February 8, 2007: I'd Buy a Ticket, Too
What in the world was Jewel wearing? Was that a napkin with a belt around it? OK, now that I've forced myself to get over that all too quickly, Randy opened the show, and I was happy to see him singing lyrics instead of giving his odd two cents for a few minutes. But he returned to his judge's seat soon enough and original-song night began with a twist: All the singers got to perform tonight, and in a fair decision, no one will go home because of technical difficulties in broadcasting the show last week. I'd rather that than an incorrect vote.
Another change tonight: They separated the two finalists who received the least number of votes. Joshua, one of the bottom two, came out with a clean-shaven face, hair combed back and a... denim vest? I know, I know, this isn't
Project Runway, so I'll lay off. His original song was pretty good, very emotional, and it showcased his voice well.
Whitney, the other contestant bringing in a low number of votes, took Jewel's advice and showed up a little more casual tonight in her tank top and jeans. Not too much midriff showing this week, Blake. I have to say, though, she looks strange when she holds a guitar, and I'm not sure why. It might just be because she doesn't move much, so it creates this awkward statue-like stance. I did hear her voice more tonight, but it's still not enough to hold my interest.
But stop right here, because I need a minute to give Zac Hacker a standing ovation. Thanks to Jewel for convincing him to sing the song he really wanted to do in the first place. I wonder what his dad was really thinking as he sat there listening and tearing up. It was completely captivating.
On a completely opposite note, I unfortunately have no comment about Lance Miller's surprise performance. ("Is it over yet?" was circling my mind, but let's pretend I didn't say that out loud.) Feel free to leave your thoughts here.
David kept up his fun vibe, but it didn't get quite as personal as Zac's did. He's alive and always into his performances, so I think he's still a top contender. But I was waiting all night to hear Angela's songwriting skills. She certainly had great expectations coming from the judges and audience, being the person who received the most votes. And let me just say, she just doesn't disappoint. Even Randy said he'd pay for an encore. The lyrics were amazing, her range was on point, and I really started to picture the story she was telling. Now, if that isn't a songwriter, I don't know what is.
Those Hackers know how to dig deep for the good stuff and turn it into a two-minute escape. If Blake would just stop flirting, we would have a perfect ending to the night. Overall, I was impressed with most of the original compositions. I know
I can't write a song like that.
