The New American Idol Top Ten (Really Top Thirteen)

by Cari Cole

 
The New American Idol is good, good enough to watch. I can’t resist being a judge in absentia, so expect my comments here as Idol season unfolds!

I can’t say I’m a fan of singing competitions in general, there is too much I admire and celebrate about different singers – how can you say one is really better than the other when music and art is a matter of taste? But that said, since I am in the business, it is my duty to watch, and this season I am pleasantly surprised with the new Idol.

The energy between J Lo, Steven and Randy is infinitely better than Kara-Simon-Randy, probably because now there are famous current singing stars as judges – great move. I’m not sure I miss Simon. Randy seems to fill in his spot, but not as smugly which is easier to deal with. This season I even find the singers are better (am I noting pro’s here?) even though the show is still a crap-shoot as to whether the most talented make it through to the top ten.

And now the countdown begins. Last night the tension mounted as we watched many hopefuls go home. Mostly I thought the choices the audience made are pretty dead on with a few exceptions.

I missed the guys’ night so I can only comment on the girls so far. I think I’m in love with Thia and Pia. Can you believe Thia is only 15 years old? Wow. I was surprised that Haley stayed on, not so wowed by her, a bit too nasal for me. I was also a bit surprised that Lauren got cut – I was impressed with her big voice and vocal finesse. I was surprised by the judges’ choice of Naima, her performance last night was not as good as the other night, very flat and pitch-ey. I was also shocked they chose Ashthon – not my favorite – although she is beautiful, and she’s got that Diana Ross thing, which is cool (this is a singing competition no?).

By far though, Pia is extraordinary, she’s my final choice of the girls. Gooorgeous everything.. Who is your favorite?