2009.04.29
Rat Pack tunes make for swingin' show
Ol' Blue Eyes would have been impressed with Tuesday's "Idol."
At least, I hope the late great Frank Sinatra would have been pleased because I really believe the five finalists paid wonderful tribute to songs from the Rat Pack era. Actually, this theme has been my absolute favorite so far. I really felt like everyone stepped up and showed why they should be the next "Idol."
I do have one tiny complaint. While I thought actor/singer Jamie Foxx offered some good advice as a mentor, I would have preferred to see Michael Buble (love him!) as a mentor instead because he really is kind of a modern-day Sinatra. OK, tiny complaint over.
Now, let's focus on our lone gal and four gents.
Kris Allen -- I noticed a sign held by an audience member on Tuesday that said, "Krazy for Kris." Very "kute." But enough about that, let's talk about his mad singing skills. He chose "The Way You Look Tonight" and it was terrific. He changed the arrangement a bit and upped the tempo at the end. All in all, it was another awesome moment for him. The judges also raved about the performance, except for Simon who thought it was good but not incredible.
Allison Iraheta -- The only lady left in the competition proved that she won't be overlooked in the boys' club. She performed "Someone to Watch Over Me" and it was a beautiful ballad. It is my favorite performance from the teen so far. She showed nice restraint at times but then belted out some big notes that gave the performance a boost. Bravo, little one, bravo.
Matt Giraud -- Matt chose "My Funny Valentine" and it was nice but not out of sight for me. I thought he had some pitch problems and weird phrasing in places. I agree with Randy when he said the song didn't quite "come together" very well.
Danny Gokey -- Danny definitely has a swagger going. He gave a bluesy performance of "Come Rain or Come Shine" and it was strong. He had some great vocals, and I think the performance was enough to keep Danny advancing in the competition. I do have a minor issue with Danny. Sometimes he seems a little bit arrogant when the judges give him their critiques. It's almost as if he expects them to be thrilled with his work. Danny is definitely talented but not everything he has done this season has been golden. So, show a little humbleness at times, Gokey. You haven't won this competition yet.
Adam Lambert -- Adam should be "Feeling Good," especially after the judges praised his performance of the song. He gave it a rock edge and, again, took an older song and made it original. It was over-the-top in moments but I have come to expect that from Adam. I will say this for Adam, he always seems to be genuinely touched when he gets a compliment from the judges. That impresses me. By now, the guy knows he can sing well and that he is close to the finish line of the show, but he always appears kind of surprised when the judges and the audience show him all kinds of love after a song.
OK, so who will say adios this week? I think it should be Matt. I like him, but if he advances over Allison I will be outraged. She is talented, unique and sassy and should stay in the show.
All righty, it's time to wrap up this Rat Pack entry. I already have a few of the songs still kicking around in my head. Thanks for that "Idol" and thanks for honoring Ol' Blue Eyes and his bunch.






