< Back to front page Text size – +

"Idol:" All in the family

E-mail|Link|Comments (9) Posted by Joanna Weiss February 19, 2008 10:39 PM

You know what watching "American Idol" is like in Season 7? It's like going back to visit your folks after a long time away, and then watching them bicker the same way they always do -- except they go on a little longer, because they have two hours to fill. And realizing that, in the interim, your dad has gotten even grumpier and your mom has gotten sucked into some sort of spiritual cult-y thing because she has started talking about people's "beautiful colors," which totally sets your dad off. And your crazy-but-sort-of-cool uncle is still calling everyone "dawg." And before too long, they fire up the karaoke machine.

So here comes the parade of wannabe rockers and slender androgynous boys, and after two hours, it's hard to remember everyone. I remember Garrett, the one with the peach fuzz who looks a little like Goldie Hawn, but I don't really remember what he sang. I remember Danny Noriega, he of the skinny pants, who would be a huge hit if he did his Elvis tribute in the "Project Runway" workroom. I remember Jason Castro, who is adorable under his dredlocks and was wise enough to choose a John Sebastian song. I remember Chikeze, who tried to turn a Spiral Starecase song into a Barry White ballad and then got mad when Simon critiqued his orange suit. I remember Michael the Hottie Australian. (Sigh.) I remember Robbie, the guy with the boy band roots and the rocker hair and - sorry, bud - the boy band voice. I remember David Archuleta...and is it sacrilege to say that, while he's cute and sings far better than Sanjaya, he still isn't quite all that?

Well, I said it anyway. See you tonight, mom and dad. Bring on the rocking nurse.

« Back to front page

9 comments so far...

You are right on the money with your simile. Season 7 IS like going back to your folks' place. And I'm sorry, but David Archuleta sings like a Muppet. Am I the only one who thinks that?

Posted by Melissa J. February 20, 08 08:16 AM

Hi Joanna,

Yes, you are right on the money. None of them are impressive and as a heterosexual male, androgynous boy-toys don't do it for me - although Paula seems quite impressed with them.

Simon is the only one who still sees through it clearly, but he has to push the show.

It is getting old. Danny Noriega is a Paula and Randy Jackson favorite but he can't even sing. Randy and Paula are losing the magic touch and I think Simon is suffering for it.

Nobody stood out. Oh well, I keep watching.

Season 5 was the peak and the show has jumped the shark.

Posted by Ben Karkis February 20, 08 08:39 AM

Whatever happened to the Brut man? Did the Queer Eye folks take over this show? Plus, what hetero male wants to sit through 2 hours of guys singing wimpy songs? At least give us 6 women and 6 guys.

It was like a sausage fest.

Posted by TRiles February 20, 08 10:23 AM

Even my tween daughter didn't like all the wimpy boys. They were amusing, but come ON. We only really liked David Archuleta (though he shouldn't win because he breathes too loud and really doesn't have much range), Jason Castro (was prepared to hate him and REALLY liked his song choice and performance) and Michael the Hottie Aussie (gave me a chance to define the word "charisma" for my kids).

What I liked best of all was Fox telling me it was time to talk about SEX with my 5th grader (which is my tween's grade). I was agape at this and turned to my daughter and said, "Well, I guess you know what we're going to be talking about, then!" Jeez. Did they have to do that while all the 5th graders were watching?? Nothing like forcing a parent's hand on something sensitive. Thanks, Fox. Not.

Posted by Alice J. February 20, 08 11:35 AM

Your "going home" reference had me laughing out loud. Simon seemed more cranky than usual. Is it the horrible haircut?

I love little David A. Hope he stays humble and continues to bring the voice.

Posted by Dianne February 20, 08 12:03 PM

Or worse, they fire up the American Idol karaoke machine. www.techtogo.com Is this what you're talking about or is it just a coincidence?

Posted by Ebony February 20, 08 12:32 PM

I was speaking metaphorically, Ebony. But if you are a stealth marketing guy for techtogo.com, congrats - you just got a plug! : )

Posted by Joanna February 20, 08 12:45 PM

I don't care what anyone says ... this is the highlight of my sorry existence! I give them ALL credit. I certainly would never be able to stand up in front of millions of viewers and three critics who tear you down after each and every song. I love watching and find it very entertaining. That's what it's all about after all, right? Don't forget ... they've produced some of the best talent that has gone on to great stardom. I'm anxiously waiting to see who our next American Idol will be. Right now (and it's super early), I think it's going to be one of the girls. The guys were quite entertaining, and there are a few that I can actually see me listening to while I'm driving. Come on peeps ... let's be supportive! It's entertaining and I give them all a LOT of credit.

Posted by Dianne February 20, 08 01:35 PM

So far I am not super impressed with anyone .....maybe Asia'h - I think I like her the best .....but it is always entertaining......By the way who got knocked off tonight....I was working and my husband put it on at 5 to 9 thinking it was on at 9pm ...DUH!!

Posted by Dianne B February 21, 08 08:18 PM