Over the years we have had some good discussions about American Idol amongst the members here who watch the show. So, this shall be the place for AI followers to share their thoughts as the season progresses.
This week was the semifinal rounds with the guys singing yesterday, the girls singing today, and the voting results coming tomorrow.
Before we cover the performances, we should note that this season we saw two judges leave and Jennifer Lopez & Steven Tyler take their places. When the new judges were first announced, I was pretty skeptical. Although, when the audition rounds aired, I was actually pleasantly surprised with both judges. However, during the live shows yesterday and today, I've lost a little hope for all three judges. Jennifer Lopez loves everyone and has a hard time criticizing a bad performance. Steven Tyler is a little more critical, but still a little too gentle with his remarks. Randy has taken more of a "Simon" approach, but it bugs me that when he makes a valid point and the other two disagree with him he backs off and gives in to the newcomers.
Guys Night
Anyhow, as for the guy's performances, I thought it was absolutely the worst show I have seen to date. I honestly couldn't believe some of the great things the judges had to say about some of the worst performances ever. That's not to say there weren't some good performances, but overall, it was just awful. Twelve people sang and five are voted in (along with three extra picks from the judges). My top five (in no particular order) are; Casey, Jacob, Paul, Stefano, Brett.
Girls Night
The girls gave the show some redemption and there were actually some quality performances (thank god)! There were certainly some horrid singers, but overall, they did a far better job than the guys. My top five (once again in no particular order) are; Haley, Karen, Kendra, Thia, Lauren.
I think the judges get to pick three wild cards who don't get voted in, so I would like to see; Pia, Robbie, Rachel.
All my selections are based on my opinion of their vocal talent thus far (which we have limited material to go off of).
The results of the voting are largely influenced by a younger voting crowd (mainly female) so the results are never a good indication of who has the most talent.
I think James will be a lock based on voting, but he's just another Adam Lambert (only not nearly as good as Adam was) so I could do without him this season. Scotty is getting some buzz, but I just don't see how he can progress in the show without sounding the same each and every week.
Feel free to share your thoughts as the season progresses!