Blah's blog

Theme For Week: ROCK

Guest Judge: Suzi Quatro

Voted Out After Last week: Ashleigh Toole

The evening started off with a bang, well… perhaps it was a soft and quiet bang, (let’s face it, Suzie’s not really a Spring chicken anymore) as guest judge Suzi Quatro took to the stage and performed her single from 1974 (yes, 1974) “Devil Gate Drive” and, well there’s nothing quite like someone old enough to be my mother clad in leader performing live on national television…

You’d think that, perhaps, maybe, with a number of Australian rock bands out there we may actually have been able to have an australian ROCK performance rather than a flashback to Happy Days, a show that most of the girls watching this performance wouldn’t even know existed.

If this is ROCK then hand me my walking cane and send me to bed early…

Why didn’t the producers invite Grinspoon, who’s new album

I promise, I’ll try not to rant too much this week.

Elimination:

This year’s format will see one person being eliminated each week prior to the rest of the group performing, this will mean that each week one person would have practiced and got dressed ready to sing but instead will be sent home. It’ll also mean no Monday night show, no group performances and no painful drawn out eliminations…

The bottom three this week were:

Casey, Ashleigh and Tim.

Dicko: It’s always really tough. I don’t want to single anyone out, but I think that Ashleigh has been hard done by, she hasn’t put a foot wrong yet and doesn’t deserve to be there. Not saying that you guys do, but it’s hard on her.

Marcia: I have to totally agree with Dicko, Ashleigh, you’re so incredibly focused and you’re so incredible, I really hope that this isn’t the end of your journey, the other two, I love you guys too, so good luck.

Jay-Dee: I think that with such a diverse bunch of performers this year this will be an incredibly tough competition. I think you guys have done well up until now, let’s see how it goes.

Before the advert break Tim is told that he’s safe and is sent back stage leaving both Casey and Ashleigh to stand on stage awaiting the news.

After the break Ashleigh is told that she’s the one heading home, and a bitterly disjointedness Ashleigh tells everyone that this has been an incredible journey for her, and that she’s learned so much here and that this won’t be the end of her, she’ll keep on going.

Ashleigh’s story is told on screen for one last time showing her Idol journey over the last 5 months.

Ashleigh is sent off singing her song from last week : Miss Independent

Jay-Dee: This is my first ever Idol Shock.

Dicko: I knew that someone had to be going home tonight, but not Ashleigh…

Marcia: I think of you guys all day. My memory of you when I think of you is you sitting in the dressing room oh so focused. This is only the beginning.

—–

Hayley Warner

Song Choice: Misery Business

Commentary:

Hayley seems to have relaxed lots over the last couple of weeks and it’s doing her wonders. This is a great way to start off the night, a good and slightly left field song choice which suits her.

Performance wise her vocals were pretty spot on for the most part with only a couple patchy areas. she covered the stage really well and was dressed to impress with her ripped blue jeans and blue vest.

Good way to start the night and I think she may have won a few fans.

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

*Clapping and smiling…*

The producers will tell you that I always dread rock week as I’m a massive rock fan and we don’t always do it justice. For you to start the night like that was just awesome. I found it hard to put a lid on it just watching that. I just wanted to stand up and do some really bad dad dancing, you are becoming so believable.

Marcia’s Comments:

You’re a fine performer, with a lot of tlc and guidance you came out here and rocked it out and took over the stage. you rocked it out, well done.

Suzi’s comments:

you had the energy, you had the look and you had the attitude.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

Keep doing what you’re doing, that’s it.

——-

Casey Barnes

Song Choice: I’m Not Over

Commentary:

Is it just me or does Casey seem to clean and forced to do something like this?

Vocally he’s good, but nowhere near as surprising as Hayley. He lacks performance and believability on stage at the moment.

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

We have needled Casey, we want more edge and more energy. Physically you were absolutely there tonight. I don’t think you have a natural rock voice, I think you are far better with melody.. That was a really good physical and committed performance.

Marcia’s Comments:

that was the most un-nice that I’ve seen you, which is a good thing. When you bend your body you loose a lot of power. Stand up, stand tall, be frightening.

Suzi’s Comments:

You didn’t grow with it. Make the audience come to you, build it. I like your shirt.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

I’m still not believing. I don’t think you’ve grown from week to week yet. Please pull something out that knocks me against the wall.

——-

Kate Cook

Song Choice: Are You Gonna Be My Girl

Commentary:

This is more screaming in tune than singing, but I guess that’s really how the song was originally performed by JET.

I’ll give Kate one thing, she gets on stage with the mindset that she’s going to have fun, and she does, and it seems to be catchy, the judges seem to get into it as well. Me? Well, I’m not going to fork over any money to hear her sing, but yeah I can see she’s enjoying it.

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

Word of warning, you’re not going to pick up a nice girl with a song like that. Beware… You’ve been doing heritage rock, country music, so this is out of your comfort zone. I would have liked to have seen you do something that’s a little more in your genre because I don’t think that alternative rock is your thing. I felt a bit uncomfortable watching it. you committed to is as you normally do, a solid effort.

Marcia’s Comments:

The best thing about your performance tonight, I loved it because you worked the stage like a true rock artist.

Suzi’s Comments:

You pulled back on your scream, never be polite, mean it, when you scream, scream. the audience likes you, they warm to you.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

This isn’t your natural genre, I can see that, I loved your commitment in the performance. Great job.

——-

Nathan Brake

Song Choice: Second Chance

Commentary:

Suzi’s advice to Nathan was to be himself, to be real and be open to being vulnerable, to not be theatrical without a reason (the motions without the belief).

On stage he decides to be simple and direct, standing still with his microphone for most of the performance before letting it go and walking to the front of stage near the end of the song as it built up.

Vocally he’s still a bit clean for rock, but this kind of pop-rock would probably suit him really well and his voice.

Good performance, possibly a little more honest than in previous weeks.

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

You are very theatrical and you do come from that area, I’m now getting to the point where I think don’t worry about it, just turn it up. As with all artists you’ve just got to find your truth and if that’s your truth then just turn it up.

Marcia’s Comments:

That’s the most real that I’ve seen you. Don’t be scared to be yourself, you did a great job.

Suzi’s Comments:

You were doing nothing but strong singing, and because of what I told you you were showing nothing but vulnerability, do you know how powerful that is? You did a great job.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

Still very theatrical for me but you committed to the performance. Just forget the rest and it’ll get even greater.

——-

Toby Moulton

Song Choice: Starlight

Commentary:

MUSE!!!???? Last week it was Radiohead, now it’s Muse!!!??

I’m having Damien Leith flashbacks…

At least he’s singing in tune, the higher notes do suit him though, but i can’t help but thinking that he’s wandering through my ipod playlist in order to ruin all my favourite music.

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

When we decide an artist is ready for the market we look for an entry point, and that entry point has to be very deliberate. What I would say to you is that for the second week running you’ve chosen a left of field song, last week it was Radiohead, this week it was Muse. I don’t really think that you’re going to progress and grow in this competition just by singing through your cd collection. women around this country like you, they think you’re fantastic and heartland Australia needs some romantic pop-rock and I don’t think you’re meeting them half way with your song choices, they’re just too obscure.

Marcia’s Comments:

But you chose the song to sing and you did it very well.

Suzi’s Comments:

Thankyou for doing that nice long bend on that note, I told you to take your time, well done.  I like the stillness in you. I would have liked to see you use that microphone as a prop, use it as a lover.  You could have been quite sexy with that microphone. You have a really good range. Well done.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

I thought you did a really good job this week. And I don’t want to talk to you this week, I want to talk to Dicko… Never mind the bollocks, just do what you want to do and do it well.

——-

Tim Johnston

Song Choice: Jumping Jack Flash

Commentary:

Tim is oh so not rock…

And singing the Rolling Stones?

Personally, the song choice was a crap one, the performance had me cringing all the way through and, while he’s a nice guy (apparently) he’s no Idol…

I’ll just go add him to my bottom 3 right now shall I?

*edit* I’ve just listened to the Judges, did we just see the same performance?

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

You look like you have a bit of a glow about you, like you’ve had your rock cherry popped or something, there’s no going back. Great effort.

Marcia’s Comments:

Now that’s what I’m talking about. You stood up there and you told the story and you did a great job. Woo

Suzi’s comments:

Thankyou for doing that. you hit those notes and you showed what you could do. That was what it was about, light and shade.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

I think that Suzi saved a train wreck, that’s my opinion. what she did was took that song and put it into your comfort zone and you rocked the house.

——-

Sabrina Batshon

Song Choice: Numb

Commentary:

Sabrina is a female Meatloaf, so over the top, so theatrical and extremely painful.

I’m beginning to think that she’s bought the Young talent time advice hook line and sinker, oh god I hope she doesn’t win this competition.

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

You do feel your music, and that’s been my criticism of you has been that you’re too over dramatic it’s like every chorus with you is like some major international incident. But do you know what, I’m not going to fight it any longer, if that is your truth then bring it on, more nuttiness, more tears, more rage and I think there are too many beige people, so if that’s where you are then bring it on.

Marcia’s Comments:

there’s very little that you’ve done on Idol that I’ve not liked. Suzie taught you that it’s light and shade, diminish when you can, when it’s G-force all the time it’s just too much, well done.

Suzi’s Comments.

You blew me away.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

If I could I’d stand up and applaud you tonight, everything in that performance worked, you felt that. You felt it tonight and I felt you. well done.

——-

 

James Johnston

Song Choice: Thnks fr th Mmrs

Commentary:

It’s like watching the Jonas Brothers without two of them…

That being said…

This was probably a good choice for him, and at least this year’s contestants are choosing decent songs to sing.

He looked a little uncomfortable at times, but he did well, good vocals, good use of stage and the chicks (under 16 chicks) dig him.

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

I didn’t think you could do this, you’ve been traveling well. I though it’d be a banana skin for many of you, I didn’t think your voice would be punchy enough to do that.  But Suzi has done something with a lot of you tonight. She’s made you walk the walk. It’s lifted your confidence,. I’ve not seen you command a performance or an audience that well so far. well done.

Marcia’s Comments:

Suzi has made you all believe in what you’re singing. Commitment is what it’s called, well done.

Suzi’s Comments:

Well done, (and some advice on how to get the crowd clapping with you). You used that rough edge and boy did you enjoy it.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

Cool T-shirt, I think you did well, I think you got through it. That wasn’t your natural genre but I think you did it well. Well done.

——-

Scott Newnham

Song Choice: American Woman

Commentary:

Oh dear…

Oh dear…

Starting out the performance by laying on the ground behind moving images of the American flag was a bit over the top..

Vocally he struggled, it was noticeable.

Performance wise, cliche.

He was confidant though, pity it didn’t translate.

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

All the chicks love you, both Australian and American. You’re a beginner amongst a bunch of professionals. You have to work twice as hard as these kids just to keep up. What I saw tonight was a slap-dash pedestrian performance and you can’t afford that. I’d like to think that you are working every waking hour just to keep up because you have a great natural talent but don’t let it fall by the wayside.

Marcia’s Comments:

To the band: The bottom end of that was slamming. Well done.

the most important thing, I think every time you stand on stage it’s a new experience for you and I give you props for that.

I don’t think you’re slack, I just think that this week was so out of your comfort zone, more than anyone else tonight and you did a great job.

Suzi’s comments:

I liked what you did on the intro.

I think you would benefit immensely by standing in front of the mirror and performing. Get more comfortable with you. Trust yourself a little bit more.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

I can relate to where you are. I applaud you for bringing the decks on. Hard week for you, yeah sure. Just keep practicing.

——-

Kim Cooper

Song Choice: I Want You to Want Me

Commentary:

Kim looks confidant and beautiful on stage, my only criticism is I hate the accent she puts into the vocals. Energetic, commanding, fun, joyful…

Good vocals, good use of the cameras, good use of the stage.

Nice legs

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

Kim… don’t listen to what these ladies are saying with their daft puritanical advice, if you want to bend over you bend over girl, honestly! You have a great pop sensibility, that’s why I was so thrilled that you were in the top 12. You choose really interesting songs or great well known pop songs and do your own twist on them. You’re really exciting, well done.

Marcia’s Comments:

Was that scream for Suzi, it sounded fantastic. The only thing I’m gonna tell you is that you’ve got a dress on, when you’ve got a dress on, stay a lady. I’m so serious. Keep it all together whan you’re wearing a dress, well done…

Suzi’s Comments:

Thankyou for doing that slow look for me. You took it on a journey, you built it up. The first thing my mother said to me on stage was “do you have to stand on stage with your legs apart?”

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

I just want to say that your voice surprised me tonight, I saw more come out of it than I’ve seen before. that was through some great coaching, keep up that level. keep doing what you’re doing. Well done.

——-

Stan Walker

Song Choice: Nothing Else Matters

Commentary:

Huh?

This night just gets weirder, now Stan’s singing Metallica!

He does it well though, his pitch is ok as are his vocals.

It’s just a weird song choice, but really was one of the few performers tonight who really pushed himself to a different level. Props to him for that.

Now, if we could get rid of that NZ accent…

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

If you had told me 6 weeks ago that you would have been believable singing a Metallica song I would have laughed. But there you are, and not only being believable but being awesome with it as well. the difference in that performance was that it had discipline. You just let it go. Well done.

Marcia’s Comments:

Stan, when you perform with so much believability nothing else does matter. Well done.

Suzi’s Comments:

I saw you, I certainly felt you, you were connecting here. I liked that you took it down low. I liked that you let anger out there, you did a really really good interpretation of that tonight, really good.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

I love your voice. Your performance up until now has been a little shaky, but the power of stillness that you delivered tonight just let everything breathe and the emotion wash over me as the listener and the audience. Great job, fantastic look tonight.

——-

My Top Three Performances For The Night (in no order):

Stan

Kim

Hayley

My Bottom Three Performances For The Night:

Tim

Sabrina

Scott

Favourite For Being Eliminated From This Week:

Scott

Next Week’s theme: Top Ten Hits

Next Week’s Guest Judge: Brian Mcfadden

Tonight the the Wild Card results are announced, first off Andy will name the two that made it through from the wild Card group as per voted by the public, then after they are announced the Judges will name their two Wild Card performers who they think should be given a chance to get through to the top 12.

People’s Choice Wild Cards:

Toby Moulton (what the!!!???)

Hayley Warner

Judge’s Choice Wild Cards:

Casey Barnes

Tim Johnston (Who saw this one coming?!)

That means this is the end of the road for these people:

Lucie Johnson

Lauren Street

Aliqua Mao

Tenielle Muslin

Edmund Zaidan

Which is a bit of a shock for people who were putting bets on this time round being the lucky one for Lauren Street and also for those of you who were betting heavily that Toby Moulton would be heading back to the school rooms this week.

I guess we shouldn’t be too surprised, in a world where an ugly Irishman can win Australian Idol (Damien Leith for those of you who can’t remember his name) a not-that-fantastic-but-nice-guy like Toby could, by all rights find himself at the Sydney Opera House on the final night…

But if that happens don’t put any money that we’ll be seeing much of him in the coming years…

So, the surprised Wild Card winners joined the mob to make up the final twelve, which means the competition is really heating up.

And the failed Wild Card’s who would have had to chosen and practiced their song for tonight have to go home without so much as a final performance.  I’m amazed that channel 10 haven’t milked the cow dry this time and allowed them all to perform their song they had chosen for tonight anyhow and sent them home on a bang.

Anyhow, This is how the final 12 looks, I’ve put them in performance order for tonight with their voting details:

Ashleigh Toole 1902555561

Scott Newnham 1902555562

Casey Barnes 1902555563

Hayley Warner 1902555564

James Johnston 1902555565

Sabrina Batshon 1902555566

Nathan Brake 1902555567

Stan Walker 1902555568

Toby Moulton 1902555569

Kim Cooper 1902555570

Tim Johnston 1902555571

Kate Cook 1902555572

So, I guess I should get onto recapping the performances…

——-

Ashleigh Toole 1902555561

Song Choice: Miss Independent

Commentary:

I’m a little concerned about how these performances are being backed up by the band, in previous years I’ve bagged the band for being too clean, which I don’t think is the case this year, (it seems to have a grungier sound) but I don’t agree with the amount of vocal support the contestants are getting. The backing vocals in the performances during the semi finals and now, in the finals have been very strong, so much so that I am not really sure sometimes who I’m hearing sing, the beautiful and professional backup singers or the contestant.  Kill off the backing vocals for a few weeks and we’ll see who can carry a note unsupported and we’ll pull the rug out of those who are having some issues.

*Rant over*

The performance? Vocally strong, great song choice yadda yadda yadda, Ashleigh definitely has an image of what type of songs she’s wanting to sing, how she wants to portray herself and she does it well.  Her style? Big songs, big vocals, chick rock, (Kelly Clarkson, Pink etc…)

I enjoyed the performance, although I’m certain she needs to learn how to use the camera’s better if she’s going to connect to the audience at home.

Great rocking start to the night’s performances

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

Great start to the night darling, a perfect song for you, you have the knack of choosing exactly the right songs for what you are. You are very much like Kelly Clarkson, you’re the suburban home land Australian girl who will hopefully make it big over night. The trick for you though is keeping it simple and not over complicating it.

Marcia’s Comments:

You walked out here like you owned that stage and that is a very large part of performance, great song on your part. I think you’ll keep your head together, you’re very focused and know what you need to do.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

There’s something mentally about the way that you approach everything. 50% of making it in the music industry is vocals and I think you have the other 50% and I just want to keep watching you throughout the competition and just flourish. Well done.

——-

Scott Newnham 1902555562

Song Choice: Come Together

Commentary: 

Props to Scott for getting his kid brother to fart on camera for his intro video clip.

I’ll be a tad harsh, if you screw up the Beatles you’ll be in trouble. For the most part his performance is a bit cheesy, he plays up on stage 9which may get him a few chick fans). I’m not a fan of his vocal gymnastics, but for the most part he seems to hit the right notes (with a few dodgy patches in there)

He could have done a lot worse tonight, but I think he’s continuing to win fans.

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

You do know it’s not a Michael Jackson song don’t you? You haven’t got a clue what you’re doing out there, that’s the best thing about you, you’re purely instinctive and purely physical and it works, don’t over think it.

Marcia’s Comments:

If I could, I’d be standing up there screaming too. You’re obviously one of Australia’s best kept secrets, even to your family. You’re at home on stage and you have a great voice too.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

Good performance. Don’t let the applause get to your head, you’re one of my favorites for the competition. I think you pulled it off tonight.

——-

Casey Barnes 1902555563

Song Choice: (Baby I’ve Got You) On My Mind

Commentary:

I’d almost forgotten that the contestants can hit the stage with their instruments if they’d like, something I’m quickly reminded of as Casey hits the stage with his guitar strapped on.

Performance wise this is a bit subdued as Casey doesn’t get to wander the stage that much, although he does do a bit of a stage walk across to the band for a second or two. Preferring to be standing with his microphone for most of the song (makes sense with the guitar on hand)

I think he does well here, getting into a little bit of “local” rock and having the big band behind him. however, as much fun as it was I’m sill a bit aware that I’m not hearing much from him vocally over the backing singers and band. A lot of fun, nothing really wrong, but it’s lacking something…

Perhaps it’s just that i hate his hair cut..

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

Another very efficient performance, and a great step up in the energy, great choice of song, good use of the guitar. You’re efficient and proficient, we’ve just got to find that magical quality.

Marcia’s Comments:

Most performers get to make it up as they go along, that’s the luxury we’ve got, good luck to you.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

(Casey says he wishes he did that song last week) I love the fact that you’re a musician, I love the fact that you just got up there and delivered that from last week. Lot’s more excitement. Take what you have there and really slam it home.

——-

Hayley Warner 1902555564

Song Choice: Light Surrounding You

Commentary:

This started out being a very very good interpretation of a great song, her higher notes however were very pitchy (just sounded like her screaming off tune).

she looks good on stage, and, if she keeps her vocals in the middle or lower range she sounds really great and comfortable, but her higher range needs a lot of work.

Good try, it looked good on paper but ended up being a little all over the place, I hope she lasts another night because she shows some promise.

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

I’m so very glad that the Australian public has seen in you what we saw in you. It’s safe to say that you haven’t got the most pristine voice, but I don’t think that matters, I think you’re here because of your attitude and originality. That song’s a lot harder to perform than some may think. I can’t take my eyes off of you because you’re captivating, pick the energy songs.

Marcia’s Comments:

You did a great job, and that’s one of my favourite all time songs. Work with Erina while you’re here on you voice, but you did a great job, well done.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

I’m backing your uniqueness. Loose your tenseness and you’re fine.

——-

James Johnston 1902555565

Song Choice: How to Save a Life

Commentary:

The video introduction played the simple small country town farm boy card on us, they really love the idea of a small town guy making it big. Especially if he’s not a country music boy trying to do his own thing.

I’m interested that he didn’t come out on stage with his guitar tonight, but he’s chosen a song that suits his voice and audience really well, all-be-it a song that doesn’t have any huge power nots that the judges love to hear. he also looks down at the camera a few times which means he kind of knows what he’s doing.

Vocally strong, he isn’t pitchy at all and does the slow song ballad on stage really well. although I’m tempted to fall asleep now…

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

You don’t need to deny your country heritage, but there’s no need to deny it either. I think what you did there was brilliantly well metred, as Marcia said. You had a real country rock beginning there I’ve never heard that song sung in that way before, and then it became something else. And that’s a great trick to have in your back pocket. That little boy lost with sexual overtones is working really well for you too.

Marcia’s Comments:

That’s what I’m talking about. That was really well metred, it had great light and shade, you pitched it really well. I just want to say well done darling.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

I’m really happy that you’ve changed address, it feels a lot better for me that was a great performance, keep going like that and you’ll convince me.

——-

Sabrina Batshon 1902555566

Song Choice: Earth Song

Commentary:

This is such an odd song choice for the little pocket rocket. She really tries to belt the song out, and at times does it well. She seems comfortable on stage and sings really well (her higher tones were on the mark, unlike Hayley).

Sure, she’s great and her performance screams “Young Talent Time” but I wish she didn’t look like she was passing a Gallstone all the time. And see a stylist girl, that makeup isn’t doing you any favours…

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

You have been really really coached, over coached if anything. And it started out like that, like the old Sabrina, like some Mediterranean soap opera, really over emoting. Where it ended though it ended up warm, wild and sexy, when you cut loose it suits you, it’s electrifying to watch.

Marcia’s Comments:

I understand what everyone’s saying, but I think that everytime you perform you’re just being Sabrina, so go girl.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

I’ve got two parts to this. First, damn you can sing, that was a great vocal performance. The other side of me wanted to get like Jarvis Cocker up on stage waving my arse around. I want you to forget everything you’ve ever learned at talent school. Really think about it.

——-

Nathan Brake 1902555567

Song Choice: Stop and Stare

Commentary:

I’m actually happy that we’re finding contestants that are choosing popular songs from today (as apart from Whitney Housten and Celine songs) and Nathan sure seems comfortable singing songs like this.

I’m sure his hair and baby features would make him popular with the young women out there, his performance is comfortable, not over the top, relaxed and without too many pitch issues.

Nothing bad, just nothing fantastic either…

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

Perfect song choice for you, we asked you to do something a bit more contemporary, it was a great fit for you, you are addicted to the big notes though aren’t you? And you do them so well, but we got hints there of other textures, and energies like that little falsetto and something far more intimate altogether, so I would push yourself some more because you have some really good textures there.

Marcia’s Comments:

I’m very glad that you sang that song, very good song choice for you. And they wonder why you choose to sing those very big notes, it’s because you can… Well done.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

I agree with everything they said, I think you look a lot better there. A bit shaky on the falsetto at the end there. I do want to see you explore every personality that you have and I think you’re going to do well.

——-

Stan Walker 1902555568

Song Choice: Umbrella

Commentary:

The producers really love to find an angle on their contestants don’t they? I guess it’s because if you find a market you’re more likely to get more phone calls and more cd sales. In Stan’s case they’re really pushing the hard life story and gangs before finding the church and singing there. I guess this would really help him get points with the loyal Christian audience out there… good luck…

Umbrella is a very odd choice for a fella fella fella (sorry, couldn’t help it) on Idol. A bit of fin from Stan shows that he really enjoys this kind of RnB fun music and can do it relaxed and comfortable on stage.

He grinned from ear to ear after finishing his performance, he looked like he had fun, which it was but possibly lacked any memorable notes and vocals. but I can live with a bit of a grin and a fun song choice with no vocal faults (or not many).

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

I always love talking to you, you’re a real bundle of joy and I love listening to you sing and get this, who’d have thought… it’s only been a couple of weeks, but I’ve missed you. I couldn’t wait to hear you sing, fantastic mate, i love you to bits, well done.

Marcia’s Comments:

You have one of the most natural voices that we have this year. I just adore it when you sing and I adore the different versions of what you sing. And when I hear your folks talk about the way you sing, and hearing you talk about the life you have had that is why you sing the way you sing, don’t change a thing.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

You love a girl’s song that’s all I can say. That’s ok because you do it really well. Your voice really exited me. What I want to see from you now is to up the performance level because these guys love you when you move across the stage a little more. Your voice is sensational Well done.

——-

Toby Moulton 1902555569

Song Choice: Creep

Commentary:

The school teacher who made it into the final 12 after the public voted him in as a Wild Card is up next.

ARGH!!! NOOOOOOOO!!!!! You can’t clean up Radiohead like this! This is just outright Blasphemy!!!!

Toby’s performance is way too clean for this song, he does manage to get a few good notes out but I was too busy crying and beating my head against a brick to really pay much attention to his performance.

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

You are sexy and you absolutely appeal to an older female audience but I wouldn’t go singing those youthful tales of disaffection. Radiohead… That was an Emo Anthem 15 years before Emo. If I were you instead of Thom Yorke I’d be singing Chris Isaak, and something that’s more in the pocket for you.

Marcia’s Comments:

You got the opportunity and you executed it beautifully, and you are sexy, work with it (don’t hate me…) hahaha

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

You did a really good job at that song, I was really nervous at the start, and at times the voice didn’t really make it. But I think you really did commit to it by the end. Keep going and keep pushing yourself, you’re still a little bit polite but you’re sexy.

——-

Kim Cooper 1902555570

Song Choice: Best of You

Commentary:

I’ve got to say that i reaaaallllly hope that the producers stop pushing the “I’ve lived a hard life but music gives me hope” storylines, it’s a bit too much to put up with.

With that off of my chest Kim’s performance is almost flawless, she really seems to know what she’s doing just sitting on the chair belting it out to an audience that is just really wanting to listen. Starting out slowly she’s able to build the song up to a bit of rock before toning it down somewhat.

Great song choice…

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

Great effort, if you’re going to pick a rock song it’s great to choose a rock band that has some good melody’s and of course the Foo’s have some awesome melodys. I love that you gave it the unplugged treatment which allowed you to draw the focus to yourself… and I think it’s great to see Hopkin back after ditching the Ugly Betty specs.

Marcia’s Comments:

That was fantastically executed, it was dramatic and sultry and melodic, I think you did a great job. Well done.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

I applaud your confidence, that’s all I have to say, well done.

——-

Tim Johnston 1902555571

Song Choice: Halo

Commentary:

Sorry? This is the second guy to pull off a chick song, this time he’s doing a Beonce song, this is a bit of a weird night.

Although, Tim’s possibly let the judges down a lot as he’s incredibly pitchy, especially when he tries to pull off the higher notes, (story of the evening really) and wasn’t really engaging at all.

Can’t for the life of me figure out why he got a Wild Card over the likes of Lauren Street.

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

You look a million dollars, there’s no two ways about it. You have a great personality and you have a really really great pop soul voice. I have to say though that, that song was on the very edge of your vocal capabilities though and I was worried. I was grabbing things worried that you’re going to fall over and I shouldn’t have to feel that. If you just pick songs that are within your comfort zone it’ll mean that you can give things 100% and it means that we can join in it as well. You are traveling so well and I just don’t want to see you slip up is all.

Marcia’s Comments:

It’s going to be a great year, in the sense that I am a great believer that a great song can be interpreted by a man or a woman. Infact, one of my biggest hits was a song that was written by a guy, and I just think that if you really love the song and think that you can put your own stamp on it then go on. well done.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

I wasn’t 100% convinced tonight, I was kind of rooting for you because I thought that last week you pulled out a performance that had me on the edge of my seat going “oh my god”. Tonight I think it was a bit short, I think it was an interesting song choice. I’ve been rooting for you, I’ve seen your progression but now I just want to see you flourish into the you I know you can be so do that.

——-

Kate Cook 1902555572

Song Choice: Stuck In the Middle With You

Commentary:

Back to the video introductions and how they’re really pissing me off tonight.  Kate’s introduction was the corniest of them all, it felt like it had  been produced by a Today tonight crew member.  How many times can Kate be promoted as the proudest little Aussie? and the music backing to the clip trying to manipulate people to feel sad for her as her story unfolded?  Come On!!! Stop trying to milk it! Really, by the time the introduction finished (which seemed to go on and on and on…) I was already ready for the performance to end.

Performance wise however, she did seem to have a lot of fun on the stage, big grin from ear to ear, or is it from hat brim to hat brim? They’ve really decided to market this chick as a country girl through and through from her boots to her hat.

Vocally she chose a song that was well within her capabilities and allowed her to play a lot, have some fun and sing a simple song in tune, she could have done a lot worse. Infact, she was kind of ok.

Judges Comments:

Dicko’s Comments:

Kate, I spend most of my time on this show talking to contestants about branding and about finding something that’s unique about themselves. You’ve got it, infact you’ve had it from the very first day that you stepped in front of us and you’ve still got it now. Jay-Dee is right, you don’t need to change, there is a bit of refining. But what you have is a love for people, I can tell and it’s reciprocated, people love you, and every time you get on stage it’s party time. Tell you what I would hate to be following you onto the stage, you’re brilliant. Well done.

Marcia’s Comments:

I love the joy that you find in your performance and that joy is obviously contagious because the audience enjoys it too. Keep it up.

Jay-Dee’s Comments:

You never fail to disappoint, I look at you on stage, and just think you look so comfortable, you look so comfortable, you pick the right songs for you each week. Probably a little less energy than we’ve seen from you before, maybe a little nerves? Everyone’s going to tell you “don’t change” and all I’m going to say is refine and you’ll be fine.

—

So, that’s it for the top 12 performances, gee I can’t wait until there’s only 5 performers on stage, 12 is way too many performances to sit through and write up…

My Top three for the night (in no particular order)

Nathan

Kim

James

My Bottom three for the night (in no particular order)

Toby

Tim

Sabrina

 

And yes, I’m as surprised as you are that Kate didn’t make it to the bottom 3..

We’ll see you next week…

When it’s ROCK NIGHT with susie Quatro as guest judge.

First of all Andy has announced the performers from the last show who have made i through to the finals.  The new finalists are:

Kim Cooper

James Johnston

Wildcard Performances and Song Choices:

Voting Information

Dicko’s Wildcard Performances and Song Choices:

Aliqua Mao

Vote:  1902 5555 63

Song: Power of Love

Casey Barnes

Vote: 1902 5555 62

Song: Never Say Never

Lucie Johnston

Vote: 1902 5555  61

Song: Boogie Wonderland

Marcia’s Wildcard Choices:

Lauren Street

Vote:  1902 5555 64

Song: Low

Tim Johnson

Vote:  1902 5555 65

Song: Yesterday

Tenielle Muslin

Vote:  1902 5555 67

Song: Kiss Me

Jay Dee’s Wildcard Choices:

Toby Moulton

Vote:  1902 555568

Song: With or Without You

Edmund Zaidan

Vote: Vote:  1902 555566

Song: White Noise

Hayley Warner

Vote: Vote:  1902 555569

Song: I Do Not Hook Up

Through to Finals: Ashleigh Toole and Nathan Brake

Sony/BMG must be crapping themselves at the moment, sure, both Ashleigh Toole and Nathan Brake are nice underdog contestants, but no Casey and no Lauren would be putting fear in the minds of those people who are in power.  channel ten may have to do some quick thinking if they actually want a show this year…

Daniel Raso

You To Me Are Everything

Daniel is up first singing the song “You to Me are Everything”

This is such an odd song selection for a contestant to pull out  in the Semi finals, but I shouldn’t be surprised by now, the contestants that are chosen regularly chose weird songs…

Daniel’s voice is clean and crisp, he does miss a note here and there though and he looks like he’s comfortable and happy on stage, the tune is catchy but it’s not a standout yet..

Judge’s Comments:

Daniel, it is nice to have a shiny happy contestant, but I have to think about where we would place you, but it’s more a warm up act for the Wiggles than anything.  I’m not getting it, at the moment you present to me like a children’s television presenter with musical inspirations.

Marcia: What you have to do is ALWAYS STAY TRUE TO YOURSELF. my only criticism is watch your pitch.

Jay-Dee: Have you thought about what we talked about before? I agree with Marcia and Dicko, go back and think.

Aliqua Mao
I will Always Love You

Whitney Housten is one of the worst performers to choose for an Idol show, it’s been shown over and over and over again in the US show and the Australian show that if you do this song you’ll die.

This performance is weak at best, pitchy, uncomfortable, nervous, sure she’s cute but yeck…

What was going on in her mind when she chose this damn song to sing?  thousands of songs out there that are cool, fun, nice and easier to sing and she chooses a song that is way out of her league and oh so old…

And was it just me, or did she look like she was in pain for the entire performance?

Judge’s Comments:

Marcia: We always have discussions about songs, and we think that a song like that might be a bit too much, I don’t anymore, you did a great job.

Jay-Dee: I think you did a good job, but I’m still thinking that you may be a couple years from where you need to be, I wish you all the best.

Dicko: I’ve one word, why? You’re a great girl, with all those hip songs to choose from but you sang an older song which made you look so much out of your depth. It’s like we flip a coin and we either get crazy and great Aliqua or something else… You look like you’re wearing your mothers clothes and have been flicking through their cd collection.

Nicole Banks
Viva La Vida

Nicole Banks has been there and done this before and failed badly and now, singing Coldplay is the first contestant to choose a great song to perform.

That being said, her voice doesn’t seem to carry this song too well, it doesn’t show off a great vocal range, nor does it allow her to use the stage well.

This ended up being a messy performance, vocally patchy and rather uncomfortable to listen to…
this is her second time round, which Lauren just found out doesn’t guarantee a place in the finals, who knows how Australia will vote?

Judge’s Comments:

Jay-Dee: Nicole, I was really scared when I heard you were going to sing that song, but I think you did a good job, well done.

Dicko: Very tough to place you as an artist, not the best vocal, but I like that you’re staying true to the theatrical side, and doing some interesting things with some alternative songs, well done.

Marcia: Quirky is raelly good, you have some interesting timber in yourself, and you’re STAYING TRUE TO YOURSELF. Well done Nicole

Jason Bartlett
Tears in Heaven

Father of two Jason came on stage to sing a song that really shouldn’t be sung at this point of time in the competition. It looked like the performance was a strain on the guy, but more of a strain on the audience.

I’m seriously wondering if any of these contestants have paid attention to previous shows and taken notes of song death picks.

Sure, he sung it well, but I fell asleep.

It won’t see him on the finals, and if it does then we’ll see some stressed out judges in a few weeks…

*edit* note how hard it was for the Judges to say, “well done, you’ve had your go, now go home and be happy”?

Judge’s Comments:

Dicko: It’s great to see you singing here on stage, because we love you. You’ve really really improved and got better and better. that’s your best performance but the trick is if it’s good enough to get into the top 24.  Well done.

Marcia: I just have to say that once you got over your nerves it was just sweet, that’s what you’re going to have to fight, you’ll have to fight those nerves. Well done.

Jay-Dee: I just love your heart, these guys have said it all. Just go for it with whatever you do.

Scott Newnham
Run It

This is the fairytale of the competition, good ol Brikkie turned Idol hopeful.
I’ll be honest, I haven’t typed much because I was too busy laughing and crying, even now I can’t see my screen clearly…
Just
So
Funny
And oh so obviously helped by the band, cameras and backing vocals, I couldn’t tell the difference between him and the backing vocals.

Judge’s Comments:

Marcia: Oh Man. This is why I love Australian Idol. I am so very happy for you, I am really happy for you. You did great.

Jay-Dee: To the band, that was outstanding. Now, young man I’m excited, and when I’m excited I cant keep it in. You could find yourself with a niche in this country, keep yourself focussed and youll get yourself there.

 

Dicko: What is it with ladies and tradies? The guys have said it all, you are doing something that noone is doing in this competition, you’re not running with the crowd and thats great. And Marcia said pitch perfect.

Sabrina Batshon
Hush Hush

Ok, possibly the most entertaining performance of the night, with a song choice that was fraught with danger, not only did she survive, but she did well and was fun to listen to.

vocally she was spot on and she seemed to be very comfortable and happy to be on the stage, this was not forced.

Judge’s Comments:

Jay-Dee: How did that feel? You knocked it out of the park, I think you have real potential as a recording artist. I know you can sing anything, I just need you to give me a little sign.

Dicko: I reckon that while you were banging out of that tune I think the Mardi Gras organisers were thinking “we have a headliner”. It’s so nice and refreshing to see you doing a pop song, well done.

Marcia: What makes me happy is to see you up there being so happy, well done.

Tonight the first group of semi finalists perform for Australia’s pleasure.  Well, pleasure, hopefully.

Remember, voting closes at 3am AEST so don’t leave your voting until tomorrow or you’ll miss out.

The voting lines are already open.  You can find the voting details here.

I’ve posted a brief comment on each performance below with a rough copy of the judge’s comments, as tonight’s the first time I’ve done a live blog post since, well, I can’t remember I’ll keep it fairly simple.

I’ve also tried really hard not to comment on how:

- Ricki-Lee looked like a massively over-inflated black helium baloon

- The new judge Jay Dee is the second pom to sit as a judge on AUSTRALIAN Idol, or how his comments seem to be really unhelpful and bland (how many ways can someone say “I liked it” without being kicked off the television?)

- How many times Marcia uses her beloved catch-phrases like “Stay True To Yourself” even in the first semi final, or how I’m making it into a great drinking game in future episodes.

 

Hayley Warner – 1902 5555 61
Crying Shame

Hayley seemed a little uncomfortable as she came on stage, vocally and musically it was an odd way to kick off the evening, the song had no way to intro the music, so it just seemed to be a bit forced.

Visually she has no real charisma on stage, I was of the mind that she looked more like a stunned chicken on stage than a seasoned performer and can’t really see her winning the competition, although I can see her lasting a few weeks.

The camera work wasn’t helping her at all either, it wasn’t following her well at all, or perhaps it was more that she wasn’t using it as well as she could have either. She’s got to become a little more cocky and confidant if she’s going to make a few weeks into the competition.

Hayley seemed to warm up near the end of the performance but was possibly a little too late for me, I can see how she may be a judge favourite, but seriously I can’t see her making it to the Sydney Opera House.

Judges Comments:
Dicko: You have been really cool and strong, a good start to the night.  If you’re going to choose well known songs, put them through your own filter. Be special, do your own thing.

Marcia: A great way to start the show, you’re a crowd pleaser and that was a crowd pleaser.

Jay Dee: I’m really pleased that I’m on the show and I’m pleased with that performance.

Seth Drury – 1902 5555 62
You Found Me

Seth is obviously one of the judge’s favourites this year, his curly hair will at the very least help him get into a boy band if he doesn’t make it this year, or at the very least he may make it on television as a hair model. He’s really been marketed as the cute guy in the competition and if he doesn’t get on the show I think Dicko and co may be rather pissed.

Vocally the song sounded like it started a little out, but quickly became more comfortable as time went on. 

My issue with the song choice is that The Fray makes a bad choice vocally for whomever sings it, there’s not enough of a range there, or energy there to be memorable or grab people’s attention.  The best way would be to play it while also playing the piano, but even then your vocals suffer from being unremarkable.  In the end The Fray is just middle of the road easy listening music for teens.

Overall, the performance was possibly too clean of a vocally, Seth spent most of the song behind the microphone and only moved near the end of the performance, not showing much conviction or really showing us anything else about himself that would convince anyone to vote for him that’s not already related or paid off…

My word for this performance is “unremarkable”

Judges Comments:

Marcia: You’ve got a lot of things happening for you, I like your believability, I really like the way you interpret.

Jay: It was a good performance, there’s something that intrigues me about you, perhaps you need a little work, perhaps remove you from the piano a little. I think the girls are going to like you.

Dicko: You’ve really worked on your voice in the last year, you need to work on your vulnerability, well done.

 

Jamila Ioane – 1902 5555 63
For Once In My Life

Oh my dear God, what on earth was going on in her mind when she chose the clothes that she’s wearing?  Sure, wear those clothes out to the night club, or to the prom, but oh deary lord don’t wear them on television, especially those ear rings and, what on earth is up with that hair and dress?!!!

Musically Jamila is on the ball, her notes are crisp and clean, performance wise however she looks rather uncomfortable, which I guess is forgivable for the first semi-final, but it’s still embarrassing to watch, easier to listen to though…

All that being said, I liked the vocals, I just think that she may be a little too young for the gig this year…

Judges Comments:

Jay Dee
The camera loves you, you owned the stage, I’m not sure abbot the arrangement of the song, when you’re picking songs  think about that.

Dicko
I was a little distracted by the earrings. You are a warm, appealing girl with a voice to match. That was a real step up for you tonight.

Marcia
It was great to see you comfortable, well done darling.

Toby Moulton – 1902 5555 64
Yellow

Can anyone tell me how on earth this guy made it this far? sure, plonk him on stage at the local pub, or maybe a wedding, but not on Idol.  Vocally he seems clean and safe, while his performance is so very very very uncomfortable and, as the performance went on you noticed how nasty his high notes can be, he is really hit and miss.

As a performer he just doesn’t seem to cut it, but then again we’ve allowed a clean cut type of person to the Idol lounge before (even though that time whatshisname had an irish accent) so who knows, perhaps those pathetic soccer mums may actually put in a phone call or two for him…

He made me want to switch the television over to Top Gear

Judges Comments:

Dicko
Toby, look you have got a lovely voice, and as a teacher I guess you have to be a role model.  When you perform you do tender really well, but a lot of performing is about doing sexy. You may need to turn it up a notch to give the soccer mums something to get hot under the collar about.

Marcia
It’s working for me, well done.

Jay Dee
I agree with Dicko, I think your vocals was great, I think mums are going to love you, but it’s a touch polite.

Kate Cook - 1902 5555 65
Your Mama Don’t Dance

What The!!???

Can anyone spell Steriotipe?

Or is that Stairiotype?

Or Stereotype?

that’s it, fantastic, I knew I’d get there sometime

Oh crap, I spent all the time trying to spell and now ran out of time to comment on Kate’s completely wiggy song choice, country hat and obvious marketing angles.  If you like your chicks to be dressed up in flannelette shirts and Acubra hats while singing songs from a time that music has long forgotten then perhaps Kate’s for you.

Ok, with that off my mind, she did have fun and she was smiling through the entire performance and yes, she looked like she was having a ball.

But seriously, that still doesn’t make me want to vote for her.

Judges Comments:

Marcia
If you just keep it as simple as that AND STAY TRUE TO YOURSELF you’ll do well

Jay Dee
I really like you, I think this country will love you too.

Dicko:
I don’t know if I’m exactly what you’re looking for but I’m in love with you too. You’re honest, you just get up there and do it. You’re gold.

Stan Walker - 1902 5555 66

Alicia Keys’ ‘If I Ain’t Got You’

There’s something about the video introductions that remind me of A Current Affair, trying to make us feel all soft and fuzzy about the various contestants because so and so had a hard life, or because whatshername used to be touched in a bad way by….

ok, I’ll stop there…

Or people will start calling me Sandilands

Diction seems to be a problem for Stan, who just looks like he’s living his dream there on stage, and as much as I hate to say it, vocally he seems more natural and honest than any of the other performances tonight.

Stan lacks a body and face that would look good on a Rolling Stone Magazine, but, I’m reminded that we’ve not necessarily always voted for the most attractive Idols in either teh Semi Finals or the Finals of this competition, so he may be in with a chance, especially with the conservative Christian vote that is no doubt heading his way after having sung “Jesus Loves Me This I Know” in one of his auditions.

Judges Comments:

Jay Dee:
I’ve been hearing about this voice for a couple of weeks. You know what, I think you could sing the phone book, and if you get through I’ll be on your back, you’ve got an amazing tool.

Dicko
How good has tonight’s show been?  Stan, you have got a really good soul voice, when you have the voice hardwired to your heart it just flows and it’s captivating. You are a super talent mate.

Marcia
I just love your voice, I love that you’re very game and take a lot of chances. You have one of teh finest, smoothest and sexiest voices that i’ve heard in a long time. Know that, and try to be smooth and keep it real.