We’ve got a lot of Idol to cover, so let’s get right into it. We’ve got Keith crying, an adorable baby, a uncomfortable overly apologetic “singer” and a whole slew of talent...basically, a great night of American Idol auditions.
I’ll write about the top five auditions in detail, in order of appearance, and list the others who auditioned as well. When it comes time for live shows, I’ll write and rate everything.
Danny Farmer
I didn’t want to like Danny after his borderline obnoxious, Casanova-like introductory package. But then he started singing a D’Angelo in a sweet, buttery falsetto that left me pretty speechless. Danny showed real personality and, even better, knew how to work that soulful voice.
Trent Harmon
Another unexpected audition came from Trent, a farm boy with a gorgeous R&B voice. His performance was so unexpected – the slick runs, soulful voice and skillful guitar playing – that it took me a while to fully wrap my head around Trent, so much so that I look forward to hearing what’s next for him.
Olivia Rox
This 16-year-old felt like Jax’s little sister in the best possible way. While her Bruno Mars cover dragged a bit, it showed a vulnerable and tightly controlled voice far beyond her years. This is the kind of performer who could make top ten in her sleep.
Melanie Tierce
In the best vocal performance of the night, Melanie’s “Rise Up” showcased a gorgeous, folk voice that was both strong and assured but textured and nuanced.
Tristan McIntosh
I often get annoyed with shameless tear-jerking moments like having Tristan’s military mama surprise her at the audition. But even that contrivance didn’t dampen my spirits since this 15-year-old (!) delivered a pristine “Why Baby Why” on piano. With shades of Alicia Keys, Tristan was very emotionally connected and delivered a heartfelt rendition of the George Jones song that I would buy on iTunes tomorrow. Was it a perfect vocal? No, but that’s OK. It touched me and that’s all that matters.
Others who got a golden ticket were:
- Cameron Richard had a unique tone, but needs to let his voice finish changing before really going forward with a music career.
- Dalton Rapattoni looked like Billie Joe Armstong’s son and sang an inspired acoustic “Phantom Of The Opera” cover.
- La’Porsha Renae's big hair and big voice showed promise. However, I wasn’t as swayed as the judges by her sunny and soulful “Creep” which felt out of sync with the moody, angry original.
- Brooke Sample, a quirky and apologetic contestant, has wavering vocals were thin and underdeveloped.
- Jessica Clark, Ameet Kanon & Kayla Mickelson who were only shown briefly in a montage.
- Malie Delgado, the former Miss Alaska and current DJ, had an adequate voice but neither her singing or rapping showed a lot of character.
- Brandyn Burnette's gorgeous and passionate song was more memorable than his voice, which was serviceable but not remarkable.
- Kyristi Jewel, despite having a strong instrument, tried too hard and peppered her song with too many runs, growls and even some unneeded scatting.
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