If you'll indulge me...

Just so my blog readers don't think the only think I do is criticize singers on Idol, I wanted to share my latest project. Since my dance class was canceled I have been desperately seeking another creative outlet. Thankfully Mike is very supportive of my craziness sometimes...like sewing a toddler dress when we have two boys. I got the pattern from my MIL last year and have been dying to make it ever since. It is a vintage pattern from I would guess the 50s or 60s and I just think it is adorable. When I was growing up I remember wearing dresses with a pinafore, but girls (at least in my Primary) don't wear them anymore. So, here's is my attempt at bringing them back. Who's with me?

Front
Back
Detail on the under dress

Front(ish) view on my "model"

Back view on my model

Back detail on the pinafore...I just love all the buttons!
"Mom! Can we please be done now?"

And so you all don't think I am crazy and start calling child services, I am sending this dress down to our niece, Abby, in Georgia. It should be there in plenty of time for Easter.

Still on my docket are two car seat covers, two nursing covers and a dress for my aunt from another vintage pattern.

Thank you all for indulging me and letting me share my creation with you. It was really fun to do and made me feel like I am good at something other than changing diapers and making PBJs.

"Top" Eleven

I'll admit that I almost didn't watch or blog tonight because I knew Miley Cyrus was going to be the "mentor" and I thought she would drive me crazy promoting her new movie for two hours. To my surprise, Miley, and her omnipresent chewing gum, were not the most painfully obnoxious things about tonight's show. However it was very clear to me that there are people littering this competition that don't deserve to be here.

Lee Dewyze - I thought his performance of The Letter was one of his best. I really liked that he actually smiled and seemed to be enjoying himself. I thought the judges were a little harsh with him and he did better than they gave him credit for. He looks like he has more of a sparkle in his eye and is becoming more attractive to me. Oh yeah, and he can really sing. Grade: A-

Paige Myles - Oh dear, I HATE when contestants of any season sing this song (Against All Odds). I first developed when Scottie "the Body" sang it in season four. Paige's rendition was no less annoying. The pitch was all over the place and she had no stage presence. I also did not get the outfit -- Off white clingy t-shirt tunic, black leggings, heeled gladiator sandals and then victory rolls in her hair??? She must be getting style advice from Sherri Shepard. Why is she still here? Grade: F

Tim Urban - Tim singing Queen...are you kidding me with this. Horrible. Awful. Lame. There were moments when I actually closed my eyes because I was embarrassed for him. It's tough for me to want him here another week, but that is how much I want Paige to go. I seriously cannot believe Lacey Brown is watching this from home and these two weirdos are still in. Grade: D-

Aaron Kelly - I knew Aaron was going to choose this song when they announced the theme of the night. He gave a very earnest performance and considering his laryngitis it was done well. He seems to be getting more comfortable on stage and is gaining confidence. That being said, he still needs to improve to be in the same league as some of the other contestants. Grade: B

Crystal Bowersox - Each week I like her even more. While she is not my style, I can respect that she is true to her style and she does have legitimate singing chops. I smile watching her perform because she reminds me of the kids from Nottingham that I went to high school with and I can totally see her performing at Cafe on the Corner, or what's the new hippy hangout -- Adelle's Coffeeshop. I love her in all of her unwashed goodness. Grade: A

Michael Lynche - Big Mike knows how to pick songs that are great for his voice and that he can connect with. I think I get irritated when they tell him that his performance was old fashioned because I think somethings and some songs are intended to be timeless....and that's not a bad thing. Maybe if he did a remix of that song with a ukelele they would have liked it more. Grade: B

Andrew Garcia - As he was singing I kept thinking, "the judges are going to eat him alive!" He assumed the position and braced for the comments. He knew it was bad right after he finished. I am so sick of hearing people say "I was having fun!" as an excuse for giving a bad performance. This is not the I-hope-you-had-fun competition. It is a singing/performing competition. This one did not cut it. Grade: D

Katie Stevenson - I don't really like the song (Big Girls Don't Cry) but at least I knew the judges would get off her back about being "young". The suspendered skinny jeans and peace sign t-shirt helped her too. Now that they can accept her for being young, they were able to judge her voice (which was SHARP). She is cute and I like her voice but hopefully she can be on pitch more next week. Grade: C

Casey James - He didn't make many changes on the original song (Power of Love) but he did sing it well and made good use of the Blues Brothers horn section. I wasn't blown away, but he has a good voice and definitely deserves to move on next week. Grade: B

Didi Benami - While her performance wasn't awful, I just didn't get it. Out came the "I had fun" excuse. Oh goodness, me! I think they should ban that phrase for the rest of the season. Not fantastic, but not the worst I heard tonight. Grade: C-

Siobhan Magnus - I just want to hug this little weirdo. She is so peculiar and so interesting and has serious talent. I agree with Simon that, like Adam Lambert, she will be polarizing. People will either really like her, or really hate her. The one thing you can say is that there really is no one else like her in the competition. She takes risks and succeeds more often than not. She knows what she likes and is excellent at expressing herself. Grade: A

What did you all think?

Paint it Black

Michael Lynche - For a man of his size, he can MOVE! I really liked his interpretation of the song (Miss You) because it didn't sound copycat to me. I just love watching him perform. Each week during his songs I can't help but smile. His intro clip gave a good overview of who he is and what type of person/artist he wants to be. I feel like he is very genuine and true to himself each week. If you'd like my early prediction, he will at least make it to the final three. Grade: A

Didi Benami - I am on the fence with this performance. I think she definitely hit some money notes and sounded much more even toned than she has in the past. She relied less on the gimicky "cool, new" sound that she used in the past. However she did forget the words in some parts which I think is a little weird at this stage in the game. Her hair was driving me crazy!!! The deconstructed civil war hair needs to never be repeated again. That being said, she annoyed me far less this week. Grade: B+

Casey James - Wow, the third performance that I have actually liked and feel like the contestant deserves to be in this stage of the game. In the past I have liked Casey but haven't been that crazy about him. Tonight's performance seemed more authentic and it seemed like he was really having fun. He seems like someone who is very grounded and humble which makes him infinitely more likable. I really love when we get to know the contestants better. I think it helps to get an idea of what they would be like if they got famous. Nicely done, Casey. Grade: A-

Lacey Brown - I have to confess I am mildly obsessed with Lacey's hair. When she is performing I keep imagining what I would look like with that hair cut. I thought the vocals we decent, I really liked the string quartet because it was unexpected and I thought it was an ok performance overall. I have to agree with Simon that she needs to step it up to keep in the competition, but I feel she did well for herself. I finally put my finger on who she reminds me of (vocally)...I think she sounds a bit like Chantal Kreviazuk. Grade: C+

Andrew Garcia - He seems to have gone through a makeover for his big debut on the big stage. I was glad that he chose just to sing the song instead of interpreting it in some strange way with a guitar and loads of irony. He looks a bit like Lou Diamond Phillips to me tonight which made me chuckle. I also laughed during his intro when his mother dutifully sat next to her weeping husband with her hands crossed and eyes down and didn't say one word. It just reminded me of the couple interviews in When Harry Met Sally or Waiting for Guffman. Even more funny when it's real. I didn't think it was as pitchy as Randy said it was. For me it was a decent performance and I think he'll be around another week. Grade: C+

Katie Stevens - Finally the judges agree that they have been giving her crazy advice and also giving her props for a job well done tonight. When I first heard it was Rolling Stones night, I thought, "I wonder who will sing Wild Horses?" I am so glad Katie picked that song because it really suited her voice and I think she made some great changes to the melody which could get repetitive if sung like the original. I think the stylists tried to make her look "young" by styling her like Selena Gomez/Demi Lovato (I can't tell them apart) but you get the idea. I am so happy to see her succeed. I was very surprised that she made it through last week especially when it came down to her and Lilly but I am glad she took the opportunity and ran with it. Grade: A-

Tim Urban - Wow...way to blow your opportunity on the big stage. I get that he was trying to do something different, but it just seemed like an odd way to take that song (She's Under My Thumb). I didn't think the vocals were that great and I agree with Ellen it is something I would imagine hearing at a resort and thinking, "huh, that's cool" but not really anything else. I think even Tim knows he is in over his head in this competition. We'll see how America feels...Grade: D

Siobhan Magnus - I LOVE this beautiful weirdo. She is a mashup of Ally Sheedy, Winona Ryder and Zooey Deschanel (there I got one from each decade) I can't even contain my excitement when I hear her sing. Those notes were crazy!!! I mostly love the fact that she picks something insanely hard and then just goes for it...all out...no looking back. I knew this song (Paint it Black) would be another one that was sure to appear tonight and I am SO glad Siobhan picked it. Grade:A

Lee Dewyze - Siobhan is a hard act to follow but I think he did an alright job with the song (Beast of Burden). He has such an interesting voice and I think he deserves to be here but I agree with the judges that he needs to wow the judges (and America) at this phase of the competition. I think he'll be around another week at least. Grade: C+

Paige Myles - Maybe I am still reeling from last week's bomb but I just didn't think this week's performance was that great. It wasn't awful, but it wasn't amazing either. I don't know, I am not sold on her yet. Grade: C-

Aaron Kelly - So I know it is getting late out here, but this performance made me sleepy. I can appreciate that he was doing the best he could with the constraints of the theme, but I wasn't as impressed at the judges were. The vocal was good but I think he has stiff competition and I don't know if he'll be able to keep up down the road. For tonight he did ok. Grade: B-

Crystal Bowersox - It seems like a forgone conclusion that Crystal will do well on Rolling Stones night. She did well and I agree with the judges that she is very comfortable performing and she does it well. She is growing on me. Grade: A-

Overall, I thought it was a good night for most of the contestants. It kind of felt like listening to a themed soundtrack like I Am Sam where new artists perform older well-known songs in new ways. I really think Tim is going home.

What do you all think?

Top 8 Guys

Lee Dewyze - Oh, Sweet Lee. He is growing on me. I thought he did a good performance. I am not familiar with that song, so I couldn't compare it to the original. Judging the performance alone, I thought it was solid but I wasn't blown away. There is something very charming and likeable about him. He is not haughty or stuck up and that makes me like him infinitely more than some other contestants we have seen thus far. Grade: B+

Alex Lambert - I will be unpopular for saying this, but I am not jumping on the bandwagon of the judges saying this is his competition to lose. To me, his voice is nasally and doesn't sound that unique. Actually, every time I hear him I think of Jason Mraz. Ever time I see him I think of Florence Henderson. To me, that is not a winning combination -- guacamole and maple syrup. When I heard the recaps at the end of the show it was even more apparent to me that he is not the "star" the judges see him as. Oh well. Grade: C+

Tim Urban - Up until this week, I didn't think Tim had claws. Boy, oh boy he pulled them out tonight. He reached in and pulled out he trump card of all trump cards on this show...Leonard Cohen/Jeff Buckley's Hallelujah. I feel like this is a song that endears whoever is singing it to the audience. Tangent: One of my guilty pleasures is watching Local Access Cable. I love to see the local town talent shows and I found out this year that Miss NH is from Raymond. She was kind enough to grace the tiny stage this year of the Miss Raymond pageant and sang Hallelujah as her performance piece. Even though I don't think she is the best singer, it endeared her to the audience and the crowd went wild. End Tangent. My point in telling that story is that I feel like the song more than the performer shines. That being said, he did sing it well and this was by far his best performance so far. Well played, Tim. Well played. Grade: A

Andrew Garcia - I don't know what to say about him. I want so badly to like him and what he does, but week after week I am scratching my head at what to make of him. Of all the Xtina songs to choose, I didn't think that was the best one especially if you are not going to stray from the melody until the last possible second. I don't even know how to really score him because he is in such an odd niche and I am having trouble imagining what sort of recording artist he would turn out to be. His vocals weren't bad, but they weren't fantastic either. Grade: C

Casey James - Meh. I could take or leave this performance. This is not my favorite Keith Urban song (You'll Think of Me) and it sounded like he was clipping the end of the phrases and his vibrato seemed too fast tonight. I think Casey is good at what he does, but I don't find him captivating, or exciting to watch in anyway. I think he is a guy who would do really well impressing girls with his sensitive guy-with-a-guitar singing. It's ok, but to me it is boring. Grade: B-

Aaron Kelly - Oy vey. I feel like sending a roll of duct tape to Fox to attach his hand to the mic. They give him the shiniest, chromiest mic and he keeps tossing it between his hands. His lower range is weak and it seems like he is just waiting to get to his money notes. Before everyone gets upset, I get that he is 16. His voice is still developing and growing, but it frustrates me when they keep telling the girls (specifically Katie Stevenson) to sound more young and to do young songs and then they let Aaron sing Lonestar. Kara tried to express that the song had no relevance to his life and Simon jumped in to say it was a beautiful song, let him sing the beautiful song. Where was that advice when Katie sang Feeling Good? I feel that their is a double standard and for that reason I am more critical of Aaron's performance -- in an effort to be somewhat fair. The vocal was not great. Once he hit his money notes, yeah, that is his strength, but he really needs to work on his vocal control and stage presence (not playing hot potato with the mic). Grade: C

Todrick Hall - Acid washed jeans and glovelets aside, this guy can sing. I found it so refreshing to hear someone actually SING and come out to win it. He was a bit over the top performance wise, but he was trying to differentiate himself from the other contestants -- mission accomplished. I was just so happy to not be lulled to sleep by another Easy Listening Soft Rock classic. Thank you Todrick for bringing Red Bull to tonight's performance. Grade: A-

Michael Lynche - The first high notes made me jump and it only went more over the top from there. I love this guy. I loved watching his massive body move all over the stage. He makes me smile. Can we just talk briefly about Kara's reaction to the song? WHOA...step back from the edge of the cliff my friend -- this is a live show. I can appreciate a song moving you, but it seemed like she was letting herself get way too involved in that emotion. This is about the contestants, not you. Anyway, I think Simon's comments were dead on. Big Mike nailed his performance tonight and reminded me that this is a competition, not amateur's karaoke hour. Well done. Grade: A+

Well worth the wait to hear the best two contestants last. I think Aaron and Andrew will go home tonight. I would hope Alex would go, but I know lots of people like him. We'll see...

What did you all think?

Top 8 Girls

Katie Stevenson - I feel so bad for this girl. She has such a unique and RICH tone to her voice. She, in many ways, sounds like an older artist. But the judges want her to be "young" and so they have asked her each week to sing "young" songs, but she keeps falling behind the mark in their eyes because they want her to sound young singing a young song. I feel like they gave her credit for taking their notes, but in my opinion, the notes were wrong. If she is more of a "vintage" feel singer, let her show what she is good at doing, instead of forcing her to be something she's not. In an effort to make her current they have made her irrelevant. I am not gonna lie, her performance tonight (Breakaway) was not great, but I think it is a hard song to sing, especially if you don't feel comfortable singing in that style. I just feel bad for her that she keeps listening to the judges even though it isn't the direction she wants to go. Randy made a comment tonight to Siobhan that he is glad that she doesn't listen to them and does her own thing because it works. Hopefully Katie will give that a try next week. Grade: C+

Siobhan Magnus - She is such a weirdo, but I love her. When she announced she would be singing that song at first I thought it would be a strange choice for her, but then I was like, "Oh wait, it's Siobhan, it will be fine." It was a gutsy move to sing a cappella to start the song and I love her belt notes...that is exactly how they should sound. Grade: A-

Lacey Brown - This was definitely her best performance. I felt myself drifting back to memories of watching Joey climbing in and out of Dawson's bedroom window to songs like that. She sounded like an artist who could have been featured on the WB during the golden years. I totally loved it and it made me feel like an angsty teen again. She felt very connected with this song and seemed to genuinely be competing tonight. I really think she has a chance. Grade: A

Katelyn Epperly - Speaking of bringing back memories, Katelyn's outfit tonight reminded me of something I would have envied circa 1993. She sang the song well, but the song is not something you can really do a lot with. I don't know...it was just kinda ok. She has a good voice, but I don't know why they don't ream her for "not knowing what kind of artist she is" like they do to Katie. Meh, I could take or leave this performance. Grade: C

Didi Benami - For those who read this blog, it is documented that I am not a Didi fan. While I am still not on Team Didi, tonight's performance was at least decent. She seemed connected to the song and gave a much better performance than last week. I disagree with the judges that there was a "wow" moment, but she did well for her. I still don't know why people on this show like to slow the pace down to practically speaking, but I expect that to continue. Grade: B

Paige Myles - Ouch! What a weird arrangement of that song (Smile). I agree with Randy that the bossanova beat that randomly came in was bizarre. She has such a powerful voice but she did no service to it by singing in a soft breathy voice. The judges were painfully honest with her telling her that it was the wrong choice. I really don't think that was good enough to get her through to the next round. Grade: D-

Crystal Bowersox - Now this is what Katelyn should have done with her song. Take a song everyone knows, add to it, make it your own (not in a way that is unrecognizable) and steal the show. Crystal is not my favorite, but she is growing on me and has legitimate talent and swagger. I really just want to cut off her "braids" and scrub her hair, put a skosh more makeup and a little more color in her wardrobe. Oh, for goodness sake, just call in Stacy and Clinton already! Grade: A

Lilly Scott - I was NOT crazy about Lilly's performance tonight. I feel like she makes each song sound cutesy and quirky but I don't know that she shows much range week to week. The performance wasn't awful, but I am not sold on her. Also, she needs to find earrings that don't look like she is wearing crocheted coasters. Distracting!! Grade: B-

Is everyone else as glad as I am that tonight's show was only an hour instead of two? Far less painful!!

Going home tonight - definitely Paige, and then either Katie or Katelyn.

What did you all think?

Top 10 Girls

Crystal Bowersox - Okay, so maybe I am still riding high from eating so much krumkake tonight, but I actually thought she was really good this week. She looks less like a dirty hippy this week and gave a pure smooth vocal. I try not to pick favorites and support them no matter what and vice versa. Even though I completely did not like her performance last week she more than made up for it this week and I feel like she definitely deserves to be in the competition. Grade: A-

Haeley Vaughn - The song choice (The Climb) was good for her, but her execution was not. I completely agree with the judges that she has NO connection with the song. She could be singing about a flesh-eating robot destroying humanity and she would swing her hips, bop her head and smile incessantly. I get that she is a bubbly, smiley person and that's ok, but you need to understand and know what you are singing about and convey that to the audience. Her pitch was all over the place and she didn't have enough "sweet" notes to make the song work. I really liked Haeley in the earlier rounds because she is kind of an oddity and is talented for being 16, but she needs more work. Grade: D+

Lacey Brown - First off, I have to say I L-O-V-E her hair. I wish I had the chutzpah to pull it off and maybe someday I will. That being said, it was an ok performance. There was nothing earth shattering about it, but she delivered a better performance than last week. I'm still not really sure where I see her in the competition but she did well enough to maybe stick around another week. Grade: C

Katie Stevens - I.want.those.shoes!!! I kinda felt like the performance was Jessica Rabbit:The Early Years. She is adorable and I feel bad for her because she seems like an old soul and doesn't know how to make herself sound "current". I can empathize with her because this is the problem I imagine myself having on the show. She is not "edgy" and "hip" but she has legitimate talent and is basically being told to go counter-intuitive to her gut. I hope she stays in the competition longer to see if she is able to make the judges and herself happy. Grade: B

Didi Benami - Deep sigh...eye roll. This girl is driving me nuts. This is the same reason I got irritated with Brooke White because she has a very thin skin, not tremendously talented and makes bad song choices. I don't know why she thought singing Lean On Me was a good idea. She doesn't have a "soul" voice and it just made her sound screechy. I don't have a soul voice either, but I don't try to sing songs like that and think that people will like it. Every week I just feel like screaming, "Toughen up, Cupcake!" because there is no mystery that you are standing in front of judges to be critiqued. They give you the chance to sing for lots of people, you agree to hear their opinions....THAT'S THE WHOLE SHOW. Anyway, the performance is awful and I am starting to think she will be heading home soon. She has no concept of how to compete. Grade: D

Michelle Delamor - I really don't like Creed as a group, but I think she did a good job with the song (With Arms Wide Open). I think Simon was dead on when he said she got it 80% right. She really tried to make it her own and for the most part it worked. I kept waiting for her to have more dynamic energy with her voice while she was belting, but that may not be her strength. She seemed connected to the song and proved that she is capable of doing more than sound alikes of other contemporary female artists. Grade: B-

Lilly Scott - Here is where the judges and I part ways. I just DON'T get what they love about her. She has some talent, but I feel like she is always looking to be an outcast instead of singing well without all the weirdness. Her lavender hair seems to have made a reappearance with a big, fat roach clip poking out from behind her ear. Kara was giving her all this credit for "changing the game" and I wonder if that is the secret agenda of the judges...to make the show more a search for the weirdest and most unique instead of the person who has the best vocal chops. And, by the way, if we are giving credit out for that, Adam Lambert did it on both accounts. I just miss when the show was about real SINGING not making cutesy sounds to be "indie". Long story longer, I didn't get it. Grade: C-

Katelyn Epperly - zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz. Oh wait screaming last note...I'm up, I'm up. That was the slowest rendition of an already slow song. Wow. I am not sure why Kara is so in love with her. I think she has a good voice, but I don't think is quite the genius Kara has dreamed her to be. To quote Sue Sylvester, "Somewhere in the English countryside in a stately manor home [Chris Martin] is weeping!" In case you haven't picked up on it yet, I am anxiously awaiting Glee's return on April 13. Anyway, back to the leader of the Lullaby League, she did well enough to stay in, but I have my doubts about her. Grade: C

Paige Myles - Even though I don't think it was 100% the right song choice for her (Walk Away), I think she did do an ok job with it (minus the big Whoooohooo). She is someone you can definitely can SING. I agree with Simon that next week she needs to come out, really sing something that showcases her voice and claim her spot in the competition. Once again, I could've done without all the explaining from Kara about how wonderful her song is. I hope Paige is back next week because she is one of the few contestants not using a gimmick to get by. Grade: B-

Siobhan Magnus - She is such a weirdo, but I like her in the strangest way. What I love most about her, is that aside from having an interesting personality, she has major talent to back it up. That high note was insane! She and Idina Menzel should have a belt-off singing contest to see who could go the longest. What I also find really funny is that Haeley and Paige act and sing like white girls and the whitest girl in the competition, Siobhan, tackles Aretha. That is gutsy and fearless -- another reason why I love her. She isn't trying to make some crazy unusual version of an already good song. Siobhan is just proving that pure talent just needs a great song to showcase their talent. Grade: A-

So overall, the winners tonight were Crystal and Siobhan...losers are Haeley and Didi.

What did you all think? Do you think the show is going in a weird direction?

Top 10 Guys

Michael Lynche - Big Mike is in it to win it! I loved his performance of This is a Man's World. He took command of the stage and proved that he has excellent control over his voice and a beautiful tone. I was already a fan of this big guy, but he is making me like him even more. C'mon...he does musical theatre and plays football, how can you not like him? He is the black Finn Hudson. It's on.
Grade: A

John Park - Oh...Honey. Why, why, why. Pitchy, boring, painful. When he revealed that he is an a cappella singer I let out a deep sigh. If my friend Danny C is reading this blog, I'm sorry...I still love you., but I am not such a fan of the a cappella group singing. I don't even think he is worth tearing apart in a review because he is just so oatmeal. I do not think he will make it far in the competition. Grade: C

Casey James - Put down the axe and sing for goodness sake. He sounded out of breath and did not finish each phrase. Kara in an effort to not look like such a psycho herself decided to slam him and tell him he took two steps back. While I agree somewhat with her sentiment (I know, I know, mark this day down) I really wish she hadn't tried so hard to be mean to him and given him a better critique. It's like Kara wants to be shrewd like Simon (never gonna happen), she wants to be crazy like Paula (coming close), and funny like Ellen (again never gonna happen). When she give people advice on being true to themselves and being authentic, I think she needs to look in the mirror for that one. Anyway, it wasn't the worst I have ever heard, but certainly not the best. Grade: C+

Alex Lambert - So he can't sing, and he's crazy...great let's begin. Sharing that you made up your own language does not endear you to anyone, except maybe more crazies. I am not sure why the judges were so in love with his performance. It was better than last week's performance, but I don't think it was fan-freakin-tastic. Oh well, after all this fanfare, he will probably be around next week. Grade: C+

Todrick Hall - I am so glad that Randy finally stood up and said that a good song deserves to be sung. I feel like once one of the contestants see another contestant have success re-doing an older song they think that HAVE TO jump on that bandwagon. Not everyone has that skill and THAT'S OK. This is a singing competition, not an assignments for s composition class. To me it is kind of like back in the early nineties (I know I am aging myself) when Kris Kross starting wearing their clothes backwards. Everyone thought it was so cool and so pretty soon it trickled down to kids my age. I am hear to say it really doesn't look cool when scrawny white kids are wearing oversized hip hop clothes backwards to middle school. Just because someone else does it and it's cool doesn't mean it will be cool FOR YOU. There rant over. Grade: B-

Jermaine Sellers - I'm left wondering the same thing...What's Going On? I just don't like Jermaine's whole vibe. I think he is overly cocky for the performances he is turning out and feels like he will never be voted off. I just don't know why he thinks that's ok. I completely agree with Simon that when he does all the extra vocal gymnastics it makes the song lose all meaning. He wants himself to shine more than the song. On a song by Miley Cyrus, that's ok, but with Marvin Gaye, c'mon man...get over yourself. Grade: C-

Andrew Garcia - I'm kinda bumming that he didn't do so well again this week. I really like him and think he has a lot of talent to show, but I am not sure why he keeps picking things that are not flattering on him. He's kinda like the girlfriend you have with the perfect body but she wears the ugliest most unflattering clothes. You love her because you know she has the potential to look really, really good, but at the same time you resent her because you wish you could look that good in clothes and you feel like she is letting it go to waste. In any case, I hope he picks a better "outfit" next week. Grade: C-

Aaron Kelly - I thought he was brave to tackle another Temptations song (My Girl) after forgetting the words to Ain't Too Proud to Beg in Hollywood week. I don't think he has the control and mastery over his voice that Kara believes he does. His vibrato sounds like Carter does when we drive over a bumpy road (uhuhuhuhuhuhuhuhuhuhuhuhuh) I know he is super nervous and doesn't have the stage presence of some of the other contestants, but that is why I don't think he is really ready to be in this stage of the competition. I don't agree with the judges on this one. Grade: D+

Tim Urban - I was not blown away by his performance but I have to agree with Simon that he at least tried to listen and obey the criticism he received last week. I don't think the song choice was bad for him, but he is still a bit rough around the edges. I think he is a better performer than Aaron and at least picked a young song. I was shocked at Ellen's comments...although I do think Tim would be a good guest star on Glee. He will be free in a couple of weeks to explore that project but I think he will get enough of the young vote (including his 9 siblings) to stay around another week. Grade: C+

Lee Dewyze - Welcome to Nute High School's Junior/Senior Prom (shout out to my friends from Milton). When Lee entered on the darkened stage with the mirror ball reflections on the floor I laughed out loud. I HATE that song (Lips of an Angel) but he did a good job with it. If any of my Kane friends are reading this, Lee is what I always imagined Joe Roboski would look like...dreamy. Grade: B+

So going home tonight....John Park and Aaron Kelly.

What do you all think?

Top 12 Guys

After being thoroughly underwhelmed by the ladies last night, I am really hoping that the guys learned from their mistakes and are ready to make tonight better. Simon's comments are not making me that optimistic, but here's hoping...

Todrick Hall - Does anyone else think he looks like Lil Bow Wow? Speaking of wow, what an interesting way to start off the night. I really admire his creativity and bravery to change a well known song, but I agree with the judges it was unrecognizable. Through it all, you can tell he has a good voice and definitely has the stage presence. I think he has the talent to stay around. Grade: B

Aaron Kelly - Holy shifting hands, Batman! For the first minute of the song, all I could focus on was him switching the mic between his hands. He seems very awkward and uncomfortable on stage. The vocals weren't that bad, but he needs to RELAX. I also like that Ryan felt the need to point out that Aaron is shorter than he is. Obviously that doesn't happen a lot. All things considered (age, experience, pressure) I think he did well. Grade: B+

Jermaine Sellers - Over the top rendition of Season 1's Justin Guarini's signature song. I completely agree with Ellen's critique that he had no connection to the lyric and was simply trying to show off. He does has an excellent voice, but he needs to find a good blend of vocal gymnastics and storytelling. Also, maybe I am just getting old, but I don't think his outfit was as "hot" as Randy did. Skinny slacks tucked into ankle boots, a black henley and grey tuxedo tails jacket do not spell fashion to me. Grade: B-

Tim Urban - Oy, I hate this song (Apologize)! Simon speaks the truth! He did not do well enough to be included in the phase of the competition. The falsetto was strange sounding and he was staring like a deer in the headlights at the camera. If they initially told him no and then invited him back, I don't know why they didn't bring back Thaddeus. He was far more talented in my opinion and the judges told him he couldn't have done anything more. Usually they only tell girls that they are pretty enough to get through. It must feel weird to be told they are not talented, but they are good looking. I get the exact opposite critique when I audition. Given the choice, I guess I rather it be that way. Anyway, I think he should go home based on that performance. Grade: D

Joe Munoz - Either I am going deaf, or my TV has a garble setting...I barely understood a word! His tone is nice and he looks like a hispanic David Archuleta. He seems very comfortable up on stage, but I agree with Simon that he needs to step it up if he stays around. Grade: B-

Tyler Grady - He has definitely carved out a niche for himself but I am nervous that he is becoming a one trick pony. Randy's comment of style over substance is completely right. I am curious based on the judges nearly unanimous conclusion that he is trapped in the 70s why they kept him in this stage of the competition. He seems like a pretend rock star and I wasn't impressed with his vocals. Grade D+

Lee Dewyze - I didn't think the song was as rough as Randy and Kara did. It wasn't fantastic, but it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be when Ryan first announced it. I am not the biggest fan of that song, but I thought he did a good job with it and tried to make it his own. If he had sung it like the original they would have told him it was boring and he didn't put enough of his own spin on it. He kind reminds me of a mixture of David Cook and Elliot Yamin. It will be interesting to see how he evolves on this show. Grade: B-

John Park - Ok, he won me over with his intro video. If you know my husband, you know I love a guy that loves older women. I was imagining my sister wincing through that performance. She hates it when non-jazz people sing jazz standards. While he was singing I did think it sounded loungey and I chuckled when Simon used that word to describe it. He may be in jeopardy with that performance. Grade: C-

Michael Lynche - I have been looking forward to hearing "Big Mike". I loved him during Hollywood week and I just wish he could hug me/pick me up. Even though I HATE that song, he did it well. It wasn't fabulous, but it was ok. He deserves to be in the competition but I would love to see him do something different. Grade: B

Alex Lambert - So I didn't hear the very beginning of his performance because I was washing my face, and then I heard a noise that may be interpreted as music so I shut off the faucet and came in to watch. AWFUL. I would never pay to hear him sing. I didn't hear the "thick, rich, tone" that the judges were talking about. It sounded whiny and uncomfortable to me. I also don't like his look at this site. Grade: D

Casey James - Perfect song choice for him. He has a very easy and honest style and I like him in the competition. I just wish my least favorite judge would move on from her initial attraction and treat him like a human being. The revelation that she is married is shocking to me. I would never act like that towards a young single guy if I were married. She is very bizarre...and creepy. You could tell his dad was not liking all the "sexy" talk. Can you blame him. In any case, Casey did very well, especially considering most of the attention was on Kara and not him. Grade: B+

Andrew Garcia - I have been eagerly awaiting his performance as well but I was left scratching my head with the arrangement of his song. He has a great voice and I think the judges are right that he bought himself some time with his rendition of Straight Up. I think he'll be fine until next week. Grade: B

What a weird blend of flavors tonight. I feel like I just left a ward potluck dinner. If I were to guess who is going home tonight it would be Tim Urban and then either Tyler Grady or Alex Lambert.

What did you all think?

Top 12 Girls

So for those who follow this blog or care, sorry I have been M.I.A. for the last two weeks. I've had RS meetings and other commitments so I have had to catch up myself via my parents' DVR. But, I am back now eagerly watching the top 12 girls' performances tonight. I was SHOCKED with some of the cuts the judges made during Hollywood week, so I am interested to see if I agree with their choices.

The opening intro sequence with the judges was awkward at best and even though I love Ellen, this is the sort of thing I was nervous about happening when she signed on with the show. The whole "Simon's into me" thing was lame and wasted time that should have been given to contestants. I was watching it thinking, "Come on, lady, we've got 12 people to get through tonight...don't waste our time." Hopefully the time hogging won't last all season. So anyway, on to the performances.

Paige Myles - My first thought when she was announced was, "Who the heck is Paige Myles?" She hasn't been featured very much this season so far, so I was already nervous for her going in. She doesn't have as much built-in audience support behind her. I agreed with Simon that it was a bad choice of song for her, and I disagreed with all the judges in thinking she was the best singer in the competition. I just wasn't blown away. I thought her song had very poor diction and I couldn't understand most of the words. Even though the judges think she'll definitely be around next week, I have my doubts. If I watch Idol every week and was not that familiar with her, will the people that are just tuning in really vote for her? We'll see. Also, thanks Ryan for sharing that TMI moment about her being sewn into her 80s prom dress turned into shorts with a white obi belt. Way to make her feel comfortable. Who just sang? Oh yeah, the girl who hasn't peed in five hours. Grade: C

Ashley Rodriguez - Going into tonight, she was one of the people I was most looking forward to hearing. I loved her audition in Boston and think she is GORGEOUS. I also love that she is not afraid to rock a blazer and she went to Berklee which gives her cred. That being said, her song was shaky and I agree with Simon's critique that she sounded clumsy. During the verse in her lower register it sounded like she was scraping to get the notes out and I didn't know why she didn't sing it in a different key. She seemed relieved to get to the big notes in the chorus where she is obviously more comfortable. I really hope she stays around so I can hear her sing again with a different song. I agree with the judges that she needs to pick a song that she won't be compared to the original artist. Grade: C-

Janell Wheeler - For once in my life I agreed completely with Kara. Mark this day in the books. The song (What About Love) was WAY too big for her and she definitely should have picked something else. I think sometimes that contestants think if they pick a well known power ballad it will showcase their voice better, but if you don't have the goods, it will only make you sound worse. I think she is a pretty girl and I really liked her performance during Hollywood week . I would like it if she picked more songs like that. Grade: B-

Lilly Scott - To be honest, I have not been Lilly's biggest fan up to this point. I really did not like her Lullaby of Birdland performance during Hollywood week and the fact that her hair was lavender was not helping either. It seems like the stylists have at least brought it to platinum for this performance instead of it being so icy against her skin. That being said, I thought she did pick an interesting song and made it her own. She is not my cup of tea, but perhaps my opinion of her will change with upcoming performances. Grade: B

Katelyn Epperly - I liked her performance tonight WAY more than her others. I thought she picked an excellent song and I agree with the judges, there is something about her that makes me like her. I am not sure what it is. I also liked in her intro video that she didn't talk about her parents' divorce since I thought that was kind of weird when she did that in her original audition. Grade: B

Haeley Vaughn - Along with Ashley, I was very much looking forward to hearing the country girl tonight. I didn't think her rendition of I Wanna Hold Your Hand was as bad as Simon thought. I thought it was upbeat and age appropriate and I was impressed that she was brave enough at 16 to play and guitar and sing and make the song her own. Like Katelyn, there is something inately likeable about Haeley and I hope she is back for another week. It is funny to see her and then hear her talk. It almost reminds me of a movie where someone's personality is trapped in another person's body. She is by far the whitest black girl I have ever seen. When she came out wearing all white I admit, I chuckled. Grade: B

Lacey Brown - Wow, way to bring the show to a grinding halt. I really liked Lacey in the audition rounds and during Hollywood week, but her version of Landslide was painful and slow. I felt bad for her because I could tell she was at least trying to make in different, but her pitch was all over the place. Grade: D

Michelle Delamor - Very pretty girl (she looks like the love child of Jennifer Lopez and Beyonce) and she did better than I thought with that song (Fallin) I actually thought they banned that song from the show. She does have a very pretty voice and I wouldn't mind hearing her again. Grade: B+

Didi Benami - I was grateful in her intro that she said she wouldn't be crying anymore because she was making me nervous in the audition rounds that she wouldn't be able to handle the pressure. When she stepped out onto the stage wearing an afghan vest I literally winced. She is a pretty girl and doppelganger for Brooke White...embrace it and look cute for goodness sake! I was SO glad Simon said that everyone is trying to sound like Estelle and Duffy. I was feeling the same way and am glad I am not crazy. I also agreed with Randy that the performance was sleepy. The general rule of stage performance is start and end strong. That last note...painful. Grade: C-

Siobhan Magnus - A for effort and trying to take an odd song choice and make it right. I knew she was going to pick something weird because she has been weird the entire competition to this point. Odd hair, odd dress, odd shoes. She can really sing so I would like to see her sing again because she is very talented and a wildcard. I hope her song tonight was enough. Grade: B

Crystal Bowersox - Ok, I may be unpopular for saying this, but I really didn't think she was that great tonight, or in any of the other performances I've seen her in. I was very surprised that Angela Martin didn't make it into the top 24 and in my opinion, they could've given Crystal's slot to her. I don't get what is so fascinating about her. She looks like someone who would be singing at a subway station not on the biggest stage in the world. I feel like she got included to fill out the cast of characters so there would be something for everyone. I just don't think she has much versatility and ability to change it up. She just doesn't seem that in to it either. It feels like she is just going through the motions. Again, she is just not my cup of tea. Grade: C

Katie Stevens - I thought the judges were being rather harsh on her. She has a beautiful tone to her voice and I thought she was rather brave to choose that song and I thought she took risks in her performance as well. Sometimes I feel like the judges have no patience for people who happen to be young and like older music. My sister and I often joke that we are both a 40 year-old trapped in a 20 somethings body. At the Monterey Jazz Festival concert we went to a few weeks ago, we were definitely in the minority, but we loved the music and really wanted to be there. I just don't think just because you are young you can't sing an "older" song. Last I checked, Michael Buble isn't "old". I know he is not the first person to sing that song, but he has interpreted it and made it cool for a younger audience. Why do the judges not acknowledge that? And, other than Taylor Swift, what "young" music is out there that is worth singing? (I know I am really sounding old) Ok, rant over. I thought she did well. Grade: B

So tonight it was hard because I thought most people did reasonably well, and those that didn't I wished they had done better. No one blew me away but I think that is because they were playing it safe. If I had to pick the two people that I would like to see go home it would be Crystal Bowersox and Lilly Scott. Neither did that badly tonight though, so they will probably be around another week. My guess is Paige Myles will go because not enough people know her and are not invested in her story and Lacey Brown because her performance was rough.

What did you all think?

The Road to Hollywood

Amanda Drama girl (didn't get her name...I was on the phone) who kinda reminded me of Carnie Wilson had a good voice but I completely agree with the judges that she had no connection to the song. I don't know why she was trying to blame it on being a theatre major. You are taught to connect to anything you are performing -- monologue, scene, song. I didn't feel that was a valid argument.

Lee Dewyze reminded me too much of Elliot Yamin from seasons past and I did not like his interpretation of Ain't No Sunshine.

Crystal (Piece of My Heart) is what I would have called in high school a wookie. Total hippy dippy granola, earth mother I-don't-brush-my-hair-or-teeth weirdo. I HATE when girls sing Piece of My Heart and I am not sure why it has had a resurgence lately among the contestants. Ugh. She got through and I don't know why.

Lacey Brown - I was glad to see her get a second chance especially since she lost out to Megan Joy Corkerey last year. Yuck. I like her much better than Megan.

Stephanie Fisher - I was most blown away with Kara telling her that she was a really smart girl. Uhhhh....when I think of really smart girls I don't picture an overly tanned barbie doll look alike with a bumpit in her hair, wearing a sequined leotard, fishnets and spectator shoes. I am actually more than confident if you walked around an ivy league campus you would not see one girl wearing such a ridiculous outfit. Oh yeah and did we forget the fact that she can't sing and she keeps showing up each year even though she is told again and again not to come back? How does that make her really smart Kara? Sometimes, ok most times, I wish Kara wouldn't talk.

Genesis Moore - Did anyone else notice how FLAT she was on I Told You So? Painful. I was SHOCKED that they put her through.

Adrian Chandichi- Did anyone else think he was a woman? Especially after the blossom analogy? Ok, and then after he sang I Can't Help Falling In Love With You? And then after noticing it looked like he was wearing a white woman's maternity top? WOW!

Michael "Big Mike" Lynche - Good voice...very smooth and he gave a confident performance. I don't think if I had just heard the voice I would remember him beyond the night, though. In my mind he is still the guy with the big arms and the ok voice. Hopefully he can change that and really do something special during Hollywood week.

Didi Benami - I can respect the fact that she is trying to make the song her own, and she was singing for her friend, and she was in tune, I just don't really care for that "style" of singing. It again reminds me of Megan Joy. Side note: seeing AvLav again with those silly devil horns on her hoodie made me want to run up and yank them off her head. How easy do you think it is to sing to someone like that. If I were auditioning I would find it incredibly distracting. It's not about you, Avril!

Aaron Kelly - I really liked his back story(I'll admit it, I was tearing up) and thought he had an exceptionally good voice for his age. He had a really great tone and control of his voice. I winced when he announced he would be singing Miley Cyrus, but I agree with Simon it was a good choice for him. I hope he does well in the next round.

Kimberly Bishop - I kissed a girl in a tiny black nightie...oops they had to censor me. I really wished she could have sung Katy Perry's song to her. That would have been even more funny.

I felt bad for Shania especially after her mom told of the vision she received that her daughter could sing. She is a cute girl. Maybe she can get better at something else because she is truly tone deaf.

Hope Johnson - I really liked her back story. I am a mess tonight with the little kid stories. Just thinking about kids not having enough food is enough to melt the heart of even this grump. Even though I Hope You Dance is not my favorite song, I think she did a good job with it and she does seem to have a special energy about her. I like her.

Phew! We are through with the freaks and geeks phase of the competition. On to the real contest!!! YEA!!!

What did you all think?

The Mile High City

Mark Labriola - I wasn't as blown away by his rendition of Tempted as the judges were, but I think his backstory is what intrigues them.

Mario Galvan - hahahaha. His nervous laugh was annoying enough before he started singing and I was hoping that he wouldn't have a good voice so we wouldn't have to deal with that for nearly an entire season (ahem, Tatiana from Season 8). Thankfully my hopes were realized and he really did not have talent. A-hahaha.

Kimberly Kerbow - Cute girl. Cute daughter. Her voice was pleasant although I kept wondering while she was singing if she was wearing a wig. Then, I heard the judges talk about it and I didn't feel so crazy.

Danelle Hayes - Great control of her voice although she made me very nervous with all of the crying before she even sang. I hope that she does well in the successive rounds of the competition, but I have my doubts. She seems to not deal well under pressure, but who knows? Maybe she only had a couple hours of sleep and will fare better now that she knows the judges like her.

Casey James - "Dance Monkey, dance!" Add this to the many reasons why I don't like Kara. Since she was so offended by Bikini Girl last year, definitely the way to respond is to do the same to some poor guy this season. It really offended me that they made him take his hair out and his shirt off to get through to the next round. They would be outraged if Simon or Randy did that to a woman.

Tori Kelly - I guess the technique for getting through is bringing your kids/sister in to sweeten the judges. Because I watch the show each week I guess I am just getting hardened to that reality. I wish the judges would also adopt my annoyance, but alas, 16 year old Tori gets sent through. I don't think she will last long. Her voice is ok, but I wasn't overly impressed. Posh and Kara are more interested in changing this into a looks competition instead of a singing competition, and this is what happens.

Austin Paul - I can't stand people that have a high opinion of themselves and no talent to back it up. If anyone has seen the amazing documentary Every Little Step, this guy reminds me of Tyce. I was SO glad they did not put him through.

Kenny (didn't get his last name) - Painful and I felt bad for him that he really thought he was good. SO repetitive! Ugh!

Nicci Nix - Her speaking voice seems VERY nasally so I am already nervous for her. Her singing voice was better and she is cute so I knew she would get sent through. Maybe I am just not hearing right tonight, but so far, I have been underwhelmed by the talent. I really think she could have picked a better song that would have showcased her "range" a bit better. I think that song had four notes. But, as Posh said, she has beautiful skin so, 'nuff said.

Haeley Vaughan -Well as soon as I write that I wasn't impressed with anyone, in walks Haeley Vaughan. The thing I liked most about her, was not her backstory about being a preemie. I really like the fact that she wants to be a "black-pop-country-mainstream artist". Lofty dream, but I like her motivation and I thought she picked a tough song to sing. I hope she does well in the next round.

What did you all think?

Don't Mess With Texas

NPH is a guest judge!! Yea!!!

Julie Kevelin (Lady Marmalade girl) proves that hope springs eternal for a special few. I am trying to resist the urge to comment on her blue 1980's sparkly prom dress, glittery eyeshadow and overprocessed hair, but I can't. She really is the whole package of someone who truly believes she can sing, and really, really can't. I feel most sorry for the fact that she seems nice and is beating herself up over breath support. Breathing technique is not her problem. She is someone that just cannot hear the melody or that she is not singing it.

Lloyd Thomas' (the dock worker)back story made you already hope that he can sing. I knew what Kara was going to say before she even opened. She is amazed every time that people outside "the industry" can sing. Isn't that the whole idea of the show?

Kimberly Carver made me smile. I love her personality and I thought her voice was great. She just seemed like someone I would be friends with. I also liked that she wanted to go home and watch reruns of Doogie Howser. Come on Kimberly, do you really need an excuse to do that? That is classic TV.

Dexter (look no farther) Warren...I don't know if he even changed notes while he was singing. He at least took defeat gracefully.

Barney and Friends' Erica Rhodes decided to do her audition with the aid of a whip and I really thought it was going to backfire. To my surprise the judges liked the whole dominatrix routine. I thought her voice was a bit thin and were she to perform without the props and the Barney experience she probably wouldn't have made it through. We'll see if she makes it past Hollywood week...I doubt it. I also thought it was funny that her mom was so excited that she got through in that getup. Let me tell you, if I walked out of an audition dressed in black pleather and Pretty Woman boots, my mom would not be doing cartwheels. "Yea my daughter thinks she can't get by on her own talent! She values herself so little that she needs to appeal to the lowest common denominator to be accepted! I am so proud."

Turrets guy, Dave Pittman, was great. I think his voice has a really great tone and I agree with Simon, I think people will root for him.

I really liked NPH has a guest judge. I thought he was fair and decent and respectful of contestants' efforts. Plus he can really sing and is actually talented unlike last night's devil horned cutie.

So I am probably dating myself, but I am not really sure which one Joe Jonas is. Is he Taylor Swift's ex or the one who just got married, or the diabetic one?

Blue plaid flannel shirt guy (sorry I didn't write down his name in time) had a good voice, but I, like Simon, wasn't blown away.

Kara has such a unique way of insulting people followed by a compliment. "I really thought by the way you are wearing a tank top and shorts and that you came in here happy and smiling you were really gonna suck."Way to make yourself look dumb Kara, I am sure there are many more moments like that to come. Maegan Wright took the "criticism" in stride and got through to the next round. When she first started singing and dipped way down to sing the word face it brought back unpleasant memories of Megan Joy Corkoree from last season, but I didn't get that vibe for the rest of the song.

I think Vanessa Johnston was a set up. She was a little too happy to not go through. Why waste our time with that.

I liked that Christian Spears picked a lesser known Etta James song and sang it very confidently. I was also glad that the judges didn't make a big deal about her being a cancer survivor. That's not to say that it's not a big deal to be a cancer survivor, I just don't like it when I feel like they are pitying the contestant. If it were me, I would want to get in on my skills not because people felt bad for me.

So which ever Jonas he is, Joe was the most oatmeal judge they have had yet. He pretty much said nothing other than, "you're really awesome" but now that I write that, I really didn't want to hear much more from him. Well done J squared.

What did y'all think?

City of Angels

In case anyone was wondering where I was last week, I wanted to post my reviews, but got caught up in other things and wasn't able to get to it. Hopefully that won't happen again.

Boo hiss for superstar/clothing designer extraordinaire Avril Lavigne guest judging tonight's episode. Is that really the best they could do?

Tonight's show got off to a disturbingly odd start with the 6 foot man/woman with "the Rachel" season 2 haircut and a blue rayon shirt topped by a silk screened, bedazzled vest. What could go wrong with this combo? When he proudly announced he would be singing Meatloaf I thought, of course he is...he is a wacko. Wow, Neil Goldstein, you really can't sing and you are not very convincing. His whole "I'm not going" speech was like watching him practice for a debate team meet in the mirror and to not be entirely sure what side he's on.

I was slightly bothered by AvLav's hesitancy to put Pastor Jim Rogers through because he has a wife and three kids. If he can sing and he signed up for this show, then let him work out the details of his own life. He is an adult and can make decisions for himself. I mostly just didn't like how Avril kept looking at him like he was a martian because he is a pastor.

Damien Lefour (the sandwich maker) was awful, but at least exited stage right quickly enough. Whenever I hear someone say they are really into martial arts (and in Damien's case, also a pacifist), I roll my eyes because I know right away they are not going through.

Rocker chic (didn't write down her name in time) was ok to me. I wasn't as impressed as the judges were and I agreed with Simon that her whole look was cliched. I don't think she will make it far.

Adam Lambert's look-alike (I am being nice) AJ Mendoza was a strange audition to watch. I think there is talent in there somewhere but he needs to be coached on presentation technique and should practice in front of a mirror to see what he really looks like while singing. I HATE singing in front of a mirror, but it is the only way for me to see if I am making an odd face or standing in a weird way. I was surprised that he judges did not try to coach him more. They seem to be trying harder to coach people this season, but they gave him the boot pretty fast.

SO glad that Katy Perry is stepping in as a guest judge instead of Avril. For some reason I can take her more seriously...oh wait I know what it is, she isn't wearing a devil horned hoodie.

Austin Fullmer--wow. I almost don't know what to say. I loved in his intro how he said no one else in the history of AI had ever had his brand of sexuality and wasn't afraid to be touched. Wait...have you not seen/heard Adam Lambert news. Touching is his problem. Austin is completely delusional and thought that Kara and Katy were supportive of his crazy Iggy Pop/David Bowie performance.

Andrew Garcia was a refreshing change to hear. Someone who can actually sing, isn't crazy, has some humility and has a cute family backstory. Minus the kid with the rat tail and neck tat he was perfect.

Tasha Layton the Pastor/Personal Assistant has a good voice and a laid back style. I will be interested to see how she will do and how long she will last in the competition.

Sometimes I wonder if flamingly gay "performers" like Jason Greene practice a whole schtick of what they are going to say and do to make sure their audition makes it on TV. His whole song and dance was strange to say the least and felt very rehearsed.

Chris Golightly has a touching story and an ok voice, but I am not sure he is as phenomenal as Kara seems to think. We'll see...

I was exceedingly underwhelmed by last week's auditions. Ahem, Chicago (13 tickets/12,000 auditionees) L.A. seemed okay, but for some reason I am still feeling like there are not that many people going through to Hollywood week. Or my other fear is that when I watch Hollywood week there are going to be tons of people there that I never heard sing.

What do you all think?

Hotlanta

First off, I am glad tonight's show was only an hour and a half. I was already to throw the remote through at the TV after the first hour of craziness tonight. I am not sure if it's the sound on my TV, but I thought the judges (especially MJB) were being way too complimentary to most of the talent.

Standouts tonight were Keia Johnson and Jermaine Sellers. When Keia announced she would sing "the Titanic song" I rolled my eyes and braced for impact. To my surprise, she made the song her own and was not annoying. If she can find a dumpster between Atlanta and Hollywood to stow the neon yellow stretch pants and hot pink sneaks we may be in business.

Jermaine Sellers, who takes care of his mom with spina bifida, had a velvety, smooth, creamy voice--almost as if he were the personification of a chocolate fountain. I love voices like that.

On the next tier down in the they-will-probably-make-it-through-Hollywood-week group was Holly Harden (guitar girl), Bryan Walker (singing cop), and Mallorie Haley. Although, I think MJB saying Mallorie being the best vocalist so far was a bit of a hyperbole. Someone I would like to include in this group is Vanessa Wolfe (country girl) but I don't know how she will fare under pressure and performing non-country songs. I would like to see her succeed, but for now she is a question mark to me. She so reminds me of the trailer park girls I was friends with in elementary school (that is a whole other story for another day) and so for that reason I would like her (and them) to succeed at ANYTHING.

People I could have done without tonight are Dewone Robinson ("It's Over..."), Skiibo ski, Carmen & Lauren, Lamar Royal, and Christy Marie Agranow. With Lamar I, like MJB, thought there might be a moment when guns came to play. He had a rage in him that was altogether unhealthy. And, Christy Marie with her TV show 4-1-1...the show (imagine hand movements) I wanted to burst her bubble as soon as she opened her mouth. There was a moment when I felt bad for her after she confessed her undying love and passion for singing and then realized she was being told that it was never going to happen for her. But in my experience, people with her type of personality will rebound very quickly and be on to the next thing they can be praised for.

I also could have done without the Pants on the Ground General Larry Platt. I didn't see what the point of that was and would have much rather seen other crazies having meltdowns.

What did you all think of tonight's episode?

Off to a Good Start

Whew! After much anticipation and trying to get my house clean and kids down before sitting down to enjoy Idol I have to admit I am feeling exhausted two hours later. Idol met my expectations in two respects--they showed that there looks to be strong female talent this year and they showed a decent number of whack jobs. Believe me, in a few weeks I'm sure I'll be complaining about the weirdness and ready to move on to the legitimate part of the competition, but it was nice to have a laugh tonight and feel a little more normal for a moment. I think they did a good job too if not including too many clips of people saying, "wicked awesome!" or other Boston slang.

As far as standouts go, I thought Maddie Curtis was nice and did a fairly good job of her song. I have mixed feelings about the video intros beforehand because I feel like it endears the audience to a few people who have "extraordinary" stories, so I don't feel like it is fair to all the contestants. At the same time, I love getting to know new people and finding out their background and family. Maddie reminded me of kids I would have been friends with in high school from Nottingham--very hippy-dippy, birkenstocks and corduroys, wild hair and no makeup. I am interested to see how the country mouse does in the big city.

I absolutely loved Ashley Rodrigues. I loved her style, her confidence and humility and her talent. I really hope she does well in the next phases. I also liked Katie Stevens and really connected to her story about her grandma with Alzheimer's. My grandma also had that and I can remember feeling that she recognized me when I sang to her. Even though she sang one of my least favorite AI audition songs (At Last) she sang it well and I think she had enough talent to make it through Hollywood. I also like repressed church girl Leah and feel like she has a talent that will grow with encouragement.

For the boys, I was brought under the spell of dreamy Justin Williams even before he sang. I don't think he has the most impressive voice I have ever heard, and I think he did too much with thte song but I do like to watch him. Pretty as he is, I did have some reservations towards him since he reminds me of those guys in Utah who know exactly how good looking they are and who would never speak to someone like me because I am not blond and skinny and 19. Here's to hoping that he doesn't fit that stereotype. After writing that, I think it is funny that I am married with two kids and still look at guys like that and imagine the ways they would ignore or embarrass me if I were single. I am such a weirdo.

I also like Amadeo Dipicco because I like his big fat Mediterranean family and would love to see more of them. I also liked the tone of his voice. And, if anyone reading this blog has been to Providence, his accent is spot on.

My heart went out to Justin Blaylock, the unassertive "Simon, shut up!" guy because I feel like he will never really succeed in this competition and I can see him having a breakdown during group number rehearsal in Hollywood week. He started his song out strong, but it kind of unraveled as he got further into it.

For completely entertaining weirdos I really like Pat Ford from Derry and I really hope I run into him one of these days. He was so delusional and had this very odd accent that is not really typical of people from NH. For some reason I can picture myself at a Target and hear that voice coming from the handbag aisle asking the two tubby girls he's with if he can pull off yellow patent leather.

My other favorite non-winner for the night was Derek Hilton. I loved in his intro when he said his interest in music came during the "lowest peak" of his life. I'd like to know what a low peak looks like. I also couldn't tell when I first saw him if he was a boy or a girl. And, when he dramatically blew the flower off his palm and it landed about 6 inches past his foot I started to laugh knowing his audition was going to be bad.

All in all I think the season is off to a good start and am looking forward to Atlanta's audtions tomorrow.

Confession

I feel like a kid on Christmas Eve...American Idol season premiere is tomorrow and I can't wait!! Today anytime I have a moment that doesn't require all of my brain power (ie. doing dishes, cleaning, hauling wood) my mind wanders and wonders what the next night and the next five months with hold. It sadly is the only time of year I am very consistent about updating the old blog and I like having a commitment of something to write about. Anyway, just wanted to express my excitement to someone other than my babies who will be in bed when all the merriment takes place.