Reality Roll Call

by Deb Porter-Jones

Tonight is Sixties Beatles’ night, and all of the contestants are performing songs from the era of U.K. legends John Lennon and Paul McCartney.  No easy feat, since the music of that era was either distinctly introspective, or upbeat and happy.  The contestants are performing for the first time on the new American Idol stage; a really cool, much larger stage with the band suspended in mid-air and the audience center-stage.  No pressure, huh, guys?

First to perform was Syesha Mercado.  What a beautiful girl, with such a beautiful smile.  Syesha performed “Gotta Get You Into My Life” and she did a great job.  She started off a little scared and pitchy, but then she loosened up and sang it well.  Randy and Paula both thought she did a good job from the middle of the song to the end.  Surprisingly, Simon thought it was a “great choice of song” and that she looked very nervous and did much better than last week.  I give her a B+.

Next up was Chikezie, who finally explained that name.  Chikezie is Nigerian, and such a likable guy.  He performed “She’s a Woman” and boy, did he do a GREAT job! Up until tonight Chikezie was, you know, just an okay singer.  But tonight, he really proved why he’s here.  Chikezie really funked up a song that is typically a little rock ditty.  HE funked it up, after he started with a little jug-band type of intro.  You thought it would be a little strange, but before long he really got into it and well, he just did a great job.  Good for you, Chikezie!  A well-deserved A+.

Cutie Ramiele Malubay, from the Philippines, performed “In My Life”, and dedicated her performance to her friends who’ve left Idol so far.  If you recall, besides Danny Noriega, she probably bawled more than anyone every time someone was sent home.   Unfortunately, it was unanimous; her performance was “boring”.  C-

Jason Castro (Jesus), our gentle flower child from Columbia, sang “If I Fell” and played guitar.  I must admit, I don’t really know the song, but he sang it in a really breathy, squeaky, falsetto-type of voice.  Not sure if I liked it, I felt like he could have made it more interesting.  Randy thought it was just “alright”, Paula thought “the audience felt his heart because he has an emotional connection with the songs that he picks.”  Of course, Simon wasn’t as generous.  He thought it was “a bit student in a bedroom at midnight” and the song was “quite boring.”  I agree – C-.

Next up was Carly Smithson, our Irish Rose who sang “Come Together” and she did a great job!  I must admit, this week was the first time I could actually see what everyone else sees in Carly.  She sang the song like it was hers!  All of the judges loved her, even Simon, who thought she finally found the right song.  A+ for Carly!

David Cook, the guy with the crazy hair, was formerly a bartender and sang, “Eleanor Rigby” and he did a decent job with it.  I like David Cook; he seems humble enough, like he’s not really sure that he’s got the talent that everyone says he has.  All of the judges thought it was wonderful, yes, even Simon.  I like David…B.

Next was Brooke White from Mesa, Arizona.  She sang “Let It Be,” and played piano.  I’ve got to say, until tonight, I couldn’t figure out why Brooke was even here.  Her performance was flawless and moving and heartfelt.  All of the judges loved it; Simon thought it was a “brilliant choice of song and believable”.  I loved her performance.  A+

David Hernandez sang, “I Saw Her Standing There,” and he did a good job.  He was confident, running through the audience and dancing like Ellen DeGeneres.  The judges all thought it was “just too much”.  It seemed like he was doing a lot of screaming and forcing the song out. B.

Amanda Overmyer sang, “You Can’t Do That” and, typical Amanda: she worked it out!  As usual, she was awesome, and doesn’t disappoint.  This girl is so unique (although she does remind me of Elvis, but in a good way). I look forward to seeing what she’s going to sing because it’s guaranteed to  be different and bluesy and soulful.  I think Amanda should have a record contract regardless; the hell with American Idol. And of course, the judges agree.   A+

Michael Johns sang “Across the Universe”. Kinda boring.  Randy agreed, Paula thought it was “brilliant” and Simon agreed with Randy.  Simon felt that he was holding back but today’s performance was his weakest.  C-

Kristi Lee Cook is from Oregon, and sang “Eight Days a Week”.  She turned it into a country song and ruined it.  Randy was split on the arrangement, Paula didn’t get it, and Simon didn’t like it. She sounded like The Chipmunks performing the song.  D.

David Archuleta sang “We Can Work It Out” and forgot the words in the few lines; not like him at all.  He had stated in the intro that this week’s competition had him nervous and it was more than obvious.  He still sang the song well, just not with the conviction that he usually has.  The judges agreed.  C-

Who’s on top?  Chikezie, Brooke White, Carly Smithson and Amanda Overmyer.

Who should be nervous?  Kristi Lee Cook and Ramiele Malubay.

Stay tuned – results show tomorrow night!