeed."

Singer: DAVID COOK
Song: "Innocent"
My Take: David "The Leader" Cook's lower register isn't really his strong suit, so this one begins a little low to him. So he starts mumbling and keeps alternating between that low rumble and a so-so falsetto. The chorus is so low that I'm only hearing the background singers. I'd call the entire thing a bit uneven. Also, David really isn't the kind of performer who should be resorting to going into the crowd and playing up to the judges.
Beezus, Ramona and Simon Say: Randy's a huge fan, but he doesn't believe David threw it down this week. Paula's loving his whole package. Simon says it was "a teensy weensy bit pompous." Paula's so pleased she caught the words "give back" on David's hand. Way to go, Paula. He also jabbed his hand into the camera.

Singer: CARLY SMITHSON
Song: "The Show Must Go On"
My Take: I continue to think Carly isn't getting exactly the right coaching from the Idol team. In terms of pure range, I'm not sure that anybody can compete with her this season, but she's rarely found a vehicle that lets her show that range without showing effort. This song, alas, is no exception. She's yelling, shrieking, straining, shouting and bellowing. If the question is "Could any other Idol woman do this song justice?" I'd say "Nope." But if the question is "Is Carly currently doing this song justice?" I'd have doubts. America and Simon appear to be giving Carly an eating disorder (or pushing her to take better care of herself), because she looks slimmer and better tailored this week.
Beezus, Ramona and Simon Say: Randy thinks it started good, became pitchy and ended up disconnected. Paula's not feeling engaged, either with the world or with Carly. Simon compliments Carly's look, but he doesn't get the song choice. He warns that she lost control of the song and may be in some trouble.

Singer:PRESUMPTIVE AMERICAN IDOL WINNER DAVID ARCHULETA
Song: "Angels"
My Take: David's been prepping for Idol Gives Back week for months now. Every week is Inspirational Songs for this easily inspired 17-year-old. I'm not ashamed to admit that I'm a big fan of the Robbie Williams version. It's one of the very best stadium anthems of the past 20 years. I'd advise the little girls who think this was a good cover to check out the original, because this take never gets off the ground. It takes too long to get to the chorus and it's been set much too low for him. I think David could have done a great job with a better arranged version, but I was nodding off before he gets to the chorus. The key in setting these songs for 90 seconds is to give the contestants the most hook-y version possible and David doesn't have that here.
Beezus, Ramona and Simon Say: You know what Randy loves about the performance at the end? I don't. Randy thinks it was David's hottest moment all season. Paula's pleased as well. Simon loves the song choice, but he won't say this was David's best vocal.

Singer: BROOKE WHITE
Song: "You've Got a Friend"
My Take: And the night's most predictable song choice goes to... BROOKE WHITE!!!! America's Nanny wants us all to know that we've got a friend. But she mixes things up by letting somebody else play the piano. I'd say that's a bad choice. Brooke automatically looks more versatile and talented when she's sitting at a piano or strumming her guitar. So me, when Brooke's just standing at the mic clutching it and trying not to tip over, she looks scared. She makes a huge show of musical empathy, narrowing her eyes at all the right places, and tearing up at the end, before she thanks America for clapping for her. This is new for Brooke, who's always had an answer for either praise or criticism from the judges, but this is the first time I remember her thanking me for clapping.
Beezus, Ramona and Simon Say: Brooke's in tears even before Randy says he wasn't jumping up and down, nor was he mad at her. Paula's word for the night is "definitive." Simon compares it to a pleasant walk in the park.

TONIGHT'S BEST: Boy. Rough night, kids. Inspirational Songs Night is pretty much a recipe for over-seriousness and over-literal covers and the singers all managed to deliver. She wasn't great by any means, but for achieving a personal best, I'm going to give tonight's highest kudos to Kristy. Her most so-so rivals include David Archuleta, Brooke and Jason.

IN DANGER: I'm booting Syesha just for that senseless closing falsetto. Ick. Carly deserves to join her in the Bottom Three. And it wouldn't be a Bottom Three without Kristy, even if she doesn't deserve to go home.

Agree? Disagree? Who do you think'll be going home on Thursday? And do you plan to tune in on Wednesday even though there won't be an elimination?

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

in American Idol , FOX

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Not a very good nite at all. All the contestants were acting a little strange today. And the judges were spot on.

In the order of what I thought was best to worst. Don't yell, it's just an opinion =)

1. Jason was surprisingly pleasant today although I think that's his peak. It's funny watching the judges praise him after hearing their comments last on Larry King Live (Randy said he'd never sign him to a record deal).

2. Archie couldnt really hit the low notes today but he SMASHED the high ones. I've seen his high school performance on youtube of Angel and dont think tonite was as good. The ending was CRAZY though. He looked pretty tired tonite (which is probably why Paula told him to sleep) and I'm still waiting for him to blow me away.

3. Syesha was pretty good but not memorable at all. She's got the vocals but they need to be more refined before she'll do well. She was so mouthy tonite my opinion of her went way down

4. Michael was decent but was shouting a lot. His talking back to the judges was almost as bad as Syesha and he's getting a little too smug with all the compliments he's been getting the last few weeks. Top 3 for the season though

5. Brooke's still my favourite girl and she was ok tonite. Not spectacular but ok......almost made me cry because she was all pouty and about to break down at the end.

6. Kristy is still pretty bad IMO. Not a unique quality to her (although she's pretty hot). Her voice makes me wanna puke though.

7. Carly was yelling that whole performance and missed TONS of notes. Did anyone catch the ending when she stopped completely while the background singers still held the last note for like a minute?

8. Cookie was horrible tonite. The lower octave wasnt working at all. I still think he's a favourite to win but this song was ridiculous to do on Idol.

Hyvent | Apr 8, 2008 6:42:10 PM | #

Uhhhhm. If you think Michael honestly was better than Jason ... no wonder your blog is a joke.

Danielle | Apr 8, 2008 7:46:11 PM | #

I think Kristy was easily the best of the night. Good for her, now maybe people can finally forget about the Beatles weeks and judge her fairly. I actually think Michael was the only other standout performer tonight. Everyone else was so-so.

Based on tonight, Syesha, Carly and David Cook are the bottom 3, but we all know that won't happen

3man | Apr 8, 2008 7:56:35 PM | #

Kristie Lee didn't sing "God Bless America" last week; she sang "God Bless the USA". Huge difference. She still needs to go.

Brooke def should have been playing the piano.

David Cook sucked. Syesha was predictable as always.

stacy | Apr 8, 2008 8:05:27 PM | #

Everyone sucked and everyone was hopeless... poor judges cant imagine that they have to sit through the crap and cant even criticize anyone for goood....
American idol ends this season prettysooon....

SIMON | Apr 8, 2008 8:07:04 PM | #

Jason was the worst. I wanted to scratch my eyes out. Is this an idol? I hope not.

Marc | Apr 8, 2008 8:09:34 PM | #

Ugh! Inspirational songs. Idol needs to tone down the sappiness ASAP and let the contestants have a little fun with their songs. When is the first open choice night?

I'm glad that Simon finally used the word "pompous" in describing David Cook! That guy is overrated.

I've been on the "Kristy Lee must go!" bandwagon for weeks now, but this performance was pretty good. It's surprising that contestants don't sing Martina McBride more than they do. Her songs are extremely Idol-ready. If Kellie Pickler can get a record deal, I guess so can KLC.

Carly is my favorite in the competition, but I'm nervous for her this week. My roommate said that her intensity scares people a little bit, which makes a lot of sense. I just think her elimination this week would be a little premature. Fingers crossed!

Cat | Apr 8, 2008 8:14:12 PM | #

Thanks for the head's up, Stacy. You're right. BIG difference between "God Bless America" and "God Bless the USA." I'm fixin' the error all 'round the site...

And Danielle, if you look, I put Jason and not Michael under the "Tonight's Best" box. Does that mean my blog isn't a joke? Woo-hoo!!!!

OK. Back to the discussion of the night's performances...

-Daniel

Daniel | Apr 8, 2008 8:14:53 PM | #

Tonight was really a ho-hummm night, it has to be really bad when I don't pause the TV and go potty while David Cook is singing. I liked Jason and David A, but I wasn't really moved by anyone, I think they are all burned out.

GrammaJules | Apr 8, 2008 8:17:26 PM | #

Kristy is one of the best tonight. Most of the people bashing here are just idiots. I am not her fan but she got my votes tonight.
haha

yay | Apr 8, 2008 8:18:20 PM | #

Wow.....I gotta tell you I was very impressed with Kristy Lee Cook. Let's face it this kid has been used as a punching bag for weeks and the she picked herself off the mat and faced us all down with total heart......and yes even talent!!! I even thought she was one of the best of the night!!! I'm shocked. The worse ones were Carly, David Cook, Brooke, and Syesha. Wow.....I still can't get over Kristy. I gave her up for DOA.

Roberto | Apr 8, 2008 8:44:27 PM | #

Yeah, Kristy was the best tonight IMO. Good for her! She has moxy! :)

Breezey | Apr 8, 2008 9:21:40 PM | #

To be completely honest I believe the worst tonight was David Cook. He is my favorite though, and he's been the top (in my opinion) performer every other week. If he goes I will seriously stop watching.

My only problem is that the two people I think should go (Kristy Lee and Syesha) actually did very well this evening and I always think it sucks when crappy contestants get booted on their good performances.

That all said I think Syesha should go tonight because of the two I dislike most, she did worse. Also, I really think they need to tone down those background singers. I've felt this before but tonight they completely overpowered David Cook and you could only hear half of his notes. I admit I adore him but it wasn't only him that was drowned out and I didn't enjoy that at all.

Anyone else not digging the background singers tonight?

Krista | Apr 8, 2008 9:25:29 PM | #

voted for everyone EXCEPT Archuletta for 2 hours

he seems like a nice kid, but don't care for his singing

feel that voting should be based on singing

but if you honestly like his singing, more power to you

Breezey | Apr 8, 2008 9:32:48 PM | #

My list agrees with Hyvent's. Although I would move David A below Syesha and maybe below Michael, too.

Bryan | Apr 8, 2008 10:00:38 PM | #

I think Syesha needs to go, and Brooke should be safe.

Grace | Apr 8, 2008 11:19:31 PM | #

I believe there will be a shock elimination on Thursday and I think Carly will be eliminated.

I'm sorry, but this show needs a shock elimination, because this group is more and more boring as the weeks go by. I mean almost no one has a personality out this group and their performances are gtting more and more uninteresting.

Anyway, I think Carly will go home and Simon is ready for her to leave anyway
so that's not a good sign and I'm sorry, but David Archeluta is the highly overrated.

Nina | Apr 9, 2008 2:59:25 AM | #

I think the bottom 3 will be Syesha, Carly and Michael but I'd have David C. Syesha and Jason in the bottom 3 this week.

I'm surprised that David C. chose an OLP song as he doesn't have that kind of range. I just didn't like Jason tonight, it was very boring and I was just waiting for it to be over.

I'm sick of every singer scrunching up their eyes whenever they 'feel' a moment or just closing their eyes to show emotion. To me whenever I see a singer do that (not just on Idol) I think they are faking the emotion b/c they don't actually have an emotional connection to the song/lyric/moment.

Rishi | Apr 9, 2008 4:17:27 AM | #

Carly said she remembered watching Freddy Mercury's performance at Live Aid. Huh? Surely she means on tape? Live Aid was on July 13, 1985, Carly was born on September 12, 1983. Who remembers anything before they're two years old? Someone should do some record checking in Ireland.

Marc | Apr 9, 2008 4:28:16 AM | #

I miss Melinda Doolittle.

Shira | Apr 9, 2008 5:01:50 AM | #

I thought Michael was great last night, and David A was so good. Syehsa is forgettable, that's her problem, none of her performances have been memorable. Even KLC's bad performance beatles performance is still being talked about. No one remembers any song Syehsa has done, pity, she's a good singer and very pretty just boring.
Did anyone else want to vomit, when David C pushed his hand into the camera at the end? Talk about being full of yourself! I know what the entire show's this week are about, but please give me a break!
Carly, did Simon have a blindfold on? She looked hideous last night, she was poured into those pants, and obviously she was wearing her 'Spanx" again, coz she was pushed and shoved into those pants, she needs to dress herself coz the stylist needs to be fired. Apart from that, her singing has gotten worse every week,and she always has an excuse, one week she blamed the 'spanx', next week it was 'the bathroom', this week it's Simon, enough already - basically you suck and need to go HOME now, PLEASE let her be gone this week.
I loved that version of 'somewhere over the rainbow', reminds me of the movie '50 first dates'. Jason great singing and song, even though you still look like you're trying to push a big one out when your singing.
Brooke really needs to mix it up and be a little more original, she really can sing but that was just average last night. Bottom 3 - Carly, Syehsa, David C, with hopefully Carly - finally going home!

Bea | Apr 9, 2008 5:09:29 AM | #

I think Jason is reminiscent of a REAL oldie - Tiny Tim. I cringed when HE sang; and Jason does the same for me. WHOEVER considered HIM an Idol? I hope he's history this week.
I agree this week was a bore!

mimi | Apr 9, 2008 5:19:20 AM | #

Kristy Lee was great! I really enjoyed her version of "ANYWAY" and if you listened to the words, it was fitting of her idol run.

David A was incredible.

I am always suprised when they pick songs people haven't heard. David C and Carly.

Jason, I think he is gone. I think too many people like the original version. We were laughing at his performance. It was terrible.

Bottom 3:
Carly, Jason and Syesha or Brooke.

Jason is outta here.

| Apr 9, 2008 5:23:26 AM | #

Dear Jason-haters: your delusional if you think he's going home next. Now, while I agree that Jason's performance was a little twee - when what I want from him is some Travolta-like strutting - his performance was leagues ahead of, among others, Carly Smithson, who seems to think that "Idol Gives Back" means bludgeoning the audience to death. Or David Cook. Or Syesha Mercado singing such worthless drivel. (What an astonishing lack of originality AND taste.) Carly and Syesha will be bottom two, and I hope David C. joins them there. Carly deserves to go, but it may be Syesha's time. Jason, meanwhile, will be top three. (If you don't believe me, check out dial idol.)

vncntdl | Apr 9, 2008 5:42:13 AM | #

Everone is so hard on Kristy Lee. I love her and thought last night she kicked butt. I was so happy for her last night.

and Jason Castro...I can not stand him or that version he was singing. BORING!!

Jay | Apr 9, 2008 5:54:42 AM | #

Jason is TERRIBLE!

| Apr 9, 2008 5:55:20 AM | #

Vncntdl is right-Jason isn't going anywhere yet. His votes almost matched David A for tops last night. I think even the margin of error for dialidol is too small in this case to have him go home.

I agree with Krista above for the most part. Love David Cook but last night was bad. Its his only bad performance so far this season so I can forgive that:) Even David A has had some bad weeks too. I think the bottom 3 will be syesha, Carly and...not sure. Wouldn't mind t being David Cook to wake him up to make smart choices again. Syesha will probably go because she isn't original or connecting with the public it seems. She is the only one I have no idea who she is really and what she's about. As much as I don't care for KLC she was pretty good last night.

Still have a lot of weeks to go but I still think it is very likely the top 4 will be all male, and the finale will be David vs David. Apples and oranges, it will certainly be interesting!

Erin | Apr 9, 2008 6:04:09 AM | #

I don't get the judges...when I like a performance by Jason, like when he sang "If I Fell", they don't like it. His performance last night of "Over the Rainbow" was UNinspiring and just boring and they loved it. He's still there just because of his dreads.

I agree w/Daniel re: Carly, she's such a great singer but there's something missing. She hasn't hit the mark yet. And can she cover her arms?? We get it, you have a tattoo!!

Best last night: for me, Michael. Loved his choice of song and he sang it pretty darn well. I hate that "Inspirational" draws everyone to boring songs.

Caro | Apr 9, 2008 6:11:28 AM | #

Beezus & Ramona...love it!

amu | Apr 9, 2008 6:26:47 AM | #

I'm in Australia and we're a day behind on the show feed, so I've just finished watching. I was disappointed with David Cook tonight. I've become a fan but he definatley got drowned out tonight by the back-up singers. He missed the low notes and tried to be too cheesy with the 'give back' message. Kristy Lee Cook I thought was the best of the night - good on her for sticking it out. In the middle for me were Michael (I'm not a fan of that song but he's an Aussie so gotta support him!) David A (it was okay but nothing like Robbie William's version which is awesome. I know it wasn't big in the US but it was a huge hit in most of the rest of the world. In fact, our Aussie idol judges have banned male contestants for even attempting Robbie's songs as they are so iconic out here - but I give David points for playing the piano and for doing a decent job of Angels. Brooke - She's just hanging in there on the border of boring. My least favorites were Jason - okay, querky yes, great singer no. Syesha - just very run of the mill, and she got drowned out by the superior back up singers too. Carly I think is showing why she never has quite made it in the past. She has a good voice, but she really doesn't seem to connect with songs. Everything comes off the same way - shouty and a bit angry. She doesn't have the emotional touch IMO.
So, I'm ready for Syesha to go home this week. I just can't read any spoilers as we aren't getting the results show until Sunday due to the charity thing.

Caz

Cazzychaps | Apr 9, 2008 6:52:15 AM | #

I'm with mimi-all I could think of when watching Jason was Tiny Tim-ugh and I had to FF thru David Cook. He was terrible. Must say Kristy surprised me. Good night for her.

Kate2 | Apr 9, 2008 6:57:14 AM | #

The show is in real trouble in my opinion. The 'contestants' are not singing to win, just giving so-so performances except for Michael Johns. They all look burned out, robotic, and basically uninterested in the process as do the judges.
Does anyone notice Ryan does not give the number of votes anymore? Numbers are likely not there. If AI is to return next year with any fan base at all it needs LIFE SUPPORT of some kind. I'm done.

Editor | Apr 9, 2008 7:28:52 AM | #

Me and my friends at work all thought the same thing about Jason..........Tiny Tim.
I don't think they'll have an elimination tonight since it's the Idol Gives Back special. They did not eliminate anyone on that night last year.

Chris | Apr 9, 2008 7:40:14 AM | #

I think your comment about Jason and "The Rainbow Connection" was spot on. I actually went there mentally when he started singing before realizing he wasn't singing that song. For a second he actually looked like Kermit the Frog. Still and all I thought it sounded pretty good.

sac | Apr 9, 2008 7:50:18 AM | #

I'm sure because of JUST you "editor", the show will drown a painful death. WHatever! There are plenty who said they walked away after the dismissal of Daughtry in S5 yet most of those naysayers still show their face and continue to follow the show. In fact the 'flock' I hang with the most can not wait for the next show!

Walk, no run. We will be fine. Thanks! Have a nice day!

Kay | Apr 9, 2008 7:54:15 AM | #

HEY!

LAST NIGHT WAS ONE OF THOSE NIGHTS... BUT THE SHOW MUST GO ON.

MY FAVORITES THIS SEASON ARE DAVID COOK ( WHICH LAST NIGHT WAS A BAD ONE FOR HIM) AND BROOKE WHITE ( SHE IS STILL CONSISTANT, BUT WHAT THE HELL SHE WAS THINKING TO NOT TO PLAY THE PIANO!!!!! BAD MISTAKE!!!!)
BUT I STILL HOPE THEY ARE THE FINAL TWO.

FOR THE REST...

KRISTY... STILL IMPROVING, GOOD FOR HER.

MICHAEL... NOT WAS HIS BEST PERFORMANCE.

DAVID ARCHULETA... IM TIRED OF HIM, HE IS SO SURE THAT HE WILL WIN THIS COMPETITION. HE I DONT KNOW, DONT LIKE HIS VOICE, HE IS OK BUT AT THIS MOMENT EVERYONE IS OK, HE SOUND THE SAME EVERY WEEK AND THERES NO WOW FACTOR... SORRY!

JASON ,JASON JASON...

EVERY WEEK WHEN I SAW HIM PERFORM ALL I'M IMAGINE IS HE SITTING THERE WITH A BUNCH OF MUPPETS ALL AROUND HIM. PLEASE HE HAS TO THROW AWAY THAT CHAIR AND START TO SINGING LIKE A REAL MAN!!!

SEYSHA, POOR SEYSHA SHE'S SO FULL OF HERSERLF. SHE'S STILL THINKING THAT SHE'S THE BEST, THAT SHE'S AN ARTIST AND ACTRESS FOR MAKING THOSE CRAPPY COMERCIALS. JA! BUT THE REALITY CHECK IS THAT SHE'S GOING HOME SOON!!! STOP TRYING TO IMITATE ALL THOSE POWERFUL SINGERS. SHAME!

CARLY... TIME TO GO. LAST NIGHT ...HORRIBLE. NO WONDER HER FIRST ALBUM WAS A DISASTER.

BOTTOM THREE
CARLY
SEYSHA
MICHAEL

THANKS!

RICHARD (PUERTO RICO) | Apr 9, 2008 8:09:00 AM | #

Is anyone else afraid that Carly's husband is going to come up from behind and schenk Simon while he's criticizing Carly?

You know prisoners can make a shenk out of plastic so they can get through metal detectors.

Just saying.

I'm really scared for Carly this week. I think she's great. Syesha needs to go but Since she is only R&B singer left and Caly is splitting votes with Brooke she may be going home.

Jason S. | Apr 9, 2008 8:24:13 AM | #

SHould be a new rule on idol. Don't do songs by your favorite band.

Especially if you're favorite band is a not talent band with one hit. Our Lady Peace? Ugh?

He is still the best this year. His version of Little sparrow is haunting me. I can't get it out of my head and the full studio version is awesome. Even better then his Billie Jean and that's saying a lot.

I like Jason a lot as well. I think he's the kind of artist where you have to hear his original song writing before you can judge if he can be successful post idol.

Jason S. | Apr 9, 2008 8:33:32 AM | #

Why is AI so over the top nowadays? Not like it used to be..now we have a full orchestra with violins, do we need a choir of 12 that can outsing the poor little contestants? No wonder Carly gave up at the end. She's a little too strung out, with her intense looks, she's really struggling with songs. She should just sing her own album as inspiration. Has anyone heard it?

No one was sensational, David Cook's song was weird, Syesha is no Whitney or Fantasia, and she's a little smug thinking she connects with everyone in the world. Her falsettos and high notes are really not up to par. Kristy lee cook, although not my favorite, was the best last night. I still voted for Brooke and Michael, my favs. The Blob | Apr 9, 2008 8:49:13 AM | #

Most boring song night since that truly awful Diane Warren night a few years ago! No one gave a memorable performance. Hard to pick the bottom 3, but I'm going with Carly, Syesha and Brook.

Kathy | Apr 9, 2008 8:56:06 AM | #

My favorite of the night? Kristy. I know. Hell froze over. Who should go home? Tiny Tim, er, Jason Castro. HOW is he still on this show?

Siansonea | Apr 9, 2008 9:03:13 AM | #

I'll bet NO ONE goes home this week. They'll do that thing where we lose 2 people next week instead, since this week is all about "giving".

Cornelius | Apr 9, 2008 9:08:20 AM | #

Chris is right--last year they tallied the votes for two weeks so they didn't have to kick someone off the show during Idol Gives Back. Carly may benefit from the arrangement because otherwise I think she'd be heading home tonight. Joining her in this week's bottom three would probably be Brooke and Syesha.

The only good moments of the night were David A's chorus, Kristy's surprise effort and Jason's faces during his song. He may not have range, and I may not be able to tell his "good" songs from his "bad" songs because they all sound the same (though not unpleasant), but man are his expressions hilarious.

cindy | Apr 9, 2008 9:18:25 AM | #

Oh can we stop swooning over David Archu now? This kid sings slow ballad every week. And the week he deviated (the Beatles week) he sucked. I am kind of bored by him since three weeks ago, and I was bored again last night.

David Cook was channeling Print last night. I didn't like the performance, but I felt the star waltage - not because of his Print jacket, but because of his self confidence.

dfw | Apr 9, 2008 9:19:05 AM | #

I thought overall it was a good singing night. I wasn't blown away, but like Randy might say I wasn't mad at it either.

Michael, did he get the theme night memo? Wasn't bad but Michael does suffer when trying to do rock with Cook on the same show. Its why he doesn't seem authentic. That plus being in the dead zone or first to sing could be bad news.

Syesha, has a good voice, but she isn't as good as she thinks she is. Could be in trouble.

Jason, I expected Simon to crush Jason for the ukulele; but he loved it. I didn't, I'll admit I'm not a Jason fan, but I would have used Simon's theme park critique of a couple of weeks ago. Still I bow to the Judge's wisdom.

Kristy had her best performance. She was able to pick a contemporary country song; one she likely has sung along with countless times on the radio or IPOD. It needed no real arraignment changes and bam good performance. I am shocked she didn't pull out 'Amazing Grace'.

David Cook, gave an average performance, unfortunately comparing it to his past several performances it was horrible.

Carly, not good on many levels, when Paula can't give praise its pretty bad.

David A., Daniel is right this was pretty much david's night or in his "wheel house". Gave another good singing performance, perhaps not his best.

Brooke gets the "pimp" slot after last weeks kick off slot, which should save her from an average performance.

Best moment of the night Kristy's face and reaction when Simon said she was good.

I thought numbers might put Kristy in trouble despite a strong performance; however Dial Idol, seems to indicate she is safe.

Look for Syesha, Michael and Carly in the bottom three. But a shocker like David Cook can't be ruled out. We haven't yet had the shocking elimination this year; perhaps this is the week.

jbw | Apr 9, 2008 9:28:17 AM | #

Just a quick FYI for those predicting a non-elimination night tonight: FOX announced weeks ago that this week's elimination will take place in a special Thursday episode airing at 8 p.m.

Wednesday's episode will be 2.5 hours of NOTHING but "Idol Gives Back."

For the contestants, that means an additional night of sweating the results. For me, that means an additional night of minute-by-minute blogging. Sigh.

So yeah... There will be NO elimination tonight.

-Daniel

Daniel | Apr 9, 2008 9:29:33 AM | #

Regarding not sending someone home this week and doing two next week. I think unless I'm off base they are sending someone packing tomorrow night on a very special idol episode. Of course if something freaky happens like David Cook coming in last they might change their minds real fast.

jbw | Apr 9, 2008 9:35:43 AM | #

Have to agree KLC was tonight’s best though i cant figure out the love for Jason or the hate for Carly...as i think she is vocally the beat among all the contestants and i haven’t liked one performance from Jason, and tonight was no exception and he doesn’t look as much like Travolta as he does Claire Forlani if she had a sex change!!! anywho Brookes still my favorite so ppl vote for the Nanny!!!

Zac | Apr 9, 2008 9:56:30 AM | #

I hate the theme for the evening, because we always get the same treacle. I'd love to see someone reach outside the "normal" songs and go for something a bit less well-known. I'd have gone straight to Savatage's "Believe", for instance, but the vocal is not an easy one. There's so many that could be done, and we get "somewhere over the rainbow"???
Then again, this complaint applies to every year of Idol, as we get the same genres and same songs and song-types over and over again...

Michael | Apr 9, 2008 10:02:31 AM | #

Kristy was great but unfortunately she has very few great performances in the past, that will hurt her.

Dreadful Locks needs to go. Not idol material. Neither is David A.

David A. is Disney or Nickoloden material, it would be a good move.

Brooke: What a hideous dress! How can you look in the mirror and think this dress is the one?

Bottom 3: Jason,Carly, and Kristy or Brooke.

jt | Apr 9, 2008 10:42:21 AM | #

Jason- needs to go!

| Apr 9, 2008 10:42:51 AM | #

I figure Syesha, Carly and Michael. with Carly going home.

it | Apr 9, 2008 10:53:07 AM | #

Despite what people have been writing here for weeks I knew Kristy Lee Cook could do it. She's who I have been pulling for all along and now she's proven she has the power to stick around.

Penny | Apr 9, 2008 10:59:01 AM | #

I had not voted so far this season, but last night I voted for Kristy Lee Cook. With her performance last night she deserves to stay. Hope Carly goes home.

Trupen | Apr 9, 2008 11:04:09 AM | #

I also voted for Kristy. Great performance Kristy, keep it up.

Jen | Apr 9, 2008 11:05:38 AM | #

According to DialIdol Carly is going home. Unless there's a shock (no one leaves, or the producers switch it up) Randy's girl is out.

Rob | Apr 9, 2008 11:07:26 AM | #

Kristy Lee Cook does have a great set of pipes. I hope she continues to get more comfortable each week and hangs in there.

I think the Bottom 3, based on performance this week should be:
Brooke, Carly and Jason.

Hopefully, Jason will go.

But it will probably be Carly.

| Apr 9, 2008 11:09:03 AM | #

My brother has never been much of a country music fan, but he's been a big fan of Kristy all season.

cm | Apr 9, 2008 11:11:05 AM | #

Is anybody out there sick of listening to Randy? He gets on my nerves.

Go Kristy!!!!!

KLC FAN | Apr 9, 2008 11:15:05 AM | #

Go Kristy! She would probably get more votes if she showed more skin. But that speaks volumes about her character!

| Apr 9, 2008 11:23:59 AM | #

Tonight's Best to Worst (IMO)
1. Kristy
2. David A.
3. Jason
4. Michael
5. Carly
6. Syesha
7. David C.
8. Brooke
Overall Idols My Fave To Least Fave
1. David A.
2. Carly
3. David C.
4. Michael
5. Jason
6. Brooke
7. Syesha
8. Kristy
CD Sale Predictions Most-Least
(the way Idol should play out)
1. David C.
2. David A.
3. Carly
4. Kristy
5. Jason
6. Michael
7. Brooke
8. Syesha

Sean | Apr 9, 2008 12:16:53 PM | #

The back up singers are overpowering the contestants. I do not understand why they are so LOUD. Maybe they are the reason that last nights show was not well received by many of you.

| Apr 9, 2008 12:24:18 PM | #

Give Kristy a thumbs up, she went and delivered when it counted.

I agree about the back up singers; they overshadowed Syesha a couple of times last night.

I think the Irish girl will be going home.

| Apr 9, 2008 2:06:29 PM | #

David Cook was the worst last night by far. However, overall, he is one of the best this season. He will not be going home this week.

Carly was next worst, and Syesha close behind. One of them is gone.

Who would ever have thought that Kristy would be the best this week?

tony | Apr 9, 2008 2:18:44 PM | #

I thought out of everybody last night, Kristy really did well.
I was unpleasantly surprised by David Cook's performance because so far he has been singing quite nicely.
I was quite taken aback by Carly's performance, if you can even call it that...it seemed completely off and just all around horrid. I'm generally not a fan of hers but last night she was just terrible, and I hope that she finally gets eliminated.

Aleks | Apr 9, 2008 3:59:28 PM | #

I think that Jason is incredibly original. Every other song I've always heard before, and better versions. Jason always brings something new to the table, and sometimes his renditions are just haunting. I love that mellow, gorgeous, acoustic instead of all the frenzied screams and posturings of David Cook. I agree that Kristy was much better than usual, but actually I preferred her songs for the last two weeks. I really liked "Coat of Many Colours". I like songs with a personality, that tell a story, and her vocals pulled it off. But I gotta tell you, I am surprised at the negativity around Jason on this blog. It seems like a lot of people are followers and if a blog post piles on someone, they'll somehow convince themselves that they agree. Because Castro's "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" + the word "youtube" was just listed in the top ten for google trends. Nobody else is even in the top one hundred! Go to www.google.com/trends and you can see for yourself- it may have moved down the list by now, but it should at least be on there.

jam | Apr 9, 2008 4:28:45 PM | #

The reason why there is criticism of Jason is simple, HE SUCKS!!

Tiny Tim, A Muppet, Whatever.

That song was terrible.

The good thing was, I hadn't laughed that hard in a while.

| Apr 9, 2008 4:34:47 PM | #

Please Help!!!

Ive heard that version of somewhere over the rainbow before but I can remember where...its making me crazy...i think is was in a movie I saw not long ago but i cant remember...PLEASE if anyone knows where I could have heard it please reply

Thanks!!!

Linda | Apr 9, 2008 8:03:27 PM | #

This is the black hatinest blog I've ever read. I understadn if you want to root for someone who looks like you do, but why lie about black people to try to make them look bad? Syesha is easily the best singer of the group. And her note at the end was dead on. How can you say that Carly is the best vocalist? Her range doesn;t come close to Syesha. WHy are you so afraid of a black woman winning this show? And why is Randy pulling the Uncle Tom routine and bashing a talented sister. I was all with her in her rage at hearing his comments last night. It's obvious Simon is telling him what to say.

Dernell | Apr 9, 2008 9:04:19 PM | #

Linda -- Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's version of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" has appeared in dozens of films and TV shows. Perhaps you're remembering it from "50 First Dates"? Or maybe from "E.R."? Or "Scrubs"? Or "Meet Joe Black"? Lots of options.

Dernell - The major problem with your argument goes like this: You say that I didn't like Syesha's performance because I'm afraid of a black woman winning the show, but if you actually read at what I wrote, the reason I didn't like Syesha's performance is because it was so very, very, very inferior to the version Fantasia did. That would be the same Fantasia who I was not-so-quietly rooting for from the opening rounds until she -- a black woman, if you'll recall -- won the show.

-Daniel

Daniel | Apr 9, 2008 9:38:47 PM | #

What's with all the Carly haters? She had an off night but she's got better range than anyone in the competition.

Btw, the iTunes single version of her Tuesday performance is much stronger than the live performance. It's a song you have to build up to. I wish she would've thought of that Tuesday.

Catherine | Apr 9, 2008 11:14:41 PM | #

Catherine-

If she was that good she would still have her recording deal and her first cd would have been successful.

She isn't that good.

And it is based on performance on the show, not iTunes.

| Apr 10, 2008 5:11:04 AM | #

I seriously don't get the praise for Jason tonight... He was just there saying some words. I've seen a 14 year old in a portuguese show sing this song way better than this.

Scorp | Apr 10, 2008 2:33:08 PM | #