Last night the top ten contestants of American Idol took the stage to battle for the top nine positions. Tonight is the axe round, when one of them would bid adieu and return home. This week the contestants selected songs from the theme 'The Year They Were Born' and finally we got to hear some modern age music. This was a welcome break from the classics that have been prevalent since the onset of season 7. All the top 10 were born between 1980-1990, thus making it an exciting cocktail of pop, jazz and rock genres.

David Archuleta, the youngest one in the top 10 chose 'You're the Voice' by John Farnham. A strange choice for a 17 years old. But then again, as Randy commented, “ if you can sing, you can sing whatever you want.” Overall, it was a decent performance, good enough to keep him safe.

Jason Castro chose to sing Sting's 'Fragile'. A lovely song selection to begin your top 10 run. Unlike previous times, Jason was looking more comfortable with his guitar on stage. However, his predictable song selection didn't quite impress the judges. Simon gave him a somewhat half hearted advise and a rather full blown criticism. Comparing Jason's performance as “someone busking outside the subway station.” Later, Jason ended in the bottom three. (Not Safe).

Ramiele Malubay chose 'Alone' by Heart. In-spite of not being well, she gave it all she had and proved her vocal consistency yet gain. Judge Paula Abdul greatly appreciated Ramiele's efforts. At the end of the day, she was on the safe side and ready for the top 9.

Syesha Mercado chose ' If I were your woman' by Alicia Keys. Although she made a blooper of starting the song as ' If I was your woman', but later corrected herself and went on with the song. Randy Jackson was amazed at the versatility of Syesha and said, “This is the best I have ever heard you sing, including when you auditioned. It was stellar, it was unbelievable. I am shocked.” His views were shared by rest of the judges as well. Surprisingly, even after such an incredible performance, she ended up in the bottom three. (Not Safe)

Chikezie chose to sing 'If only for one night'. However, before he even began, he admitted that ballads petrified him. Yet he chose this song, because it was important to him. The judges were divided over their perceptions. Simon said, “I think you sang it well. Having said that, the performance was actually very cheesy.” He later added, that he didn't see any originality in the performance. So, we got another one in the bottom three. (Not Safe).

Brooke White sang 'Every breath you take' while putting herself behind a piano. She started the song, but after a couple of phrases, decided to sing it again. Paula remarked, “I enjoyed this performance so much more than last week's.” Furthermore, she appreciated Brooke's consistency and acknowledged her own niche and voice. After all was said and done, Brooke was safe.

Michael Johns, born in 1978, took on two Queen classics in the given time slot. He started off with 'We will rock you' and suddenly turned to 'We are the champions'. The harshest critic of all, Simon was astounded by Michael's performance. He said, “Michael, this is the first time with you that I've seen star potential. You just got it right. For me, it's the only memorable performance of the night so far." With this kind of mind-blowing stage act, there was no doubt that he would remain safe. (oh!, and he did).

Carly Smithson opted for 'Total eclipse of the heart' which suited perfectly for her vocal range. Paula remarked by saying, that Carla could take any song that Paula doesn't like and make her a believer. Overall, Carla put on a nice show, which kept her safe.

Kristy Lee Cook chose to take a go at “God bless the U.S.A”. An odd song choice, because this song is not competition material. However, it impressed Simon, who remarked, “ That was the most clever song choice I have heard in years. … That's going to keep you in the competition.”

David Cook chose to sing 'Billie Jean' and did quite a commendable job at it. The improvisation that he tried, was well received by the judges. Randy Jackson termed David as the most original, most bold contestant ever. Also, that this kind of performance might even get him the 'Big Win'.

So, at the end of the day there are three people in bottom. Chikezie, Syesha Mercado and Jason Castro. Tomorrow night is the 'Crunch Time' and one of these fellas is heading home. It's going to be more fun, than a James Dean movie.

Gerry Grant
Reporter
My Entertainment News

Search-Optimization.com | Buy a Car Review | SOMReport | DataGrant Venture Capital News

No related posts

This entry was posted on Thursday, March 27th, 2008 at 2:05 am and is filed under American Idol. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.