Well, boys and girls. I came late to the party. Or I guess I should say I was listening with only half an ear and one eye during the first 20 minutes (pet stuff and computer stuff going on). So the first couple of reviews are tentative.
The first round is songs that inspire these kids.
James (Don’t Stop Believin’): I heard enough of this one to say I liked it a lot. Even his scream. Score could go up or down if I relisten later, but I’m thinking it’s a 4.6 out of 5.
Haley (Earth Song): I really didn’t hear enough to feel like a good judge. Too shouty. However, the judges didn’t seem to be happy about it for the most part. Knowing I might be influenced by their comments, I’ll give her a 4.4.
Scotty (Where Were You When the World Stopped Turning): Loved it. Meaningful song, as much today as when ever the song first debuted after 9/11. And for those who like to slam Scotty because he always does country, I don’t get that. I mean, don’t most singers sing the type of songs they love which is what puts them in a genre in the first place? So he’s getting a 4.8 from me.
Lauren (Anyway): This is one of my favorite Martina McBride songs. When I heard her debut it at the country music awards a few years back, I couldn’t wait to order it. I didn’t think she quite measured up to Martina’s version, but it was pretty durn good. I’ll give her a 4.7.
BTW, Randy, all four of these kids are in it to win it. I mean, really. Get a new catch phrase, dawg, because I’ve heard that one enough.
Next round is songs of Leiber & Stoller with Lady Gaga as mentor. Hmm.
Haley (I, Who Have Nothing): The drama was definitely there. I thought she could have toned down a bit of the growl. But overall, I got to say it was a dynamite performance. This one gets a 4.8.
Scotty (Young Blood): While our conservative Scotty caught Gaga a bit by surprise, I thought he pulled off the emotions and kookiness of the song just fine. No, it wasn’t a favorite performance. He gets a 4.6.
Lauren (Trouble): Good but not a Wow for me. She looked great and played the stage and her vocals were good if not stellar. I’ll give her a 4.4.
James (Love Potion No. 9): Hold it. Flash back! The original words were “since 1966” and he updated to “since 1996.” It fits better in the 60’s. It had too much screaming for my taste (and I happened to like the old hit). So I’ll give him a 4.5.
So, what did I think about the night? It was a night of solid performances. None that blew me away. No goose bumps this week. No way can I predict who is in danger, although I have a sneaking suspicion that it will be one of the girls who goes home. Based on nothing but just a hunch.
Favorite(s)? Sorry, all four of these kids have grown on me, so I’ll just say they’re all my favorites.
~robin
As I am not a C&W fan I’d like to see either Scotty or Lauren leave tonight. I like them both but would like to see a diversified top three.
I did think that the judges went off on Haley for no good reason then gave Scotty a pass on the last song. But maybe people will respond to their criticism by voting for Haley. 🙂
Bob, I was so busy messing with computer stuff last night that I totally forgot to vote after posting my blog. So whatever happens tonight, I won't have had any part in (unless the singers I meant to vote for are sent home, in which case my lack of votes may have played a part in). I still think the chances are strongest for a James-Scotty finale and that a girl will go home tonight. But at this point, I think any of the four could win and all of them are talented enough to deserve to win.
I made up for your non-votes Robin and voted for the first time. If Haley goes home it won’t be my fault. 🙂