Wednesday, April 29, 2009

American Idol Rewind

We’re in!!

First off, a word about the episode theme: Rat Pack, although every single one seems to really be from a musical written by Cole Porter or Ira Gershwin in the ‘30s….so let’s call this show the American Songbook episode. EVERY song is durable, impeccably written, so that even we could sing it and you would still say, “wow, great song.” Note to husband: don’t ever sing me “My Funny Valentine”, which is the biggest backhanded compliment song ever written…”You’re ugly, but I love you, isn’t that funny?” Blech.

Also, what’s up with KB1 suddenly becoming an NBA fan? You think you know a guy after 7 years. NBA finals last like 4 months, so I assume he is out for the duration of Idol. Reviews after the jump.

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Kris “What Wife?” Allen – He picked perhaps the best song of the group, and chose the swingin’ Frank Sinatra arrangement. Smart move. He wore a nice suit. Catjjy thinks his stage presence is small. He’s in the bottom two of the remaining contestants in terms of actual singing ability, so he benefited mightily from going first this week. Did anyone else notice that he is building up his heart-throb cred? No mention of his young wife during that very romantic song. Not even a quick shot of her in the stands.

Allison “Transitioning Back to Brown Hair” Iraheta – Another very good song choice. Very loung-y, perhaps the next Diana Krall. She still feels like she is killing at a talent show, rather than headlining at the Bowry Ballroom.

Matt “What Mole?” Giraud – The judges say this is a very difficult song to sing. I’ll take their word for it. It certainly isn’t very fun to listen to, then or now. So long, Matt.

Danny “Downy Jr.” Gokey – Continues to compile his resume for Best Wedding Singer in the MidWest. KB1 made that comment weeks ago, a bit facetiously. We mean that as a real compliment. He’s going to get people out on the dance floor, wailing out “Brick House” and the like. But, again, we aren’t lining up to buy his first album.

Adam “Theater Queen” Lambert – Goes the full Liza this week: over-the-top Broadway camp. Love a man whose suit matches his teeth. We reiterate our comment that he seems to get preferential use of lighting and stage props. We can’t WAIT for the rock episode. And, of course, the forthcoming vampire puppet rock opera.

Come back next week, KB1!