2009.05.13
Two times the tunes on Tuesday
Tuesday's "Idol" was all about second helpings and second chances.
We got to hear two songs from the three finalists. One song was picked by the judges and the other was the singer's choice. What is amusing is how all season long the judges have talked repeatedly about how the contestants must absolutely pick the right song. I definitely agree, but it's not as easy at it looks, eh judges? Turns out, the judges don't always know what the best choice is either.
Also, Tuesday's show has left me uncertain about who is going home Wednesday. The judges have all but anointed Adam Lambert as this year's "Idol." But not so fast. Danny Gokey could woo more voters and win this thing. Oh, the suspense. Well, since I can't predict the future, how about I just talk about the present? OK then, let's get right into Tuesday's performances.
Danny -- Overall, his first song, "Dance Little Sister," was not an amazing performance. Oh sure he brought energy to his take on the Terence Trent D’Arby song, which Paula Abdul chose for him, but it sounded like some of the other songs he has done. I just didn't think he brought anything new to the tune. And I am puzzled why Paula thought it would be a good fit. But before I could count Danny out, he goes and astounds me with his next performance of "You Are So Beautiful." And, man, was it beautiful. Danny gave such a sweet and tender take on the song made popular by Joe Cocker. For me, it was Danny's best moment.
Adam -- Simon Cowell got to pick the first song for Adam, which was U2's "One." Not only that, Simon had to get special permission from Bono so Adam could sing it. Despite the fanfare, I don't think Adam fared well overall with the song. Granted, I love that he started off softly but I was not crazy about the changes to the melody in the rest of the song. I enjoy when Adam takes on slower songs, but I don't think this was a standout performance. For his next song, Adam chose "Cryin'" by Aerosmith. True, Adam is ever the rocker but the backup singer ended up drowning him out early in the song. I think Adam is a talented guy but I don't feel like he really had an outstanding moment in Tuesday' show. But, I would be shocked if he didn't make it to the finale.
Kris -- Kris was the other finalist who I thought was done for after his first performance. Kara DioGuardi and Randy Jackson picked the song "Apologize" from OneRepublic for Kris. It came across as a really good karaoke version of the song but that was about it. For round two, Kris came out and was simply amazing on stage with his acoustic version of Kanye West's song "Heartless." It was such a creative take on the song. Bravo Kris. It was my favorite moment of the night because it was so unexpected.
OK, we are so close to the end and I am still not sure about the final two. I am sure about one thing. It should be a fabulous finale.








