GolightlyGrrl's Blog

This week we’ll be overdosing on American Idol. Tuesday night is performance night, Wednesday night is “Idol Gives Back” and on Thursday we’ll be given the results. Can we handle all the excitement? Speaking of excitement, this week’s theme is “inspiration.” I have an uneasy feeling about this.

Michael is up first. He sings Aerosmith’s “Dream On.” Yes, nothing says “inspiration” like a 1970s drugged out of his skull Steven Tyler. I really like Michael’s performance last week, but this week? Hmm, I’m not feeling it. Michael’s voice sounds good (except for the unfortunate falsetto at the end), but I feel he’s playing rock star rather than actually being one. I notice that he’s wearing an ascot again. And is he growing a mullet? An ascot and a mullet? I guess Michael will be having tea and crumpets with some Jerry Springer guests after the show.

Before Syesha sings she gives us the “Ramiele Report,” which is a lot more interesting that her actual performance. Syesha sings Fantasia’s “I Believe.” What? No Whitney? It’s usually not a good choice to sing a notable song by an Idol winner. Syesha has a beautiful voice, but she’s all technique, no soul and conviction. What makes Fantasia such a good performer is how she digs down deep to really feel the song. With Syesha, I feel we’ve seen performers like her a million times. She’s not unique, but a glory note at the end might get her some votes.

Jason sings the Israel Kamakawiwo'ole version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” The ukulele could be a gimmicky prop, but it really works with this version of the song. Jason sings this song beautifully, and it’s really touching in its simplicity. In fact, I would have liked to hear Jason sing this without the band. What I liked about his performance is he actually seemed to take it seriously without being all, “Dude...” I can actually imagine this song being on a future Jason CD.

What? Kristy Lee isn’t going to sing “Amazing Grace” again? I thought that was her safety song. Instead Kristy Lee sings Martina McBride’s “Anyway.” Yep, this is my cue to go to the bathroom. However the judges like her performance. I’m not surprised because she’s this season’s country singer. She’s kind of a low-rent Carrie Underwood, if Carrie Underwood had nearly zilch talent.

Our Lady Peace is one of David C’s favorite bands so he sings their song “Innocent.” Hmm, I’ve been a fan of David’s for quite a while but I wasn’t a fan of this performance. David’s voice didn’t sound so hot and I felt that his performance was way too bombastic. I wonder what it would have been like if he would have taken it down a few notches. And though I like the idea of giving back, I wonder if David writing “Give Back” on his hand might come across as way too pretentious. But at least he can take criticism like an adult without having a huge puss on his face or smarting off to the judges.

Carly sings Queen’s “The Show Must Go On.” Actually, I think the show can stop right now. I’m just not feeling tonight’s performances. Carly usually sings well but she seemed to lack control during her performance and she came across totally pissed-off. Plus she is so desperate when she performs that it makes me uncomfortable. This is the week of inspiration, not perspiration. Don’t let them see you sweat, Carly.

David A sings “Angels” by British pop star Robbie Williams. Apparently this song was a hit everywhere but the United States. David plays the piano and sings perfectly fine, but it’s such a dull song with some very clichéd lyrics. In other words, “Angels” is the perfect AI coronation song. But being the chosen one, David will sail into next week. Grandmas and tweeners will be relentless in voting.

Brooke always gave me a low-key, folky Carole King vibe so it’s fitting that she sings Ms. King’s “You’ve Got a Friend.” Brooke sounds fairly decent and bonds well with the lyrics. Brooke does a passable job, which isn’t saying much on a night like this. I do have one question. Why is Brooke wearing the same dress my mother wore back in 1965 when she was doing the Twist at the Peppermint Lounge?

Wow, this night was the dullest of the dull. The only thing it inspired me to do was check my watch and stifle my yawns. I expected better, and it really seemed like most of the contestants were resting on their laurels. I hope they amp it up next week. However, I have a question. Did anyone think that guy hanging out at the judges’ table mid-show was Kenny G? Just me? Okay.