For the past three weeks I’ve been on holiday in the beautiful country of Italy. I had an amazing time, although there was a bump in the road at the start of my vacation. I was in the picturesque seaside town of Sorrento when I got a text from my coworker Sarah, saying that there was an American Idol shocker in the results show. Of course I had to know what it was, which I texted her, while thoughts were running through my mind of who it could be. Scotty? Casey? Surely not my beloved Pia? When I received a text back simply saying ‘Pia!!!!’, I was floored and complained about it for the next week to my poor travel companion and good friend Helen.
Now that I am back in the US, still recovering from the loss of Pia, I’m catching up on all things Idol. There have been some big surprises since three weeks ago. Firstly, how is Jacob still there? He’s so theatrical and not nearly as charismatic as the rest of the Idol contenders. I guess his voice is good, but they should all be good at this stage. He has to go next. My second observation is that Hayley is now fricken amazing! I was very impressed with her rendition of Carole King’s ‘Beautiful’ and she finally proved to me that she deserved to be there. Although if I had to choose between Pia and Haley I’d choose Pia in a heartbeat. This week’s elimination of Casey James was a little sad, but not surprising. Although Casey was interesting and good, he peaked too soon delivering stand out performances during Hollywood Week and at the start of the finals.
I’m looking forward to seeing how the final five do next week. The top five performance show is often one of my favourites of the season, as traditionally they sing two songs for this show. Bring it on!
Friday, April 29, 2011
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Motown week with the American Idol Top 11
Motown! I LOVE Motown week on Idol, these are all great pop songs and some of my favourite Idol performances have been during Motown week. Like Kimberly Caldwell's 'Nowhere to Run', Kris Allen's 'How Sweet it is to be Loved By You', and Kelly Clarkson's 'You're All I Need to Get By'.
First up, Casey. I'm starting to like him a lot more, although I think he needs to growl a little less. 'Heard it Through the Grapevine' is an amazing song, so good song choice. I really want him to get rid of the ginge beard though, I hope he lets the Idol stylists give them a makeover.
Next is Thea who bravely sings 'Heatwave' which Kimberley Locke sang in season 2 and Jennifer Hudson sang in season 3. I think Thea really needs to show her personailty. Or maybe she doesn't have a personality, I'm still trying to figure it out.
Jacob's up third singing one of my fave Motown songs 'You're All I Need To Get By' and sounded pretty good. I still can't see myself buying his album though.
Lauren sounded amazing singing 'You Keep Me Hanging On' and she seemed a little less annoying than usual. Hmmm, maybe she would make a good Idol winner?
Okay, is it just me or do all the girls have hair extensions now?
I was starting to like Stefano until it was announced that he had chosen to sing Lionel Richie's 'Hello'. Which a. How is that Motown? When I think of Motown I think of the era, Alone was in the 80s and b. IT'S A DAVID COOK CLASSIC!! So the outcome? As I couldn't help compare it to D Cook, it was very disappointing. It didn't sound terrible, but there was nothing special about it.
Oh Haley. You sound pretty good but there's something about you that's not right. I think it's that you have no personality. And as you've been in the bottom three for the past two weeks I think America senses this too.
I am starting to like Scotty more each week. He gave Steve Wonder's 'For Once In My Life' its own spin and it sounded like an instant country hit. I can totally see him having a hit country album and opening for Carrie or Kellie Piockler.
I would say that Pia's 'All in Love is Fair' was almost an Idol moment. She sounds amazing and I think she's my favourite at the moment, she reminds me of Katharine McPhee who I love. But I want her to be a Kelly Clarkson and to sing something fun and not sing a ballad every week!
Paul sang 'Tracks of my Tears' and sounded good, but I don't think it was an 'Idol moment' like Idol mentor Jimmy Iovine has envisaged. He has yet to wow me.
Naima. She drives me crazy with her pitchiness and attitude. But she didn't sound terrible on 'Dancing in the Streets'. Her dancing kind of freaked me out. I did love the cross to Nigel Lythgoe though!
Yay! James gets the pimp spot! He's my Dad's favourite and I think he has a good voice and makes 'Living for the City' sound like an original rock song. Love it! Ryan looks like a midget next to James. He can stand by me whenever he wants!
Who I'm voting for - Scotty, Pia, Lauren, James
Who I want to go - Naima
Who I think will go - Stefano or Haley
First up, Casey. I'm starting to like him a lot more, although I think he needs to growl a little less. 'Heard it Through the Grapevine' is an amazing song, so good song choice. I really want him to get rid of the ginge beard though, I hope he lets the Idol stylists give them a makeover.
Next is Thea who bravely sings 'Heatwave' which Kimberley Locke sang in season 2 and Jennifer Hudson sang in season 3. I think Thea really needs to show her personailty. Or maybe she doesn't have a personality, I'm still trying to figure it out.
Jacob's up third singing one of my fave Motown songs 'You're All I Need To Get By' and sounded pretty good. I still can't see myself buying his album though.
Lauren sounded amazing singing 'You Keep Me Hanging On' and she seemed a little less annoying than usual. Hmmm, maybe she would make a good Idol winner?
Okay, is it just me or do all the girls have hair extensions now?
I was starting to like Stefano until it was announced that he had chosen to sing Lionel Richie's 'Hello'. Which a. How is that Motown? When I think of Motown I think of the era, Alone was in the 80s and b. IT'S A DAVID COOK CLASSIC!! So the outcome? As I couldn't help compare it to D Cook, it was very disappointing. It didn't sound terrible, but there was nothing special about it.
Oh Haley. You sound pretty good but there's something about you that's not right. I think it's that you have no personality. And as you've been in the bottom three for the past two weeks I think America senses this too.
I am starting to like Scotty more each week. He gave Steve Wonder's 'For Once In My Life' its own spin and it sounded like an instant country hit. I can totally see him having a hit country album and opening for Carrie or Kellie Piockler.
I would say that Pia's 'All in Love is Fair' was almost an Idol moment. She sounds amazing and I think she's my favourite at the moment, she reminds me of Katharine McPhee who I love. But I want her to be a Kelly Clarkson and to sing something fun and not sing a ballad every week!
Paul sang 'Tracks of my Tears' and sounded good, but I don't think it was an 'Idol moment' like Idol mentor Jimmy Iovine has envisaged. He has yet to wow me.
Naima. She drives me crazy with her pitchiness and attitude. But she didn't sound terrible on 'Dancing in the Streets'. Her dancing kind of freaked me out. I did love the cross to Nigel Lythgoe though!
Yay! James gets the pimp spot! He's my Dad's favourite and I think he has a good voice and makes 'Living for the City' sound like an original rock song. Love it! Ryan looks like a midget next to James. He can stand by me whenever he wants!
Who I'm voting for - Scotty, Pia, Lauren, James
Who I want to go - Naima
Who I think will go - Stefano or Haley
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Woo Hoo! It's the Idol Top 13!!
I know, I know, I haven't written anything on my blog in forever. I have a good excuse, I promise! And I'll share it when I can. I've been sooo busy I still haven't been able to watch the American Idol top 13 performance show! Yes, this is a travesty. So instead of my recap I have something just as good (well almost as good) from a guest blogger...
Idol Top 13 Quickfire Recap with Spoon
Hope you're all watching Idol! Wednesdays and Thursdays on Fox. And for the Kiwis - Fridays and Saturdays on TV2.
Idol Top 13 Quickfire Recap with Spoon
- Am not that into Ashthon, she's acting like a diva already
- I'm totally on team Casey... he's funny and good!
- Paul is annoying me more than I remember. He really does look like a young Rod Stewart.
- I think Pia is good, but she should do something besides ballads....
- I kind of like James now too...
- Haley is a good singer, but I don't like her... don't know why... oh i hate it when people sing "I believe I can fly"... and especially when they try and change it up...
- I think that Thia needs to sing songs that are for people her age... why is she 15 going on 55?
- oh and this Stevie Wonder remix by Stefano? I don't think I ever like Stefano that much...
- oh and can Karen kiss J.Lo's ass anymore? she seems nervous... it was weird...
- I looooooove the River... it's one of my favorite Garth songs! Go Scotty! haha there's a river in the background!
- and at least Naima didn't butcher my fave Rhianna diddy "disturbia"...
Hope you're all watching Idol! Wednesdays and Thursdays on Fox. And for the Kiwis - Fridays and Saturdays on TV2.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
American Idol - A New Era
American Idol season 10 has begun. Yes, season 10! I can't believe that my favourite show (of shows currently on TV) has been on for 10 years. Although this season has more changes than ever. And I'm just talking about the judges! Simon, Kara and Ellen are out and Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler are in. And it's not necessarily better, or worse, but it is different. It seems a little strange to not hear one of Simon's clever remarks after a terrible performance; but Jennifer and Steven look so comfortable at the judging table it's as if they've been doing this for years. Steven Tyler is hilarious and J Lo is cool and constructive as well as looking gorgeous. American Idol should really be about the contestants and throughout New Jersey, New Orleans and Milwaukee there has been some good talent. No absolute standouts for me, but time will tell.
As far as the other changes go, the most apparent one so far is the new credits, which for the first time introduces non American Idol winners into the mix. As much as I love to have Chris Daughtry given the credit he deserves, it doesn't seem right to me. The credits should be place where the Idol winners get to shine. Although I still think Taylor Hicks shouldn't have won season five, but that's what America decided. I'll have to see how the other changes pan out, but so far I approve. I still heart American Idol.
As far as the other changes go, the most apparent one so far is the new credits, which for the first time introduces non American Idol winners into the mix. As much as I love to have Chris Daughtry given the credit he deserves, it doesn't seem right to me. The credits should be place where the Idol winners get to shine. Although I still think Taylor Hicks shouldn't have won season five, but that's what America decided. I'll have to see how the other changes pan out, but so far I approve. I still heart American Idol.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Winter TV - What New Shows to Watch?
Christmas is over and it's almost New Years, which means that the winter TV season is almost upon us. Which, as well as the return of my beloved American Idol, means the debut of several new shows. I'm most looking forward to two ABC shows. Mr Sunshine, which stars Matthew Perry as a middle aged sports arena manager going though a midlife crisis. I love Matthew Perry and am looking forward to seeing him on the small screen again. The other show I can't wait to see is Off the Map, a medical drama executive produced by Shonda Rhimes. Yes, the Shonda Rhimes of Grey's Anatomy and Private Practice. Off the Map is set in South America and focuses on six doctors and their professional and personal lives. It also stars New Zealand actor Martin Henderson and one of my favourite Friday Night Lights studs Zach Gilford. Happy New Year Y'all!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
A Very Glee Christmas
I love Christmas and I love how living in America I actually get to see Christmas themed television episodes around Christmas! This is a novelty and delight that never gets old. My favourite Christmas themed episode this year was Glee, although Brothers and Sisters followed closely behind. As you all know by now I am a huge fan of Glee, even though I’ve found this season to be inconsistent. Despite the inconsistencies it’s produced some of their best songs yet such as Teenage Dream, Baby One More Time and “Forget” You.
In the Christmas episode it’s not hard to believe that ditsy Brittany believes in Santa Claus. Even when she sees Sue dressed up as a cross between Santa and the Grinch, destroying the Glee club’s Christmas tree and stealing the presents they had for charity. But despite the hilarity surrounding this, all sweet Brittany wants for Christmas is for her wheel chair bound boyfriend, Artie, to be able to walk. And none of the Glee club have the heart to tell her that Santa isn't real and that her wish won't come true. So instead they get the football coach, Coach Beast, to dress up as Santa and tell her. Although what follows is a surprising Christmas miracle for Arty... and the rest of the club.
My favourite part of the episode though was when Rachel, who was trying to apologise to Finn for cheating on him, was frolicking around a Christmas tree farm singing 'Last Christmas' with Finn. I think I'm the only person not a fan of the George Michael version, but I loved Rachel and Finn singing it. I also love how the Glee club spread Christmas joy by fund-raising to buy gifts for underpriviled kids and demonstrating the true spirit of Christmas. Merry Christmas y'all!
In the Christmas episode it’s not hard to believe that ditsy Brittany believes in Santa Claus. Even when she sees Sue dressed up as a cross between Santa and the Grinch, destroying the Glee club’s Christmas tree and stealing the presents they had for charity. But despite the hilarity surrounding this, all sweet Brittany wants for Christmas is for her wheel chair bound boyfriend, Artie, to be able to walk. And none of the Glee club have the heart to tell her that Santa isn't real and that her wish won't come true. So instead they get the football coach, Coach Beast, to dress up as Santa and tell her. Although what follows is a surprising Christmas miracle for Arty... and the rest of the club.
My favourite part of the episode though was when Rachel, who was trying to apologise to Finn for cheating on him, was frolicking around a Christmas tree farm singing 'Last Christmas' with Finn. I think I'm the only person not a fan of the George Michael version, but I loved Rachel and Finn singing it. I also love how the Glee club spread Christmas joy by fund-raising to buy gifts for underpriviled kids and demonstrating the true spirit of Christmas. Merry Christmas y'all!
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Why I Love Lost. And Why You Should Too.
Yes, I do realise that Lost actually ended earlier this year. But due to my busy TV schedule and a little competing show called American Idol, I somehow found myself a couple of seasons behind. That was, until Thanksgiving when I had a slightly obscene Lost marathon where I completed season five (16 episodes) and started on the sixth and final season. And I'm not sure what took me so long.
If you've never seen Lost then you've really missed out, it started off with a plane crash on an island. But this wasn't just any plane and this wasn't just any island. Over the seasons we've learned that the survivors were meant to be on the island, there are the 'others' led by the creepy Ben Linus (and brilliantly portrayed by Michael Emerson) and there are more twists, turns and cliffhangers than you can keep track of. One of my favourite things about Lost is its rich mythology and storytelling. Through flashbacks we learn about the characters and how they're connected and about the history of the island. And of course there's romance! The series long romance has been a love triangle with Jack (Matthew Fox), Kate (Evangeline Lilly) and Sawyer (the fantastic Josh Holloway). Although my favourite romance was between the lovely Juliet (Elizabeth Mitchell) and Sawyer when they were at the Dharma Initiative.
Being suspenseful and action packed, Lost is a show that you could watch a couple of episodes of and still enjoy, but it's much more rewarding if you've seen every episode. I can't wait to see how it ends, but at the same time I'm sad that it's almost over.
Catch up on Lost on Hulu or Netflix
If you've never seen Lost then you've really missed out, it started off with a plane crash on an island. But this wasn't just any plane and this wasn't just any island. Over the seasons we've learned that the survivors were meant to be on the island, there are the 'others' led by the creepy Ben Linus (and brilliantly portrayed by Michael Emerson) and there are more twists, turns and cliffhangers than you can keep track of. One of my favourite things about Lost is its rich mythology and storytelling. Through flashbacks we learn about the characters and how they're connected and about the history of the island. And of course there's romance! The series long romance has been a love triangle with Jack (Matthew Fox), Kate (Evangeline Lilly) and Sawyer (the fantastic Josh Holloway). Although my favourite romance was between the lovely Juliet (Elizabeth Mitchell) and Sawyer when they were at the Dharma Initiative.
Being suspenseful and action packed, Lost is a show that you could watch a couple of episodes of and still enjoy, but it's much more rewarding if you've seen every episode. I can't wait to see how it ends, but at the same time I'm sad that it's almost over.
Catch up on Lost on Hulu or Netflix
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