It seems like this week on “Idol” is more of a formality than an actual competition. (You know, kind of like holding the Oscars anyway even though even the most casual movie watchers had already predicted the winners in the four acting categories.)
In this season of lackluster performances, it has become pretty obvious who is going to be sticking around for a bit and who is on borrowed time. In fact, Kara even commented last night that Katelyn Epperly didn’t seem to be in competition mode. She has been a strong performer the last couple of weeks and is probably pretty confident that there are at least three ladies that will be eliminated before her, regardless of how good or bad her performance was this week.
Another thing that stood out was the lack of connection to the songs. (Ahem -- Katie Stevens, Paige Miles and Siobhan Magnus.) Each of these girls claimed that they chose songs that had deep personal meaning to them yet none of them seemed to portray the emotions adequately. Stevens can blame her youth and Magnus can blame her social awkwardness but I’m not sure what was going on with Miles.
KATIE STEVENS -- “Breakaway” by Kelly Clarkson
At first I thought, “Is she serious with this song choice?” But, as she later explained, she is from a small town, after all. And I’m pretty sure that when the rain would fall down, she’d just stare out her window. Unfortunately, at this point, staring out the window seems like a more viable entertainment option for me than listening to one more performance by Katie Stevens. Yes, her voice is pleasant but she has yet to “wow” me the way she did with her first audition to “At Last.” Interestingly enough, while that song is more of a standard, the judges have been pressing her to be more youthful. Ellen thought that she gave it a good try this week but it still didn’t work for me, dawg. Never sing a song that’s too big for you. And never, never, never sing Kelly Clarkson as a contestant on “American Idol.” Ever.
SIOBHAN MAGNUS -- “House of the Rising Sun” by the Animals
Siobhan sounded amazing as always, but I didn’t feel she was particularly connected with the song. What’s odd about that is that she chose it because it’s so “special” to her and her dad. “From the interview beforehand to the performance to what you’re wearing, it was all a bit weird,” said Simon. I can’t argue with that, Cowell, but that weirdness is kind of the reason I love her. Asperger suspicions aside, the girl can blow. (BTW, my Googling skills have taught me that I’m not the only one with those suspicions.) I have no idea what she’s going to sing (or wear) next but I’m pretty sure that it’ll sound good. I just want her to make me feel it.
LACEY BROWN -- “The Story” by Brandi Carlile
Lacey truly redeemed herself this week.
