Friday, August 22, 2008

Reality is Dead this Summer

Kim Reis

Sorry that it’s been so long since I’ve written.  Reality TV really hasn’t been all that inspiring this summer.  I know, I know.  Everyone keeps telling me - “What’s more of a reality than the Olympics??!!“  But I don’t know, I’m just not into it.  I like the reality TV with the crazy people acting like idiots, trying to become famous.  I watched a little bit of the Olympics and they really are amazing athletes.  But I can only watch for so long and then my ADD gets the best of me.  I was watching one day when a girl running the hurdles misstepped and fell on her head.  I know this sounds awful, but I laughed.  And then they kept showing the replay over and over.  And I kept laughing.  I’m the person who laughs when someone falls and I’m not sure why.  It’s horrible!  I try to control it and can’t help it.  I felt so bad for her and yet, I kept laughing.  Oh well.  What’re ya gonna do?

The only show that I have kept up with is Big Brother 10.  Michelle (the real estate agent from RI) is doing pretty well.  A few weeks ago, she lost it when she found out she had to wear a red, skin-tight leotard for a week and I was afraid she put a huge nail in her coffin.  But so far, she has redeemed herself.

The showmance between April & Ollie is over.  April went buh-bye.  So dumb!!!  Showmances kill ya every time.  But Ollie is such a GREAT GUY!!!!  I hope he does well.

The show ended last night with the remaining contestants swinging on a vine, suspended in mid-air.  Who ever can last the longest will become Head of Household.  When the show ended, the vines started swinging and started banging them into a soft wall.  OUCH!  Can’t wait to see who becomes HOH.  This will really disrupt the entire house.

I watched a few episodes of The Mole.  Didn’t do much for me.  I have the final episode on my TiVo.  Wonder who the Mole was?

I cannot WAIT for America’s Got Talent to come back on.  And - Biggest Loser starts in 9/16!!!!

Monday, July 21, 2008

Big Bruthuh has a Rhode Island-uh!!

Kim Reis

Hey - not for nuttin’, but Big Brother 10 has a Rhode Islander in the house!  I had no idea there would be someone from little ole Rhody on the show!  And, to top it off, she’s Portuguese (my husband is a “Manny”).  Her name is Michelle and she’s a 28-year-old real estate agent from Cumberland.  So far, she’s been lying kind of low on the show.  No real conflicts.  I think she’s playing it right. 

Renny is way too loud.
Libra is too bossy.
Keesha and April are too “cutesy”.
Dan, Jessie & Brian are too “in your face” and really aren’t hiding their coniving ways.
Gerry, Michelle and Ollie are playing it smart.

In order to win in this game, you have to try and keep the bullseye off your head.  At the beginning, you really need to ride the wave without making waves.  You can’t be a wall flower, but you can’t go in with guns drawn.  If you are too “wishy-washy”, you’ll get voted out for flying under the radar.  I think Michelle is doing a great job.

To learn a little bit about Michelle, Click here.

Thursday, July 03, 2008

Summer is a Belly Flop So Far

Kim Reis

So far, summer has been a bit of a belly flop for reality TV.  I had really high hopes for Nashville Star and it has been such a disappointment for me.  It’s like watching very bad karaoke.

Hell’s Kitchen has been “OK”.  But the final two contestants are so boring.  Blah!

America’s Got Talent has been fun - but the 2-hour episodes are really, really long.  I’ve laughed!  I’ve jumped out of my seat and said WOW!  And I’ve cried for some of the touching and cute performances (the 3-year-old little girl who sang “Somewhere Out There” was so freakin cute I couldn’t stand it!)

Last Comic Standing has been fun, but no real front-runners.

I had really hoped to watch The Mole, but it conflicted with some of my other shows, so I let it lapse in my TiVo.  (I really need a dual channel TiVo - hint hint to the hubby). 

Celebrity Circus is also kind of boring.  Some D-List stars spin around in circles in the air.  Although I realize that they need unbelievable body strength to do that, it’s just so boring to watch on TV.

Jon & Kate Plus Eight is the big buzz right now.  My 10-year-old is addicted to the marathons on TLC.  And, although I’ve never seen an episode - the concept sounds neat.  So I’m going to set some of those shows to record to see if I get the buzz.

SuperNanny - still aggravating that these parents let their children act so horribly.  Last week was the Moy family and those daughters were so RUDE!  UGH!

I’m so bored with reality TV right now that I’m watching re-runs of “Real Housewives of New York City”.  I’ve also started renting episodes of “LOST” from Netflix.

So - as I wait for some more compelling reality shows - I enjoy the beautiful weather and get away from the remote! 

Monday, June 09, 2008

Nashville Star Debuts

Kim Reis

Tonight was the debut of “Nashville Star” on NBC10.  I’m so hopeful that this will fill the void I’m feeling now that Idol is over.  Host: Billy Ray Cyrus.  Judges: John Rich, Jewel and Jeffrey Steele.  I love John Rich’s attitude.  He was awesome on “Gone Country” earlier this year and I’m glad he’s back on the air.

Some people might get upset that it’s somewhat a copy-cat of Idol with the bad singers and horrible try-outs from people who really think they can sing.  But I don’t care.  I love Idol and I’m hoping to love Nashville just as much.  I love country music, so this is a great combo for me.  I like the way Idol introduces you to the 12 contestants over the course of a few weeks.  “Nashville Star” gave us a tiny taste of their auditions and then threw them on the stage.  I didn’t have time to connect with any of them.

The opening song sounded like they were all screeching.  John Rich has a TON of work to do.  These singers are amateur with a capital AMATEUR!!  I sure do hope they get better as the weeks go on.

I was kind of hoping that John Rich would be the Simon Cowell of “Nashville Star”.  Not so much.  Sometimes he says they sound good when it’s not.  Idol is so popular because Simon is brutally honest and he says what others are thinking.

This show really had a chance to be big, but it didn’t really deliver all that well in week #1.  Hopefully week #2 will be better.

At the end of the show, they brought out two singers that the judges thought were the weakest.  The two male judges voted opposite and really wimped out by making Jewel break the tie.  To be honest, they were the best of the worst because, so far, no one really stood out for me DAWG.  (Couldn’t help it!)

Sunday, June 01, 2008

Realistic Summer

Kim Reis

I know I haven’t blogged in a while.  There really hasn’t been much for good reality TV since Idol ended and Cook took the title.  Believe it or not, I’ve been watching episodes of Big Brother 9 because I had TiVo’d the entire season and hadn’t had a chance to watch it.  To put it into perspective for you - the final episode of Big Brother aired on 4/27 and I’m still on the episode from 3/23.  Yeah - I fell behind on that one.  Not really a good idea to blog about something that happened two months ago.

Hell’s Kitchen hasn’t been all that crazy this year.  I think the newness of Ramsey’s “SHUT HER DOWN” has worn off a bit.  Although, I still like the show - it hasn’t given me the OOMPH to want to blog.

Although not reality shows, I finished the season of ER (lame season finale), Grey’s Anatomy (lamer season finale), and Desperate Housewives (pretty cool season finale).  I watch “All My Children” everyday (Greenleigh, Kendall, Ryan, Angie, Jesse, Tad and the gang).  I’m hoping that Rescue Me and Big Love start new seasons soon.  Those are two KILLER shows. 

OK - as I prepare for the summer of reality shows, here is my TiVo Season Pass Manager list.  America’s Got Talent, Hell’s Kitchen, Nashville Star (really looking forward to this because I love American Idol and country music), Last Comic Standing (so far, slow season kickoff), The Mole and Celebrity Circus.  I’m hoping that one of these shows gives me a passion to write because, so far, Hell’s Kitchen aint doin’ it for me.

My husband loves all of those “Do It Yourself” shows.  And he’s really hooked on “Deadliest Catch”.  I’ve watched it a few times.  Doesn’t do much for me.

I’m also hoping that Scott Baio and Christopher Knight come back to VH1 with their reality shows.  Baio left us after he got married and Christopher and Adrian left us after she found out she was pregnant.  Hmmm?  Scott - baby then married.  Brady’s - married then baby. 

So, hopefully the summer will bring me back to reality.

P.S. I went to the dress rehearsal for the “True Colors” tour at the Bank of America Pavilion over the weekend.  The lineup for the tour is Cyndi Lauper, The Cliks, B52s, Cat DeLuna, Regina Spector, Carson Kressley from “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy” AND…....Rosie O’Donnell!!!  I had a rare opportunity to watch the concert’s dress rehearsal from the front row with only 12 people in the audience!!!!  Holy macaroni!!!  It was nuts!!!  It was like a private concert from some unbelievable performers.  It was so awesome!  Words can’t describe.  This is how I would imagine a queen who ordered a private concert for her birthday.  It was so wonderful!

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

David vs. David - The Showdown

Kim Reis

It’s been all over the entertainment shows.  It’s been all over the radio.  And now, the moment is here.  David vs. David.  Talk about a distracting day as I wondered who would be this season’s winner.  I flop back and forth.  Archuleta has been getting tons of press (well, actually, his father has been getting tons of press).  Simon Cowell was on Ellen and talked about him.  They talked about “daddy” on “Extra” tonight.  It almost seems like the media is trying to help him win because I haven’t seen hardly anything about Cook.

So, as I sit here on my bed with my laptop on my lap and my cat purring at my side, I think about how all of these contestants’ lives have changed since January.  Amanda Overmyer and her white patch of hair.  Brooke White and her constant tears. Carly Smithson and her big voice. Chikezi and his very sweet smile.  David Hernandez and his strip tease controversy.  Jason Castro and his weird Hawaiian versions of songs.  Kristy Lee Cook who stayed on the show longer than she should have.  Michael Johns and his gorgeous accent.  Ramiele Maluby - the tiny singer with the big voice.  And Syesha Mercado, who grew more than anyone.  Most of them will have some sort of career in the future.  And, both David’s have no reason to fear.  Whether they win or lose - their lives will change forever.

I loved the “LET’S GET READY TO RUMMMMMBLE” beginning.  The David vs. David Smackdown!  That was a great way to start the night!  And, all of the stars in the audience with their kids.  I think I saw a “has been” from “90210”.  His kids probably think he’s the coolest dad ever. 

Each contestant will sing 3 songs.  I couldn’t believe it was scheduled to be an hour instead of a 3 hours marathon.  Idol usually stretches the thing on and on and on.  Trust me, an hour is plenty.  But Idol usually drags it on.

I had no idea that neither one of them was ever in the bottom three.  They are both undefeated.  WOW!  Should make for an awesome night.  After a coin toss, Archuleta decided to sing second.  When he started talking, he oddly sounded like Michael Jackson.  He’s a little odd.  And, wasn’t Michael Jackson’s dad a crazy stage father?  Hmmm? 

It was so funny when Simon Cowell told them that they have to bring out strong and hate their opponent.  Archuleta went on to basically say, “I love you man.“  I was so hoping that Cook would tell Archuleta to screw!  HA HA HA HA HA!  But, the love was flowing and they both took the safe road.  They told each other how great they are, blah, blah, blah.

Cook opened the show with “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” by U2, chosen by Clive Davis.  Good song for Cook’s big voice.  He definitely made it his own and controlled his voice before he rocked it out at the end.  At the beginning of the song, he focused on the vocals to show the world that he could really sing.  Nice way to open the show, but he has to make sure this was his low point.  He has to ramp up with each song.  Cook set the pace, now let’s see if Archuleta can keep up.

Clive chose “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” by Elton John for Archuleta.  Good song for David who does much better with slower ballads.  And, this song has some big notes.  He did a nice job and, after round one, I think Archuleta won by a nose.  Although they both sounded great, Archuleta definitely took round one.

Andrew Lloyd Weber chose the songs for round 2.  Cook will sing “Dream Big” and Archuleta will sing “In This Moment” - two unknown songs.  Weber said that a true performer will be able to get the audience to love a song, even if they’ve never heard it before.

Cook - going for the gold - started off slow.  It almost sounded like he couldn’t find the right note until the mid-way point where he rocked it out.  Not his best performance by far.  I think he’ll look back at this song and wish he could dream bigger by singing a little better.  Randy loved it, but I think he’ll disagree when he listens to it back after the show.  Cook really never found the note. 

Archuleta came up next.  He was very emotional after the last song, so I hope he’s backstage pulling himself together.  I’m guessing by the title that “In This Moment” will be very ballad-like.  Sounds like a Whitney Houston title.  Yup - another ballad.  Started off slow and ended a little better.  Round 2 goes to “Archie” again - but barely.  (Ryan Seacrest called him “ARCHIE” - what was that all about?)  I didn’t think either one of them had a stud performance in Round 2.  But Archuleta’s words really matched what he was probably thinking in his mind.  “No one can take away this moment from me.“  He sang those words straight from the heart.

As I take a quick intermission - may I just say that Simon is the only one who is honest.  Randy and Paula play paddy-cake with the contestants.  You might not like Simon on a personal level, but at least he’s honest.

OK - so Round 3.  The final round.  Their last chance to wow America.  This last round was the contestant’s choice.  This choice could be the biggest decision they ever make.  They could sing any song they wanted.  Cook chose “The World I Know” by Collective Soul.  Archuleta chose “Imagine” by John Lennon. 

Cook took a song that I know pretty well and made it sound like a totally different song.  I do like how he takes songs and really owns them.  Just like he took Billie Jean and made it sound so different.  I think he did a very nice job and just focused on his voice instead of trying to scream through a rock song.  He’s got such a unique sound and he really did a nice job.  I didn’t like Cook’s tears at the end.  I felt like he was just turning on the waterworks to compete.  Archuleta has true emotion after he sings.  Simon called him “nice and sincere”.  As a viewer, he doesn’t come across that way.  Simon said, “wrong song”.  Either way, it doesn’t matter.  David Cook will have a successful career.

Sidebar - Simon winked at Cook.  What was that all about???

Archuleta - “Imagine”.  He sang the song once before in a previous round.  Not sure if that was a good idea because some viewers might consider it a cop-out since he already sang that song once.  He did a very nice job - just like his first time.  The kid can sing, that’s for sure.  I just hope he can handle the kind of fame that will be thrown at him in the next few years.  David -  keep your feet on the ground, kid.  Keep your feet on the ground.

After Round 3 - Archuleta will be the next American Idol.  And, his career will follow a path like Clay Aiken.  He will do just fine and I’m sure he’ll be touring with a Christmas concert to theatres like PPAC in the coming years.

Til tomorrow Idol fans.  We’ll all be sitting close to our TV’s waiting for the final announcement. 

It Could Be a Woman’s Year!  (Dancing with the Stars)

Kim Reis

It could be a woman’s year!!!  Kristi Yamaguchi ruled the dance floor last night in both dances.  She really was the best dancer - by far!  Not to say that Christian and Jason aren’t nice guys,  but they trail behind Kristi by a mile.  If she doesn’t win, it will be a travesty!

They first danced the cha-cha in a “dance off” style.  First was Christian and I was smiling and moving in my seat.  That man can wiggle and I thought, “He’s the one to beat.“  Next came Jason and it slowed the night to a screeching halt.  Then came Kristi and I was WOWED! 

Then, they danced a free-style dance that included some hip hop moves and some awesome lifts and flips.  It was so neat!!  Again, Kristi stole the show and she set the pace.  I loved their costumes, the moves and, the dance itself was very fast and very difficult.  Jason tried, really hard, but he just couldn’t keep the fast pace.  He does much better in slower songs because he’s an elegant kind of guy.  I know he’s used to winning in football, but I don’t think he’ll take the prize in DWTS.  I hope America doesn’t vote for Christian based on sympathy because of his arm injury.  Look - he did a great job and it was amazing that he could swing his partner all over the dance floor with one arm.  BUT - he was not the best dancer in this competition.

I’ll go out on a limb and say Congrats to Kristi for a job well done.  She’s been favored to win since day one and I think she’ll take the prize!!!

And - since it was already a Woman’s Year with Biggest Loser.  Kristi will carry it on.  Too bad Idol became a battle of the David’s.  It would have made a trifecta if a woman had been in the finals for that show too!

Friday, May 16, 2008

Buy Tickets to American Idol Concert BEFORE the General Public!

Kim Reis

The American Idol Concert Tour is coming to The Dunk on September 7th and turnto10.com has your opportunity to purchase tickets BEFORE they go on sale to the general public.  Click here for the secret code word and the secret link.  This presale is only open today (Friday May 18, 2008) until 10pm!!  Happy shopping!

Thursday, May 15, 2008

YUP!  Battle of the Davids

Kim Reis

So - no crow needed.  I had already picked out the rice and vegetable medley I would eat with my crow if Syesha made it into the final two.  But, no fork needed.

Syesha will do just fine in this world.  She’s extremely talented and, sometimes, the runners up do better than the winner.  Look at Clay Aiken and Chris Daughtry. 

When I watched Archuletta’s homecoming, I was in tears.  It was really quite touching.  I think it finally hit him when he saw the crowds.  Even Cook looked rather taken aback when he saw the crowds and how much they loved him.

Next week’s showdown should be interesting.  I can see the promos now: {DEEP ANNOUNCER VOICE} - “DAVID VERSUS DAVID!“  {visual of their heads clashing like football helments}  HA HA HA HA!  Fox will have a field day with this showdown.

I’m totally on the fence for the final winner.  Archuletta has all of the grandmas and teeny boppers.  Cook has all of the rockers from the 80s & 90s who are now in their mid-thirties.  This really will be a close call.

But…

My choice is…

I know, I can’t take it back…

What I say will stick forever…

My choice is…

DAVID ARCHULETTA!  I think his true emotion when he went home really pulled at people’s heart strings and sealed the deal for him.  Cook is talented and he’ll do just fine.  He’ll probably tour with Daughtry someday.

Don’t forget - tickets to the Idol tour go on sale this weekend! 

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

Two Men and a Lady - Idol’s Final Three

Kim Reis

So - we’re down to the final three.  Tonight will decide which two Idols will battle it out in the end.  Some say it will be Cook.  Some say Archuletta. And then there are those that say Syesha is the underdog and she’ll squeak it out.  Three songs tonight.  One judge’s choice, one contestant’s choice and one producer’s choice.

Song one - Archuletta sang a Billy Joel song.  I’ve never heard the song before, but MAN!  Most of the song was a capella and his voice resonated.  It was a pure vocal and it really showed off his talent.  Nice first song.

Syesha sang Alicia Keyes, “If It Aint You”.  Big song, big artist.  Can she do it?  Why yes she can!!! Syesha looked like a star tonight.  Her dress was so elegant. And she really had a strong vocal. 

If this was “Dancing With the Stars, my score would be Archuletta 9 - Syesha 8.

Poor Cook.  “If Ever I Saw Your Face” by Roberta Flack???!!  That’s the song that Simon picked for David.  I don’t think Simon likes the front runner and he was really trying to watch him “Fall on his Face”.  I think he did the best he could do with the song choice, but I have to agree with Randy.  I wanted to hear him rock it out.  And the “Happy Mother’s Day” to his mother was a lame way to get more votes from the moms watching.

My score after round 1 - Archuletta 9, Syesha 8, Cook 8.5.

David Archuletta chose “With You” by Chris Brown.  He’s an old soul and he does the old songs and ballads much better.  He kept flubbing the words too.  The song was too fast for him.  At his age, he should be able to sing a hip hop song with ease.  But, he didn’t pull it off and that will really bring down my scores.

New score - Archuletta 7.5, Syesha 8, Cook 8.5

Syesha chose “Fever” by Peggy Lee.  And, her dress was HOT HOT HOT!  If she can pull off the sexiness of this song, she might gain some male votes.  She has certainly found her nitch.  She’ll be on Broadway as soon as the Idol concert tour ends.  She’s very talented.  And, I’m willing to eat crow.  I had her voted out a long time ago.  She has grown so much in this competition and has proven why she should still be here.  The vocals were just as hot as her sexy flirtations with the lonely chair on the stage.  I think Paula’s comments were pure jealousy.  But I fear that jealous wives on the couch will vote against her too.  So, that may have been a dangerous choice.  She definitely did better than David Archuletta.

Scorecard - Archuletta 7.5, Syesha 8.5, Cook 8.5

Now, will Cook pull it off and rock the house to close out the show?

DARN COMMERCIAL BREAKS!!!

Cook chose “I Dare You to Move” by Switchfoot.  I didn’t like how it started.  The range was really low and pitchy.  I was hoping he would really rock it out and it just never happened for me.  He never really found the note.  He was just underneath it the whole song.  He is definitely a performer, but this was definitely not his best performance. 

After two rounds - my scorecard is Archuletta 7.5, Syesha 8.5, Cook 8

Round THREE…

Archuletta sang “Longer” by Dan Fogelberg (rest in peace Dan).  Ballad - good choice.  Older song - another good choice.  David brought it back from his Chris Brown hole he put himself in.  David looked really pale tonight.  He needs a tanning bed or something.  And he looked tired.  It must be tough preparing three songs and this really shows the professionals from the mediocre.

After that performance, I say it’s Archuletta 8.5, Syesha 8.5, Cook 8.  It’s a close call tonight. 

As the commercial break looms on - let me just say that this year’s Idol hasn’t had me on the edge of my seat like previous years.  During Clay and Ruben - I was so anxious I bit off every fingernail.  During Carrie Underwood and Bo Bice, I started to cry.  I’m not feeling an overwhelming emotion this year.  It’s just not as hot this year.  I don’t know what it is?  This year’s cast of characters is just not doing it for me Dawg. 

OK - back to the show…

American Idol concert tickets go on sale this Saturday at 10am for this summer’s concert at The Dunkin Donuts Center.

The Idol producers chose “Baby, Baby” by Rihanna.  She really reminded me of Beyonce and she definitely showed that she has what it takes to be a pop star.  The judges didn’t think she did enough to make it to the finals.  She might gain votes by being the underdog and she might get an upset.  I think she did a good job, but she didn’t blow me away as we come up on the finals.  In previous years, I was staring at the TV with a look of WOW on my face.  This year, it all sounds really karaoke-like.

Scorecard - Archuletta 8.5, Syesha 8, Cook 8

If Cook can blow us all away, then it could be the Battle of the David’s (like I predicted back in early April).  If Cook’s ego gets in the way, then Syesha might have a chance.

Cook chose Aerosmith - “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing”.  Smart choice.  I didn’t like the strings in the background to start the song.  He did it.  He rocked it out.  He sealed the deal.  It will be the “Battle of the Davids”.  This was not what Syesha wanted, that’s for sure.  Cook brought the crowd to their feet and it was a great way to close out the show.  WOW!  Randy’s comment of “predictable” wasn’t fair.  David Cook is a rocker and he picked a rockin’ song. 

David VS David.  I can already see the promos all week as they lead up to the finale.

I’ll be voting all night, so I gotta go!!!  Vote, vote, vote.  I’d love to see Syesha pull it off, but I’m not sure she has a chance.  She had a good run.

Tuesday, May 06, 2008

Idol’s Top 4 Rock It Out

Kim Reis

So, the Idol Final Four took the stage tonight and chose songs from the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame.

David Cook chose “Hungry Like the Wolf”.  It was really quite good and I thought it was a good song choice.  Cook comes across humble, but I’m not sure if it’s an act to get more votes.  I haven’t been a huge fan of his from day one because he’s been a front runner for so long.  I always root for the underdog.  Probably jealousy!!  Judges thought it was good and Paula was more interested in checking out David’s body instead of listening to his performance.  What a flirt!

Syesha sang next and she chose “Proud Mary”.  Let me start off by saying it’s obvious that she’s now in the final four because it looks like someone has started giving her a makeover to make her look like more of a pop star.  She almost looked a little like Beyonce in “Dream Girls” in today’s performance.  The first 25% of the performance was OK and I was looking forward to hearing her kick in the fast part of “Proud Mary”.  The next 25% was pitchy and way too slow and low.  When she kicked into high gear at the 50% mark, it was a little odd and really pitchy.  The head shaking was a little weird too. The final 25% was really good and I liked some her high notes. 

Side note: Tickets for the Idol Concert Tour go on sale May 17th.

Jason Castro was next with “I Shot the Sheriff”.  The only part of this song that was even remotely Bob Marley was his bad dread locks.  How many ways can I say the word BAD?  I need a thesaurus to list all of the ways I can say poor, sad, yuck, sour…  I know I said this last week, but I do think Jason is going to go buh bye this week.  Randy tore him apart.  Paula was right when she said he played to the audience better than any other performance before.  He actually had some personality in today’s performance and he’s usually so blah. When the judges tore him apart, I think Ryan was afraid that Jason was going to cry.  So then he asked Paula to give him a pep talk.  Idol probably talked into Ryan’s IFB and told him to save Jason out of fear that he’d run out the back exit and not show up for his next song on live TV.

David Archuletta was next with “Standy By Me”.  Again - I haven’t been a huge fan because he’s done so well.  I know, I’m weird.  But I REALLY liked his rendition of the song and it brought me right back to the kids on the railroad tracks from the 1980s movie “Stand By Me” starring Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix and Lard Ass.  Remember that movie??  And I loved how he incorporated the “Beautiful Girls” song at the end which brought the song into today.  I can see him becoming a pop artist.  He’ll do alright in this world. 

Another side note: Clay Aiken came out with his new album this week.  I admit that I used to be a “Clazy Claymate” back in 2003.  Yes, I stood in line for hours waiting to buy tickets for my daughter and I when he came to the Ryan Center.  I think I jumped off of his “Clazy Train” when he died his hair black and took on a very odd look.

Back to the show - David Cook performed his second song which was “Bobba O’Reilly” by The Who.  Perfect song for his voice and what control.  Yes, I have conceded that he’s going all the way.  He sounded so good.  I hope he does an acapella version of a song as the weeks go on.  Remember when Bo Bice sang that acapella song under the spotlight when he was competing against Carrie Underwood?  That gave me chills.  Back to David.  When he started rock it out, I wasn’t as impressed.  The beginning of the song sounded sharp and then he got a little pitchy dawg.

Syesha sang “A Change is Gonna Come” by Sam Cook.  Interesting - she picked a COOK song.  Hmmm?  Is that a precursor of things to come?  Syesha knows how to pick songs that match her voice and her image.  Although I don’t think she’s going to win Idol, I do think she is going to go far in this world.  She’ll be on Broadway and she’ll perform for many years to come.  She’s a very talented singer and I’m glad I got to watch her grow in this competition from day one.  Those final notes were HOT HOT HOT.  She lost it a little bit at the end of the note and dipped just below the note for a few seconds, but that should not cause her to go home.  Randy didn’t like the song.  WHAT???  This song was better than her first song.  Whatever Randy.  Go back to the pound Dawg!  Paula stood up and did that weird clap thing she does.  Have you ever noticed how Paula claps???  She doesn’t bend her fingers and almost claps like she’s wearing plywood paddles on her wrists.  Sorry to digress - back to the show.  Syesha turned on the water works and I’m sure that will help her vote collection.  Simon disagreed with Randy’s opinion and agreed with Paula - which was odd in itself.

The best comment of the night - let me set it up.  Syesha was crying and her makeup was running.  Ryan asked one of the studio crew members to get her a tissue.  She wiped her eyes and said, “I must look like crap right now.“  Ryan said, “Yup”.  WHAT???  He didn’t say, “No honey, you look fine.  Don’t worry about it.“  He said, “Yup”.  HA HA HA HA!!

Jason Castro - “Mr. Tamborine Man”.  Why does he pick these weird songs?  Wait a minute.  I have to rewind my TiVo!!  Did Jason just sing the words “yadda yadda yadda”???!!!  {PAUSE WHILE I REWIND}————-  YUP!  He sang some weird yadda yadda mumble words because he forgot the words!!  At this point in the competition he’s forgetting the words???!!!  This could be the most important experience of his entire life and he blew it.  Why is he still here?  Not to mention that the song only has 10 words.  How can you forget 10 words that repeat over and over and over???  Randy was speechless.  Paula gave him a pep talk.  Simon told him to pack.  I would agree.  Ball up those socks and buy some souvenirs because you’re heading home tomorrow.

David Archuletta chose “Love Me Tender” by Elvis Presley.  What an old fashioned song for such a young guy.  I’m not expecting greatness, but I do think he’s safe.  He could hum “The Chicken Dance” and probably be safe at this point.  I think David, David and Syesha owe Jason a nice big thank you.  I can picture David singing all of the Christmas Carols around the piano in his livingroom every year.  But I can also picture some of the relatives rolling their eyes in silence saying, “Oh damn!  We have to go to the Archuletta’s house for Christmas this year and listen to their little brat sing like a girl.“  He’s a cute kid and he’ll also go far.  But I thought the song was lame.

I have to admit - I’ve been a huge fan of American Idol since Season 2 and I always have one particular favorite.  This year, I’m not hugely impressed with the contestants and I’m not loving the final four.  When I was asked to give my favorite, I said that I don’t really have a personal favorite.  But, I do maintain that it will be the Battle of the Davids with David Cook taking the prize.

Til next time Idolers!

Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Idol Results - 4/30/08

Kim Reis

Ewwww.  The opening song “Song, Song Blue” was sung by the five finalists and it was bad karaoke (and that’s a compliment).  Neil Diamond said that these “kids didn’t make it to the top five by being average.“  I say - Some of them did.  I’m really not impressed with the talent level this year.  David Cooke is a front runner, by far.  But the others are not blowing me away.

Jason Castro was brought out on stage first and he ended up on the safe sofa.  WHAT???!!  Then, Archuletta came up.  SAFE!  Of course David Cooke was safe.  So that means Brooke and Syesha are in the bottom two.  What the???!  When I Jason Castro going to meet his maker?  The Jason Castro teeny bopper fan club must be texting their votes like crazy people.

Before I even see the results - my guess is that Brooke is going home.  Syesha deserves to stay for sure.

I don’t really like the phone calls from viewers at home.  It drags out the show.  I think the producers are trying to spruce up the show and it was a nice try.  But it doesn’t really work.  Although, there may have been a love connection between Simon and one of the callers who claims she was Simon’s first kiss and his first crush.

I watch my reality shows on TiVo and tonight, I started Idol about half way through.  Unfortunately, as I fast forwarded through the boring parts of the show, I caught up to “real time” and I was no impressed with Neil Diamond’s performance.  I couldn’t fast forward through it.  UGH!  I think Neil’s going home tonight.  he he he he.  It wasn’t memorable Dawg! 

So, Brooke went home.  And, although I was a fan throughout this competition, it was time.  She cried like crazy and I’m sure no one was surprised by that.  She cried all season.  But, I was certainly moved by her final performance and I feel that she sang it from the heart.  She’s sweet and I’m sure Arizona will welcome her back with open arms.

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Idol and Mr. Diamond

Kim Reis

Tonight was Neil Diamond night on Idol with the top 5 Idol finalists ready to prove to America that they deserve to be here.  When Ryan Seacrest opened the show with that dramatic “THIS IS AMERICAN IDOL” opening, Jason Castro was holding back laughter behind his back.  Just watch Castro when he doesn’t know the camera is watching him.  It’s hysterical.  Last week, he yawned. 

Jason Castro sang “Forever in Blue Jeans”.  My buddy Rockin’ Joe (who frequently comments on my blogs) guessed that Brooke would pick that song.  HOW FUNNY!  Of all the Neil Diamond songs, it actually made it into the show.  Castro did OK.  Nothing spectacular and nothing memorable.  I’m not sure why he’s still here, but it must be the cute smile that’s appealing to the young teeny boppers who love to text in their votes.

David Cooke started by singing “I’m Alive” which is not a very well known song from Neil Diamond.  Could be gutsy because no one knows the song.  But, on the flip side, he can do no wrong and I don’t think America will let him go home.  It worked for him and he really rocked the house.  I’m not usually a fan of the front runner in any reality show or contest.  I always cheer for the underdog.  But, he did a nice job on this song.

Brooke sang “I’m a Believer” as her first song and decided to play the guitar.  Why does she choose to play instruments when she sings??  I don’t get it!  It doesn’t work for her.  Very weak song for her (and I’ve been a Brooke fan).  Jason was boring, but Brooke was bad.  Bad karaoke.  I think Shrek sang it better in the Dreamworks cartoon from 2001.  It looked like she had fun, but when she watches it back, I think she’ll be embarassed.

David Archuletta sang “Sweet Caroline” and really pissed off Red Sox fans for sure.  Too many runs and he tried to make a pop song.  Bad, bad, bad.  When I hear that song in the car, I get pumped.  When I heard Archuletta sing it, I thought he was from a “boy band”.  I didn’t like it.  But again, he’s the golden child, so I’m sure he’s not going anywhere.

Syesha sang “Hello Again” and she really sang it very well.  She just sang.  No fancy renditions.  She just focused on her voice and she is really growing in this competition.  She flew under the radar for many weeks and now she’s coming alive when it really matters.  Simon thought she was old fashioned but I feel that she focused on her voice instead of gimmicks.

After they all sang the first song, the judges got a chance to comment.  What the heck is Paula on?  She said that she loved their first song and didn’t really like their second song.  The problem with her comment is that they only sang one song!  Which means, she’s commenting on the rehearsal that she probably saw.  She’s loony.  What is in that cup on her table?  Somebody smell it - QUICK! 

Jason Castro - “September Morn”.  He should be singing “September Bore”.  Again - this competition is way above Jason’s head.  He’s boring and he should have gone home a long time ago.  Unfortunately, Brooke was worse on her first song which could cause her to pack her bags.  I think Jason is banking on his looks and cute, naive personality.  Blah!  At this point of the competition, in the top 5 of American Idol, we should be saying WOW.  Instead, I took a bathroom break during the song because I was bored.  I didn’t hit pause.

David Cooke sang “All I Really Need is You”.  I’ve never heard the song before, but he sure did make it sound like a song that could be on the radio today. With Brooke, I say she should not be holding a guitar while singing.  With David, it works.  And it works well.  For the first 8 weeks of this competition, I didn’t like David.  And, I think I didn’t like him because he was the front runner.  OK, I’ll concede.  He is really a great performer and, so far, he is head and shoulders above the rest.  This performance was better than his first performance. 

Brooke’s second song “I Am, I Said” and she wrote some of the lyrics on her hand for safety because of last week’s debacle.  This performance was MUCH better than her first mess - which reminded me of the Partridge Family.  I’m not sure it was enough to take her to next week, but the voting will tell.  I believed that she really meant the words in this song and I think she sounded great.  If the voters remember her more than Jason Who, then she might have a chance.  Regardless, it will be Brooke and Jason in the bottom two.

David Archuletta sang “America”.  I choreographed my brothers in a lip sync competition with this song.  When I hear this song, I start tapping my feet and I really get jazzed.  I was not impressed with Archuletta’s version and, he squeaked like Peter Brady in the Brady Bunch episode when Peter’s voice was changing.  I also did not feel patriotic in anyway when he was singing.  Amateurish at best.  It didn’t do it for me, but he won’t be in the bottom two.  America won’t let it happen.  It will be the “Battle of the Davids” come the Idol finale.  Randy and Paula loved it.  Simon thinks he picked the song to “tickle the voting boxes” to get more votes.  I don’t think he needed to tickle any boxes because he isn’t going anywhere.

Syesha sang “Thank the Lord for the Night Time”.  Not as good as her first performance, but it was fun.  Very pitchy dawg.  I think she’ll fly under the radar and stick around for one more week.  She really rocked some of those high notes and her range is really amazing.  At first, I didn’t think she should have made it past week 4.  But she has really grown on me.

Have a comment?  Disagree with my opinions.  Let me have it!!  Click on the comment button below and tell me what you think!  Til next time!

Dancing With the Stars - 4/28

Kim Reis

And they danced - two dances last night.  The contestants are really getting better and they are closing in on the front runners (which were Kristy and Mario).  Not to mention, the contestants are really slimming out.  What a diet plan!  Marissa is melting in front of our eyes!  She’s looking great and working so hard.  I think she’s very cute.  Christian de la Fuente suffered an arm injury and it was a little nerve racking as we watched it live.  When he was holding his arm, I was afraid of a heart attack.  He got some very low scores from the judges, but I think voters at home will give him lots of sympathy votes.  Unfortunately, I think he would have been the one voted out this week because I think he’s the weakest dancer on the show.  But now, a better dancer might be packing his/her bags and heading home.  That will most likely be Shannon Elizabeth who has not been a favorite of the judges since the show began.  Here’s my prediction regarding the trip “home”:

This week: Shannon Elizabeth
Next week: Christian
May 12th: Bye bye Mario (I think his cocky attitude will do him in)
May 19th: Adios Jason

This will leave the final two as Marissa and Kristy.  But we’ll see.  Some people don’t like the whiney begging of Marissa.  But, that’s my pick.

By the way - did anyone else see the subliminal messages for “The Mole” during ABC promo breaks?  It was just a flash with a fingerprint that says “The Mole Was Here”.  Weird.  I used to like that show.  Glad to see it’s coming back.  I’ll probably blog about it.

Til next time!

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Idol Shocker!

Kim Reis

What an Idol SHOCKER last night!!!  I guess my Idol guessing streak is over.  Boy - I was on a roll!

The bottom two SHOULD have been Brooke and Jason with Jason going home.  Instead - the bottom two were Syesha and CARLY???!!!  Don’t get me wrong.  Carly wasn’t going to win the whole thing.  But, out of the six singers, it just wasn’t her time.  Obviously, America thought differently and sent her packing.  But, Man DAWG! 

Now it will DEFINITELY be the Battle of the David’s in the final two (Archuletta and Cooke).  Next week, Jason’s gotta go.  Then Syesha and then Brooke.  Leaving D&D to battle it out.

WOW!  Idol never ceases to amaze me.