American Idol cuts to 4

Suddenly, we're down to the 'serious' contenders. It's not a great group; not horrible, but the season definitely hasn't lived up to my high hopes for it, back when Josiah was on the screen.

45 million votes were cast Ryan says; around the same as this time last year, surprisingly. They do a horrible Neil Diamond medley, everyone's vocals are so thin, the choreography is laughable. Sheesh, now they're even out of tune; really sad. David Cook's the only one halfway interesting, and then only if you don't look at his antics.

Back, Idol commercials, recap, then Ryan brings up the whole Paula thing, he just says--the rumors, they're not true, she's part of our family, and we love her... and I still think Simon wants to hook up with her. Uh, whatever.

Jason Castro first, and he's safe. David Archuleta, Paula says have more fun up there; I wish he'd take a risk. Not sure why they had Castro up first, obviously it'll be Brooke and Syesha.

More in-program commercials for the Idol family, David Cook is safe, the women come out. Syesha talks about how sometimes it's tough for her, Brooke chatters away, off to the couch for more filler.

Natasha Bedingfield performs Pockeful of Sunshine, it's fine; she comes across as a bit detached and maybe arrogant. Glad that the Idol stage is so obviously for sale now.

She seems cooler when talking, and after actually runs over to Archuleta and kisses and hugs him, shakes hands with the others a bit. Ryan jokes Archuleta would like to ask her to the prom, she says if he asks she'll come.

It's more idiot Idol questions from callers. Then, they put on some woman who says she and Simon kissed when he was 9, he remembers her last name and everything--it's pretty crazy. They talk back and forth a lot, it's pretty cool actually, Simon reacts appropriately to it, seems really pleased it's her.

Ford commercial isn't actually half bad, the song Catch the Wind is pretty good. Then, Neil Diamond, singing something off his new album. His voice is still strong; hushed and compelling. He's beginning to look a little out of it, but I still feel like it's the best thing we've heard this week, even though it can't compare to him in his prime.

Afterwards they point out his mom in the audience, he chats with Ryan for a while, tells them all to stay with it regardless of what Simon says.

Back to Syesha and Brooke finally, Brooke is in tears, and she's gone. Totally sobbing. She had some great performances, but lately seemed to be mostly frustrated and hostile. She screws up the song at the start, others come out to stand next to her. She's pushing through; as she said in the clips, she's found out she's stronger than she thought.

And I gotta tell you, I like this version--cracking voice, verge of tears--much better than last night, there's real emotion here.

No diamonds, all coal on American Idol

One of my favorites singer songwriters is on the show tonight; Neil Diamond's great, I put him below Stephen Sondheim/Bob Dylan, but above the Billy Joels of the world, at the same level as Paul Simon.

He says he's looking forward to encouraging everyone; he's a good match for Idol, has a broad range of songs that tell stories. Oh, it's time to switch to two songs....

Forever in Blue Jeans and September Morn for Jason Castro, who apparently switched up lyrics singing for Neil. All he says about Castro is he thinks he'll be good on stage. In white, an almost somnolent version of Forever in Blue Jeans to start; it's very nice to listen to, but has none of Diamond's drive. I don't think this was a great choice; hey, one of the violin players right off-stage is wearing wrap-around shades, in the dark! Castro was fine, nothing compelling though.

David Cook chats with Ryan, wearing AC/DCish sportcoat, Cook asks Ryan how he prepared for this this week, it's dumb. I'm Alive, and All I Really Need is You, as Diamond says two more obscure songs. He really liked his take, said he got goosebumps--right attitude, right voice, he'll do great. Hmm, not much mentoring from Neil so far; is just driving through I'm Alive. He sounds great, it's totally hip and like something people would pay money to hear. Totally confident and in his element with this take on it. It's like he doesn't even really care about the judges, is just belting it out and knows it's good.

Short versions tonight with 10 songs in an hour; next is Brooke White, doing I'm A Believer, then I Am I Said. Two great songs, she's on guitar than piano. He suggests she sing I'm Arizona born and raised, says she made it genuine. Man, he's a horrible mentor so far. In weird blue floppy blouse, it's a weird version of I'm A Believer, just not that great, like almost hokey. Man, really reminds me how great of a singer Diamond is, this is just boring in her hands. Not a good choice; her voice isn't even as distinctive as it usually is.

David Archuleta next, it all feels shoehorned in tonight. Plenty of time to promote iTunes site, he's doing Sweet Caroline and America. Diamond calls him a prodigy, says with some guidance he'll be good--but they don't show his advice. In weird striped shirt; man, is a bit off to start Sweet Caroline--I don't like his version so far, at all. It's all syncopated or something; and the chorus isn't belted, he pulls back. Bad choice; I fear none of these people really get Diamond, or else he's so himself it's hard for others to cover. This is horrible, when I had thought it might be great.

Syesha Mercado doing Hello Again, and Thank the Lord for the Nighttime. Diamond likes her, she'll do great (he likes that word). In dark blue top; starts out pure, but a bit too fast, needs to play with this song. She's very sweet, but it feels rushed; hmmm, nice high note halfway through, that's different. The best so far tonight, she's soaring and it's distinctive. Seems happy too; this one actually I was sad to see end so quickly, these are like :45 versions.

Ryan rushes to get them all out again after their first song, asks Randy for quick opinions; says ok for Jason, good for Cook, okay for Brooke, the bomb for Archuleta, strong for Syesha. Paula: liked Castro's first song, then talks about his second, even though he hasn't sung it yet, gets totally screwed up and it's cringe-worthy. Simon says everyone's lucky they get two songs, rips everyone--you guys are top five, I wanna see the performance of a lifetime next. It's all a mess, I blame Ryan in part, he's like frantic and it's infectious.

Jason Castro with September Morn; ah, now you get his distinctive voice. Very soulful; he's a bit like a machine, just goes up and cranks out his thing on songs like this. It's a really good pick for him; nothing so different from Neil's version, but it's a great song so why mess with it. He does seem low energy, almost lazy; this might be his last week, but better than the first song. Randy says just okay, vocals weren't great; Paula says same safeness on both songs, get outside your comfort zone; Simon says come on, this isn't the Castro we like, nothing unique, both are forgettable.

David Cook doing All I Really Need is You, switches to an acoustic guitar. He's really showing his sensitive side to start, the song's not great so it's hard to feel compelled. He cranks up the second half; I really don't think there's such a thing as someone who can sing a phone book, not sure why Cook thought he could turn two mediocore songs into winners just with his style. Crowd loves it; Randy says I'm a huge fan, you rocked the house again; Paula is proud of him, two tough songs, pulled them off; Simon says first was okay, second was brilliant, made it feel contemporary. Nah, I disagree with all of them; nobody's playing back either song tonight to hear again, unlike some of his other efforts.

Brooke White disagrees with Simon's assessment of the first go-around as a nightmare, has to write a lyric on her hand; hustles over to the piano. I Am, I Said. Start is rushed; the whole thing is turning into a kindof perfunctory thing, this is one of the most emotional, plaintive songs in the modern songbook, but she's just reeling it off like it's some ditty. It's a mess; should've been much better. Randy says tough song, nice job. Paula says it worked, Simon says he hated the first song, but this one was good. Not incredible, but not horrible. I don't know what's up with the judges tonight, maybe they just don't want to rip everyone.

Oh god, David Archuleta doing this plastic version of Coming to America; maybe it is just impossible to get Diamond's great voice out of my head, everyone tonight sounds so lightweight. This is downright cheesy; he has a good voice, but he's making this song something it's not, it's not I'm Proud to Be an American, it's more weighty; it's not some rah-rah USO thing, it's got grit. Randy loves it, Paula says perfect song, Simon says a clever choice of song, ticked all the boxes, very good.

Syesha closes up, Thank the Lord for the Nighttime. God, she starts totally off-key; doesn't improve much from there. Her version is just so grating, I'm not even paying attention. Randy likes it, Paula says you're right in your strong area, likes the softness in her voice; Simon says this is officially the strangest show we've ever done, kind of a bit chaotic for us. Says you're a very good actress/singer, but you may be in trouble tonight. Not a really memorable second song, she says yeah? We'll see.

Wow, what a mess tonight; on playback, Castro actually comes across much better, at least he didn't make me cringe. Archuleta is almost impossible to listen to again, I really disliked both of his songs.

I think one problem with Idol nowadays is that everyone who's in the finals has a shot at making a lot of money and gets to release an album, so nobody's really going for it. They're just playing it safe, no blood and guts out there.

Maybe also if they're singing songs by someone you really like, it can't help but pale by comparison. Maybe every week lots of people who tune in because they're excited by the composer wind up thinking it's the worst week ever--like I did tonight.

Syesha Mercado, Hello Again
David Cook, I'm Alive
Jason Castro, September Morn
David Cook, All I Really Need is You
Jason Castro, Forever in Blue Jeans
Syesha Mercado, Thank the Lord for the Nighttime
Brooke White, I Am, I Said
David Archuleta, Coming to America
Brooke White, I'm a Believer
David Archuleta, Sweet Carolina

American Idol cuts to 5

Ryan says it's the end of the road for one of our "cast". And we thought it was a reality show!

38 million votes, Simon takes a sip of Coke before Ryan kisses the top of his head--relax, it didn't mean anything, says Ryan. Group sing is All I Ask of You, with Andrew Lloyd Weber playing the piano.

For some reason all the boys sing together, then all women. They're slightly out of synch, so it sounds fuzzy, when this song demands sharpness. It's totally forgettable, and no fun to sit through; he's trying to smile through it all.

The recap is as pointless as ever, enlivened only by Weber's comments. He comes out and chats with Ryan, talks about the difficulty of balancing singing for the judges, viewers and live audience. Ryan says Brooke's starting/stopping was the first time it's ever happened on Idol, Webber says she's very talented, was flawless in the dress rehearsals. Says Castro's song choice was the most curious one he's ever seen in his career; he wanted to do it, that's that. Ryan asks him to write a song for Simon/Paula, he comes up with How Can I Say I Miss You if You Never Go Away.

Back with a taped message from President and Mrs. Bush, thanks us for more than $65 million in donations. It's very stilted, and lightly political as she talks about their trip to Africa and he thanks us for our compassion.

Hmmm, the bottom two this week. David Cook and David Archuleta come up to huge screams, they're both gonna be safe. Ryan asks Simon to comment on Archuleta, he's caught eating 'a sweet', Ryan says just watch the show while we're doing it. And both are safe--awesome, Neil Diamond next week.

Some segment on Idol contestants who have gone on to Broadway. Whoah, Clay Aiken's hair is totally ridiculous now, like an old teacher; I guess he's in character or something. Refers to himself as 'us', he's really odd.

Leona Lewis performs next, in conjunction with the release of something or other I'm sure, sings Bleeding Love. She's got a great look; and the song is totally dramatic. One on one right now for glamor, she blows away any of Idol's past winners, except maybe Kelly Clarkson. And there's no Idol this year that will ever reach this level. It's interesting that Wikipedia says she wants to marry her longtime electrician boyfriend, who she's known since she was 10. Her performance isn't that compelling vocally, but it's hard not to keep watching her. The lights, the choreography, the fire boxes on stage, it all makes it feel like a big event.

Syesha Mercado and Brooke White are the next two, I'm assuming Brooke's going away tonight but who knows. Brooke looks terrified, actually and is holding on to Syesha for dear life; Syesha's got a big smile on her face and is so relaxed. Weirdly Brooke says she's in the past had a habit of interrupting the judges, and apologizes for it. And she's safe, and looks totally stunned; that means Syesha's in the bottom two. Wowzer, I guess all of Kelly Lee's votes had to go somewhere.

Finally, Carly and Jason come out, he looks doomed, she looks confident. She says she's been choosing songs to showcase her singing ability, but going forward will pick songs that she can have fun with. Oh my, and Jason's safe, Carly isn't.

Now this is horrible. You've got two clearly inferior performers who are being picked ahead of two clearly superior contestants. Simon tells Brooke she made herself human, tells Jason he was bad but charming. Suddenly Carly's got to sing, then Syesha. She gets the crowd into it; man, I hope she isn't voted off right when I'm starting to like her performances. Man, she totally rocks the stage, if she goes out on this, it'll really be a travesty.

Syesha follows with another fun performance, goes out into the crowd and takes it over. I don't think there have ever been such good 'bad' performances on this show.

Randy says he's shocked, chalks it up to a popularity week. One of the roomies is gonna go... and it's--Carly. Wow, what a horrible outcome. I think she waited too long to pick the songs she really wanted to do, instead of the songs that she thought would impress us. I think she just wanted it too much, hard to be at your best when so much rides on mere minutes. I'm glad she had her Weber moment, it was her at her best.

Ryan says you and Simon should have your last moment together, he says you can leave with your head held high. I feel cheated, was looking forward to seeing this new side of her.

Oh well; on to Neil Diamond next week.

Idol turns to another Brit

Ryan says it's their toughest test yet--singing Andrew Lloyd Weber?! Can't be tougher than doing the Beatles for two weeks. Four weeks to the finale, and they're going out of their comfort zones, complete with an orchestra up on stage.

The six strut out, dressed like they rummaged in their parents' closets. It's a pretty motley crew; Weber's in the audience to witness his video homage. I like his music; but he's nowhere near Stephen Sondheim.

He's all about the story, he says; words, words, words. Randy says he thinks this'll be the toughest night of the season, Paula says something, Simon says they'll have to be memorable yet contemporary. For some reason they've expanded to two lines.

Syesha Mercado up first, looking forward to being theatrical. He pushes her toward that too, says she could bring down the house, funny and witty. She could, is definitely a ham; One Rock & Roll Too Many. Red gown; it's fun, definitely a bit cabaret but she's in control, like a version of Chicago. And definitely a big, Broadway voice. Her problem, though, is the song's not very good, so even though she's good and shows lots of fun personality, the whole thing's not great for me. Audience loves it, though. Randy says you could be a huge Broadway star, best performance to date; Paula says this is your happy place, you're very good; Simon says that was very sexy, one of your strongest performances.

Jason Castro next, singing Memory. Oh oh... an odd choice, if you ask me. The crowd is super-hyped tonight; wearing a white suitish thing. Wow, he's very good singing it a cappella to Weber; who says he never thought he'd see a man with dreadlocks singing the song, he kindof understood it, I think. Calls it a brave choice, not sure I'd have done it. Weber is good on TV, very interesting to listen to. Whoah, this is pretty good; his tone is a surpisingly good fit. It's soulful, a bit campy maybe; hate the lighting, half of him is in shadow. It's such a good song, and even if it's a bit over the top and over sung, he's pretty listenable. I do wish he'd kept it simpler. Randy's got a huge grin on his face, just says wow, it was all kindof a train wreck, not your kind of song, too much melody/too big of a song. Paula is stumbling, you're not a female power balladeer, but your take on it was good too, sounds like a pop ballad. Simon says it was probably the longest two minutes of your life; felt like a kid getting forced to sing at a wedding, miserable throughout, not your thing.

Brooke White next, You Must Love Me. It's one of my favorite songs; very curious to hear her take; Weber says she didn't have a clue what she was singing about. Her second take is totally different after he explains it to her; it could be another inspired pick by her, he says she's a wonderful natural actress. In white dress with butterflies. Woah, she screws up the start, asks the orchestra to start over. And the magic is gone, it's less believable the second run through, there's not vulnerability; she's just plowing through. This could've been one of those magical Idol moments I think; as it is, she even messes up the you must love me part, it's like she's instructing rather than begging. It's too bad White's such a control freak she's unable to sing the song truly. Randy says not great, kindof got the vulnerablilty, but vocally not great; Paula just says nothing for a while, tells her never to start and stop--you didn't overact, just were you; it's one of the most painful critiques I've ever heard on the show. Simon says the screw up totally threw you, you were so tense, it all became quite uncomfortable. She tells Ryan she just lost the lyric; Simon says I'd have done exactly what she did, it was a very brave thing to do.

David Archulea next, a bunch of girls get to come up on stage to hug him, he handles it well. White shirt, black tie, jacket, very Beatleish. Weber is amazed at his choice, Think of Me, written for a diva, for a girl, couldn't imagine how a boy could sing the song. Weber says it's great he has his own idea about where to take a song; tells him to open his eyes! Little David has a real musical soul to him, says Weber. They should get him to be a permanent judge, he's very sharp. Archuleta is okay; am never drawn into it, the song's not great for one thing. He turns it too much into a pop thing, none of the emotion of the stage; it's pretty flat actually. Horrible song choice; it's downright boring for me. Randy says you can sing anything, it was the bomb, you're the one to beat. Gosh, I couldn't disagree more. Paula calls it absolutely perfect, you took a risk and turned it into a pop thing. Simon says it was pleasant, one of your weakest performances, nothing memorable.

Carly Smithson, it should be a huge night for her. She picked All I Ask of You, he says it's not a good choice for someone with a huge chest voice like you, goes to her alternate choice, Jesus Christ Superstar. You've got to sing who you are, he says. Whoah, it's a totally over-the-top production before she starts singing; strides out in her crazy black/paisley top, and just rips it off. Yo, she's found her voice, finally--doesn't seem angry, just totally into it. Her voice isn't great for the chorus, but the performance is totally energizing and fun. Man, I'm telling you, Carly could win it all based on this, it's definitely her turning point. She's a bit late on some of her cues it seems like, but this is totally going to stick in everyone's mind. The audience is going crazy, Randy says not your best performance but definitely good, and the outfit's fly. Paula says it was great and unexpected. Simon says a bit shouty in the middle but one of my favorites of the night. She's got a t-shirt made up that says Simon Loves Me (this week). She's growing on me--I like that she wants it so badly.

David Cook closes it out, Music of the Night. A good pick; he says he grew up doing musical theater; the most sensual, sexy song Weber says. He pretends to be a gorgeous 17-year-old, he says well I'm 25, so.... All in black, starts very slow, controlled; you can't stop listening, it's very good. His tone is good, too; oh no, he's speeding up the bridge to make it different; man, his chorus is so good, though--and wow, he just soars on the big notes. Yeah, we definitely have a new favorite on Idol. Second half is a bit boring, actually, I don't think he really connected with the song overall. But the good parts are very good. A hard song to sing, given that we've all heard great versions of it. Randy says that was an amazing vocal performance; Paula says you can sing anything; Simon says I like the grittier side of you, too rounded but you made the most of it.

Castro's performance seems comical as they play snippets at the end; Archuleta is in danger of becoming a bad lounge act.

David Cook
Carly Smithson
Syesha Mercado
Jason Castro
Brooke White
David Archuleta

ABC was doing its job--debate will help Obama, not Clinton

Everyone who's outraged over tonight's debate on ABC--in particular the first 50-odd minutes when Barack Obama was getting hammered with questions from Charlie Gibson, George Stephanopoulos and Hillary Clinton--are missing the big picture: Tonight's debate treated Obama as the Democratic nominee.

Think about it--if this man is advancing to the final round in the race to be president of the United States, wouldn't you want to throw everything at him, to see how he responds?

Clinton has no path to victory, so she had no choice but to spend the night talking about him. Imagine if it were John McCain and Mike Huckabee up there--who'd you rather be, McCain getting raked over the coals because he matters, or Huckabee getting ignored because he doesn't?

So you give the car you're planning to buy one last, good, going-over; kick the tires, test out all the features. That's what the voters want, and that's why ABC spent most of the debate on Obama.

As long as the car starts--and Barack Obama did more than start, he roared at times tonight--it doesn't matter if you find some flaws.

This is the car you're going home with; the other car just happens to be sitting next to it on the lot, why would you waste time on it?

American Idol cuts to 6

Hmmm, FOX has a new logo, with a green globe in place of the O... ironic given that a lot of conservatives don't think there's anything wrong with the environment. Season-high nearly 35 million votes says Ryan, which is down majorly from the same time period last year (135 million votes over two weeks, since they did cut two contestants).

The Idols do the group sing, One Sweet Day; it's totally forgettable. Curious to see what the ratings are like tonight, going up against the Obama-Clinton debate over on ABC (which was a mess, thanks in large part to the questions).

Then they recap last night, with Mariah saying pretty much everyone would make a worthy champion. Okay.... More veiled gay baiting between Simon and Ryan, then Jason Castro up first, he starts a group to Ryan's left but doesn't say which group.

David Cook next, well depending on where he goes we'll know, right. Ryan asks him about the tears last night, he after a while says a lot happened over the week, he put a lot of himself into the song and was overwhelmed by the reaction. Starts his own group.

Carly Smithson, acting all nervous and looking dowdy, says she thinks Simon's been a bit hard on her. He says because you're potentially great, I want to give you that extra push sometimes. She goes off and joins Castro in the loser's group.

Kristy Lee Cook, she'll join David; and does. They come back with the Ford commercial, they're all puppets in cubes; and 'break free' with Fords (both cars are the exact same color). It's dumb; the quality of these commercials has been down this year, overly-produced.

Elliot Yamin, singing Free, got a bit of Bruce Springsteen/Bob Dylan going on look-wise. It's a weird song for him, don't think it really fits; and seems out of breath at times. It's pretty boring, and goes on forever. Has We Miss You Mom written on his palm, who apparently died recently, he says it's the first time he's actually taken the stage without her watching. Wow, what a nice guy.

Syesha Mercado comes on out, she joins Jason and Carly in the loser's group. Brooke White is all exultant, since this means she's not in the bottom three, and is extra-chattery. She was better when she was painfully shy; joins David and Kristy of course.

Poor Archuleta's left backstage by himself while they go to the taped segment of people asking questions. Kristy's asked if she got her horse back, she says no, the guy won't sell it back, Ryan has fun with that. Judges are asked what was the first record they bought, Randy says Led Zepplin, Beatles, James Brown; Paula was Jackson 5, Earth, Wind, Fire, Carol King; Simon says at 10 he bought Paula's record.

Some chick keeps going on, eventually asks Paula which of her songs best describes her relationship with Simon, he says Straight Up, she says Opposites Attract, then says "I'll never be forever your girl". Uh, ok... another question for Simon as the contestants sit; karaoke/theme park/piano bar performance differences. He just says they're all horrible. David Cook is asked if he's single, he says yes.

Mariah Carey does Bye Bye, vamps out to huge applause, complete with her own blinged up mike and mike stand, it's crazy actually. She sings likes she's in a recording studio, or lecturing--it's pretty artificial, and the song's not very good, audience doesn't seem too into it either. It's weird, she seems to be going into Jennifer Lopez territory, but without her cred. Kindof goes all shrieky at the end, it's painful, almost like there are audio issues.

Ryan tells us she looks fantastic, asks her to judge Randy, she plugs her album instead; for some reason the wind machine is still blowing as she's talking, it's comical actually.

Back, pretending like Archuleta will break the tie. He says he's getting more comfortable, has never been happier in his life. He's safe, says Ryan to thunderous applause--then has David Cook and Syesha switch places; tells Archuleta to join the group he thinks is safe, he just sits down in the middle, he refuses to do it. Ryan tells him to move closer to Cook's group, so they join him sitting on the stage--Carly is like get out! Can't sit down, obviously, in a skirt, is going all crazy.

Ryan sends Syesha back to safety, which is cool, she deserves it. Could this finally be Kristy Lee's night to go?! Randy says it's tough every week now, Paula says everyone's very special, Simon says no surprises, Kristy's time may be up. Paula says it could be Ryan. Brooke is really upset, says we don't know what's happening as Kristy starts to say it's her.

It indeed is, bye to Kristy as they show her boyfriend and friends; Brooke is the one crying, Kristy's wiping tears away. Sings us out, sitting down with the judges, and singing to Simon as he cracks up, before going back up on stage.

Andrew Lloyd Webber is guest judge next week, should be great fun.

Mariah and the gang

Idols are all glammed up, with Mariah Carey mentoring in a tie-in to her new album. She brings her dog to meet the Idols, tells them to see her just like a friend... okay.

Wow, Paula has a totally new hairstyle, she and Simon tease Randy, say they're going to have to defer to him.

David Archuleta up first, says he it was scary to meet her, doesn't think he's worthy to be in her presence. She says he was really moving, calls his singing beautiful. In leather pants and reddish t-shirt, doing When You Believe. I don't think the song's that good, he's just okay singing it, nothing compelling for me. Randy says he was worried tonight about boys singing girls songs, but you can sing anything, that was great. Paula says it must feel great for Mariah to hear you sing her song (huh?!); Simon says he knew that was the song he'd pick, you were wonderful.

Carly Smithson next, she talks about Michael Johns leaving, says it's been boring without him, not the same without the big goofball. Mariah says she'll be great singing Without You; chose the right notes for her range. In plunging dark dress, pretty good start; kindof an odd version of the song, more conversational than anything else--I like it though I think, seems fresh. A bit Barbra Streisandish; kind of goes nuts after a while, but some pretty nice moments in the middle. Randy says not bad, believe in your lower range too; Paula liked her vocal restraint early; Simon says he doesn't think she pulled it off, even though he was looking forward to hearing it, you're capable of it but you're overthinking things and are too wound up.

Syesha Mercado, doing Vanishing, Mariah says it's a good choice for her, calls it amazing. In slinky gold gown, totally glammed up; like a pro singer. Also an idiosyncratic take on the song, doesn't quite flow--almost like she's trying to make it her own. It's fine, the song's not that great but she does go big on the vocals. Still, never gets into a flow. Randy says the toughest song of the night, bold, did a good job overall. Paula says you were smart to pick a non-huge song, and changing up your voice; Simon says technically it was very good, but maybe a bit too obscure.

Brooke White, in sparkly black gown, tells Ryan she had to miss her sister's wedding cause of the mentor taping. Oooh, she's singing this hippie version of Hero, Mariah says she's really genuine, something brand new. At the piano, hmmm, I like it--the song's good, and the plainness of her version works with the lyrics and her craggy voice. A bit rushed, and you can her her breaths--also not hushed enough; but because the song's good, it's enjoyable. A bit nutty towards the end, but it's the best of the night so far. Wow, she's totally shaking, is really nervous; and definitely needs to slow down. It could've been great, as it is, is good. Randy says you messed up on the bridge, she does that too much and too loud talking thing; Paula says it was very authentic, don't speed it up as a result; Simon says like a hamburger that's just bun; the vital ingredient was missing, your voice isn't strong enough for the song.

Oh gosh, Kristy Lee Cook, singing Forever; yowling in the clip. Mariah says she likes it, got goosebumps. In odd goldish gown; feel like she's singing off-key, but it's not horrible with the controlled start; then soars, again just a tad flat. She's pretty compelling, and the pace suits her voice; this is the first time in weeks I haven't disliked her, she has an old-time June Carter potential to her voice and most of all it was interesting. Randy says not amazing, some pitch problems, but you started stepping up at the end. Paula says you're building, blown away, then rambles; Simon says you didn't give me chills, you managed with what you could, a bit whiny at times, smart if not great.

David Cook, as Ryan hangs out wearing a hat in the audience with Rameile, Mariah was surprised by Always Be My Baby, not sure what he was going to do with it, made her proud at how flexible her song can be. Man, he gets a huge cheer as he starts, in vest and shirt and loose tie; hey, this is quite good! Very cool vibe to it, not cheesy at all--totally plays with the speed of the chorus, then rocks out in the second half. Very confident, gets the crowd hyped up, just looks like a star. The best, by a mile, including the slow, controlled last line. Randy says you're ready to make an album, stands up for the first time this season, calls it the most brilliant performance yet; Paula says it could be on a movie soundtrack right now; Simon says going from karaoke hell into a breath of fresh air--original, daring, stands out a mile, and you took a risk. It's bedlam after that; Cook's in tears.

Jason Castro closes the show, as Ryan rips down a Simon for President poster. Mariah says he's doing something different, calls him unique. Doing I Don't Wanna cry, it's ok--just flat after David Cook; not bad, but like something you'd have on in background. Very soulful but the song's not that great. Randy says like at some weird beach lua, Paula says she'd love to be at that lua listening all night long, Simon says he agrees with Paula, not the best vocal of the night but it was authentic and cool, the guys won the night.

David Cook
Kristy Lee Cook
Brooke White
Jason Castro
Carly Smithson
David Archuleta
Syesha Mercado

Whose Messiah?

As New York gets ready for the Pope's visit, it's worth revisiting an interesting piece by Michael Marissen in the Times last year, Unsettling History of That Joyous ‘Hallelujah’:

IN New York and elsewhere a “Messiah Sing-In” — a performance of Handel’s oratorio “Messiah” with the audience joining in the choruses — is a musical highlight of the Christmas season. Christians, Jews and others come together to delight in one of the consummate masterpieces of Western music.

The high point, inevitably, is the “Hallelujah” chorus, all too familiar from its use in strange surroundings, from Mel Brooks’s “History of the World, Part 1,” where it signified the origins of music among cavemen, to television advertising for behemoth all-terrain vehicles.

So “Messiah” lovers may be surprised to learn that the work was meant not for Christmas but for Lent, and that the “Hallelujah” chorus was designed not to honor the birth or resurrection of Jesus but to celebrate the destruction of Jerusalem and the Second Temple in A.D. 70. For most Christians in Handel’s day, this horrible event was construed as divine retribution on Judaism for its failure to accept Jesus as God’s promised Messiah.

While Handel scholars and enthusiasts say repeatedly that significant numbers of Jews attended the original performances of Handel’s oratorios, they offer no compelling evidence. Most Jews in 18th-century London were too poor to attend such concerts, and observant Jews would in any event have balked at the public use of the sacred, unutterable name of God in the oratorios, even though “Jehovah” was a Christian misunderstanding of the prohibited name.

Handelians often assert too that the composer’s practice of writing oratorios on ancient Israelite subjects (like “Israel in Egypt” and “Judas Maccabaeus”) is pro-Jewish. Handel and his contemporaries did have a high opinion of the characters populating the Hebrew Bible, not as “Jews” but as proto-Christian believers in God’s expected Messiah, Jesus.

But what about their stance toward living Jews and toward Judaism after the advent of Jesus? Relevant contemporary British sources have virtually nothing positive to say on that subject and very little that is even neutral.

The problematic relationship between some evangelical Christians and Jews is encompassed in this piece; some might read it as two-way street, in that only one religion can be true.

But I'd say only one religion requires the destruction of the other in order to become true; only one religion will celebrate that day.

Video games can save lives

Norwegian boy outthinks angry moose with Warcraft skillz

A 12-year-old Swedish Norwegian boy reportedly defended himself and his little sister from a moose attack by employing techniques he learned while attaining level 30 in World of Warcraft: "In the article he describes how he first yelled at the moose, distracting it so his sister got away, then when he got attacked and the animal stood over him he feigned death. "Just like you learn at level 30 in World of Warcraft.""

What makes New York New York

Jimmy Breslin: Inspirational Curmudgeon

NYTimes: It was 1978, I was 25 and living in Buffalo. Through a friend who ran the student lecture series at the SUNY campus, I had the chance to have a beer and wings with Jimmy Breslin. I asked him if he thought a girl from Indiana could make it in New York City. I will never forget his response: “Kids migrating from the Midwest are what makes New York great. That’s the way it’s always been.” -- Kay Johnson

What is Garry Wills thinking?

At the start of an otherwise interesting comparison in the NYRB of Abraham Lincoln's Cooper Union speech and Barack Obama's Philadelphia speech, Garry Wills writes:

The most damaging charge against each was an alleged connection with unpatriotic and potentially violent radicals. ... Obama was suspected of Muslim associations and of following the teachings of an inflammatory preacher who damned the United States."

? 'Muslim associations' equals 'connection with unpatriotic and potentially violent radicals'?

Ironic that in an article about the importance of words Wills writes so dumbly.

American Idol cuts to 7

After a horrible show Tuesday and a bloated Idol Cares fest Wednesday, we've got results on Thursday. They recap the telethon with almost all celebs and very few starving kids; they're at $64 million so far says Ryan, which is well behind the $76 million last year.

Wow, more religion--Shout to the Lord. My Jesus, My Savior is how it starts--I'm really shocked at how Christian this show has become. The internal ratings must really be worrisome; I can guarantee this strategy won't help, it's the kind of thing that is going to make long-time fans stop watching. Interesting that as the country becomes more diverse, evangelicals become more in-your face. The worst part--the Jesus songs they're picking aren't even the good ones!

They do a stupid, celeb-filled lip synch video, to I'm a Believer; it's really not even halfway funny. And it's all-white, except for Kobe Bryant (and half of Rob Schneider). Really, given the demographics of the music industry you can't put together a video this white, unless you were trying.

And on that note, Brooke White comes out first. She's just babbling, it's dumb; but she's safe. David Cook next, he's fine. Then David Archuleta, he'll be fine and is.

So weird, that leaves just five, obviously most of them are in the botttom three. They come back, show another 'film' from Forest Whitaker and his wife, from Angola. Three kids who live in a one-room home show how they all sleep huddled together on a piece of foam; Forest is crying, it's really affecting.

Again, though--no context. Angola's civil war went on as long as it did because the U.S. and the Soviets fought it as a proxy war; in essence, their country was destroyed so that ours wouldn't be.

It's the same reason behind the war in Iraq--better we fight the terrorists in some Middle Eastern country, than in the streets of America, as President Bush has bluntly put it at times.

Let's at least acknowledge the cruel logic of that calculus, instead of pretending these third world countries are screwed up naturally somehow and we need to be charitable and bail them out.

There's no segue except enough of that let's hear some music--and it's Jordin Sparks, looking and singing like a superstar, with Chris Brown, No Air. They're good together, their voices are really similar, very melodic. It's really very enjoyable, they play act convincingly. Afterwards, they give her all these plaques for all the sales of her music, Ryan then says I think the message here is American Idol works.

The Ford commercial is dumb, they're hurling buckets of paint all over. Jason Castro next, he's safe. Kristy Lee Cook, Ryan lies and says all the judges thought it was great; she's safe as well.

So Syesha Mercado, Carly Smithson, and Michael Johns are left as the bottom three. Bono shows up in a video clip, he says as a fan of America he wants to see us donate money. Then Hillary Clinton shows up, it's hilarious, she's even stressing experience her--says she's worked with a lot of the groups.

Then John McCain, makes a joke about Michigan and Florida will actually get their votes counted on American Idol; he looks surprisingly spry. Then makes a joke about getting back to work on his immigration plan--watch out Simon.

Barack Obama bats cleanup, references his daughters as big fans--stresses making the world a more just, equal and hopeful place to live. Interesting, they're all in character.

Ryan wastes time, grilling the judges; then another break. Syesha and Carly are safe, Michael Johns is voted off--to his evident surprise. And the audience is in shock, and booing.

Cool; then cold--Ryan says last year we didn't eliminate anyone at this stage during Idol Gives Back, tonight we're gonna say goodbye to Michael. He's pretty shocked, gets a standing ovation. He says he's surprised, but it's a good song to go out on; roll his video as he gives the look of death.

The judges praise him afterwards, Simon says you're a nice guy, I'll miss you. Hmmm, I didn't get that aspect, maybe I missed it, Simon's generally a good judge of character.

I think he essentially had no fan base left--David Archuleta and David Cook took all the chicks, with Jason Castro getting the rest. It's a pretty fun final performance; oh well, time to throw another shrimp on the barbie.

Unexamined life

Racism's dead? Diversity doesn't matter? Ha! Not as long as we live in a world where people make important decisions on the basis of unexamined conscious or subconscious feelings of comfort.

Names That Match Forge a Bond on the Internet, NYTimes: But while many people are familiar with Googlegängers, a fundamental question has gone unanswered: Why do so many feel a connection — be it kinship or competition — with utter strangers just because they share a name?

Social science, it turns out, has an answer. It is because human beings are unconsciously drawn to people and things that remind us of ourselves.

A psychological theory called the name-letter effect maintains that people like the letters in their own names (particularly their initials) better than other letters of the alphabet.

In studies involving Internet telephone directories, Social Security death index records and clinical experiments, Brett Pelham, a social psychologist, and colleagues have found in the past six years that Johnsons are more likely to wed Johnsons, women named Virginia are more likely to live in (and move to) Virginia, and people whose surname is Lane tend to have addresses that include the word “lane,” not “street.”

During the 2000 presidential campaign, people whose surnames began with B were more likely to contribute to George Bush, while those whose surnames began with G were more likely to contribute to Al Gore.

“It’s what we call implicit egotism,” Dr. Pelham, who is now a writer and researcher for the Gallup Organization, said. “We’ve shown time and time again that people are attracted to people, places and things that resemble their names, without a doubt.” ...

In studies that make believers in free will squirm, Dr. Pelham’s team asserts that names and the letters in them are surprisingly influential in people’s lives. In one experiment, participants of both sexes evaluated a young woman more favorably when the number on the jersey she was wearing had been subliminally paired with their own names on a computer screen.

A feeling of connection between people with the same name is, in a way, little more than sharing an affinity for a brand — like two car owners who give each other friendly toots because they both drive Mini Coopers.

“Self-similarity is really one of the largest driving forces of behavior of social beings,” said Jeremy Bailenson, the director of Stanford University’s Virtual Human Interaction Lab. “When someone is similar to you, you give them special privileges,” like buying something from them or voting for them.

All this means is we have to be conscious of our own prejudices; you can't fight things like racism and sexism, after all, if you don't even see your own behavior as being necessary for examination.

And, once you start looking at it, it's suprising how many issues are tied to people making universal judgments on the basis of their biases. There's this from the Washington Post, for example:

Behavioral Study on Students Stirs Debate,
Fairfax Report Finds Possible Racial Bias: For public schools in the No Child Left Behind era, it has become routine to analyze test scores and other academic indicators by race and ethnicity. But the Fairfax County School Board, to promote character education, has discovered the pitfalls of applying the same analytical techniques to measures of student behavior, especially when the findings imply disparities in behavior among racial, ethnic and other groups.

The county School Board, which oversees one of the country's largest and most diverse suburban school systems, is scheduled to vote tonight on whether to accept a staff report that concludes, in part, that black and Hispanic students and special education students received lower marks than white and Asian American students for demonstration of "sound moral character and ethical judgment."

Such findings have prompted a debate on the potential bias in how teachers evaluate student behavior and how the school system analyzes and presents information about race. Board member Martina A. "Tina" Hone (At Large), who is African American, called the school system's decision to break down data by race "potentially damaging and hurtful."

The report on student achievement under "Essential Life Skills," first presented to the board March 27, quantifies the moral-ethical gap this way: "Grade 3 students who received 'Good' or better ranged from a low near 80 percent . . . for Black and Special Education students, to about 95 percent . . . for Asian and White students." The report also indicated that Hispanic third-graders scored 86 percent on the measure.

The findings on third-grade morality reflected the number of elementary students who received "good" or "outstanding" marks on report cards in such areas as "accepts responsibility," "listens to and follows directions," "respects personal and school property," "complies with established rules" and "follows through on assignments." Such categories, which draw mainly on teacher observations, are common.

Well, sure--a bunch of white teachers might very well see blacks and hispanics as disruptive, even when they are exhibiting the exact same behavior as "normal" whites--and Asians.

I do wish the Post had broken out the data between whites and Asians; maybe the headline should've been: Blacks, Hispanics, Whites Fall Short Compared to Asians.

You'll never see something like that, of course, because journalists are conditioned to see white performance as the norm, with everything else being deviant, either "positive" or "negative".

Otherwise, if pure performance really were the measure, the headlines would be all about how whites, blacks and hispanics lag behind academic standards as set by Asians.

At any rate, conservatives, who think of humans as inherently sinful, might disagree, but most people, once they've become aware that they "just don't feel comfortable" or "just don't like" the same types of people, over and over, realize that's wrong, and can and do change.

It's the basis behind Barack Obama's presidential run, after all.

Writing well about the worst movie ever

Joe Queenan has a hilarious article in The Guardian, simply entitled From hell. Inspired by The Hottie and the Nottie, he "goes in search of the worst movie of all time."

It's a journey through his mind, which proves illuminating even while bilious. There are a lot of choice lines; in the style of P.D. Wodehouse, the prose consciously and deliciously builds upon itself until it topples over with one final anecdote.

You'll be convinced by his choice.

Wikipedia, incidentally, has a great summary of the 'winning' film, with Vincent Canby calling it: "a forced four-hour walking tour of one's own living room."

Idols try to go deep

The chairman of Ford, Bill, is hanging out in the audience; they're on an extra night this week to accommodate Idol Gives Back tomorrow. They're singing inspirational songs?! Sheesh.

Michael Johns says he's living his dream, oh God--he's got on some sort of neckerchief, white shirt and black vest. Singing a weird, rambly at the start version of I Dream On. It's a good pick for his vocal talents, totally cheesy and generic. But he sings it okay, except the falsetto part is just screeched. Randy says these are the weeks to separate the men from the boys, some pitch problems and it doesn't fit you that well, you're no Aerosmith. Michael tries to justify it, Randy is like why that, Michael shoots back he's living the American dream. Paula loved it, calls it the perfect song choice, you sound as good as you look, high notes were great. Simon settles it--good performance, but don't like it when you impersonate a rock star, do the blues/R&B thing, a bit wanna-be-ish. Well, his entire personality is an aspiration built on a mirage, so it makes sense.

Syesha Mercado tells us Ramielle's in New York right now, in brown sweater/white pants. Oh gosh, singing I Believe by Fantasia. Man, let them choose whatever they want, and they all go nuts--forget the words, pick songs you can sing! The start is really good though, hushed and compelling--it's a good pick for her. And very believable. Man, she realy has an excellent voice; the performance is good too. A few pitch problems, but overall really good. Randy says big song to tackle, didn't feel a connection but okay, they go on and on, no point. Paula says you made it your own, good job. Simon says of course people will compare to Fantasia; you sang it very well but no big wave of emotion--we still don't know who you are, do your own thing.

Jason Castro, my gosh, is really going to sing Somewhere Over the Rainbow, the ukulele version. Hmm, this could be very interesting. He's actually playing a ukulele; nowhere near as good as the Hawaiian version, it's pleasant but he looks totally ridiculous perched in a high chair strumming. It's a bit boring, if you've ever heard the original; just okay, he really seems blissed out. A bit more original near the end, but it's not enough in my opinion. Randy claims it was blazing hot; Paula likes his sound, calls it the perfect choice. Simon says it was fantastic--I think they're all wrong. Too bad eBay doesn't sponsor the show.

There's an Apple commercial with some yoga chick that reminds me how good white people are at obliviously bland-erizing things. Oh, and here's Kristy Lee Clark. In gold top, hey, she's not horrible at the start, but then runs into pitch problems, Do It Anyway. She really has trouble carrying a tune; performance is leaden. Voice is big, but it's hard to get past the fact that she's off-key and robotic. Randy says some pitch moments, but I loved it, that was good for you. Paula says your best by far, easy singing songs that inspire you. Simon says you were very good, indeed; you look like a star, you're appealing to your audience, good for you.

David Cook, in white top and black pants. Hmmm, a very odd song; Our Lady Peace. Never heard it before--an odd, non-melodic choice I think. But it fits him really well, he's totally believable singing it, has "give back" written on his palm. Because of the fit I think it's a good choice, even if I didn't enjoy it. Randy not sure about it all, didn't get it. Paula says you're very well-defined as the whole package. Simon didn't like it at all, he's gonna say indulgent--says pompous instead. Calls it his worst performance in a while.

Carly Smithson, doing Show Must Go On. In blackish outfit; her typical fierce performance. Man, every pick so far has been weird, these kids need to be told what to do. The start is just boring, picks up a bit but she's lost me, the song's not that great. Also, she's flat on a few lines; just blah, feels like it goes on forever. Randy says started out good, then pitchy, ended okay, disconnected. Paula says your voice was great, didn't feel the connection though. Simon says you look good. Unusual choice of song, oversang and lost control of the song; came over as an angry performance, weird in conjunction with the evening--you may be in trouble after tonight.

David Archuleta next, floppy white shirt and tan slacks, looks totally like a kid. Says on tape he had a bit of trouble, then Angels jumped out at him. I think this is a good choice, just based on the title. Sitting at the piano, gets shrieks. Man, smoke and everything--quiet and controlled start, but power too. His voice just soars, seems totally at peace. Hard not to smile when this kid performs; maybe a bit off-key in parts, but totally takes off at the chorus, his fan base is gonna eat this up. It's just okay for me, felt like it was gonna be even better. Randy loved his runs, calls that his hottest moment of the season. Fans are screaming, Paula says fantastic. Simon says best song choice of the night, he's never known why this song hasn't been a hit; says he's nitpicking on the vocals, but you're gonna sail through.

Brooke White in a paisley pinkish dress, closes up. Doing You've Got a Friend, Carole King's version not James Taylor. A perfect choice, as usual, her vocal tone really comes through, audience is hushed. So very earnest, seems to be having some pitch problems. But I liked it; not sure she can expand her fan base with her style, but it's enjoyable. Audience seemed to like it too. Randy says not your best performance, okay; Paula loves the song, perfect way to close us out; Simon says it's like a pleasant walk in the park. Not original, Randy echoing him, it's funny. They just end it, Brooke looks like she's about to cry, then smiles up.

A totally down night; nobody hit their stride, the race is a muddled mess behind Archuleta. In retrospect Michael Johns sounds better, albeit cheessy, so I move him up.

Syesha Mercado
Brooke White
Michael Johns
David Archuleta
Jason Castro
David Cook
Carly Smithson
Kristy Lee Clark

Not mincing words

There's an interesting Times article that, unwittingly, does a good job of capturing some of the issues that are roiling, and will ultimately change, Europe.

Immigrants Capture Italian Flavor: Last month, Gambero Rosso, the prestigious reviewer of restaurants and wine, sought out Rome’s best carbonara, a dish of pasta, eggs, pecorino cheese and guanciale (which is smoked pig cheek; pancetta, for aficionados, is not done) that defines tradition here.

In second place was L’Arcangelo, a restaurant with an Indian head chef. The winner: Antico Forno Roscioli, a bakery and innovative restaurant whose chef, Nabil Hadj Hassen, arrived from Tunisia at 17 and washed dishes for a year and a half before he cooked his first pot of pasta.

“To cook is a passion,” said Mr. Hassen, now 43, who went on to train with some of Italy’s top chefs. “Food is a beautiful thing.”

Spoken like an Italian. But while the world learned about pasta and pizza from poor Italian immigrants, now it is foreigners, many of them also poor, who make some of the best Italian food in Italy (as well as some of the worst and everything between).

With Italians increasingly shunning sweaty and underpaid kitchen work, it can be hard now to find a restaurant where at least one foreigner does not wash dishes, help in the kitchen or, as is often the case, actually cook. Egyptians have done well as pizza makers, but restaurant kitchens are now a snapshot of Italy’s relatively recent immigrant experience, with Moroccans, Tunisians, Romanians and Bangladeshis all doing the work.

The fact itself may not be surprising: On one level, restaurants in Italy, a country that even into the 1970s exported more workers than it brought in, now more closely mirror immigrant-staffed kitchens in much of Europe.

But Italians take their food very seriously, not just as nourishment and pleasure but as a chief component of national and regional identity. And so any change is not taken lightly here, especially when the questions it raises are uncomfortable: Will Italy’s food change — and if so, for the worse or, even more disconcertingly, for the better? Most Italian food is defined by its good ingredients and simple preparation, but does it become less distinct — or less Italian — if anyone can prepare it to restaurant standards? Does that come at some cost to national pride?

Wow--these foreigners sometimes actually cook! And yes--top immigrant chefs are just 'anyone'.

There is, of course, more.

But in a debate likely to grow in the coming years, others argue that foreign chefs can mimic Italian food but not really understand it.

“Tradition is needed to go forward with Italian youngsters, not foreigners,” said Loriana Bianchi, co-owner of La Canonica, a restaurant also in Trastevere, which hires several Bangladeshis, though she does the cooking. “It’s not racism, but culture.”

Yeah, and the Confederacy was all about culture, too.

And then, of course, there's this:

Despite this success — and thousands of loyal Italian customers — he said he never felt fully accepted. “Italians say they aren’t racist but then they say to me that in Milan I have found America,” he said, referring to a slightly insulting expression for finding success without really working for it. “It makes me feel lousy.”

Qunfeng Zhu, 30, a Chinese immigrant who opened a coffee bar in Rome’s center, has had a similar experience even though he makes an authentic espresso in a classic Italian atmosphere (overlooking a few bottles of Chinese liquor).

“Some people come in, see we are Chinese and go away,” he said.

But in the last few years, he said, that happens less frequently, one sign that Italy is opening up — if slowly — to other kinds of food. Twenty years ago it was hard to find anything beyond the odd Chinese restaurant. Now the choices are broader, especially for Asian food like Japanese or Indian.

“We live in a globalized society — there are so many people represented in our city,” said Maria Coscia, the commissioner of Rome’s public schools. So much so that last year the city began a program of serving a meal from different countries once a month. But many parents complained loudly.

“The first time we did it, the menu was Bangladeshi,” she said. “That was a problem.”

As a result of the complaints, the program was tweaked slightly and now at least one dish in four on those days — even grade-school students eat well here — will remain Italian. Now it is largely accepted, though the program’s Web site includes this reminder for the still wary, “In the total of the 210 school days, when lunches are served, only eight days are dedicated to the menus from other countries.”

It's pretty astonishing how openly racist Europe can be--the best part about the article is it continues the trend of writing about non-white Italians as foreigners, as if the definition of an Italian is limited to those whose grandparents marched under Mussolini.

Idol (with Jesus) cuts to 8

Someone's going home tonight--hopefully Kristy Lee Cook, or, dare I say it, Carly Smithson.... Kick it off with the group sing, 9 to 5. Brooke is great at the start; Kristy can't keep up, nor can Ramielle. Michael Johns truly lives in his own world; David Cook does well. And Chikezie's in the house, hanging out with the other fans.

Hmm, looks like next week is Idol Gives Back. I zip past last night, and Michael Johns gets called out first--odd, he seems to have a snarl on his face at first. It may just be his usual grimace. He's safe, of course; the bounder will be back for another week. David Archuleta, of course he's fine. Next person's in danger--and it's Carly Smithson, yay. Oh, she escapes, joins the others.

So half of the final six are gonna be in the stools. Back, and it's the taped segment again. Syesha gets asked what she misses most about her home life, she says her family/friends. Cook gets asked if he could succeed at any other talent what would it be, he said he wishes he was more organized. Next, Randy gets asked if there's anyone he hasn't worked with; he says he'd like to work with whoever wins Idol this year. Some chick asks if Johns/Cook have a song they wanna sing on tour this summer, they jokingly say Islands in the Stream, then say they haven't thought that far. Then Simon gets asked why he apologizes for negative comments--she apparently reads his clipped British 'sorry' as a real apology.

Another FOX promo, the next great band winners sing--the lead guy sounds and looks nervous. Let It Shine. They're actually kind of entertaining in a totally hick kind of way; are totally wailing on their instruments. Hmm, seems like the nerves are just their intense performing style, as if they're possessed. It's nothing if not entertaining; kindof feel tense listening to them though, it's a bit crazy--and they keep dropping Jesus in there, bizarre.

The Ford commercial is totally ridiculous, they go up against a bunch of black ballers and beat them. Uh, sure. Now, if it were bowling....

David Cook, Ryan asks about his visit to the hospital, he apparently has high blood pressure but is fine; he's safe on the show too. Ramiele Malubay, who's definitely in the bottom three; sure enough she's there, like a little sad girl. Kristy Lee Cook strides out, has a note for 'her' seat, and she's in the bottom three as always. Paula says it comes down to connecting with the audience, Randy dittos.

Brooke, Syesha, and Jason--it should be Syesha based on past voting patterns, but who knows. They catch up with with some past country Idols--Bucky Covington, whose hair is nuttier than ever; Phil Stacey is hanging out in Nashville too; and hey, Bo Bice is there too, looks totally the same despite some major surgery. Man, he has some fat dogs, loves being a dad.

Syesha comes out, hmm, maybe that means it'll be between Brooke/Jason. Whoah, and she lives to sing another day. Brooke looks sick and cold as ice; Jason looks like he's just hanging out. Odd, Brooke admits he hasn't watched last night's show yet, forces Simon to apologize to the violin guy from last night. Jason't quiet, says she felt good about last night--and Jason's safe.

Good, I'm beginning to sour on Brooke's attitude, although I like her vocals. Ramiele is dwarfed by the two of them ("you guys are so tall!"), they're funny together, apparently all roomies. Simon goes out of his way to talk to Carly, about her clothes, says she's cute. I think he's officially found his Katharine McPhee to promote this year.

Another in-show commercial for Idol Cares, then Dolly Parton singing Jesus and Gravity. Man, given the checkered backgrounds of this year's contestants, this focus on piety is hillarious. She's a professional performer, but her voice has really gone to seed, like she's lost her range. Wonder if Kellie Pickler is somewhere watching. The lyrics are actually better than the song and the performance; she's trying her best to resurrect her career, but it's kindof sad. She sticks up for Simon afterwards, says somebody has to tell the truth; then says she finally got here, has been trying to get on the show since it started.

Randy predicts Ramielle will be out, Simon says not Brooke, who's in tears over it all, including Jesus and gravity. Ryan sends Brooke out, man, she's really fallen apart. Wow, Kristy cheats death yet again, and Ramiele's out. They share a loooooong hug.

Man, she's just crying, this time for herself; gets a standing ovation from the audience, which rarely happens. The other girls are backing her up as she sings us out. Now the guys come out as she works the crowd.

Well, the show just got less fun; curious to see how much longer Kristy can continue to cheat death.

Dolly Parton fools around on Idol

Ryan starts with a fake-out, before welcoming us to our Tuesday night fix of American Idol. With celebrity mentor Dolly Parton.... She's always struck me as pretty smart, actually; curious to see what she'll be like with Syesha and Ramiele.

She says people are always asking why she hasn't been on Idol yet--really?! They get right to it, Brooke White. Should be a good night for her. Parton likes her honesty and warmth, singing Jolene. Not a bad choice for her, in blue top and skirt playing the guitar; pretty compelling, a bit ordinary I think--the song's a little limited. But enjoyable to listen to. Randy says not a stellar performance, some rushing and pitch problems, but this kind of music could work for you; Paula likes her consistency, funny, Brooke compliments Paula's hair; Simon says there was no emotion, it didn't all fit that well. Man, Brooke is becoming very annoying, how loudly and quickly she responds to the judges, and says things like "it's okay" in response to criticism, as if her permission's really necessary.

David Cook, in white top and black pants, talks to Ryan about his arrangements, tonight doing his own of Little Sparrow. Parton likes his voice and his heart; so far she's been accurate, if not totally insightful. It's an interesting version, there's a flamenco feel to it. A bit boring, but gains strength--I think he's a little off tonight, not quite a finished work. Parton's songs aren't that great, I think everyone's gonna have some trouble. Odd ending for Cook, like it just drops off. Randy likes his range, calls it hot; Paula likes his new hairstyle, says she's never heard a guy do the song and it was good; Simon says not as good as last week but congrats, made a bad song good.

Ramiele Malubay, Dolly says she was cute and sweet and scared. Ramiele says she was star-struck; Dolly says she's got spunk and personality and is little like her. In odd black overall/dress; voice is totally swallowed up. Do I Ever Cross Your Mind, just not that good either, it's all kind of a mess, despite her best efforts to power through. Randy says not bad, 6.5 out of 10; Paula says she was worried for her but you connected; Simon says not memorable, cute and sung well, but like on a cruise ship. I wish she'd get better from week to week, oh well.

Ryan's chatting up Jason Castro, he got a bunch of postcards from some girl. Dolly's pulling on his dreads, liked his song choice--Travelin' Through. Guitar and a brown shirt; hmm, I like it. Totally fits his voice, cracks and all--very soulful, and sounds sincere. Some words swallowed up, a bit weak on the lyrics, but overall it's very enjoyable. He should stick to these quasi-spiritual songs, they enhance his sense of depth. A bit boy bandish at the end, but crowd loves it. Randy says a bit rough at the start, but it came together, believable; Paula says one of your strongest performances, voice was rich and confident. Simon didn't like it at all, not sang well, doesn't suit you well.

The controversial Carly Smithson; whoah, she sounds great in rehearsal, Dolly loves the song choice. Black top, red leggings. Seems a bit nervous or wobbley or something; I hate how she performs, it's a bit Barbra Streisandish, such an awareness of being on stage and the center of attention. The song is performed well I guess, but it doesn't do anything for me, definitely a big voice but I'm left a bored. Randy says one of the better performances of the night, nice job; Paula loved it; Simon says good, not great--you're not being dressed well, fix that; need to start looking more like a star. Ryan goes after Simon, what's going on tonight; he simply says nothing great so far tonight.

Ryan's hanging out in the totally-white crowd, David Archuleta next--Dolly loves his Smokey Mountain Memories, he sounds great in rehearsal, she tells him she's almost crying. Says he has the voice to become a great, great singer. Wow. Jeans, leatherish coat. He's in fine form, very sincere and strong. Tone fits the song really well; a bit of a stumble with the lyrics, but soars over it. Hmm, it's falling apart a bit as he goes on--off-key I think, and just a bit off overall. But still, the best of the night. Randy says you're back, that was the best so far; Paula loves his tone, strength, aura; Simon says totally on the money. Cannot hear Ryan over the screaming for him.

Kristy Lee Cook next--if she can't nail it tonight, she really should just go home. Coat of Many Colors, a good pick I think; in brown dress. The song is half there; just not that great, I think it's too fast, actually, the words are just getting swallowed up and she's bad at emphasis. Tone is good; but boring, no emotional connection. Randy says this is your strength, not bad; Paula says your best performance; Simon says pleasant but forgettable.

Whoah, Syesha Mercado, in bright yellow dress. Vanna White's hanging out in the audience, she doesn't look like she's aged at all. Singing I Will Always Love You, Dolly likes her take on it... hmm, this could be very good. Hmm, a bit too fast I think, the emotion is missing as a result; wow, her voice just floats on the chorus, she has a really interesting sound. I feel like the song's neither here nor there the way she sings it, hard to get a bead on it--but she's a powerhouse, I hope she sticks around just because she's different. And an amazing looooong loud finish. Randy cuts in, you did pretty good; Paula loves her voice's velvety tone; Simon says this is a great pop song that Dolly wrote; first part was good, second part can't stand up to Whitney, a good not fantastic version.

Michael Johns, who I forgot about, closes the show; Dolly says he was nervous, but he was genuinely a real fan. In black suit; It's All Wrong But It's All Right; he's pretty good, belts it out, slow. Hate how he performs, it's so mannered; got some sort of Keith Richards thing going on; a lot of confidence, but not my thing. Randy says blazing hot, you keep getting better; Paula says he's a star and looks gorgeous; Simon says it's the best I've heard you sing. He's definitely come into his own the last couple of weeks, but I still don't like him.

David Archuleta
Syesha Mercado
Jason Castro
David Cook
Brooke White
Carly Smithson
Michael Johns
Kristy Lee Cook
Ramiele Malubay