What's Going On

I don't want this blog to turn into my soapbox for American Idol, but I think that's somewhat inevitable this time of year. First, some general notes:

1. I miss Alexis Grace. She was definitely not due to go home last week.
2. I'm sick of Kara DioGuardi. She should have gone home last week.

I didn't see the whole show. (I had to watch clips on YouTube after the fact.) But, I got to see the important stuff. I'll try to keep this short, but we all know what happens when I try to do that.

People I'm Not At All Pleased With:

Scott: He's a sweet guy, and I think he plays the piano brilliantly. His slow start to "You Can't Hury Love" was very nicely done. But when he started singing, I could hardly keep watching. I feel bad, because it's a tremendous accomplishment for him to be here, and no one wants to diss someone with a disability. But, he deserves to be held to the same standard as others, and I don't think his voice is up to par.

Michael: Also a likable guy. Once my friend burned a washcloth in the microwave and called herself an idiot. I responded, "A burnt washcloth does not an idiot make." Well, neither does likability make an Idol. It's certainly a big part of the equation, but vocals must account for at least half. I'm also a little bitter because I feel he stole Alexis' place on the tour this season. Also, I think "Ain't To Proud To Beg" is waaaaay overplayed, and by greater artists than Mr. Sarver.

Megan: Her voice is kinda cool and different, but also kinda...not good. I'm sure she'd rock 1940's week (and you know how I love anything retro), but it seems that she can't sing many later songs very well. I'll pull a Paula: I loved her dress tonight, though.

People I'm Underwelmed By

Lil: I think Lil can do better than she's been doing. But I'd also be less critical of her if she weren't such a judges' favorite. I don't think "Heatwave" showcases what she could really do.

Danny: He also suffers from the "Judges" Favorite" syndrome. And I don't think "Get Ready" was in anyway the right song. I didn't see Simon's comments, but I hope he said that to both Lil and Danny even though he really likes them. He's still got a cool, raspy quality to his voice that I like, but I want to see him wow me, especially with all the judge praise he receives.

People I've Always Liked And Still Do

Kris: What a cutie. He seems genuinely nice. Just the type of normal guy that needs a show like American Idol to give him a platform for his talent. He didn't knock my socks off tonight, but I loved his slow start and that he played guitar. Simon, please don't tell him to be conceited.

Alison: LOVED her performance. They must have known how good it would be and let her close the show because of it. I saw one review that said they couldn't understand her. I did notice that in the rapid-fire lyrics at the end, but it's not a big deal. That was a sensational song for her rough, rocky voice. During so many performanes (see some of the above categories) I was just waiting for them to be over. This one was so enjoyable, I could hear it again...but I hope I don't, because that would mean she was in the singing-for-her-life position, and she definitely shouldn't be this week.

Anoop: When I saw he was singing "Ooh Baby Baby", I think I expected a little bit more. I'm not sure what. He did a very nice version, and I still want to see what else he can do.

Matt: I've liked him ever since "Georgia" during Hollywood Week. I still wanted him to get another chance after he butchered "Viva La Vida". No one can beat Marvin, but Matt performed "Let's Get It On" beautifully.

And finally...
People I Kind Of Hated Before But Have Gradually Warmed Up To And Genuinely Enjoyed Tonight

Adam: Well, with a category that specific, there can really only be one. My only negative critique is that I thought he stayed up in his falsetto a little too much. Peaks and valleys of high and low notes might have added interest to the performance, I think. Other than that, I loved it. His pitch is so perfect. It's hard to hold those soft, high notes without falling or cracking. I also loved his coversation with Smokey, how he seemed truly interested in what inspired the song. And I loved his look tonight. The suit was so sharp and I loved the retro pompadour... He really does look like Elvis. However, while his look suited me, I know that' snot his thing. Even though I don't like whatever Emo style he did before, I know that's him, and he should honor that.

But for tonight...gosh, he looked like Elvis, and I liked it.