Apr 23, 2008 | 12:08 PM
Category:
Entertainment
This week Idol is heading to Broadway and the Idol hopefuls get to sing the songs of the legendary Andrew Lloyd Weber. Weber, along with his partner Tim Rice, has composed music for famous musicals like “Jesus, Christ Superstar,” “Evita” and “Cats.” Will the contestants treat us to the “music of the night” or will we try to erase their performances from our “memory?” We shall soon find out.
I’ve been rather hard on Syesha in the past few weeks, but I always thought she had a Broadway musical side that needed to come out. Syesha sings “One Rock and Roll Too Many.” I loved this performance. Syesha sounded fabulous and really seemed to get into the song. Finally, she actually shows an emotional connection. She was saucy and fun; and I thought her flirtation with the band members was cute. Maybe she won’t grab the Idol crown, but I can definitely see her on Broadway. This was a great way to start the night.
Andrew Lloyd Weber has never written music for “Cheech and Chong: Up in Smoke-The Musical” so Jason has to sing “Memory.” Hmm, it almost looks like his dreds were made out of an old costume from “Cats.” Ew, this performance is not good. Jason’s laid-back, hippie vibe doesn’t translate well, and his lower register is really weak. This song ended up being an endless dirge. And you could tell Jason wasn’t not getting into the song and his performance.
Now I’ve been a fan of Brooke’s since I first saw her audition. I love her voice, her sweetness and her curly blonde hair. However, I did not really her rendition of “You Must Love Me.” Though Brooke has the tender vulnerability to connect with this song, she seemed to be so uncomfortable. Her voice sometimes faltered (and her start and stop in the beginning won’t help her), and I wonder if she’s cracking under the pressure. This makes me sad for her because she’s so talented. But a Broadway musical star she is not. And she may be in danger of getting voted off.
After getting a hug from some of his tweener fans, David A sings “Think of Me.” David has the vocal chops but he is the performing equivalent of Ambien. He’s just so dull. And must he sing a ballad once again? David, you’re a young guy. Sing something fun and upbeat, kiddo! Well, at least he’s not wearing leather pants. I should be grateful for that. But could he please can it with the “Arm Reach of Sensitivity?” It’s so boy-bandish and cheesy.
Though I love Carly’s vocal prowess, I find her way too desperate as a performer. However, this changes after she sings “Jesus Christ, Superstar.” It was a treat to see Carly really get into a performance, rock out and have a ball on stage. Finally, she didn’t come across as “please love me” mess. I loved how her big, bluesy voice just belted the song out. I hope this performance keeps Carly in the competition. And I loved her boots and her bracelet. The dress? Not so much.
Already privy to some of David C’s high school musical theater performances (thanks to YouTube), I knew he’d do a great job with this theme. David sings “Music of the Night” and absolutely owns this song!!! He caressed the song in the softer parts and really belted when needed. He got the lyrics, and it never became an embarrassing karaoke performance. Some people have compared David to the DAUGHTRY, but DAUGHTRY couldn’t handle a Broadway song. Maybe because there isn’t a Nickelback version of “Don’t Cry for Me, Argentina.” David has surpassed the DAUGHTRY. He is so much more than a rocker. This was another star-making performance and probably the best of the night.
AI started off strong and ended up even stronger. Too bad there was so much meh in the middle. David C was my favorite, but I also loved Syesha and Carly. Jason and Brooke really disappointed me and I think either one could leave us this week. And whether I like it or not, David A will stick around for another week.