on idol so far...

Since American Idol Season 9 aired last January, I haven’t missed a single episode. Because just like Ryan Seacrest had said: the beauty of Idol is in the journey; from witnessing humble beginnings to being a part of incredible triumphs. I think it’s going to be a good season this year. There are so many promising and diverse talents. As of now there is no clear front runners compared to last season which makes it so much interesting. American Idol thrives in unpredictability and the element of surprise. Some may disagree but I’d really like Idol to continue for a few more years. The search for talent and the discovery of new artists have always been the primary reasons why I look forward to watch Idol every year. During the auditions prior to Hollywood Week, I got a lot of early favorites and fortunately, most of them successfully qualified to the final 24. But a few didn’t make the cut: Angela Martin, a single mom. It was her 3^rd time to join Idol and I felt for her when she was sent home. Also, there is J.B. Ahfua from Hawaii. He is a returnee from last season but he’s really good. And of course, the singing policeman. I forgot his name but his voice is really stuck in my ears.

I think, so far, the guys are stronger than the gals. My current favorites are Alex Lambert (He was so nervous on the first week but came back strongly with that John Legend song. I love his James Morrison tone! I’d kill for that.), Aaron Kelly (He is a David Archuleta in the making.), Lee Dewyze (I loved his Chasing Cars cover but the Hinder song, not so much.), Andrew Garcia (This guy is very talented but song choice has been a problem for him. And I think he should stick with his guitar.), and Casey James (He’s good but he doesn’t have the pipes to nail a Gavin Degraw. But he’s definitely rockin’ the guitar!).

In the girl’s roster, my ears are on to Crystal Bowersox (She is just purely talented. Period.), Katelyn Epperly (I was moved by her rendition of The Scientist. It was very haunting but I have to agree that the tempo was so slow.) and Lily Scott (I like the indie vibe. I really wish people would root for her because I think people don’t listen to the kind of music she makes.) One of the girls that really stood out for me because of her talent and personality was Haeley Vaughn. I felt bad that she was sent off last week. She is musically talented but I think the lack of modulation in her voice probably brought by young age weighed her performance down. I’d love to see her again hopefully next year.

These favorites may change through the course of the competition. Talent is given but they have to be consistent. Let’s have Danny Gokey for example. Everyone thought he would end up in the finals but he suddenly went safe by the end of the semis, where Kris Allen peaked at the right time while Adam performed consistently.

I think I’m going to post a weekly AI review from now on. I can’t wait till Wednesday. Ciao!