Tim Urban shirtless *drool*...

Tim Urban has 6-pack abs!

Saw this delish pic on zap2it.com and just HAD to share! Girls (and boys), this is a big part of the reason Timmy-boy is STILL on the show despite less than spectacular performances. He's just eye-candy and very likeable. He's survived two rounds of piano shows, lets see if he can make it to the Top 12.

Speaking of Top 12 - I saw Ellen D's tweet (see screen cap) and she's looking for a 'correspondent' for the upcoming Top 12 party! I waaaaant that job! Wahlao twitpic/ustream video til my phone explodes k!

Why is LA so far away? Sigh, one can dream right?

THE SHOW

Ok, so, I finally got to watch American Idol last night (a whole FOUR days after it aired - so fail right? What to do, Mommy duties go 24hrs when kiddies are sick!) Simon Cowell's trailer is TWO-Frigggin'-STOREYS high? Does he live in Monaco and not get taxed on his income or what?

Ok, so last week, the boys and girls switched nights cos Crystal Bowersox had to be hospitalised (rumours online speculating she had to be treated for Type I Diabetes) and the boys gallantly agreed to switch despite that meaning they have one day less to rehearse. I think it hurt them overall, but since they're all in the same boat, its still fair for the boys. The girls definitely did better this week overall.

Here's a quick lookback at each of the Top 20.

Top 10 Boys

Michael Lynche

Big Mike strikes me as an overachiever - musical theatre/jock. He should guest star on Glee :) His performance was good vocally, but it was so slow, I yawned. I thought he was also a tad drama, but then again, thats his big personality shining through. The guy's a fan fave (and the judges loved it), so he should make it to Top 12.

John Park

Not a good choice of song for the second week in a row. With nary a backstory to back him up in viewers' minds, all I recall is last week sang a super slow song, and was called indulgent. This week, do the same kind of slow song again. Kara says he doesn't connect with the song and isn't letting loose - Asian roots playing a part here? After all, we are known for bein' uptight (kiasu, kiasee etc) right? Die lor.

Casey James

WOOT! LOVED IT! Two great song choices over the past two weeks.

Not only is this Gavin DeGraw song totally recogniseable and liked, (thanks to One Tree Hill, the refrain is part of pop culture history), Casey totally rocked it out with his guitar! Fulemak, loved the ending where he went 'Ey! Ey!' while he channeled some guitar god! Totally disagree with Kara and Simon here, I think he brought it - imo totally frontrunner for me for the boys. Sorry Andrew 'my original fave' Garcia.

Alex Lambert

Looks like a young Paul McCartney? He's adorable and has this 'hurt lil puppy' vibe you just want to take him home and pat him and tell him 'everything'll be ok' :) I like his tone, reminds me of Airi. I liked his performance. Its like the guitar helped 'shield' him from whatever it was that made him nervous - he looked comfortable and into it.

Btw peeps, did you catch Simon subliminally 'plugging' X-factor? He said, 'I wish I was choosing your songs for you at this stage' - a characteristic that isn't on the Idol format, but on X Factor, the judges mentor the contestants and do help with song selection - conspiracy theory? What do you think?

Todrick Hall

Simon called him Tondrick...sigh.

I think REKS were way harsh on him. I like Todrick and I don't think he did that bad a job on that Tina Turner song. Hopefully America sees past that, and he gets to stay one more week.

Jermaine Sellers

I find the way he speaks so endearing. And his onesie! Very memorable :) His personality kinda reminds me of Chris Rock (maybe too many Rush Hour 3 trailers running on Ch5).

The song however, ugh, sorry, but I love Marvin Gaye and I felt he didn't do it justice - it was OTT. I think Simon said it right, 'you water down the songs'.

Andrew Garcia

What can I say? "Straight Up" may have put him through to Top 24, but it may also be the downfall that keeps him from Top 12. Last week and this week, although he sang well, judges and viewers (imo) including myself, are disappointed. James Morrison's 'You Give Me Something' shoulda paid off, but somehow it didn't (maybe its cos he didn't have the guitar, cos he went flat a few times), and next week, he's definitely gotta top "Straight Up" to get into the Top 12. Will his status as a 'Youtube star' help him?

Aaron Kelly

I love this boy's voice :) and he's just so earnest you can't help but love him right? His version of My Girl had me bobbing my head to it, so I think not bad la. I'm pretty sure he's gonna make it to Top 12. He's like Jesse McCartney + David Archuleta + Justin Bieber all rolled into one.

Tim Urban

I agree with Simon on this one - he definitely gets highest marks for improving. But I also have to agree with Ellen, he should be on Glee. He seriously looks like an actor playing the part of a singer - last week and this week - a friend and I recently concurred that he reminded us of a stiff Tom Welling (Smallville) coming out to sing.

Lee Dewyze

He did a great job closing the show. I totally agree with Kara that his voice is radio-ready. I looked away a few times when he was singing and he sounds like The Fray or Hoobastank (said as much last week), and I think he could be the guy to beat this season if he makes the right song choices week after week. Oh, and could someone please get him a belt?

Guys I remember?

Lee, Casey. Yep, thats it.

In trouble imo...

Jermaine Sellers. John Park.

Top 10 Girls

Crystal Bowersox

The one to watch?

Crystal was the judges' favourite that night, and I have to say, I liked her this week more than last week - she looked very 'fresh' - her skin actually glowed (I think this makeup suited her better) and towards the end, she seriously started looking like Jewel (when Jewel first started out). However, I didn't really like her song - maybe country isn't my thing - unless its packaged like Casey James ;) (gotta join Kara's cougar club now...)

Haeley Vaughn

Painful. Just painful.

I think maybe she needs a few more years to grow up and experience life. Kara said there are probably a lot of people rooting for her at home - uh, I don't think so.

Lacey Brown

I likey.

Last week when Kara said Lacey's vibe was Six Pence None The Richer, I totally agreed. And I liked the way she changed up the song here and there - it surprised me, cos I figured she wouldn't have the 'power' and just do it straight.

However, eventhough I enjoyed it, Lacey strikes me more as the lead singer of a band...sorry girl, rootin' for ya tho'!

Katie Stevens

I've always loved 'Put Your Records On'. But imo, 'KayKay's' performance was too laidback and flat (overconfidence maybe?). I thought at the end, she was gonna amp it up, but she didn't. I mean, no doubt, Katie's got a great voice, and I never really expect that voice to come outta that face (yes face, she so cute she looks like she's meant to have a squeaky voice). Kinda agree with Kara, she needs that 'wow' moment.

Didi Benami

:(...

I feel that way cos I kinda see her going the way of Megan Joy (from last season). Hopefully next week she can up her game. Agree with Simon, 'Lean On Me' was too generic a song choice - very very bad song choice for her. For me, her top performance so far was Kara's 'Terrified'.

Michelle Delamor

Creed. Respeck to her for taking the risk, but sorry, not the right song choice though.

Michelle looks like she could play the 'Mimi' character on the musical "Rent" (my fave musical btw, I watched it 3 times when SRT staged it here!). And when she sang the Creed song, it was like she was part of the cast of the musical version of Green Day's '21 Guns'. Maybe she should try Broadway if this doesn't work out.

And wow, Vera Wang for piano show? Happening. (I thought it looked kinda wedding-y!)

Lilly Scott

Like Kara, I was riveted. I was totally transported back in time to the 70s and was just totally still throughout the performance. And Randy hit the mark when he said 'Bjork'! Lilly totally had some 'Bjork'-y references in that performance and I loved it!

I seriously am rooting for her just cos she's so refreshing - way to hit it outta the park girl! Woot!

Katelyn Epperly

She plays the piano? Cool.

'The Scientist' is one of those songs that just gets you right there. And although I agree a little (just a small little bit) with Ellen, that it was a bit snooze-y (s.l.o.w.), I agree a whole lot more with Kara. I don't know why, but I simply love Katelyn - everything about her, from her cute smile, great skin, fabulouso curls, and of course great vocals, even her name...its so starlet can?

I also agree with Simon that this was a really good choice of song, and it made her contemporary, putting her back in the race. Imo, 3rd behind Lilly and Crystal, in front of Michelle.

Btw, if you watched the recent season of The Bachelor (Jake Pavelka), don't you think she looks like she could be Ali Fedotowsky's sister? (see pic).

Paige Miles

Colouring? Seriously? Okay. Its your VT.

I already don't really remember her - all I remember was thinking she shoulda gone home last week. Sorry, no personality. No spark. No backstory. Forgettable.

She definitely needs to have a 'moment' to get her to the Final Top 12.

Siobhan Magnus

RESPECK - takin' on Aretha! And she's such a small, skinny lil' thing.

"You are such a strange person."- Simon Cowell

I have to agree with Simon. She's just so interesting, I can't help but look forward to seeing what she's gonna do from week to week. Plus, although she's a bit of a freak, she's actually quite pretty (and has what seems like a lot of very white teeth!).

Who do I personally remember?

Lilly. Siobhan. Katelyn. Lacey. Crystal.

Going home imo...

Haeley. Paige.

RESULTS SHOW

10 guys + 10 girls singing 'I Gotta Feeling', now THAT'S what I call 'watered-down'. When the girls started singing, I thought I was watching a Miss America pageant lol!

I think I was looking forward more to catching Gokey than I was the actual results. I mean, c'mon its just Piano Shows right? The REAL competition only starts at Top 12 right? Right? So Danny...he's lost some weight and is lookin' hawt! I've so missed him! It was just great seeing him back on the Idol stage and his positivity and just his exuberance for life....its amazing how he's bounced back from the tragic death of his wife.

He's back to also promote his new country album 'My Best Days'. Never really thought he'd go 'country' but I guess it suits him. He may just give Carrie Underwood a run for her country money.

RESULTS :

Over 27 million votes came in (wahlao, thats like SI's Finals x27! LOL!), and I guessed 3 out of 4 right :). I wrote the above predictions before I watched the Results Show (and no, I didn't cheat by googling!).

Out :

John & Jermaine; Michelle & Haeley

Damn, Paige is safe. Ugh, hated that it was down to Didi and Michelle, cos I like Michelle, but her lack of backstory (this is so important), means viewers don't connect as much. So bye bye Michelle. Haeley vs Lacey was also quite predictable - Lacey was waaaay better than Haeley.

My predictions for the Top 12 are :
guys

Lee Dewyze

Michael Lynche

Casey James

Aaron Kelly

Alex Lambert

Tim Urban

Possibly out : Todrick Hall, Andrew Garcia

The first 5 names above are already huge fan favourites. So with only one spot left for boys, I would say it goes to Tim Urban - see shirtless pic at the top to understand why. Andrew's more talented than Tim, but he hasn't been performing the last two weeks, and that one Hollywood Week sparkle may not be enough to keep him in.

girls

Crystal Bowersox

Lilly Scott

Katie Stevens

Siobhan Magnus

Katelyn Epperly

Paige Miles/Didi Benami

In trouble : Lacey Brown, Didi Benami/Paige Miles

I hope Didi makes it through, but as weeks ago by and people get to know Paige more, she has the voice, so she may actually get through. I really wish I could like her more, but I don't know, she just bores me, not Idol material imo. I mean, colouring hippos....power to you for a great and safe hobby (for ages 3 & up)....*yaawwwn*

Who do you think will make up the Top 12?

We'll know this Friday who are the Top 12. Can't wait! Ok back to watching the Oscars now....did you watch?

xoxo, s.

ps. If you haven't been watching Survivor, aiyo its damn good la, please go watch.

IDOL DAY #3

American Idol 3 times a week!

Today is the first of three weeks of where we'll get to watch American Idol 3 days in a row. We're now at the piano show rounds where we whittle the Top 24 down to your Top 12. Girls will sing every Wednesday night while the boys will sing Thursday nights. Each week, Friday's results show will see 2 girls and 2 boys going home until we hit the sweet number 12.

Top 24 Girls

The girls took to the stage on Wednesday night, kick-starting AI9's voting machine. It was dubbed the '2-Hour Live Event', imo, it was a non-event. For all the talent and unique tones many of the girls had, their piano round was simply boring.

Some of my favourites were Lilly Scott, Didi Benami, Janell Wheeler and Ashley Rodriguez, whose performances I was looking forward to watching. I wasn't a huge fan of Crystal Bowersox, and her adding her harmonica to the mix again, just didn't endear her to me. Like Simon, I had expected more from her. Same goes for Ashley. I had expected more from her, she was the first contestant I fell in love with from the early audition shows, and the fact that she wasn't featured much during Hollywood rounds made me look forward to her piano show debut even more. But alas, her "Happy" performance fell a little short.

The girl that opened the show was Paige whatshername. And therein lies the problem. I can't even remember her last name. She was hardly featured until now, so even with her great voice (which sounded like any other black diva vocal), she failed to leave an impression on me.

Haeley Vaughn annoyed me with her frozen smile and Katie Stevens annoyed me with her granny song, despite stellar vocals. I dunno, maybe its the Blair Waldorf headband or the prom dress, but imo she appeared a little cocky, hope she goes back to likeable in the next show (I'm sure she'll make it through - cute enough and good enough vocally to gain votes).

Michelle Delamor is another contestant you never really heard of. They suddenly turned the spotlight on her when they did the room-to-room results and I was like, Michelle who again? I actually liked her singing 'Fallin'', and from some angles she actually looked like Alicia Keys! Her sister who sat in the audience is GORGEOUS btw! But thats beside the point.

Lacey Brown, the comeback kid from Season 8 did ok. Not the best song choice for a first show, not very wow, but imo enough to make it through. Same goes for Didi 'my fave' Benami. She has a gorgeous tone and she's very likeable and genuine, so I'm sure she'll make it through to the next round. Likewise Katelyn Epperly seems like someone America would vote for despite her 'old-ish', cabaret-ish performance. I have to agree with Kara, I liked her better when she was au naturel cos this girl is gorgeous with that curly hair and sunkissed skin. She SO did not need that PVC tube dress (but its cool that it had pockets) and bright red lipstick. I woulda preferred if she sang like a Taylor Swift song.

Lilly Scott was pretty unique, and confident and comfortable onstage. She should be going through. Janell Wheeler was totally forgettable this time. Like Kara said, when she sang 'American Boy' at Hollywood Week, you could hear her unique tone, but the song she chose this time round just buried it.

The surprise of the night was Siobhan Magnus. Simon said she's a 'quirky little thing' and I think that totally works for her now. The song she chose was kinda dark, but again it worked for her. I just wanna say, girl, get rid of the nose ring, you look like a cow, how 'bout a stud instead? I mean, she's quite pretty right? I actually find her quite fascinating to watch - she seems unpredictable and its kinda like you never know when she's gonna freak out or have a breakdown.

So outta all the girls - who's in trouble?

Imo, Haeley, Paige and Janell could be goin' home. My gut wants me to type Ashley, but I'm willing it NOT to happen - I really hope America gives her another chance - she so preety la!

The rest should be relatively safe. I think between Haeley and Paige, most likely Haeley will go, despite having a story, because Paige has the stronger voice. As for Janell, well, this is an out-there theory, but she and Didi are really similar, and you just need one of them on the show, and based on likeability, exposure, story and performance, Didi trumps Janell this time.

Which two girls do you think will be going home tonight?

Top 24 Guys

Last night, it was the guys turn to take to the stage and maybe its because its the first live round and everyone has the nerves, but again it was SO NOT an 'event'. However, saying that, compared to the girls' show, it had a few more bright sparks.

I totally enjoyed performances from Joe Munoz, Casey James and Michael Lynche. As usual, Big Mike's bubbly larger-than-life personality gave the grumpy panel a much needed perk-me-up midway through the show. And hey guess what, I wasn't the only one who thought Mike's guitar looked like a ukelele next to him! Thank you Ryan Seacrest for the validation! LOL!

Joe Munoz got next to no backstory previously, and 'meeting' him for the first time last night, I thought he was genuine, sincere and a sweetheart. I liked how he looked straight into cam and it felt like he was looking right at you. Nice. Hope he gets through. Although, when he kinda played the 'race/nationality' card by giving a special shoutout to 'mexico' (or somewhere), I got a bit worried. Hope that doesn't have any adverse effects. Remember the flak Sylvia got for acknowledging her Filipino heritage? tsk. Hello, mass appeal, mass appeal, don't pigeon hole yourself so early on k! You'll alienate voters!

Lets all be...*shiny happy people holding hands*

Producers totally milked the Kara/Cougar angle for Casey James. Aiyo, so over it liao, lets move on. I thought he did well. Totally agree with judges that it was the perfect song choice for him. Good job - definitely going through to next week. No way in h*ck will he be out.

Likewise, fellow country crooner Aaron Kelly is also a shoo-in to carry on. I thought he did a good job on the vocals and I followed the performance despite not being too interested in the song - I was just enjoying his voice.

I was also looking forward to seeing how Lee Dewyze would do. I actually really like his voice. Its so manly! Woot! But when I heard he was singing 'Chasing Cars', my first thought was Jonathan Leong, followed by 'omg what a boring song'! I would've liked to hear him sing something else from The Fray or like Hoobastank or even Daughtry. Or like Randy suggested, Kings Of Leon. But he had presence, and he's so likeable. I was on the fence about him before, but when Ryan asked how he was feeling and he replied, "I don't wanna lose this feeling, ever" - he totally won me over. Surprisingly Simon liked him a lot and thought he did great.

I was majorly disappointed with three favourites - Todrick Hall, Jermaine Sellers and Andrew Garcia. Todrick cos he totally butchered Kelly Clarkson's 'Since U Been Gone'. It wasn't that I loved the song (cos I do), it was just that it was so overdone, it might as well have been a new song with the same title. Totally lost its essence. But I do give him props for trying to be different.

Likewise Jermaine Sellers. He totally oversang his song. Agree with Randy, the melody is so beautiful, he shoulda just sung it straight with sincerity - woulda worked.

I lost interest half way through Andrew Garcia's song. I had been looking forward to his performance all night and he closed the show with a song that not many could connect with. I love his voice, but I have to agree with Simon, it came across a little indulgent.

I hope these three will continue on next week.

Alex Lambert seemed awkward onstage and for some reason reminded me of Judd Nelson/Andrew McCarthy. He has a real 80s vibe about him. But I do love his tone which we never really got to hear in earlier rounds. Hopefully he can up his game next week otherwise its bye bye.

Tim Urban was totally 'buried' (Kara's words) by the music. A last minute replacement for dropped Top 24-er Chris Golightly (check out the screenshot from Hollywood week's announcement of Top24, Chris had made it!), Tim was probably the weakest performer last night, but I have a feeling he'll last another week or two because he's cute. The judges said so themselves, and in saying so, I think have spurred on even more little girls to vote for him mindlessly. I don't mind - eye candy for me too. His performance was like that of an actor who is asked to sing for those Charity shows eg like Tay Ping Hui being asked to sing for President's Star Charity, except it wasn't pre-recorded - maybe it shoulda been :P. But I like him, so I don't mind seeing him again next week, hopefully with a new gameplan.

Tyler Grady. Aiyo. Ouch. Did not work lor. Nice boy. But that song/performance just did not work. I think he could be going home.

John Park. Lagi Aiyo. I get the song meant a lot to him, but it sure didn't seem that way when he sang. He was deadpan most of the way. I thought he had a great voice, but imo that song was totally self-indulgent. I could hardly hear the lyrics in the opening verse, I could not make out what he was singing til we got to the chorus. I only recognised one word 'Jesus' somewhere in there.

Imo, the ones in trouble tonight are Tyler and John, and possibly Jermaine? But we'll see.

Which two guys do you think will be out?

How did Ellen do on her first live show?

Again its pretty obvious that producers are trying to get the viewers acquainted with Ellen. She's getting double the airtime that the other 3 judges are getting, because most times, Ryan will throw her an extra question after 'judging' is done.

Imo, Ellen fits in quite nicely on the panel. She seems to know her music well. She mentioned in interviews before that she wanted to be honest but also be nice. I think she really is doing her best to personify this. However in doing so, it comes across like Chandler's inability to break it off with a bad date. There's this episode of F.R.I.E.N.D.S. where Chandler goes on a date with Rachel's boss and totally hates it but doesn't know how NOT to let her down gently. He ends the horrible date by saying he'll call (but he doesn't intend to). Its the same with Ellen. She says, "I like you but you sounded terrible, that was the wrong song for you, didn't quite get it there, don't think you had presence etc, but, you know, I like you." Its like she's cushioning the blow. I geddit, its a typical human thing to do to not hurt people. It was ok the first few times, but after 12 rounds, it got a bit old and insincere and honestly, a little befuddling - so did you think he was good or not?

Simon, Kara and Randy I thought were in top form.

As the years have gone by, the quality of contestants joining Idol has improved and its gotten so much more technical than in previous seasons. Especially with Kara on board, she and Randy are so technical, its nice to see. And even Simon now talks about creativity and making a song your own etc. In earlier seasons, you would always hear him say, 'that sounded like bad kareeokee' - it was truly just a singing competition. But now, its about finding someone who can be a successful artiste. Thank you David Cook for changing things up and Adam Lambert for amping it even further!

Just 3 hours to go before we get to watch the 1-hour Results show. NO SPOILERS PLEASE :) Kris Allen and Allison Iraheta are on. Woot!

xoxo, s.

ps. Survivor 20 on in 2 and half hours!

pps. The only drawback of having 2-hour Idol episodes is America's Next Top Model being taken off the schedule for a while :( I need my Tyra fix!

American Idol Season 9 airs in Singapore on Wednesdays/Thursdays/Fridays at 6pm (repeats at 8pm and 12am) on Starworld and on Channel 5 at 10.30pm.

American Idol Episode 3 (Chicago) : Live Blog

Are you watching Ep3 of American Idol right now? So am I!

I'm watching the Channel 5 10.30pm telecast in Singapore. What about you? Add your comments below if you're watching too.

I've just watched Katelyn Epperly. The blondie who says she's got lots of problems at home sang a Duffy song. Not bad. She was heavily promoted at the end of last week's episode, but her audition was just so-so - creative promo editing truly works. Simon so obviously liked her. Not the best we've seen, but she looks like she could be Top 24 material.

And we're back from commercial break with a big girl who has a BIG CRUSH on Ryan Seacrest....and OMG she just collapsed! OMG a 'boob-flex' that was ...surreal. I wonder ifthe term 'boob-boxing' is going to catch on....hope not.

Oooh, I'm liking Charity Vance, just 16! Reminds me of Pixie Lott, in that she's unique and unconventional.

I have to say, Shania is a pretty good judge! Thank gawd! She's not afraid to voice her opinions, gives constructive criticism and doesn't look nervous, fidgety or stoned :)

Back from the break, we're now treated to the duds. Someone actually walked in with a crown thats higher than her hairsprayed hair. OMG there's a bride. Wth?

Next up is Angela Martin, who tried out in Season 7 and made it as far as Hollywood week but got cut there. This after flying out there just a week after her father was killed. Super sob story here. Plus it looks like she has a kid who needs special care. She's 28 but looks 20. Imo, her song choice was perfect to reflect her tough life, but her voice didn't blow me away. All four judges give her the greenlight, lets see if she can make it to the Top 24 this time.

Day 2 in Chicago its dud after dud after dud not worth mentioning. Aw man, this last one is whimpering as he walks out. Aiyo so chaaam. Sigh, crushed dreams are aplenty on AI...

oooh John Park. I likey. Token asian doin' good perhaps?

Woot! Lovin' John Park's voice, but he may just be crushed at Hollywood week. And Shania seems a little whip-happy with her shirt er strings. Again, best guest judge so far. :) And YES the Asian is through. Ooh and you know what I like even better, his friends are a mixed group :)

Ah, stay tuned for another sob story after the break...

Paige Dechausse, 21, almost died from an athsma attack when she was younger. Doctors said she only had a 40% chance of survival and even if she survived she would have brain damage. Well, she's alive and well and auditioning for Idol. Her singing was kinda boring actually, but I think her story moved Shania and Kara alot cos they manja-ed Randy into a 'yes' to get Paige to Hollywood. Hope she ups her game in Hollywood.

OMG Keith Semple reminds me of Keith Urban plus Bryan Adams. Nice.

And thats the end of tonight's hour of Idol. Tomorrow, we head to Orlando, and I think guest judge will be Kristin Chenoweth. (You may remember Kristin from her stint on the West Wing, but probably more from her offbeat tv series Pushing Daisies. This girl can sing, and if you've watched Glee, you'll remember her as Mr Schuester's old high school crush April Rhodes whom he recruits to join the Glee Club).

So was the Live Blogging something interesting for you? Or no big deal? Better if I did it at 6pm with StarWorld's first tx or would you prefer to just follow tweets and then a review later? Leave me your comments, would love to hear from ya.

Ok, so now that the show's over, here's some juicy American Idol gossip courtesy of AmericanIdol.net.

1. Taylor Swift looking to record 'Pants On The Ground' - seriously? LOL, can't wait to see this one happen. Here's the original pants on the ground - respect!

2. Simon Cowell to recruit Paula Abdul for his U.S. version of X Factor! - OMG. He is just diabolical. He's had it all planned right? I swear, its just so convenient its like he's got it all planned. He's already got great chemistry with Paula, viewers are comfortable (ok, this is subjective) watching them 'judge' together. Hats off to Simon man *cue applause*. According to AmericanIdol.net, Simon's also wooing his UK XFactor co-judge Cheryl Cole (who is super hawt btw) to judge on the US version. Definitely hawter than Randy Jackson any day of the week, X-Factor is already generating so much pre-publicity, how can it not work?

3. SPOILER ALERT *avert your eyes if you don't wanna know*

Again, courtesy of AmericanIdol.net (I swear this site is awesome, you guys should go there if you haven't already). Remember Skii-Bo-Ski from the Atlanta auditions? The guy who misspelled his own name on his jacket? Tsk. Anyway, apparently he got cut before he could arrive in Hollywood because he had a run in with the law :

"Skii Bo Ski who wowed the judges with his “Heard it through the Grapevine” rendition has been cut from Hollywood week due to his arrests for possession of marijuana and cocaine and intent to distribute. Apparently he was released from jail a week before he was to be in Hollywood and the producers got wind of the situation and had him cut. "

source : AmericanIdol.net

Can't wait for tomorrow's Orlando auditions. The people there look hot (literally, like sweaty and stringy-haired/shiny-faced from the humidity) and raring to go, plus there was a quick shot of a guy in a lilac veil with makeup and were those diamante bling stickers on his face? And as usual, parting shots of someone bleeping his way out while being by security :) ...so drama. I swear, I'm such a big fan of the seamless editing and obviously milked-to-the-bone-dry promos. See you tomorrow!

xoxo, s.

A Night To Remember - the idol finals performance review

I Gotta Feeling...woo hoo....

And I think everyone had that 'feeling' as the big screen split open to reveal the Top 2. Here's my review of the performance show...blow by blow.

Eventhough I've seen that opening sequence like a gazillion times during rehearsals and even with full wardrobe and makeup on, nothing beats the combined effect with the deafening screams of a packed arena.

In fact the minute the flash mob burst out from the stage, the screams began and when the Top 12 (minus the Airi and SylSyl) marched out and 'posed', my heart was thumping - 'We're here! We're finally here at the Grand Finals....tonight's gonna be a good good night.....'

This vid is taken from when the Top 2 make their entrance...

Click here to watch the rehearsal for this number at Indoor Stadium and the choreo session at Mediacorp's training school. You gotta look out for that awesome 'criss-cross' move that they do that didn't get captured on the show - it was my fave part, but the camera was focused on the mosh and the LED lights, wasted much?...oh well.

That aside, I thought it was a great adrenaline-pumping opening. The very first time I saw it back at training school, I was thrown! :) I just couldn't wait, and I love how producers chose to use current songs that everyone would know and could stomp their feet/wave their hands to.

After all the fanfare, it was time to get the competition started. First up for the night - Miss Sylvia Anne Ratonel. She won the coin toss during the Last Spectacular and chose to go first. Her opening number would be her best song for the season, which is 'Mercy' (from Sylvia's Piano Show, click here to watch that performance). They totally upped the ante for this number on all counts - wardrobe, choreo, dancers, makeup etc. I thought it was just awesome!

Sylvia was in her element doing this song. And the black elbow gloves, super shiny short dress and slick moves truly gave 'Mercy' a totally different feel and an edge. It really took 'Mercy' from the small Piano Show stage to the huge Indoor Stadium stage. Click here to watch Sylvia's rehearsal at indoor stadium and also at training school (parts 1, 2 and 3).

Next up is Airi with his best song of the season, 'Virtual Insanity' (from Spectacular 9 'You Asked For It, click here to watch that performance'). Again, both Airi and producers took it to the next level with dancers and great choreo and lighting. The 'feel' was so cool and chic! Watch!

I really loved that he started and ended the song in a lounge-y armchair. Seriously coolcat stuff. Watch his rehearsal footage at choreo here, this was the first time I watched his performance and even then without the costumes and large stage, you can see it oozes coolness to the max.

Round #1 - Best Song of the Season

JUDGES' COMMENTS :

Sylvia

D : I'm so happy you chose that song, that is the song that identifies you. And hearing it now after all these months, its like a million times better.

F : That didn't feel like a competition, it felt like you had your own show. You are a femme fatale, a showgirl, that was through-the-roof excellent!

K : That was very professional.

Sezairi

D : That was just amazing, and beautiful. I always mentioned you were awkward but tonight finally it just all came together, fantastic!

F : The cool cat is in the house, you've got a very quietly confident prowl to your movements - on the surface looks just cool, but underneath its deadly and lethal. You are proof that you don't have to be over-the-top. You can be quietly confident and totally likeable, congratulations!

K : Out of all the other contestants, you are the one that worked the most diligently on the judges' comments. Today you were smooth, entertaining and personable in your own way, you are not the copy cat that you were.

summerr's take :

Score! I love it when the DFK give good comments. Watching back the show, I found both performances equally good vocally. Both Idols came off smooth, slick and confident too. But where Sylvia had the upper hand was the choreo, somehow the overall effect of the dance and lights and colour seemed more vibrant, and the fact that Mercy is currently more popular. Virtual Insanity is a fairly old (but good) song. So I'll have to agree with Ken that Round #1 goes to Sylvia.

The next round of competition features new songs chosen by the Top 2.

Sylvia decides to go with Coldplay hit 'Yellow'. I loved how she was styled for this song. The dress was perfect and so was her hair. She was just utterly gorgeous. Again, the use of gloves (only one kid glove this time) just made her even more chic.

Watch earlier videos of Sylvia deciding on this song (Part 1 & 2) and the instrumental arrangement for her here.

Under the same category, Sezairi decides on 'Crazy'. Airi + guitar = awesome! I so totally totally love this performance - even now, watching the youtube vid, I sing along and toss my hair (yes I do random things like that!). Great job on this one, Airi totally rawked it, so much so you hardly notice only ONE pant leg is sequined ;) LOL - its meant to be that way btw.

Click here to see the vid I recorded of him at keycheck when he was trying to decide whether or not go with this song - I'm so glad he did because it was TOTALLY AWESOME!

Round #2 : Idol's Own Song Choice

JUDGES' COMMENTS :

Sylvia

D : D'you know why you're here tonight? I'll tell you why you're here tonight. Every performance you have ever done has been very unique, consistently good and your interpretation of the songs you choose, like the song you chose tonight, I think you just take it to another level.

F : I'm so blown away right now I don't even know what to say, you're not singing like a contestant, you're singing like a winner!

K : I thought Mercy was better tho'. You have been the most consistent vocalist this season, but this competition is also about your ability to connect with the viewers so your next song is your last chance to show the viewers how you feel from the heart. Nothing beats an emotional performance and I think thats what's lacking in this performance.

Sezairi

D : When I first heard that you were gonna sing this song I thought, 'Oh what strange choice of song to pick', but you know what, it showed off your musicianship and thats why you're here tonight!

F : You have just raised the bar, and then some...

K : Round 1-Sylvia, Round 2-Sezairi

summerr's take :

If I had to compare both performances, I'd have to agree with Ken, that Airi won this round. His performance was solid and pitch perfect! But looking at both performances individually, and remembering how it felt back at the stadium and then watching it again on tv, I think they both really pulled out all the stops.

Initially at the stadium, I felt Sylvia was holding back as I could not hear some parts, then watching it on youtube, I was moved. Watching it again on tv, I was also moved by her heartfelt rendition of Yellow. She looked a little stressed no doubt, but if you just listen to her voice, it will move you.

Airi's 'Crazy' had me whooping and yeah-ing and up on my feet singing along. Fantastic song choice and he totally worked-it-out. It is 'cover-worthy' if Universal Music agrees to put it on his debut album (I really hope they do!). Plus, Airi with a guitar is totally sexy!

In this final round, the Top 2 go head-to-head with the Winner's Single 'Touched By An Angel', written by Uncle Ken himself - designed to push both to their limits and force them to emote.

First up is Sylvia in a gorgeous $4000-designer gown. She really did look like an 'angel'. Backed by the choir, this last showdown really does feel like the peak of the competition.

Next up, Airi in a pearly white suit (I don't know how much this one cost), looking like the 'groom' to Sylvia's 'bride'. Seriously, its like you could shrink them and they'd look right at home on the top of wedding cake. Ok, nuff nonsense, watch...

Round #3 : Winner's Single - "Touched By An Angel"

Sylvia

D : We've seen you do so many kinds of songs but I've never seen you do anything like that, I mean, you've turned into a diva :) and you look really fantastic, I think its really all come together in this one song, very well done!

F : I have no doubts about your ability Sylvia, now I wanna give you a chance to tell the viewers why you should be their Singapore Idol ...

Syl : To all my fans and my kebyan thank you so much for bringing me this far. Whatever happens tonight, I am very very lucky, so I want to thank you with all my heart.

K : Throughout the competition both you and Sezairi were picking songs that you were comfortable for yourself to sing, so when I wrote that song, I wanted to make sure that you're stretched to the limits in order to emote, and I saw that that probably topped your Mercy performance. Well done.

Sezairi

D : I wanna say something to you, I want to put some fears of yours to rest, YOU are HERE. You know why you're here? Because you DESERVE to be here. You are a very good musician. In the years I've been in the business I've been waiting to see a new artiste like you, and now we have one, so, thank you for that!

F : The thing about you Sezairi, you don't have polarised audience reactions, you sit very comfortably in that middle ground, and you OWN that middle ground. Do not underestimate your likeability and your chances of winning tonight ever. Tell Singapore why you should be their Singapore Idol.

Airi : This whole journey has taught me that people love more than they hate. The proof of that love is right here.

K : Musically I think you are better than Sylvia. In terms of image, I don't think I need to answer that question. But in terms of vocals and performance, I think you both are very different, because its a question of choice. But either way, I think singapore should be happy with either you winning or Sylvia winning. Good luck.

summerr's take :

Both The Husband and another good friend felt Sylvia totally nailed this one. Perhaps I was too aware of the stress she was under, but I felt that I had seen her do better at rehearsals. That said, it is NOT a bad performance, in fact it was very very good indeed. Its just that I ended up connecting with Airi's rendition more - something that surprised me too, because from the first time I heard it, it felt like the song was written for Sylvia, and she totally became the song. I was blown away by her the first time she sang it to me, and back then, I thought, gosh, its in the bag for Sylvia. So surprisingly to me, on Sunday night, it was Airi who made me cry.

Watching it back on tv and on youtube, I dare say both were on form vocally. Like Ken says, they are both different types of performers because they choose to be.

Overall, I think both Airi and Syl are worthy contenders who put up a seriously good fight. Both upped their games, and gave their all. Top 2, indeed.

I thoroughly enjoyed the show, live at Indoor Stadium and again, watching it back on tv (I recorded it on my Hubstation). Thank you Airi and Sylvia for entertaining us with all your heart and soul - it was truly a night to remember.

"I feel like a winner already." Well said Sylvia.

xoxo, s.