American Idol season 3: Greatest Soul Classics
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Free Music Notes for American Idol season 3: Greatest Soul Classics
Free Music Review: It's The Music That's Important!
Hit: 4 Stars
Let me just begin by saying that I wish that some people would stop bashing the idol contestants. We should all give them the credit that they deserve for actually getting into the top 12. I think that it bears repeating that AMERICA put them there, and it was AMERICA that chose the winner. It shouldn't be 'so and so should have won because blah..blah..blah..' or 'how did so and so get voted out?'. We should end this and concentrate on what's most important... the music.As a fan of the series, I did read what everyone else had said, but I decided to buy the cd anyway so that I could judge for myself. Although, I admit that I had my favorites on the show, but I gave everyone a chance to redeem themselves. This is what I thought as I listened.
Chain of Fools-Fantasia: While Fantasia put her own special spin on the track, it just didn't 'wow' me like I hoped it would. Don't get me wrong, it's fun to listen to, but it just disappointed me a little bit. Her personality didn't shine as brightly as it normaly does. 8/10
Me and Mrs. Jones-George: George blew me away with this song. You can tell that he poured his whole heart and soul into this performance. His raspy voice shines with brilliance as he hits every note with pure ease and perfection. A flawless performance. 10/10
Heard it Through the Grapevine-Diana: A pleasant song to listen to, but at times would shout the lyrics instead of singing them. Especially with the higher notes. I liked her better as a live artist than a recording one. 7/10
If You Don't Know Me by Now-LaToya: LaToya's version of the song is beautiful. There isn't really anything bad that I can say about it. Sometimes simple is better, and she proved it. Well Done. 9/10
Neither One of Us-Jennifer: Jennifer overdoes this song I think. She has a very unique voice which is what makes her such a great artist. However, she oversings it quite a bit. It's like she still has something to prove to the masses. 6/10
You Make me Feel Brand New-Amy: Amy's voice is so pure that she makes this song shine. Although she plays it safe throughout the song, she makes it work for her. What makes it stand out for me, is that she really feels the song that she's singing. When I listen to it, It's like Amy is singing it to me, not into a mic. A romantic classic!One of my personal favorites. 10/10
Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay-Matt: The albums first downfall. I'm not saying that Matt doesn't present his song well, it's just forgetable. It didn't leave a very good impression on me. Besides, the whistling at the end is very corny! I usually skip this one. 4/10
Midnight Train to Georgia-Jasmine: A very sweet song from Jasmine. Again, a safer song. I wanted to hear more of her upper range with this song, but she stays a little lower than that. I'll admit that I didn't like it at first, but the more I listened to it, the more I like it. An enjoyable song to hear. 7/10
My Girl-JPL: Another song that takes a little getting use to. Granted, I don't like it NEARLY as much as some of the others, but it is growing on me. I give him all due respect for getting as far as he did. His voice is nothing to write home about, but he knows he's limited vocally, and works with what he has. For that, I give him credit. For the song though it gets 5/10
Until you Come Back to me-Camile: Surprise is the the only way to describe this song. I was so impressed with Camile's vocals on this track. It's just too bad that she couldn't get a grip on her nerves. Her recording voice is incredible and I'm sure that we will hear more from her soon. She really shows us her ability as a singer and her skills as a storyteller. It became my favorite track after the first time I heard it! Camile fans would be proud!! 10/10
Betcha By Golly, Wow-Leah: Leah, Leah, Leah, what happened? I'm sure that the songs were picked for the contestants, but why did they pick this one for her? The song and her voice just don't blend well at all. Besides that, I don't think that she sang it all that well to begin with. I gave the song a fair chance, but it just wasn't enough to keep my attention. 3/10
You are Everything-John: Again, I give him the credit he deserves for getting into the top 12, but he just doesn't flow well with the other performers. Granted, he does well with what he has, but it's just not enough. His voice becomes boring really quickly. 2/10
Ain't no Mountain High Enough-All: What I don't get is why they call this an ensemble? What they should call it is "Divas battle while the others sing backup". The song is fun to listen to and can easily get you up and moving around, but it focuses mainly on a few people. George proves that he is the leading man of the group with his contributions but Fantasia, LaToya, and Jennifer all try to outsing eachother in order to get the spotlight they so eagerly desire. JPL and Camile both have small cameos but are drowned out by George and the Divas. I was just expecting to hear a little bit from everyone. 7/10
(I wrote this review and posted it earlier, but I made some changes after listening to the album a bit more. I decided to repost it to give everyone a better feel of the album)
Free Music Review: Let's Get Back to the Music!
Hit: 4 Stars
Let me just begin by saying that I wish that some people would stop bashing the idol contestants. We should all give them the credit that they deserve for actually getting into the top 12. I think that it bears repeating that AMERICA put them there, and it was AMERICA that chose the winner. It shouldn't be 'so and so should have won because blah..blah..blah..' or 'how did so and so get voted out?'. We should end this and concentrate on what's most important... the music.As a fan of the series, I did read what everyone else had said, but I decided to buy the cd anyway so that I could judge for myself. Although, I admit that I had my favorites on the show, but I gave everyone a chance to redeem themselves. This is what I thought as I listened.
Chain of Fools-Fantasia: While Fantasia put her own special spin on the track, it just didn't 'wow' me like I hoped it would. Don't get me wrong, it's fun to listen to, but it just disappointed me a little bit. Her personality didn't shine as brightly as it normaly does. 8/10
Me and Mrs. Jones-George: George blew me away with this song. You can tell that he poured his whole heart and soul into this performance. His raspy voice shines with brilliance as he hits every note with pure ease and perfection. A flawless performance. 10/10
Heard it Through the Grapevine-Diana: A pleasant song to listen to, but at times would shout the lyrics instead of singing them. Especially with the higher notes. I liked her better as a live artist than a recording one. 8/10
If You Don't Know Me by Now-LaToya: LaToya's version of the song is beautiful. There isn't really anything bad that I can say about it. Sometimes simple is better, and she proved it. Well Done. 9/10
Neither One of Us-Jennifer: Jennifer overdoes this song I think. She has a very unique voice which is what makes her such a great artist. However, she oversings it quite a bit. 7/10
You Make me Feel Brand New-Amy: Amy's voice is so pure that she makes this song shine. Although she plays it safe throughout the song, she makes it work for her. What makes it stand out for me, is that she really feels the song that she's singing. When I listen to it, It's like Amy is singing it to me, not into a mic. A romantic classic!One of my personal favorites. 10/10
Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay-Matt: The albums first downfall. I'm not saying that Matt doesn't present his song well, it's just forgetable. It didn't leave a very good impression on me. Besides, the whistling at the end is very corny! I usually skip this one. 4/10
Midnight Train to Georgia-Jasmine: A very sweet song from Jasmine. Again, a safer song. I wanted to hear more of her upper range with this song, but she stays a little lower than that. I'll admit that I didn't like it at first, but the more I listened to it, the more I like it. An enjoyable song to hear. 7/10
My Girl-JPL: Another song that takes a little getting use to. Granted, I don't like it NEARLY as much as some of the others, but it is growing on me. I give him all due respect for getting as far as he did. His voice is nothing to write home about, but he knows he's limited vocally, and works with what he has. For that, I give him credit. For the song though it gets 5/10
Until you Come Back to me-Camile: Surprise is the the only way to describe this song. I was so impressed with Camile's vocals on this track. It's just too bad that she couldn't get a grip on her nerves. Her recording voice is incredible and I'm sure that we will hear more from her soon. She really shows us her ability as a singer and her skills as a storyteller. It became my favorite track after the first time I heard it! Camile fans would be proud!! 10/10
Betcha By Golly, Wow-Leah: Leah, Leah, Leah, what happened? I'm sure that the songs were picked for the contestants, but why did they pick this one for her? The song and her voice just don't blend well at all. Besides that, I don't think that she sang it all that well to begin with. I gave the song a fair chance, but it just wasn't enough to keep my attention. 4/10
You are Everything-John: Again, I give him the credit he deserves for getting into the top 12, but he just doesn't flow well with the other performers. Granted, he does well with what he has, but it's just not enough. His voice becomes boring really quickly. 2/10
Ain't no Mountain High Enough-All: What I don't get is why they call this an ensemble? What they should call it is "Divas battle while the others sing backup". The song is fun to listen to and can easily get you up and moving around, but it focuses mainly on a few people. George proves that he is the leading man of the group with his contributions but Fantasia, LaToya, and Jennifer all try to outsing eachother in order to get the spotlight they so eagerly desire. JPL and Camille both have small cameos but are drowned out by George and the Divas. I was just expecting to hear a little bit from everyone. 7/10
Free Music Review: A good recording, it exposes who the best truly are...
Hit: 4 Stars
As a fairly devoted fan to American Idol (starting just at the tail end of Season 1 and continuing today), I was interested to see how this season's finalists did on their album recording. For the most part, I suppose I wasn't disappointed. Having said this, I find this recording to reveal who the best of this Season really are (whether or not America agreed). I'm afraid my feelings about the show in general as well as this recording might be revealed in this review... I apologize in advance. :)1. Chain of Fools - While I wasn't crazy for Fantasia in the beginning, her talent and heart have really grown on me. This is one of the best tracks on the CD, with the appropriate mixture of soul and sass. Watch out for Ms. Barrino, she'll definitely go places.
2. Me and Mrs. Jones - I've oft heard George compared to Ruben (except for the whole physical aspect). His voice started out raspy, and week after week, it seemed he became more and more worn out. His rendition of this rather silly song (my apologies to those who wrote it) was actually pretty hard to listen to.
3. I Heard it Through the Grapevine - Wow. This is easily one of the best tracks on the entire CD. Diana, despite her youth, has serious pipes and can truly wail with the best of them. I'm just glad to see America saw fit to put her in the Top 2 where she belongs. Look out for this girl too.
4. If You Don't Know Me By Now - What a shocking day for America when La Toya was ousted unrighteously early... This is a pretty "safe" rendition (as Simon would say), but she has definite talent. I wouldn't be surprised if we have La Toya making guest appearances singing her own songs during American Idol Season 4.
5. Neither One of Us - Again, Jennifer was booted far too early, denying America of the exciting and eagerly anticipated Battle of the Divas for the Top 5. Still, she has one of the most soulful recordings on the CD and she has incredible talent.
6. You Make Me Feel Brand New - This track is proof that Amy was booted WAY too early. She has some definite talent and personality and this is a great song for her. You can feel the feeling in the lyrics through her delivery.
7. (Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay - You can actually hear his schmaltzy grin on this track. I always thought he was a total poser, although he has a pleasant enough voice. Still, it shows that he was booted at just the right time.
8. Midnight Train to Georgia - Even though she's not the best of the best, this girl has undeniable talent. This is one of the most pleasant tracks on the CD. She has surprising soul for someone so young and it shows on her recording.
9. My Girl - JPL definitely had his place in the competition, but the quirkiness and gimmick of his performances could only carry this Idaho boy so far. His My Girl is almost a duplicate of any other version you've heard (including the original) but he does pretty well. Still one of the most played song selections in the American Idol repertoire.
10. Until You Come Back to Me - Camile's painful-to-watch-due-to-painful-expressions aren't an issue on a recording, so this is actually a fine recording. She definitely got as far as she deserved, but this track is soulful and heartfelt enough to ensure that Camile could still go places if she plays her cards right.
11. Betcha By Golly, Wow - Ummm... Leah always thought she was the ultimate Diva, and this recording reassures her image. It's actually sort of just a stupid song, but she handles it well enough considering the material she chose/was handed. Still, nothing spectacular.
12. You Are Everything - This recording is proof you can do ANYTHING in a mix, including make John Stevens sing in tune. While I'm sure he's a perfectly nice guy and everyone on the show was sad to see him go, he simply didn't belong in the Top 12 in the first place. He sounds all right on this recording, again, because they can do just about anything to make just about anyone sound all right in a mix, but it's sort of a bland song.
13. Ain't No Mountain High Enough - And as if this isn't the most played song ever on American Idol, they throw on another version of it for good measure. Still, you can pick out the singers (the best and not so best).
All in all a good recording, but a little boring, nothing to jump up and down about, and except for Fantasia, Diana and La Toya, it really wouldn't be worth it. This season's tour will probably be pretty fun, but not near as exciting as last year's line-up proved to be, boasting Clay, Kimberley, Carmen and yes, even the highly overrated Ruben.
Bottom line: Better than Season 1, not quite as good as Season 2.
Free Music Review: AMERICAN IDOL'S TALENT ROCKED--BUT SUPRISE VOTE-OFF'S DIDN'T
Hit: 4 Stars
The two suprise early exits this season are Jenny Hudson and LaToya London-- these girls--no matter what ppl say are not losers and will be working with some of the best people in music(rumors).... This years final 3 is a shock and it is a quite boring top 3/4 i think that Diana, Jennifer, Fantasia and LaToya wouldve been the best top 4 in the shows run-- and definitely shows to watch. -- anyhoo, here are my opinions after buying and listening to the cd.1. Fantasia Barrino- Chain of Fools........Fantasia rocked! I thought the new more upbeat and soulful version of this song is great and she does it justice. Though she oversings just a bit, i think we all can agree that songs from aretha and beyonce are given the 'ok' for being oversung because thats their style..9/10
2. George Huff-- He and Jennifer are the main two who make the songs their own. But he does it more in this rendition which i think was great. I was just disappointed that he developed so great and fell back after he was sick. Good Job 8.5/10
3. Diana DeGarmo-- Catchy uptempo version that showed her youthfullness more. I think she is great and hopefully she will be in our final two this year and make us proud..she is right now my close favorite to win this year (along w/ Fantasia) 8.5/10
4. LaToya London-- Hawaii obviously doesnt know anything but a flower and a eukaleili (however you spell it). LaToya london should be in the top 3 -- but she does this song awesome and its not my favorite song for her, but i was looking for just a bit better. 8.5/10
5. Jennifer Hudson-- Neither one of us (wants to be the first to say goodbye)-- AWESOME JOB. Like Barry Manilow said, she is the only singer in this that can understand the lyrics and tell them like a story..Jenny blew me away with her strong and understated rendition of the song. What was america thinking voting her out?? 100/10
6. Amy Adams- You would be so good but you just lack one little thing that is important in singing a song.. PASSION! I think besides Leah Labelle, Amy is the most aloof as far as being emotionally connected with the songs. This is probably why she was voted off so early. On The song-- she lacked passion and a song like this needs alot of passion. Halfhearted to me and i know she can do better-- bad song choice for her. 5.5/10
7. Matt Rogers- Work on your showmanship man!! Its a song, not a football game! lol. I thought he had a great sense of humor but as far as the work ethic towards music compared to the others, i saw his as the least. But it was an okay rendition of the song and i wasnt too crazy about the arrangement. 6/10
8. Jasmine Trias- Another song on this album that blew me away. She was horrible last tuesday night and merited elimination. But on this CD her voice was quite lovely and enchanting and i am a much bigger fan of Jasmine Trias after hearing this song 9.5/10
9. Jon Peter Lewis- I was very disappointed with him on this track because he was someone i thought had potential and alot of power in his voice that he couldve used but i guess he didnt wanna be a "diva" eh? Sorry man, i think it was just "aight"-- halfhearted rendition 4.5/10
10. Camile Velasco- "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" has been stuck in my head since she got cut--i loved her tone of voice in the song and thought she couldve done so much better but live performances didnt become her. :( Camille is awesome and this is obviously her true voice-- loved it 8.5/10
11. Leah LaBelle - The first half of the song was amazing then what happened with the other half? seems like she felt the song then she didnt feel it. I was disappointed with her in the show cos i loved "I Have Nothing" and her audition song. She has great potential and is the "too young" contestant here. If she develops her own style and vocals-- she will do well. 6.5/10
12. John Stevens - Poor kid. When you get death threats for staying around on the show safe OVER Fantasia, Latoya and Jennifer Hudson (with Jenny being elim.)--what can ya do but just give in? he didnt even try on the week after that--but he had a hell of alot of fortitude. Classy person--just not my type of style. He needs a more mellow "Norah Jones" type of song. 4/10
Free Music Review: Surprising performances, definitely worth buying!
Hit: 4 Stars
I admit it. I am 40+ year old diehard AI fan. Nonetheless, I like to think I can remain somewhat objective. That being said, I loved this CD! It's not just because I am a fan either. I genuinely like this genre of music, and I particularly enjoy seeking out new talent. I honestly got more than I expected from this CD. It's fun to listen to and sing to. Friends who don't even watch AI have gone out and bought this CD after listening to mine. Here is my take on the various tracks:1. Chain of Fools - Fantasia Barrino tears it up! Great song match for her vocal style. She is HIGH energy and it really works on this song.
2. Me and Mrs. Jones - This is one of my all-time favorite songs, and I think George Huff more than does it justice. I can't think of a more perfect song for his husky, sexy voice. George definitely has a career in R&B ahead of him.
3. Heard it Through the Grapevine - I love the resonance and energy in this song. It is a controlled yet still somewhat manic performance. Diana DeGarmo nails every high note and her voice never sounds thin or strained.
4. If You Don't Know Me By Now - This is an absolutely stunning performance! LaToya delivers a star-quality, emotional turn filled with passion. There is such a beautiful timbre to her voice...LaToya London is going to be a star!
5. Neither One of Us - Beautiful! Jennifer showcases her pipes with a vibrant, strong performance pulsing with raw emotion. Jennifer Hudson sounds like a professional, and I'm sure it won't be long before she really is one!
6. You Make Me Feel Brand New - What a lovely, rich voice! An odd song choice, considering that it was originally recorded as a duet. However Amy turns in a terrific, captivating performance. I hope some record label snaps Amy Adams up and gives her the chance she deserves.
7. Sitting on the Dock of the Bay - I love the arrangement of this song,especialy the bridge. It's energetic and bouncy and makes you want to get up and dance along. Matt Rogers' vocals are adequate, but nothing to write home about.
8. Midnight Train to Georgia - It's weird to hear anyone other than Gladys Knight sing this song, but Jasmine Trias does an excellent job. Nothing original, but a really good rendition.
9. My Girl - This is the most disappointing track on this CD. There is no richness to the voice and it is even flat at times. I've heard better at the local playhouse. I routinely skip this song on the CD.
10. Until You Come Back To Me - The biggest pleasant surprise on this CD! I finally 'hear' it! I've been hearing all season about Camille's excellent 'tone' and on THIS song it just bursts into life ! What a superb performance! Live performances seem to spook Camille Velasco, but this girl's voice was tailor made for the studio. I am majorly impressed!! Wow!
11. Betcha By Golly, Wow - Another of my favorite songs, however it's not done justice here. I'm surprised because I know Leah LaBelle has a great voice, but this is not her best. The phrasing is off and the delivery lacks any emotion. A very detached performance. She totally misses the dreamy quality of this song. In a word - lackluster.
12. You Are Everything - This boy can SING! What a great song for John, and he does it extremely well. His style and his voice may not be suited for all genres but he turns in a fine performance here and you get to hear the true richness, maturity and purity of his voice. I suspect this won't be the last we hear from John Stevens!
13. Ain't No Mountain - A good group song, but some things stand out. First of all, Fantasia Barrino's voice overpowers all the others and it's distracting. Second, it seems everyone gets a 'solo' except John Stevens. Why? I wasn't sure I could hear Matt Rogers or Jon Peter Lewis either. The 'power' voices really overshadow the others. Overall though, it's an enjoyable track.
In conclusion, I have enjoyed this CD immensely! It's great to sing along to in the car and I like it even better than last year's CD. That is saying a lot considering that this year's CD is 'Clay-less'! Even if you aren't an AI fan, if you enjoy this genre of music AND have an open mind, give it a try. I'm willing to be you won't be disappointed!