First, I have to say, I'm amazed that through all those dumb, stupid acts the final 10 displayed talent. I can't imagine getting so close - like one step away from the finals - and going home.
When Smage Bros. were called on stage, along with iLuminate, I was hopeful, even though I knew America voted for iLuminate. I'm not sure where the Smage Bros. will take their motorcycle act, but I'm sure America will hear more of them.
Whilst I enjoy iLuminate's talents, I'll be disappointed if they go all the way. Even though Howie considers them to be the "Second most fun I have in the dark."
I wonder how much influence the judges have on the voting? Last night they weren't thrilled with Miami All Stars, and only Piers raved about Lys Agnes. Neither of them went through and I wonder if the judges' critique had an impact?
Lys stood, tears welled in her eyes, as if she foresaw her forthcoming fate in some crystal ball. She was kicking herself for taking a risk, but shouldn't. Her future doesn't lie in the hands of this show and she will undoubtedly realize a successful career in the industry.
As for Miami All Stars - oh my, ya gotta love 'em. The leader of the pack gave the most exquisite thank you in his Lantino accent that it choked me up a bit.
With only a 1% difference in the votes, Poplyfe and Landon Swank took the stage next. Magicians have never seen the final 10 so, it was unlikely America voted for him, even though he's talented. Poplyfe, of course, is my favorite. I just love the sincere sweetness that radiates from the lead singer. There were no mixed emotions here. If one of them made it, it had to be Poplyfe for me. And it was :D
I lost track of who was still standing during the "entertainment" part of the show. Nick, the skit wasn't funny. Not blaming you, but the writers, obviously. And Howie, seeing bare skin on your head is, frankly, enough. America isn't ready for the Full Monty.
Much more impressive was Il Divo, the classical cross-over quartet, who had the judges standing and Piers smiling at the end of the song "Wicked Game." If you've never heard them do "Mama" it's worth a visit to YouTube.
Following their performance the next two acts, Silhouettes and West Springfield Dance Team, were called on stage. I don't want to take anything away from West Springfield, but this was a no-brainer for me. If Silhouettes hadn't won, I'd be unable to write this post due to shock.
The heart-breaking news for me came when Landou Eugene Murphy, Jr. and Anna Graceman awaited the results. They're both such talented vocalists in their own right. Who do I really want to see move on, and why?
Murphy has a wife and kids. He's struggled most of his life as a car washer. He's not getting any younger and this might be his last shot at fame. Then, again, certainly some agent spotted him and he'd be signed to appear in Vegas despite the results.
Anna is only 11 years old. She has her whole life ahead of her and finishing in the top 10 is certainly not failure. She's supported by her parents, so wouldn't need the money, except for maybe her college education. And headlining in Vegas, might change her too much at such an impressionable age.
Yeah, I had to go with Murphy and when Nick announced Landou Eugene Murphy, Jr. I was happy until I saw the emotional tears streaming down the cheeks of an 11- year-old, heartbroken kid. Chin up, Anna, your life is just beginning, even if your soul is a thousand years old.
And to think, when I was a toddler, singing and dancing my heart out on stage, family and friends thought I was so talented. LOL! Yeah, I would have gotten buzzed by all three judges shortly after the beginning. Unless, of course, it was on cuteness. Hey, where was Little Miss Perfect when I was a kid?
Showing posts with label AGT. Show all posts
Showing posts with label AGT. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
America's Got Talent - YouTube Special
Out of a thousand YouTube auditions, only 20 of which we got to see, the judges chose 12 to compete for four spots. Props to the judges for sitting through a thousand acts. I couldn't do it, but then I'm not getting paid.
The first act, from Charlotte N.C., incorporates modern dance/music with clog dancing. TNC Elite is different and, no, can't be compared to Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance. They danced to the upbeat, Black Eyed Peas tune "I Gotta Feeling" and it suited their style perfectly.
Where does an illusionist go at 50? Well, if your name is Brett Daniels and you're from Wisconsin, you audition on YouTube for AGT. He did a tribute to Marilyn Monroe and I thought it was a great trick. The problem is I was bored. What he lacks, in my opinion, is showmanship.
Now if he had a face like the next act, you'd have to love him. Gabe Rock, rawks. The humor this cute little bull dog brought to the act, was a good choice. Oh wait, his trainer created the act. Who was she anyways? "What does Piers do when he doesn't like an act?" she asked. Gabe buzzed the buzzer. But hiking his leg on a cardboard cut-out of Piers was what I'm sure a lot of acts would like to do. Who doesn't like doggies? Cat lovers most probably.
There are so many acrobatic acts that Aeon, from L.A. has a lot of competition, even though I've yet to see another free running dance group on AGT. What they lack in talent, they make up for in energy.
I remember the little southern miss from her YouTube audition. And I agreed with the judges that Breena Bell from Alabama could see the Olympics in her future, but doesn't stand a chance on AGT.
The male singer competition isn't overwhelming this season so, who knows, the Texan, Kevin Colis, might stand a chance. He's not a Michael Grimm, but then there's only one of him. I'm not a big fan of The Lazy Song, although he did hit and sustain the final high note flawlessly.
Next up was a 14 year old dancer from Alabama, Beth Ann Robinson. When I watched her YouTube performance I thought she had talent, but with the drama and emotion she brought to the act to tell a story...well, it was pretty awesome. And the kid can dance.
Gymkana an acrobatic team from MD did their stunts to Lady Gaga's "On the Edge." They're an incredibly talented ladder act that not only has to have balance, coordination and perfect timing, but complete TRUST in the dude that holds up the ladders. Obviously, I wouldn't make the act, because I don't trust anyone.
What kid wouldn't wanna be surrounded by gorgeous girls? Well, maybe not all guys. With a name like Kalani, you'd have to be from Hawaii, right? The gorgeous girls, who danced around while he played with his balls - oh did I mention he does a freestyle basketball act? - looked nervous as hell. Howie described him as a one-man Harlem Globetrotter act. It's interesting to watch, but what other tricks can he do? I mean the Globetrotters can at least play basketball.
West Springfield Dance Team bills themselves as hip hop dancers, but it didn't look hip hop to me. Although the choreography, with their vampire-ish look and contacts that made their eyes translucent was different, it didn't scare me at all. They have one really good move; however, the competition in this category is plentiful.
The guy that got the most YouTube votes hails from my hometown, Chicago. When I saw Matt Whilhelm's YouTube audition I wasn't too impressed. Seems everyone these days wants to glow in the dark. His bicycle glowed and was extremely talented, too. I never saw a bicycle break dance by itself. Oh wait! He was on it doing the tricks, but you couldn't see him? Ohhhhhhhhh I get it now. So when he appeared spinning in thin air, the bicycle was just blacked out? Unfortunately, I didn't even realize that his costume was the innards of a human that glowed in the dark, because it didn't.
Lastly, a high school choir from California, Powerhouse. It's a different kind of choir that makes you want to be happy and makes you feel like singing? Okay. The choir in the movie Sister Act made me happier and made me feel like singing. This choir, not too much.
So, which four of the above acts do you think will make it to the semis? There's certainly no Jackie Evancho there and with the exception of Beth Ann Robinson, I don't see any of them going to the finals.
That's my take on the YouTube performers, but before I log off a warm welcome to my newest viewer, Leslie and thanks for following. :)
The first act, from Charlotte N.C., incorporates modern dance/music with clog dancing. TNC Elite is different and, no, can't be compared to Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance. They danced to the upbeat, Black Eyed Peas tune "I Gotta Feeling" and it suited their style perfectly.
Where does an illusionist go at 50? Well, if your name is Brett Daniels and you're from Wisconsin, you audition on YouTube for AGT. He did a tribute to Marilyn Monroe and I thought it was a great trick. The problem is I was bored. What he lacks, in my opinion, is showmanship.
Now if he had a face like the next act, you'd have to love him. Gabe Rock, rawks. The humor this cute little bull dog brought to the act, was a good choice. Oh wait, his trainer created the act. Who was she anyways? "What does Piers do when he doesn't like an act?" she asked. Gabe buzzed the buzzer. But hiking his leg on a cardboard cut-out of Piers was what I'm sure a lot of acts would like to do. Who doesn't like doggies? Cat lovers most probably.
There are so many acrobatic acts that Aeon, from L.A. has a lot of competition, even though I've yet to see another free running dance group on AGT. What they lack in talent, they make up for in energy.
I remember the little southern miss from her YouTube audition. And I agreed with the judges that Breena Bell from Alabama could see the Olympics in her future, but doesn't stand a chance on AGT.
The male singer competition isn't overwhelming this season so, who knows, the Texan, Kevin Colis, might stand a chance. He's not a Michael Grimm, but then there's only one of him. I'm not a big fan of The Lazy Song, although he did hit and sustain the final high note flawlessly.
Next up was a 14 year old dancer from Alabama, Beth Ann Robinson. When I watched her YouTube performance I thought she had talent, but with the drama and emotion she brought to the act to tell a story...well, it was pretty awesome. And the kid can dance.
Gymkana an acrobatic team from MD did their stunts to Lady Gaga's "On the Edge." They're an incredibly talented ladder act that not only has to have balance, coordination and perfect timing, but complete TRUST in the dude that holds up the ladders. Obviously, I wouldn't make the act, because I don't trust anyone.
What kid wouldn't wanna be surrounded by gorgeous girls? Well, maybe not all guys. With a name like Kalani, you'd have to be from Hawaii, right? The gorgeous girls, who danced around while he played with his balls - oh did I mention he does a freestyle basketball act? - looked nervous as hell. Howie described him as a one-man Harlem Globetrotter act. It's interesting to watch, but what other tricks can he do? I mean the Globetrotters can at least play basketball.
West Springfield Dance Team bills themselves as hip hop dancers, but it didn't look hip hop to me. Although the choreography, with their vampire-ish look and contacts that made their eyes translucent was different, it didn't scare me at all. They have one really good move; however, the competition in this category is plentiful.
The guy that got the most YouTube votes hails from my hometown, Chicago. When I saw Matt Whilhelm's YouTube audition I wasn't too impressed. Seems everyone these days wants to glow in the dark. His bicycle glowed and was extremely talented, too. I never saw a bicycle break dance by itself. Oh wait! He was on it doing the tricks, but you couldn't see him? Ohhhhhhhhh I get it now. So when he appeared spinning in thin air, the bicycle was just blacked out? Unfortunately, I didn't even realize that his costume was the innards of a human that glowed in the dark, because it didn't.
Lastly, a high school choir from California, Powerhouse. It's a different kind of choir that makes you want to be happy and makes you feel like singing? Okay. The choir in the movie Sister Act made me happier and made me feel like singing. This choir, not too much.
So, which four of the above acts do you think will make it to the semis? There's certainly no Jackie Evancho there and with the exception of Beth Ann Robinson, I don't see any of them going to the finals.
That's my take on the YouTube performers, but before I log off a warm welcome to my newest viewer, Leslie and thanks for following. :)
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
America's Got Talent 8-2-11 - The Final 12 of 48
If, according to Howie, this was the best season ever then I'm glad I missed previous seasons. We've seen some pretty untalented people make it to Hollywood. *Thinks about the Roping Cowboy and his horse. Nevertheless, America has voted through some damn good acts, with the exception of a man diving into a kiddies pool. Anyway, tonight was the last of the 48 to perform and it began with a disappointing FAIL!
The Kinetic King, from Minnesota spent 36 hours setting up his tongue depressors and other objects to form a colorful and exciting chain reaction that turned out something like a frigid wife...it was just unresponsive to his touch.
He looked confused and kept trying, but it was a big fail. Unfortunately, his is the kind of act where you don't get a rehearsal. And, whilst I feel for him, who's going to spend money to watch his act in Vegas?
Following his fiasco, Zuma Zuma, an exciting act that incorporates dance and acrobatics with an element of danger, performed.
Then came the chipmunks, who could put a diabetic in a coma with their sweetness - Avery and the Calico Hearts, from Texas. Actually, y'all will probably be seeing them with their own Saturday morning kid's show.
Jugglers are boring, unless of course they're exciting. lol I mean, if you don't bring something different to the act, all you have is someone repeatedly throwing things up in the air and catching' em before they hit the ground. Frankly, I think Charles Peachock is entertaining. I've never seen a juggler play piano with his balls. First he juggled them to Can Can and then Jail House Rock, and he didn't miss a beat.
Someone else who doesn't miss a beat is the crazy, but likeable SamB, from Virginia. He has his own style of dance and the SamB moves. Not a million dollar act, but certainly entertaining. I think he's already a cult figure.
What I decided tonight is that Piers is tone deaf. He accused Taylor Davis, the vocalist/guitar player, from Georgia, that he was off key. Hello? He performed Falling Slowly from the movie Once.. Don't know if he has spectacular range, like Sharon said. His rendition sounded very similar to Kris Allen's from American Idol.
The biggest disappointment for me was Melissa Villasenor, the comic/impressionist from California. Her first (and only performance, Piers) was clever and funny and her impressions were right on target. It's my contention that if an impersonator has to preface who they're impersonating, the impression is probably not too good. And, yeah, if she hadn't told me who they were, I probably wouldn't have guessed one of them. Plus she wasn't funny tonight. :(
Aretha Franklin's hit Think (Freedom) sung by a choir of gospel singers, brought life to the act of the illusionist from PA., Scott Alexander. At his last performance, the judges claimed he lacked showmanship. Well, he livened up the stage this time. The choir sang their way onto a platform where a curtain was dropped to cover them, and POOF! they were gone. No they didn't go to heaven, but they rose to a state box in the audience to finish the song. Awesome cool.
Fatally Unique from Rockford, Illinois was up next. A bunch of street kids who formed a gang to dance. Sweet. And this time up, they're choreography was a lot more organized.
One of the most dangerous acts to perform came to us from Denver. A group of stunt cyclists (bicycles that is) called Yellow Design Stunt Team. The act is exciting and fun to watch, but their performance tonight was colorfully and creatively staged. And even though one guy fell toward the end of the routine - and i'm like ouch - he survived unscathed... I think.
But they weren't the only risk takers on the show. Frank (I wanna die) Miles is the ultimate stuntman. He challenges death for crying out loud. I'd actually like to see tonight's performance in slo-mo. Talk about chain reactions - he sets five crossbows into action by shooting at the first. The fifth one was supposed to have gone through a jelly doughnut attached to his head. It missed the target, but only by a silly little millimeter. Fortunately, the doughnut lived. What sets him apart from other stunt persons is his sense of humor.
Last on the agenda and the most impressive - I'm talking standing O even from Piers - was Team iLuminate. The first time I saw them, I thought they're just copying Fighting Gravity, but tonight it was apparent that they're nothing like them - except for the fact that they dance in the dark. I'm still not sure how the technology works to light their costumes up at the appropriate time, but it's awesome to watch.
It's going to be difficult to chose four acts from tonight's venue, but it would be nice to choose five and kick out Professor Splash. lol
The Kinetic King, from Minnesota spent 36 hours setting up his tongue depressors and other objects to form a colorful and exciting chain reaction that turned out something like a frigid wife...it was just unresponsive to his touch.
He looked confused and kept trying, but it was a big fail. Unfortunately, his is the kind of act where you don't get a rehearsal. And, whilst I feel for him, who's going to spend money to watch his act in Vegas?
Following his fiasco, Zuma Zuma, an exciting act that incorporates dance and acrobatics with an element of danger, performed.
Then came the chipmunks, who could put a diabetic in a coma with their sweetness - Avery and the Calico Hearts, from Texas. Actually, y'all will probably be seeing them with their own Saturday morning kid's show.
Jugglers are boring, unless of course they're exciting. lol I mean, if you don't bring something different to the act, all you have is someone repeatedly throwing things up in the air and catching' em before they hit the ground. Frankly, I think Charles Peachock is entertaining. I've never seen a juggler play piano with his balls. First he juggled them to Can Can and then Jail House Rock, and he didn't miss a beat.
Someone else who doesn't miss a beat is the crazy, but likeable SamB, from Virginia. He has his own style of dance and the SamB moves. Not a million dollar act, but certainly entertaining. I think he's already a cult figure.
What I decided tonight is that Piers is tone deaf. He accused Taylor Davis, the vocalist/guitar player, from Georgia, that he was off key. Hello? He performed Falling Slowly from the movie Once.. Don't know if he has spectacular range, like Sharon said. His rendition sounded very similar to Kris Allen's from American Idol.
The biggest disappointment for me was Melissa Villasenor, the comic/impressionist from California. Her first (and only performance, Piers) was clever and funny and her impressions were right on target. It's my contention that if an impersonator has to preface who they're impersonating, the impression is probably not too good. And, yeah, if she hadn't told me who they were, I probably wouldn't have guessed one of them. Plus she wasn't funny tonight. :(
Aretha Franklin's hit Think (Freedom) sung by a choir of gospel singers, brought life to the act of the illusionist from PA., Scott Alexander. At his last performance, the judges claimed he lacked showmanship. Well, he livened up the stage this time. The choir sang their way onto a platform where a curtain was dropped to cover them, and POOF! they were gone. No they didn't go to heaven, but they rose to a state box in the audience to finish the song. Awesome cool.
Fatally Unique from Rockford, Illinois was up next. A bunch of street kids who formed a gang to dance. Sweet. And this time up, they're choreography was a lot more organized.
One of the most dangerous acts to perform came to us from Denver. A group of stunt cyclists (bicycles that is) called Yellow Design Stunt Team. The act is exciting and fun to watch, but their performance tonight was colorfully and creatively staged. And even though one guy fell toward the end of the routine - and i'm like ouch - he survived unscathed... I think.
But they weren't the only risk takers on the show. Frank (I wanna die) Miles is the ultimate stuntman. He challenges death for crying out loud. I'd actually like to see tonight's performance in slo-mo. Talk about chain reactions - he sets five crossbows into action by shooting at the first. The fifth one was supposed to have gone through a jelly doughnut attached to his head. It missed the target, but only by a silly little millimeter. Fortunately, the doughnut lived. What sets him apart from other stunt persons is his sense of humor.
Last on the agenda and the most impressive - I'm talking standing O even from Piers - was Team iLuminate. The first time I saw them, I thought they're just copying Fighting Gravity, but tonight it was apparent that they're nothing like them - except for the fact that they dance in the dark. I'm still not sure how the technology works to light their costumes up at the appropriate time, but it's awesome to watch.
It's going to be difficult to chose four acts from tonight's venue, but it would be nice to choose five and kick out Professor Splash. lol
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
America's Got Talent 7/27/11 - The Four Winners in the Quarter Finals
Tonight had to be my favorite show of the whole season - from beginning to end. How could it lose? The legendary Stevie Nicks performed, along with one of the most unique acts of last year - Fighting Gravity.
Fighting Gravity was one of my favorite acts last year, but Stevie Nicks topped them tonight; not with "For What It's Worth," a song from her newest album In Your Dreams, and not with the classic, "Edge of 17," either. She got my vote as number one performer of the night, because she announced that she hired Michael Grimm from last season to be her opening act on tour. WOOT!
But y'all are probably reading this to see who moved on to the semi finals, right? :D
It was surprising to me to see Ian Johnson, Summerwind Skippers and Purrfect Angelz all called to the stage. My first reaction was,"Huh?" Yeah, I thought America had lost their minds, until Nick said that none of 'em were going through. Another WOOT!
So, when Poplyfe and Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr. (who has to shorten his name) were called on stage, I knew they were both going through, even before it was announced.
Then came four - Mauricio Herrera, Lys Agnes, Captain & Maybelle and Monet. There was no question in my mind which one of these performers were voted through.
But the last three, Professor Splash, Sh'Boss Boys and Seth Grabel? Well even last night I didn't have a clue. When the Sh'Boss Boys were voted off, it was between the two circus acts, and the judges voted for Professor Splash.
Next week will bring the last 12 performers before the semi finals. Hmmmm...I just might do a poll at that point. Maybe I should do a poll as to whether or not you'd like to see a poll? Nah! Just LOL!
Fighting Gravity was one of my favorite acts last year, but Stevie Nicks topped them tonight; not with "For What It's Worth," a song from her newest album In Your Dreams, and not with the classic, "Edge of 17," either. She got my vote as number one performer of the night, because she announced that she hired Michael Grimm from last season to be her opening act on tour. WOOT!
But y'all are probably reading this to see who moved on to the semi finals, right? :D
It was surprising to me to see Ian Johnson, Summerwind Skippers and Purrfect Angelz all called to the stage. My first reaction was,"Huh?" Yeah, I thought America had lost their minds, until Nick said that none of 'em were going through. Another WOOT!
So, when Poplyfe and Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr. (who has to shorten his name) were called on stage, I knew they were both going through, even before it was announced.
Then came four - Mauricio Herrera, Lys Agnes, Captain & Maybelle and Monet. There was no question in my mind which one of these performers were voted through.
But the last three, Professor Splash, Sh'Boss Boys and Seth Grabel? Well even last night I didn't have a clue. When the Sh'Boss Boys were voted off, it was between the two circus acts, and the judges voted for Professor Splash.
Next week will bring the last 12 performers before the semi finals. Hmmmm...I just might do a poll at that point. Maybe I should do a poll as to whether or not you'd like to see a poll? Nah! Just LOL!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
America's Got Talent 7-26-11 - Twelve Performers Fight to Win
Another exciting night on America's Got Talent. Now I know why, in the past, I've only watched starting with the quarter finals. lol
The first act on stage was a group of jump ropers from Boise, Idaho.Summerwind Skippers are fun to watch and their choreography is great. Still, I don't know if I'd pay to watch them jump rope as headliners in Vegas.
It's kind of like the YoYo Kid, Ian Johnson, although Summerwind didn't make as many mistakes as the kid from Hebron, Illinois. As skilled a yoyo-ist as he might be, I'm not shelling out big bucks to see the act.
Now, I might pay to see Sh'Boss Boys. LOL! How cute can you get? The rappers, 5, 6, and 7 years old, from Atlanta, are more then precious little boys, they're talented.
Mauricio Herrera, from Cali, is a consummate entertainer, who offers lots of fun in his act, but does he have the voice to go with the show? In my opinion, he didn't perform Viva Las Vegas as well as Elvis, and didn't come close to Tom Jones, when he sang Delilah. So I ain't giving him a million bucks.
A magician/stunt person, Seth Grabel, from L.A. gave a dramatic Houdini-esque performance, but to me the trick was obvious. He hung upside down in a straight-jacket, over a tank of boiling tar whilst a sawmill type blade threatened to cut through the beam from which he hung.
With a black hood on his head, he began to free himself before the blade even started turning. Once freed, he fell into the boiling hot tar. Don't think so! But someone covered in feathers came from the tank and was carried into a cannon and then shot into a tank of water, where the sans feathered Seth appeared. Sorry, more of a circus act to me.
There were a couple more circus acts, as well. Captain and Maybelle, from Georgia, are just too yucky to watch. Forget the circus, it's a side-show act. Of course when Piers mentioned disgusting, the disgusting duo hi 5'd each other. lol I don't want to go to Vegas to see someone with hooks in their eyelids, nose or tongue.
Professor Splash, a 50 year old, from Denver, who jumped from 36 ft 7 in high into a 12 in deep pool of water at 40 mph is exciting. Nevertheless, it screams circus to me. Even if he loses, he's set a world record.
Oakland, California brought us a band that is better than some professional bands. Poplyfe was so good tonight that Piers retracted his former statement about the lead singer's "I don't go without my brothers" band. They are the epitome of superstars and deserved the standing ovation they received.
And who cleans up real good? Well that be Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr, from West Virginia. He's got "Pizazz" all right. When he sang "Fly Me to the Moon" he actually sang to me, the audience. So, add charisma to his great vocals. Even if he doesn't win it all, I'm certain he'll never wash another car.
Another vocalist, 12 year old, Monet, from N.C. sang "Home." Something that her family lost in 2005 due to a storm. She sings with feeling, but lacks emotion - if that makes any sense. The start was rough, but she ended on a high-note. Nevertheless, I agree with the judges, who pointed out that she wasn't pitch perfect and isn't ready for the big time.
Lys Agnes, an opera singer, from Denver, who lost her significant other a couple years ago, is not only beautiful, but performed Carmen's "Habanera" exquisitely.
Of course, I can't forget the former professional cheerleaders, Purrfect Angelz, from Los Angeles, CA. The choreography was fun and they danced to one of my favorite songs - "Save a Horse and Ride a Cowboy." Mmmhmm - that's my motto, being such an animal lover. :D
There are three acts that I definitely want to see go to the semis: Lys Agnes, Poplyfe and Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr. Maybe the Sh'Boss Boys, but I have a feeling America is going to vote for one of the circus acts. Guess, we'll see tomorrow night.
The first act on stage was a group of jump ropers from Boise, Idaho.Summerwind Skippers are fun to watch and their choreography is great. Still, I don't know if I'd pay to watch them jump rope as headliners in Vegas.
It's kind of like the YoYo Kid, Ian Johnson, although Summerwind didn't make as many mistakes as the kid from Hebron, Illinois. As skilled a yoyo-ist as he might be, I'm not shelling out big bucks to see the act.
Now, I might pay to see Sh'Boss Boys. LOL! How cute can you get? The rappers, 5, 6, and 7 years old, from Atlanta, are more then precious little boys, they're talented.
Mauricio Herrera, from Cali, is a consummate entertainer, who offers lots of fun in his act, but does he have the voice to go with the show? In my opinion, he didn't perform Viva Las Vegas as well as Elvis, and didn't come close to Tom Jones, when he sang Delilah. So I ain't giving him a million bucks.
A magician/stunt person, Seth Grabel, from L.A. gave a dramatic Houdini-esque performance, but to me the trick was obvious. He hung upside down in a straight-jacket, over a tank of boiling tar whilst a sawmill type blade threatened to cut through the beam from which he hung.
With a black hood on his head, he began to free himself before the blade even started turning. Once freed, he fell into the boiling hot tar. Don't think so! But someone covered in feathers came from the tank and was carried into a cannon and then shot into a tank of water, where the sans feathered Seth appeared. Sorry, more of a circus act to me.
There were a couple more circus acts, as well. Captain and Maybelle, from Georgia, are just too yucky to watch. Forget the circus, it's a side-show act. Of course when Piers mentioned disgusting, the disgusting duo hi 5'd each other. lol I don't want to go to Vegas to see someone with hooks in their eyelids, nose or tongue.
Professor Splash, a 50 year old, from Denver, who jumped from 36 ft 7 in high into a 12 in deep pool of water at 40 mph is exciting. Nevertheless, it screams circus to me. Even if he loses, he's set a world record.
Oakland, California brought us a band that is better than some professional bands. Poplyfe was so good tonight that Piers retracted his former statement about the lead singer's "I don't go without my brothers" band. They are the epitome of superstars and deserved the standing ovation they received.
And who cleans up real good? Well that be Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr, from West Virginia. He's got "Pizazz" all right. When he sang "Fly Me to the Moon" he actually sang to me, the audience. So, add charisma to his great vocals. Even if he doesn't win it all, I'm certain he'll never wash another car.
Another vocalist, 12 year old, Monet, from N.C. sang "Home." Something that her family lost in 2005 due to a storm. She sings with feeling, but lacks emotion - if that makes any sense. The start was rough, but she ended on a high-note. Nevertheless, I agree with the judges, who pointed out that she wasn't pitch perfect and isn't ready for the big time.
Lys Agnes, an opera singer, from Denver, who lost her significant other a couple years ago, is not only beautiful, but performed Carmen's "Habanera" exquisitely.
Of course, I can't forget the former professional cheerleaders, Purrfect Angelz, from Los Angeles, CA. The choreography was fun and they danced to one of my favorite songs - "Save a Horse and Ride a Cowboy." Mmmhmm - that's my motto, being such an animal lover. :D
There are three acts that I definitely want to see go to the semis: Lys Agnes, Poplyfe and Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr. Maybe the Sh'Boss Boys, but I have a feeling America is going to vote for one of the circus acts. Guess, we'll see tomorrow night.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
AGT - Which Four are Going to the Semi-Finals?
Out of the 12 acts in last night's show, only four will proceed to the semi-finals. We can't blame the judges for this one, because the viewers finally had their votes. So, is it based on talent or the amount of friends you have?
The first acts to be called on stage were, Aero Duo, Fearless Flores Family and Snap Boogie. My heart skipped a beat. I was so fearful that "friends" would overrule "talent." Obviously, I knew that Aero Duo wasn't going to make it; nevertheless, there were two popular acts standing on the stage.
Sometimes I hate those dramatic pauses. But when Nick announced the winner as Snap Boogie, I was like YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAH! Immediately, I thought, "audience has good taste." Then I thought, "Wonder if inmates can vote?" Whatever, I was happy with the results.
Before the next set of acts appeared on stage, we were entertained (matter of opinion) by Avril Levine's "What the Hell."
Then it was a no-brainer between Squonk Opera, J. Chris Newburg and Sandou Trio Russian Bar. There was no question in my mind that Sandou Trio Russian Bar would be going to the semi-finals.
Again, the tension mounted as Dezmond Meeks, Echo and Anna Graceman took the stage. I enjoyed Dezmond's performance last night and I think he belongs in Vegas, but Graceman has an awesome voice and for an 11 year old is a soulful singer. I wasn't surprised that Anna Graceman won; nevertheless, I was disappointed that Meeks didn't.
Following that announcement, the cast of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert entertained the audience with an extravagant and campy production number. Wouldn't expect less with a producer like Bette Midler.
The last acts to await their fate; Miami All Stars, Those Funny Little People and Fiddleheads. As far as I'm concerned, Fiddleheads should have been in the Dezmond Meeks spot, but oh well. Two acts from this group would proceed to the semi finals and I knew it wasn't going to be Those Funny Little People and I was right. So, Miami All Stars and Fiddleheads were voted to the semi-finals.
It's my opinion that the audience actually did a good job; their only mistake was Dezmond Meeks.
The first acts to be called on stage were, Aero Duo, Fearless Flores Family and Snap Boogie. My heart skipped a beat. I was so fearful that "friends" would overrule "talent." Obviously, I knew that Aero Duo wasn't going to make it; nevertheless, there were two popular acts standing on the stage.
Sometimes I hate those dramatic pauses. But when Nick announced the winner as Snap Boogie, I was like YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAH! Immediately, I thought, "audience has good taste." Then I thought, "Wonder if inmates can vote?" Whatever, I was happy with the results.
Before the next set of acts appeared on stage, we were entertained (matter of opinion) by Avril Levine's "What the Hell."
Then it was a no-brainer between Squonk Opera, J. Chris Newburg and Sandou Trio Russian Bar. There was no question in my mind that Sandou Trio Russian Bar would be going to the semi-finals.
Again, the tension mounted as Dezmond Meeks, Echo and Anna Graceman took the stage. I enjoyed Dezmond's performance last night and I think he belongs in Vegas, but Graceman has an awesome voice and for an 11 year old is a soulful singer. I wasn't surprised that Anna Graceman won; nevertheless, I was disappointed that Meeks didn't.
Following that announcement, the cast of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert entertained the audience with an extravagant and campy production number. Wouldn't expect less with a producer like Bette Midler.
The last acts to await their fate; Miami All Stars, Those Funny Little People and Fiddleheads. As far as I'm concerned, Fiddleheads should have been in the Dezmond Meeks spot, but oh well. Two acts from this group would proceed to the semi finals and I knew it wasn't going to be Those Funny Little People and I was right. So, Miami All Stars and Fiddleheads were voted to the semi-finals.
It's my opinion that the audience actually did a good job; their only mistake was Dezmond Meeks.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
America's Got Talent - Quarter Finals
Admittedly, I have not been an avid fan of AGT. I watched it last season for the first time and then only caught the finals. But from what I've seen this season, I think Piers tongue should fall out for saying "Best talent we've ever seen." If this is the best ever, OMG! I'm glad I missed previous shows. I will, however, agree with Nick Cannon, who added, "The craziest." lol
First up was the Miami All Stars from - whoda thunk it? - Miami, Florida. They're all good dancers individually, but as a group, their timing and precision is on the money. I can't imagine what they would have accomplished with more than two hours rehearsal with a new song. 8/10
Dezmond Meeks, the mix of "Little Richard and "Prince" from Louisiana, performed next. His rendition of the Rolling Stones hit, "Satisfaction," wasn't in my estimation as Howie said, "cheesy" but was pure Vegas. Maybe a little over the top, but he's definitely an entertainer, even though I don't think his voice is that great, I give him a 9/10 in the entertainment department, but 7/10 for vocal.
Like Piers said, Those Funny Little People, from Chicago, "Aren't funny, aren't little and aren't people." But I loved the production number which started out with "Singing in the Rain" and ended with "It's Raining Men," where some sexy studs joined them, wearing little bitty trunks with inner tubes hiding the best part. lol 7/10 performance, 10/10 production.
Never thought the Fearless Flores Family was more than a great alliteration. They're not worth a million bucks, despite the danger factor. They upped it this show by adding mom to the act. Now, the dad has to be fearless for standing in the center of the ball of death whilst three motorcycles whiz around at high speeds. I gave them a 9/10 because it is exciting to watch.
From a barn in Pittsburgh, PA., we get music combined with art, in Squonk Opera. Whilst the production was visually intriguing, I'm pretty sure they need an actual vocalist; however, Piers was rather hard on them with his "This is what Hell is like" remark. 8/10 for visuals 4/10 for vocalist.
Ending his act with a song that, I'm sure, made some people cringe, was comedian, J. Chris Newburg, from Birmingham, Michigan. He plays the guitar and tells jokes - not all that funny. The choir of boys and girls - all in beards - he brought as back-up for his song, "That's Probably A Bad Idea," was, like Piers said, "Probably a bad idea." But I did have to laugh at the line about a night spot named Club Baby Seals. 6/10
A street dancer from Boston, Mass., Snap Boogie, won the hearts of viewers. He's not only a talented dancer, who for the first time danced with back-up, but he's a sweet, genuine kid. And even though during rehearsal, he "felt something pop" in the groin area, he went on like a pro. 9/10
Parrots to me aren't Vegas and aren't a million dollar act, not even Echo of Animal Gardens. He failed miserably in Vegas, but this time his incentive to perform was having his sweetheart, Binky, on stage. Like Howie said,"Its a good birthday party act." 5/10
The Fiddleheads, a blue grass band, from Georgia, didn't feel blue grass to me. I hate blue grass even with a dobro, which they ain't got, but which makes blue grass a lot more interesting to me. Okay, so they're non-traditional blue grass, but with a song like Billie Jean and a lead singer, who couldn't hit all the high notes without a hernia, I think they failed. 6/10
Another disappointment for me was Duo Aero, an aerial act from, St. Paul, Minnesota. What's scary to me is that half way through the act I thought, this is BORING! and Piers agreed. There was nothing unusual or spectacular about the act. 5/10.
Up there with Snap Boogie is 11 year old singer, songwriter, musician, Anna Graceman, from Juneau, Alaska. She beautifully brought her own style to "Wonderful World." AGT = Anna Graceman Talent, Howie. 9/10
Lastly, Sandou Trio Russian Bar act from, Texas. Come on now, you jump 30 feet in the air and somersault onto a bar held by two guys. How in the world can you top that? Jump higher? Ummmm... or maybe add a life or death trick to the act. When I saw a bed of nails under the bar that was bad enough, but half way through fire was added to the bed and an even higher than 30 feet jump. 8/10 for the danger factor.
So, now America votes and, frankly, AGT has lots of fans, who, unlike me, watch the show religiously. I can't wait for it to end.
First up was the Miami All Stars from - whoda thunk it? - Miami, Florida. They're all good dancers individually, but as a group, their timing and precision is on the money. I can't imagine what they would have accomplished with more than two hours rehearsal with a new song. 8/10
Dezmond Meeks, the mix of "Little Richard and "Prince" from Louisiana, performed next. His rendition of the Rolling Stones hit, "Satisfaction," wasn't in my estimation as Howie said, "cheesy" but was pure Vegas. Maybe a little over the top, but he's definitely an entertainer, even though I don't think his voice is that great, I give him a 9/10 in the entertainment department, but 7/10 for vocal.
Like Piers said, Those Funny Little People, from Chicago, "Aren't funny, aren't little and aren't people." But I loved the production number which started out with "Singing in the Rain" and ended with "It's Raining Men," where some sexy studs joined them, wearing little bitty trunks with inner tubes hiding the best part. lol 7/10 performance, 10/10 production.
Never thought the Fearless Flores Family was more than a great alliteration. They're not worth a million bucks, despite the danger factor. They upped it this show by adding mom to the act. Now, the dad has to be fearless for standing in the center of the ball of death whilst three motorcycles whiz around at high speeds. I gave them a 9/10 because it is exciting to watch.
From a barn in Pittsburgh, PA., we get music combined with art, in Squonk Opera. Whilst the production was visually intriguing, I'm pretty sure they need an actual vocalist; however, Piers was rather hard on them with his "This is what Hell is like" remark. 8/10 for visuals 4/10 for vocalist.
Ending his act with a song that, I'm sure, made some people cringe, was comedian, J. Chris Newburg, from Birmingham, Michigan. He plays the guitar and tells jokes - not all that funny. The choir of boys and girls - all in beards - he brought as back-up for his song, "That's Probably A Bad Idea," was, like Piers said, "Probably a bad idea." But I did have to laugh at the line about a night spot named Club Baby Seals. 6/10
A street dancer from Boston, Mass., Snap Boogie, won the hearts of viewers. He's not only a talented dancer, who for the first time danced with back-up, but he's a sweet, genuine kid. And even though during rehearsal, he "felt something pop" in the groin area, he went on like a pro. 9/10
Parrots to me aren't Vegas and aren't a million dollar act, not even Echo of Animal Gardens. He failed miserably in Vegas, but this time his incentive to perform was having his sweetheart, Binky, on stage. Like Howie said,"Its a good birthday party act." 5/10
The Fiddleheads, a blue grass band, from Georgia, didn't feel blue grass to me. I hate blue grass even with a dobro, which they ain't got, but which makes blue grass a lot more interesting to me. Okay, so they're non-traditional blue grass, but with a song like Billie Jean and a lead singer, who couldn't hit all the high notes without a hernia, I think they failed. 6/10
Another disappointment for me was Duo Aero, an aerial act from, St. Paul, Minnesota. What's scary to me is that half way through the act I thought, this is BORING! and Piers agreed. There was nothing unusual or spectacular about the act. 5/10.
Up there with Snap Boogie is 11 year old singer, songwriter, musician, Anna Graceman, from Juneau, Alaska. She beautifully brought her own style to "Wonderful World." AGT = Anna Graceman Talent, Howie. 9/10
Lastly, Sandou Trio Russian Bar act from, Texas. Come on now, you jump 30 feet in the air and somersault onto a bar held by two guys. How in the world can you top that? Jump higher? Ummmm... or maybe add a life or death trick to the act. When I saw a bed of nails under the bar that was bad enough, but half way through fire was added to the bed and an even higher than 30 feet jump. 8/10 for the danger factor.
So, now America votes and, frankly, AGT has lots of fans, who, unlike me, watch the show religiously. I can't wait for it to end.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)