Emily is Smiling

This week was Frank Sinatra week on American Idol.  While any true music lover can't help but admire Frank Sinatra's amazing voice, I am unsure about whether or not this should have been selected as a theme for this week.  First of all, the contestants were not allowed to use their own instruments, which would have helped them to personalize the songs and make them current.  Secondly, Harry Connicke Jr. did all of the music arrangements and while he is a talented artist as well, his touch-ups made most of the songs less current and too corny.  On the other hand, Harry was probably the best mentor the show has had so far.  He gave great advice and actually made himself a part of this week's performances, so I have to give him credit for that.

Aaron Kelly started off the night singing "Fly Me to the Moon."  The song was a little too famous for Aaron's meek voice.  Both his outfit and his performance were a little too old-fashioned.  To me, the song seemed like Aaron was attempting broadway rather than current music that would sell to America.  He was a little pitchy in some parts.  Basically, Aaron was good- like always- but not great... like always.  Kara challenged Aaron to attempt better charisma and stage presence, which i agree is necessary.  Simon was the harshest out of the four judges.  He said, "I adore Frank because Frank was the King of Cool... if he was a lion, you were just a mouse."  However, he did admit that people like Aaron because he tries hard.  I agree with both statements.  Aaron is sturdy, but he is no American Idol.

Casey James sang the amazing "Blue Skies."  I had big hopes for him after last week's performance, but I hate to say that he crushed my positive emotions after the first ten seconds.  The song was pitchy and cheesy with the orchestra behind him.  Casey has used a guitar for almost every single performance and he appeared extremely uncomfortable performing without one this week.  He kept swinging his arms awkwardly instead of moving to the music.  Randy sounded disappointed, saying, "It didn't work, baby.  It didn't work," and Kara agreed, admitting, "You kind of sound like a lamb."  Simon said that Casey seemed embarrassed, a great adjective to express Casey's awkward movements on stage last night.

Crystal Bowersox- "Summer Wind"- is probably the most talented performer left out of the American Idol group, but her performance just wasn't great.  Her vocals were pretty, but not breathtaking, and the band sounded horrible with Crystal's style.  It just didn't work.  On a positive note, Crystal's hairstyle was pretty.  Ellen thought it was impressive, but Simon disagreed, saying, "I'm not gonna lie and say it was one of your strongest performance."  He warned Crystal that she's had two okay weeks and "if you survive next week, it's time to be in it to win it."  I agree.  Come on, Crystal.  Don't give up now.

Michael Lynche sang "The Way You Look Tonight."  He was probably the most comfortable with Frank Sinatra week.  He sure dressed the part.  His voice worked great with the song.  I enjoyed his riffs.  He's a naturally good performer and so the band complimented his natural style.  Randy was pumped, shouting, "This is what it's about!" several times.  Ellen called the performance "smooth" and added that it had a "lot of charisma."  Even Simon enjoyed Big Mike's performance, saying, "The last three performances have been okay and now with you, that's all changed.  You've put yourself back into the game."  I liked the song, but I just can't connect with Michael.

Lee Dewyze, singing "That's Life," blew me away this week.  I've never been a huge fan of his, but he mastered the bluesy, soulful swagger and actually had great stage presence this week.  He easily maneuvered his way across the stage... and he even smiled.  He almost looked comfortable, and the old-fashioned band didn't destroy his performance like it did the others'.  In fact, I think that Lee's performance was the most modern and current out of anyone's.   Ellen loved the performance, saying, "If tonight was the last night of performances, you would have just won the whole thing."  Kara told Lee to go write "I can win this thing" 100 times because, "you can win this thing."  Simon agreed with Ellen and said, "By far, I think for all of us, the highest performance of the night."   Harry mauled Lee from the side of the stage, shouting, "Stop smiling!"  No... I'd rather get used to Lee's rare smile.

This was not a great night for Idol performances.  I was disappointed in almost everyone this week.  Really, they need to do better next Tuesday.  I'll give my predictions and let's see if they will come true.

Bottom Three-
Aaron, Casey, and Crystal

Bottom Two-
Aaron and Casey

Going Home-
Casey