The Magnificent Seven (or Gagnificent Seven) Sing Standards
I was really looking forward to this night. I love standards and I really wondered if the contestants could deliver (or would I end up enjoy the evening on a trainwreck level).
First Rod introduces himself and his fiancee and their new baby to all of the contestants. Rod’s next wife after Penny is currently finishing up third grade.
1) Chris (What a Wonderful World)-I didn’t know Creed did a version of this song. Snerk. Okay, I actually enjoyed Chris’ version. He really sounds good when he isn’t shouting. However, he needs to stop with the intense eye stare. Of course, he gets a tongue bath from the judges. It’s so obvious he’s the “Chosen One.” But did you get a load of his ascot? I didn't know Hot Topic carried ascots.
2) Paris (These Foolish Things)-Last week Janet Jackson, this week Condoleeza Rice. Paris finally showed a maturity beyond her years. I really think she delivered. This is the Paris I took note of when I saw her audition. Paris may be young but I do not want her fabulous vocals to be wasted on some top 40 crap. Paula was actually right. Paris needs to sing standards.
3) Taylor (You Send Me)-This was one of my favorite Taylor performances of the entire season. Taylor showed both sides of him-Original Recipe Taylor with the high energy moves and the more subdued Taylor Lite where he delivers simply through his fabulous vocals. And all of it was wrapped in a beautifully soulful package. I’d love to see a performance like this in concert. I know I’ve mentioned it before, but the man makes me happy. And on a shallow note, I thought he looked quite handsome in his dark suit.
4) Elliott (I Had to Be You)-Beautifully done. To have Taylor and Elliott perform back to back makes me melt. I thought Elliott was totally in his element. This song showcased his gorgeous voice. And Simon was being such an ass. I don’t think it lacked personality. In fact, I think Elliott’s sweetness and vulnerability shone through, which is one of the reasons why I liked it so much. I hope he stays.
5) Kellie (Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered)- Well, I wasn’t bewitched, but I was bothered and bewildered. I kept wondering how Paris or Kat would deliver this song. Kellie’s vocals were not good. This song doesn’t work with a twang. And what was up with the childish poutiness? I’m sure your local Chester the Molester loved it. This is a song that requires elegance and sensitivity, not indolent immaturity. And Kellie wailing, “Ahhhm Sorrrrry” when the judges don’t praise her performance? Oh, just shut up. Don’t be so humble. You’re not that great.
6) Ace (That’s All) After his tepid performance last week of “We Will Bore You”, Ace actually does a pretty good job with a standard. Sure, he was boy bandish, but I think Ace really sang well and the falsetto really worked for the song. I was very charmed by his performance. As for the suit and tie; it could have been totally GQ, but the skeevy ponytail made it totally K-Fed.
7) Katharine (Someone to Watch Over Me)-This is one of my favorite songs. Have you ever heard Linda Ronstadt’s version? Gorgeous. I was hoping Katharine would deliver on this song, but though her vocals were top notch, I did not like the Miss America Pageant vibe she gave this song. I much prefer a bit more wistfulness and longing and I just didn’t feel it in Katharine’s performance.
Favorites-Taylor and Elliott
Hope will get the boot-Kellie (yeah, right)
Will probably leave-Ace