idolreview.net – Blogging American Idol | X Factor | The Voice | 2012

Tonight is “threes” night.  Three contestants, three songs, three judges.  The judges get to pick round one, the contestants chose their own fate in round two, and Jimmy picks round three.

1. JOSHUA LEDET I’d Rather Be Blind by Etta James  Randy chose this song for him which was an excellent fit.  He appeared to show more control than we have seen in recent weeks, where he just ripped the head off the songs in a down and dirty way.  The control and phrasing were done like a pro, and save for a few sharp notes, the pitch was great, as well.  He is off to a great start!	RATING:
2. JESSICA SANCHEZ My All by Mariah Carey  Weeeellll…I was not a fan of her on this song at all.  The song never peaked, it sounded too challenging for her, especially in a week of learning three songs and hometown visits.  I don’t fault her, because she gave it her best go.  (I mean honestly, J. Lo, I’d love to hear your best shot at this one…)	RATING:

After Miss Skylar’s untimely ouster last week, each of these kids needs to prove they deserve to be here.

Tonight’s theme is California and Songs You Wish You’d Written.  Didn’t they already do inspirational songs week.  Running out of themes, Uncle Nigel?

1. PHILLIP PHILLIPS Have You Ever Seen The Rain by CCR  Two weeks in a row Idol rocks the CCR.  For Phillip, he seems so awkward without his guitar.  I can’t imagine he would ever perform without it in the real world.  I’m glad he mentioned in his video package that Time of the Season was a rough go last week.  This was much better than that, even though it was kind of awkward.	RATING:
2. HOLLIE CAVANAUGH Faithfully by Journey  I really wanted to like this song for her, but she didn’t show any range and her runs are way too calculated.  She needed to (in the words of Randy Jackson) SLAY it.  And I don’t think this song did it for her.  Technically proficient (per usual), but not her moment.	RATING:

Tonight is essentially a throwback night.  Round 1 is the 60s then round two is Brit Pop.  Which considering that British Invasion happened in the 60s there will be some serious overlap.  Mentors?  Steven Van Zandt, aka Little Stevie from the E Street Band.  Rockin!

1. HOLLIE CAVANAUGH River Deep Mountain High by Tina Turner  This was the most fun we’ve seen her have on this stage.  It may not have been as good as my beloved Glee version with Santana and Mercedes, but I agree with JLo that it was great to see her lead a production and have the stage presence to handle a song like that.  She’s making progress!	RATING:
2. PHILLIP PHILLIPS The Letter by The Boxtops  Whelp, this was absolutely not my favorite version of this song.  I am also annoyed that he said “she done wrote me a letter.”  It just lost any of the hook the song was supposed to have.  I will not be humming this one tomorrow.  Meh. (Also, how does JLo not know “The Letter”??)	RATING:

We kick off the night with a Wednesday night medley!  A Queen medley with Roger Taylor and Brian May … Sah-weet!  This was pretty awesome and definitely one of my fave medleys of the season.

1. JESSICA SANCHEZ Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen  I’m not gonna lie, I loved her voice on that song!  She sang the crap out of it, and had complete control the entire time.  Many have attempted that song on idol, and I would venture to say she is one of the best (if not, THE best.)  Maybe she needs to rock out more often.

RATING:

2. SKYLAR LAINE The Show Must Go On by Queen  Finally some non-twang from this girl!  This was a great, belty powerhouse performance, and I loved that she went up there and put everything on the table.  It showed some versatility, and that she is truly equal parts rock and country.  There were a few weird notes at the bottom of her range that weren’t on point, but it was not bothersome for me to complain about it.

RATING: