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I am so sad to have lost Brad and Victoria last week. I really liked them. Oh well.
I would love to go to Romania some day - that castle is amazing. I love castles.
The first trip this week is to Siberia, to find the hydroelectic dam on the back of the 10 ruble note. Mel & Mike are out first, followed by Amanda and Kris, then Kisha and Jen, then Margie and Luke, Mark & Michael, Christie & Jodi (who decided to take a pit stop at an Internet Cafe for some research), then Kara and Jaime, and Victor & Tammy.
Hilariously, Mark & Michael tried to call the airline, and his cab driver called Jaime and Cara's cab instead, and they of course messed with them, telling them that there was only one flight which was business class. It was mean, but funny.
Christie and Jodi at their internet research found one flight that had a one hour layover and decided to skip it and get another one with a three hour layover.
The teams all got to the airport and got on four different flights to Moscow, connecting supposedly on the same flight to Siberia. Jodi & Christie, Kisha & Jen, and Mark & Michael ended up getting to Siberia first because the others were stuck in Moscow. The dam opened at 8:30, and the teams there got another clue, which led them to a church for their detour.
Detour
Stack - Teams travel to the riverbank, and stack a pile of firewood in the traditional manner to the satisfaction of a local
Construct - Teams travel to a woodshed where they will build a set of traditional wood shutters, which they have to then bring to a marked house, and install properly.
Mark & Michael got lost trying to find the stacking, but Christie and Jodi went right to it, along with Kisha and Jen. Kisha and Jen decided they needed to stack it like Jenga. Michael and Mark found it finally and started off doing a pretty poor job, and ended up knocking down their entire supporting pile that had been stacked when they arrived.
See, this is the point where I would bag it and go to the Construct. They thought along the same lines and went to check it out. They went to the Construct place, decided that the shutters would be very heavy, and went to find a house to bring them to first before building them.
Finally, the second flight arrived and the other teams went on their ways.
Kisha and Jen finished their piles first, followed by Christie and Jodi.
The teams are heading out to a Museum, which has a Blind U-Turn - it's a new twist, because you can U-turn someone without revealing that you are the one who did it. Nice.
Teams must go to an amusement park and look for their next clue.
The other teams all picked Stack, too, apparently.
The ones who got to the Amusement Park got a Roadblock, which was to do a bobsled run and remember letters passing them on the way, and then unscramble the letters to spell the name of a famous Russian playwrite - Chekhov. They have to do the run in less than 4 minutes.
Kisha's first run, she only got 6 letters.
Back at the Wood Stacking, Cara and Jamie are annoyed that Amanda is basically handing wood to Kris, who is doing all the stacking. They complained to Margie and Luke, who they are getting more friendly with.
Jodi and Christie finish the bobsled run just in time, but have troubles with the unscrambling.
Meanwhile, back at the Stacking, almost everyone's piles tumble down and several gave up and go to the Construct. Margie and Luke finished well, and then ended up USING the Blind U-turn, to U-Turn Amanda and Kris, to give Jamie and Cara extra time to finish their woodstacking. Michael and Mark couldn't find the house that needs repair, and so decided to go back to Construct the shutters.
And Kisha was having issues with the playwrite. but managed to figure it out. Good for them. Christie and Jodi finished pretty soon after that.
And after the Bobsled, it's the Pitstop, at The Theatre of Musical Comedy.
Luke and Victor did the Bobsled runs.
Over at Construct, Mel and Mike decided to work with Mark and Michael, who agreed to help them build the shutters and then they would all go out and find the houses. That's an interesting strategy in a race. Amanda and Kris soon joined in on the fun.
I am disappointed that Christie and Jodi came in first at the Pit Stop, and they each won a motorcycle. Kisha and Jen came in second.
Victor had no problem figuring out the playwrite was Chekhov, and wished Margie luck.
This is a good week. Lots of fun challenges, and turn arounds.
Luke had a really rough time trying to figure out who the playwrite was. Margie can't help him. She told the camera truthfully enough that English is a second language for him, so it's hard enough as it is. He was getting very frustrated, understandably.
Jamie and Cara finished their wood stacking.
Might the U-turn save Margie and Luke? Jamie and Cara are very thankful for the U-turn.
Of course, none of the builders has found the elusive houses in need of repair yet... which are very closse to where they were mulling it over. Finally, Mel found it, and they all felt silly.
Luke finally figured out Chekhov and was very disappointed in himself, but his mom kept telling him he did a great job.
Poor Amanda and Kris discovered they were U-turned and were not at all happy. Looks like they are losing this one.
Tammy and Victor came in third, followed by Margie and Luke.
Cara lucked out at a guess on Chekhov and they went on to the Pitstop, coming in fifth.
Amanda and Kris sped through their wood stacking, so they might still be alive. They thought that Jen and Kisha or Christie and Jodi U-turned them, thinking that Margie and Luke must have felt sorry for them when they saw their picture up. Not so much.
Mel and Mike came in 6th. Amanda and Kris figure out Chekhov and were off to see if they could get to the Pitstop.
Mark and Michael didn't have enough money to pay their cabbie (how does that even happen), and the poor man accepted less than he wanted to charge. They came in 7th. (I always wonder if producers step in the help out stiffed cabbies and the like).
And, Amanda and Kris are eliminated. I understand why Margie and Luke U-turned them, but I am sad, because they seemed like a good couple, who never got upset at one another, and worked very well together. I can appreciate that.
Next week looks like a lot of skin in the frozen North of Siberia. Ought to be fun.
Who are you rooting for? I'm still liking Margie and Luke and Jamie and Cara, U-turn and all.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Hell's Kitchen: 3.5.09
The ladies are thrilled to have lost Lacey to the other team. There was much rejoicing. Lacey didn't seem so thrilled. It was kind of childish, though, because they were cheering when she was right there. The men talked to Lacey and said that they just got rid of Seth, and don't want another Seth, so she needs to step it up.
The Cheftestants were brought to an Asian market.
Each team will select one poultry, one seafood, and one meat dish with a strong Asian influence. They have 25 minutes and $100 to get what they need in the market. A very Top Chef Challenge. Andrea got bossy and was pissing people off. Carol said "loud and bossy doesn't make you good." Lacey is ignored by the men, and she thinks that it is just the men being bitchy like the women. What if it is just her? Something she brings out in people?
Back at the kitchen, they have 1 hour and have to work in teams. Ben is working with Lacey. More power to him. Over in the women's kitchen, they don't seem that confident. Ramsey reminded them that they need to go Asian fusion, not straight Asian.
There is a guest judge from Epicurious.com, and the winning teams recipes will be featured.
Carol & Coi - Pomegranite Cinnamon glazed chicken breast. It is called a little dry and boring in presentation, but the flavors are good.
Robert & Danny - Pad Thai BBQ Chicken. The judges call it a compliment of Southern and Asian, and they like it.
The men win this round.
Paula & LA - Ahi Tuna Tempura with aoli. They liked the tuna a lot.
Ben & Lacey - Pan seared scallops. It is called a bit smooshy.
The tuna wins the round.
Colleen & Andrea - Kobe Beef Sashimi with Korean sauce. The red pepper flakes were over the top, but the beef "saved the dish."
J & Giovanni - Beef ???? according to the captions, until it's identified as Beef Pizziola style. The rice is undercooked, and Ramsey said there's no excuse for that.
In the end, Epicurious.com lady chose the Red Team, and the women won another one. Robert said it was a woman thing. I don't think so.
They won a day of "Asian influenced" surprises.
The men have to make homemade fortune cookies and decorate the restaurant in oragami.
Lacey is flipping out, repeatedly saying that she wants to go home. Ben tells her that she needs to be more motivated in the kitchen. Lacey thought he was blowing smoke up her ass.
The Red Team went off for their Reward and are thrilled ot be without Lacey.
Back in the kitchen, Lacey was doing Ramsey impressions while they were baking and folding origami.
The Reward for the women is Sumo Style wrestling, in big fat suits. Between Jean-Philippe and Ramsey. Ramsey was completely dominant. The women then got to put on the suits. Carol is ridiculously tiny, but she took Coi. In the end, it was a big pig pile.
Fortune cookies came out very nice looking. Lacey was the only one able to do a good paper crane, and was obnoxious about it.
The other ladies got to sample some Sake. Guess the kitchen isn't open that night. Coi said that she had 9 shots. Wow. I love sake, but that is enough to knock you on your ass.
Lacey got over her smugness and taught the men how to do some origami, and it was all lovey dovey. Way to go. I think we learned how to make paper cranes in 4th grade.
Next day, it's time for prep, and Ramsey called them out first, telling Paula that her tuna dish was one of the best he's tasted in all the seasons of Hell's Kitchen, and it's on the menu that night. Awesome. I'd eat it.
Giovanni and LA both were doing pretty well on the appetizers.
In come some Sumo Wrestlers who ordered everything on the menu. Their table was split between the kitchens.
In the Blue Kitchen, Lacey was doing well. She was communicating well, and was emerging as a leader. Wow. I'm impressed.
Oh no. Andrea burned a Wellington and hid it. At least she didn't try to carve off the burned part. The men also were having problems with Wellingtons, which are underdone over there.
The women's kitchen has the oven door wide open, and Colleen is blamed. Andrea's hidden burned Wellingtons are found. You can't hide in Ramsey's kitchen.
Robert is ignoring Ramsey when he is calling him Bobby, and picking on his weight. Apparently Robert's dad is named Bobby, and they had a bad relationship, so it's hitting a nerve. Then Ramsey saw that Robert was tossing a lot of food, and kicked him out of the kitchen. He had a talk, but ended up coming back, under advisement to find his passion.
Andrea is still having issues with the Wellington. She was tossing numbers out of nowhere, saying she was 4 minutes, then 6 minutes, then 2 minutes, from Wellington.
Not the worst problem - J's chicken was raw. Nothing has left the kitchen in 15 minutes. Communication was off, and food was missing.
The women are on to desserts, and they are sent back, with raw pastry and raw hard pear. Colleen was clueless.
Kitchens are shut down. These chefs are just getting worse, it seems.
Robert asked to speak to Ramsey in private (about the Bobby/Robert thing), and is denied for now. There is no winner. Giovanni and LA are asked to nominate one person in their team to go up for elimination.
Robert got his one on one with Ramsey. He was very concise about telling Ramsey why he doesn't want to be called Bobby, and Ramsey is a good man, telling him that he respects that entirely, wishes that Robert had told him before, and won't call him Bobby again. Good.
LA is between Andrea and Colleen. Giovanni can't pick Lacey because she was very good. It's between Robert and J.
LA decided to put Andrea up, and I think that was a good choice, though Colleen keeps squeaking by. Giovanni chose J.
And because American Idol went over... I missed the end. Booooo!!
The Cheftestants were brought to an Asian market.
Each team will select one poultry, one seafood, and one meat dish with a strong Asian influence. They have 25 minutes and $100 to get what they need in the market. A very Top Chef Challenge. Andrea got bossy and was pissing people off. Carol said "loud and bossy doesn't make you good." Lacey is ignored by the men, and she thinks that it is just the men being bitchy like the women. What if it is just her? Something she brings out in people?
Back at the kitchen, they have 1 hour and have to work in teams. Ben is working with Lacey. More power to him. Over in the women's kitchen, they don't seem that confident. Ramsey reminded them that they need to go Asian fusion, not straight Asian.
There is a guest judge from Epicurious.com, and the winning teams recipes will be featured.
Carol & Coi - Pomegranite Cinnamon glazed chicken breast. It is called a little dry and boring in presentation, but the flavors are good.
Robert & Danny - Pad Thai BBQ Chicken. The judges call it a compliment of Southern and Asian, and they like it.
The men win this round.
Paula & LA - Ahi Tuna Tempura with aoli. They liked the tuna a lot.
Ben & Lacey - Pan seared scallops. It is called a bit smooshy.
The tuna wins the round.
Colleen & Andrea - Kobe Beef Sashimi with Korean sauce. The red pepper flakes were over the top, but the beef "saved the dish."
J & Giovanni - Beef ???? according to the captions, until it's identified as Beef Pizziola style. The rice is undercooked, and Ramsey said there's no excuse for that.
In the end, Epicurious.com lady chose the Red Team, and the women won another one. Robert said it was a woman thing. I don't think so.
They won a day of "Asian influenced" surprises.
The men have to make homemade fortune cookies and decorate the restaurant in oragami.
Lacey is flipping out, repeatedly saying that she wants to go home. Ben tells her that she needs to be more motivated in the kitchen. Lacey thought he was blowing smoke up her ass.
The Red Team went off for their Reward and are thrilled ot be without Lacey.
Back in the kitchen, Lacey was doing Ramsey impressions while they were baking and folding origami.
The Reward for the women is Sumo Style wrestling, in big fat suits. Between Jean-Philippe and Ramsey. Ramsey was completely dominant. The women then got to put on the suits. Carol is ridiculously tiny, but she took Coi. In the end, it was a big pig pile.
Fortune cookies came out very nice looking. Lacey was the only one able to do a good paper crane, and was obnoxious about it.
The other ladies got to sample some Sake. Guess the kitchen isn't open that night. Coi said that she had 9 shots. Wow. I love sake, but that is enough to knock you on your ass.
Lacey got over her smugness and taught the men how to do some origami, and it was all lovey dovey. Way to go. I think we learned how to make paper cranes in 4th grade.
Next day, it's time for prep, and Ramsey called them out first, telling Paula that her tuna dish was one of the best he's tasted in all the seasons of Hell's Kitchen, and it's on the menu that night. Awesome. I'd eat it.
Giovanni and LA both were doing pretty well on the appetizers.
In come some Sumo Wrestlers who ordered everything on the menu. Their table was split between the kitchens.
In the Blue Kitchen, Lacey was doing well. She was communicating well, and was emerging as a leader. Wow. I'm impressed.
Oh no. Andrea burned a Wellington and hid it. At least she didn't try to carve off the burned part. The men also were having problems with Wellingtons, which are underdone over there.
The women's kitchen has the oven door wide open, and Colleen is blamed. Andrea's hidden burned Wellingtons are found. You can't hide in Ramsey's kitchen.
Robert is ignoring Ramsey when he is calling him Bobby, and picking on his weight. Apparently Robert's dad is named Bobby, and they had a bad relationship, so it's hitting a nerve. Then Ramsey saw that Robert was tossing a lot of food, and kicked him out of the kitchen. He had a talk, but ended up coming back, under advisement to find his passion.
Andrea is still having issues with the Wellington. She was tossing numbers out of nowhere, saying she was 4 minutes, then 6 minutes, then 2 minutes, from Wellington.
Not the worst problem - J's chicken was raw. Nothing has left the kitchen in 15 minutes. Communication was off, and food was missing.
The women are on to desserts, and they are sent back, with raw pastry and raw hard pear. Colleen was clueless.
Kitchens are shut down. These chefs are just getting worse, it seems.
Robert asked to speak to Ramsey in private (about the Bobby/Robert thing), and is denied for now. There is no winner. Giovanni and LA are asked to nominate one person in their team to go up for elimination.
Robert got his one on one with Ramsey. He was very concise about telling Ramsey why he doesn't want to be called Bobby, and Ramsey is a good man, telling him that he respects that entirely, wishes that Robert had told him before, and won't call him Bobby again. Good.
LA is between Andrea and Colleen. Giovanni can't pick Lacey because she was very good. It's between Robert and J.
LA decided to put Andrea up, and I think that was a good choice, though Colleen keeps squeaking by. Giovanni chose J.
And because American Idol went over... I missed the end. Booooo!!
Survivor Tocantins: 3.5.09
After Tribal, Coach was not pleased, calling it a dark, sulky, sultry night. He denied that Brenden is a better leader, and said that Erinn is the cancer of the tribe. Because she disagrees with him. In the morning, Brenden called a pow-wow. Tyson scowled and squinted that he doesn't care. Coach tells Brenden that he would enjoy being leader and would step in if Brenden gets voted out, but Brenden is the leader now. Coach thinks that he looks stronger than Brenden because he's used to being in the wild, and called everyone else inexperienced children. In confessional, of course.
Over at Jalapao, everyone was worried about Taj having to spend time on Exile, but she was snug in her secret alliance, and spoke to Stephen about it. He's pleased about "stumbling ass backwards" into an alliance.
Problem is, Brenden hasn't had a chance to talk to Sierra about it yet. He says "This could be pretty heinous."
Reward Challenge
Each tribe member has a pole with weights on it over their shoulders. Two men and one woman will be weight bearers. The other tribe gets to choose who takes the weight.
The Reward is a Camp Raid, which allows the winning tribe to take two items from the looser's camp.
Spencer, Stephen, and Sierra sit out.
The weight bearers for Jalapao are Joe, Taj and JT. For Timbira, Debra, Brenden, and Tyson do the job. What, not Coach? Surely he must be strong enough to withstand it! Guess not.
Joe and Brenden get the first weights. JT and Tyson got some in the next round, followed by another for Brenden and some for Taj.
It continued.. Brenden was given 200 lbs. The record (on Pearl Islands) for this challenge was Rupert, with 220 lbs. Brenden did not break it. He is out. JT got up to 220 and held it. Tyson dropped out at 140. Joe and JT then dropped out.
And now it's up to the women. Taj and Debra are up. Both have 80 lbs to start with. Up to 100 and they were sweating. Debra is first to drop, and Jalapao wins it. They picked Sierra to go to Exile, and luckily, Sierra picked Taj. Brenden hoped that Taj can explain the secret alliance to Sierra. I hope so, too.
Timbira was worried that Jalapao was going to take their beans. JT and Joe showed up, and Tyson admitted that he wished he could punch them in the head. The worries were founded. They took one sack of beans, and a water bucket. They did not take both bags of beans because they worried about possible future switch ups, and didn't want to shoot themselves in the foot.
Back at camp, Sandy didn't like that strategy and said that they were cooking "fartin' beans." Sydney said it is really starting to wear on her, because Sandy always repeats things at least three times. It would annoy me, too. Sandy doesn't like Sydney, because Sydney's using her looks to get the boys to like her. Sandy then made some inappropriate jokes about how maybe she should flash her boobs to get boys to like her. Please, no.
Over on Exile, Taj got the Clue.
Every Few Days, you get mail from this place
If you find it, you'll ask
Why the long face.
Is it just me, or is this way easy this year?
Taj took the opportunity to inform Sierra about the Secret Exile Alliance, and Sierra is totally on board, saying that she's clawed her way up to the top of the Food Chain from the bottom.
Timbira is feeling pretty confident, and is habing a good relaxing day. Debbie said that they need to play and have a little fun, so they don't start getting morose.
Tyson donned a loin cloth and did a little dance. It cracked Debbie up. Erinn felt like she couldn't connect with anyone, and worried that it was because of a terrible break up that she had gone through before leaving home. Tyson said that he has written Erinn off, and is looking forward to the inevitable freak out when she gets voted out. He's an ass. It makes me root for Erinn, superfluous n and all.
Immunity Challenge.
One tribe member at a time will race out, retrieve a puzzle piece, and race back. This is repeated until every puzzle piece is back. They have to do a puzzle and rotate it to reveal a phrase. Taj said that she is not a good runner, and so she sits out.
Joe got a good head start on Coach, and JT was a knot expert. Sydney, not so much. She lost the lead for Jalapao. JT made up a lot of time, and brought back the final piece. Both teams started on the puzzles pretty much at the same time. The puzzles wer close, but in the end, Timbira won. I was sad, because I want Coach gone. Still... it was due, I suppose.
So, who is going home? My hope is for Sandy. Sydney looks like she's feeling nervous.
Jalapao wondered if the beans were cursed. Joe told Sydney he was happy to be getting rid of someone who's name rhymes with "Andy". The others were in the water, and Taj thought that Sandy has been stronger in challenges than Sydney. No one seems sure. JT and Stephen had a talk but didn't seem to decide anything. Back together, Sydney asked what others liked about the game best, and she said it was the sneakiness, because she doesn't get to be sneaky at home. Not sure that was the best thing to say, because it made others question her loyalty.
Tribal Council
Probst asked Sandy how she recovered from that first impression, and she said she is just herself. Spencer says she's like a mom. Sandy called out Sydney's flirtiness and Sydney admitted that she wears JT's boxers sometimes, because it's hot. Stephen says that Joe and Sydney flirt more than she and JT. Taj admits that Sydney is gorgeous, and says that it's ok with her. Did Taj say too much? "I'll be ok, with or without their attraction." Sydney says she's used to it, because she's a model. Um...
After the votes are tallied, someone voted for Joe. Who voted for Joe? Taj. Interesting.
And it's Sandy gone. I'm happy. I'd like to see more of Sydney's substance, since she's gotten so little screen time thus far.
Next week, it looks like the Secret Alliance might be in jeopardy, because some people are not so secret. Come one. Can't people pull off something awesome? Please?
Over at Jalapao, everyone was worried about Taj having to spend time on Exile, but she was snug in her secret alliance, and spoke to Stephen about it. He's pleased about "stumbling ass backwards" into an alliance.
Problem is, Brenden hasn't had a chance to talk to Sierra about it yet. He says "This could be pretty heinous."
Reward Challenge
Each tribe member has a pole with weights on it over their shoulders. Two men and one woman will be weight bearers. The other tribe gets to choose who takes the weight.
The Reward is a Camp Raid, which allows the winning tribe to take two items from the looser's camp.
Spencer, Stephen, and Sierra sit out.
The weight bearers for Jalapao are Joe, Taj and JT. For Timbira, Debra, Brenden, and Tyson do the job. What, not Coach? Surely he must be strong enough to withstand it! Guess not.
Joe and Brenden get the first weights. JT and Tyson got some in the next round, followed by another for Brenden and some for Taj.
It continued.. Brenden was given 200 lbs. The record (on Pearl Islands) for this challenge was Rupert, with 220 lbs. Brenden did not break it. He is out. JT got up to 220 and held it. Tyson dropped out at 140. Joe and JT then dropped out.
And now it's up to the women. Taj and Debra are up. Both have 80 lbs to start with. Up to 100 and they were sweating. Debra is first to drop, and Jalapao wins it. They picked Sierra to go to Exile, and luckily, Sierra picked Taj. Brenden hoped that Taj can explain the secret alliance to Sierra. I hope so, too.
Timbira was worried that Jalapao was going to take their beans. JT and Joe showed up, and Tyson admitted that he wished he could punch them in the head. The worries were founded. They took one sack of beans, and a water bucket. They did not take both bags of beans because they worried about possible future switch ups, and didn't want to shoot themselves in the foot.
Back at camp, Sandy didn't like that strategy and said that they were cooking "fartin' beans." Sydney said it is really starting to wear on her, because Sandy always repeats things at least three times. It would annoy me, too. Sandy doesn't like Sydney, because Sydney's using her looks to get the boys to like her. Sandy then made some inappropriate jokes about how maybe she should flash her boobs to get boys to like her. Please, no.
Over on Exile, Taj got the Clue.
Every Few Days, you get mail from this place
If you find it, you'll ask
Why the long face.
Is it just me, or is this way easy this year?
Taj took the opportunity to inform Sierra about the Secret Exile Alliance, and Sierra is totally on board, saying that she's clawed her way up to the top of the Food Chain from the bottom.
Timbira is feeling pretty confident, and is habing a good relaxing day. Debbie said that they need to play and have a little fun, so they don't start getting morose.
Tyson donned a loin cloth and did a little dance. It cracked Debbie up. Erinn felt like she couldn't connect with anyone, and worried that it was because of a terrible break up that she had gone through before leaving home. Tyson said that he has written Erinn off, and is looking forward to the inevitable freak out when she gets voted out. He's an ass. It makes me root for Erinn, superfluous n and all.
Immunity Challenge.
One tribe member at a time will race out, retrieve a puzzle piece, and race back. This is repeated until every puzzle piece is back. They have to do a puzzle and rotate it to reveal a phrase. Taj said that she is not a good runner, and so she sits out.
Joe got a good head start on Coach, and JT was a knot expert. Sydney, not so much. She lost the lead for Jalapao. JT made up a lot of time, and brought back the final piece. Both teams started on the puzzles pretty much at the same time. The puzzles wer close, but in the end, Timbira won. I was sad, because I want Coach gone. Still... it was due, I suppose.
So, who is going home? My hope is for Sandy. Sydney looks like she's feeling nervous.
Jalapao wondered if the beans were cursed. Joe told Sydney he was happy to be getting rid of someone who's name rhymes with "Andy". The others were in the water, and Taj thought that Sandy has been stronger in challenges than Sydney. No one seems sure. JT and Stephen had a talk but didn't seem to decide anything. Back together, Sydney asked what others liked about the game best, and she said it was the sneakiness, because she doesn't get to be sneaky at home. Not sure that was the best thing to say, because it made others question her loyalty.
Tribal Council
Probst asked Sandy how she recovered from that first impression, and she said she is just herself. Spencer says she's like a mom. Sandy called out Sydney's flirtiness and Sydney admitted that she wears JT's boxers sometimes, because it's hot. Stephen says that Joe and Sydney flirt more than she and JT. Taj admits that Sydney is gorgeous, and says that it's ok with her. Did Taj say too much? "I'll be ok, with or without their attraction." Sydney says she's used to it, because she's a model. Um...
After the votes are tallied, someone voted for Joe. Who voted for Joe? Taj. Interesting.
And it's Sandy gone. I'm happy. I'd like to see more of Sydney's substance, since she's gotten so little screen time thus far.
Next week, it looks like the Secret Alliance might be in jeopardy, because some people are not so secret. Come one. Can't people pull off something awesome? Please?
American Idol - Wildcard Show: 3.5.09
Ryan welcomed us to a Very Special Episode of American Idol. I wonder if this show is going to turn into Blossom.
Jesse Langseth (26, Minnesota) Tell Me Something Good. She is looking sultry, that's for sure. I am not sure how the original song starts (I have mostly heard the chorus), but she seemed a little off. I don't think it was very pleasant to listen to, sadly. I had high hopes for Jesse, but this was kind of a mess. Showing your range does not mean singing all the notes you can possibly sing, even if they don't belong in a song. It was a dreadful song choice. Randy said it was an interesting song choice, but said that she had some "interesting note choices." That's a way of saying that she kind of sucked. Kara said that she likes Jesse's swagger. Paula said that she likes her tenacity and thinks that Jesse did well. Simon admitted that Jesse was the last minute change, and liked this a lot better than her first one. I did not. He did think it was a rather indulgent choice, and all about her. Paula argued with him for a bit.
Matt Giraud (23, Kalamazoo) Who's Loving You - Jackson 5. He looked like he rushed in from the cold, still wearing a jaunty hat and poorly chosen scarf. His vocals sounded quite good. He got a lot of feeling into the song, and looked very comfortable on stage. His falsetto was pretty darned good. See, Alex, this is how you do the growly thing without looking like a confused boy. Kara is glad to see the return of the bluesy soulful Matt, and even though his riffs were a bit over the top at times, she loved it. Paula urged him to stick with what he is good at. Simon interrupted her multiple times for no real reason. Simon liked it "a billion times better" than the other performance, and hated what he was wearing, and worried that some of his movements were a bit Taylor Hicks. Randy loved what he just did, dawg, and said that it was a competition.
Megan Corkrey (23, Utah) Black Horse and a Cherry Tree. You just can't stop her hips. She did try, I think, but in the woo-hoos, they got to moving. A bit less flaily than before, so that was good. It was a different take on this song, and the girl certainly has an interesting and unique tone. Oops, there go her shimmies. Her last note was kind of screechy, but I still like her. I do lover her very long hair. Paula had fun watching her, and called her dancing quirky, and thinks that she picked the right song. Simon thinks that she's terrific, current, quirky, and original. Randy said it wasn't the best vocal, but loved the song choice. Kara said that she thinks that the show needs her, for the variety, and I would tend to agree. (I do like Katherine McPhee's version better, for the record, but this was much different.)
Von Smith (22, Missouri) Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word. He's got a voice, but something about him is offputting to me. I hated the sharpness of his ending. It wouldn't be a travesty if he got through, but I was bored. Simon said that Von is beginning to become a bit boring, serious, and earnest. Randy missed the hat. Kara is sad because Von has what it takes, but hasn't hit his stride. Paula said that she's been studying the way he performs, and he when he is too concerned about the notes, he isn't as magical, but when he isn't overthinking, he soars. Paula is making some serious sense lately! It's like bizzarro-land.
Jasmine Murray (17, Mississippi) Reflection - Christina Aguilara. I hold by my opinion that Jasmine is highly over rated. Her ennunciation is strange, and she's very froggy to me. She can hit the notes, but I don't like the way her voice sounds. She also said that she wouldn't hide it from her "art" instead "heart." That bothered me. She sounded much better near the end when she got softer and less shouty, because it was a nice tone. Randy thought the song was too big for her, but much better than before. Kara said that she is confused, because she didn't know that Jasmine had this big a voice. She was prepared to criticize song choice until she had a listen. Paula said that she did a wonderful job. Simon said it was pretty special, especially considering what they heard before. Paula got in Simon's face, and gave Simon and Indian Sunburn on his arm. What? I don't like Jasmine so much.
Ricky Braddy (26, NC) Superstitious. I'm glad to hear something upbeat. I don't like boys (or almost anyone, actually) wearing skinny jeans, but I can forgive him. He sounded wonderful. He put a good performance, and Paula was up and clapping. He did get a bit screachy near the end, but I can forgive that, too, because the rest was so so good. I think this is going to be a boy-heavy top 12. Kara said that they knew he could sing his butt off, and tonight was about showing his personality. Paula loves the way he loosened up, and said that he nailed it and had fun. Simon said that he sounded good, but thought the song was karaoke and lightweight, with a clumsy performance. Randy says Ricky can really blow, but thought the song was a little self-indulgent.
Tatiana Del Toro (Crazytown) Saving All My Love For You. Where did her accent come from? Seriously? In her interview, she was full latina lady, which I never heard before. So strange. She's a psycho. And, when she began shinging, she was shaving all her love for you. It seemed really weak in the beginning, and though she has power in her voice when she belts, and she really does have a nice voice, I can't handle her. Like her accent, her Sean Connery-esque ennunication was gone by the middle of the song. And, as before, her final run was about 3 or 4 notes too many. Paula said that Tatiana grew an accent, and Tatiana said that she is like Jorge and can only think in Spanish when she's excited. Sure she did. Paula wished that she hadn't repeated the song, but admitted that she can sing. Simon said it's the same song that she has sung twice before, and wondered why she didn't choose a different song. Tatiana said that she couldn't clear any other song in one day, which Simon aptly called rubbish, and he wondered if she would just keep singing the song in different styles if she is sent through. I think that Tatiana is trying to pull the latino community into her fan base by putting on that accent that we have never heard before, and we've certainly heard her talk enough, in distress and otherwise, that I think if it was a natural accent, we'd have heard it before now. Kara and Randy wondered what they were watching, and said it was like being on board the Tatiana ship. She's a whack job. There was an awkward moment with Ryan that I'm not wanting to talk about.
Anoop Desai (22, NC) My Perogative. This song is much much better for him, and showed that he is fun and up beat, and that he has a great set of pipes. Paula was up dancing for him. I like Anoop. He has redeemed himself to me after his first dreadful performance. I think it is his perogative. The crowd went wild. I wonder if they are trying to send a message to the judges - Don't vote for Tatiana! Simon said that he is like an excited dog, and sees that people like him, even if he doesn't have the best voice, but this is the Anoop they liked before. Randy said that he sang this before (in Hollywood?), but that he slayed it this time. Kara said that she was fighting the urge to dance, but thought that it was the best he has ever sounded. Paula called him a showman, and thought he was getting a little nasty (in a good way) in his dance moves. I missed that. Simon wished that he'd heard another song.
So, who is going through? I am hoping for Anoop, Megan, and Ricky. I worry that Tatiana is going to make it though instead of one of them. Can I just make my plea right here? America - if Tatiana gets through, PLEASE, let's make her stay short.
Jasmine is called up first, and she is through. Ok, so I am wrong. Right off the bat. Now, I am hoping for Anoop and Megan. Please.
Ricky is not through.
Megan and Tatiana are pulled up together. Tatiana is crying and clutching Megan dramatically. Paula says it's not over for either one of them, and urges them to continue the dream.
Oh, I am so thrilled right now.
Tatiana is GONE.
Megan is IN.
Poor Megan didn't even get to celebrate properly, as Tatiana threw herself into Megan's arms sobbing, and then dropped to the ground crying in front of the judges. Paula told her that she would be a good singer, and a good actress some day. No, thank you.
I am actually stunned (and happy in the happiest of ways) that they didn't keep her around to ramp up the crazy factor. I'll take Megan's crazy dancing for that, please.
Luckily, I was taping Hell's Kitchen, because American Idol went over.
Jesse is out, but Simon said that she nearly made it, but didn't. That's small comfort. She took the news better than Tatiana did. Von is also out.
It's down to Matt and Anoop. They chose Matt!
AND - They decided to make it a Top 13!!! Anoop is ALSO THROUGH!!!
Are they going to eliminate two people in one week?
This is awesome. I am thrilled.
And next week, Kelly Clarkson is on. Sweet.
Jesse Langseth (26, Minnesota) Tell Me Something Good. She is looking sultry, that's for sure. I am not sure how the original song starts (I have mostly heard the chorus), but she seemed a little off. I don't think it was very pleasant to listen to, sadly. I had high hopes for Jesse, but this was kind of a mess. Showing your range does not mean singing all the notes you can possibly sing, even if they don't belong in a song. It was a dreadful song choice. Randy said it was an interesting song choice, but said that she had some "interesting note choices." That's a way of saying that she kind of sucked. Kara said that she likes Jesse's swagger. Paula said that she likes her tenacity and thinks that Jesse did well. Simon admitted that Jesse was the last minute change, and liked this a lot better than her first one. I did not. He did think it was a rather indulgent choice, and all about her. Paula argued with him for a bit.
Matt Giraud (23, Kalamazoo) Who's Loving You - Jackson 5. He looked like he rushed in from the cold, still wearing a jaunty hat and poorly chosen scarf. His vocals sounded quite good. He got a lot of feeling into the song, and looked very comfortable on stage. His falsetto was pretty darned good. See, Alex, this is how you do the growly thing without looking like a confused boy. Kara is glad to see the return of the bluesy soulful Matt, and even though his riffs were a bit over the top at times, she loved it. Paula urged him to stick with what he is good at. Simon interrupted her multiple times for no real reason. Simon liked it "a billion times better" than the other performance, and hated what he was wearing, and worried that some of his movements were a bit Taylor Hicks. Randy loved what he just did, dawg, and said that it was a competition.
Megan Corkrey (23, Utah) Black Horse and a Cherry Tree. You just can't stop her hips. She did try, I think, but in the woo-hoos, they got to moving. A bit less flaily than before, so that was good. It was a different take on this song, and the girl certainly has an interesting and unique tone. Oops, there go her shimmies. Her last note was kind of screechy, but I still like her. I do lover her very long hair. Paula had fun watching her, and called her dancing quirky, and thinks that she picked the right song. Simon thinks that she's terrific, current, quirky, and original. Randy said it wasn't the best vocal, but loved the song choice. Kara said that she thinks that the show needs her, for the variety, and I would tend to agree. (I do like Katherine McPhee's version better, for the record, but this was much different.)
Von Smith (22, Missouri) Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word. He's got a voice, but something about him is offputting to me. I hated the sharpness of his ending. It wouldn't be a travesty if he got through, but I was bored. Simon said that Von is beginning to become a bit boring, serious, and earnest. Randy missed the hat. Kara is sad because Von has what it takes, but hasn't hit his stride. Paula said that she's been studying the way he performs, and he when he is too concerned about the notes, he isn't as magical, but when he isn't overthinking, he soars. Paula is making some serious sense lately! It's like bizzarro-land.
Jasmine Murray (17, Mississippi) Reflection - Christina Aguilara. I hold by my opinion that Jasmine is highly over rated. Her ennunciation is strange, and she's very froggy to me. She can hit the notes, but I don't like the way her voice sounds. She also said that she wouldn't hide it from her "art" instead "heart." That bothered me. She sounded much better near the end when she got softer and less shouty, because it was a nice tone. Randy thought the song was too big for her, but much better than before. Kara said that she is confused, because she didn't know that Jasmine had this big a voice. She was prepared to criticize song choice until she had a listen. Paula said that she did a wonderful job. Simon said it was pretty special, especially considering what they heard before. Paula got in Simon's face, and gave Simon and Indian Sunburn on his arm. What? I don't like Jasmine so much.
Ricky Braddy (26, NC) Superstitious. I'm glad to hear something upbeat. I don't like boys (or almost anyone, actually) wearing skinny jeans, but I can forgive him. He sounded wonderful. He put a good performance, and Paula was up and clapping. He did get a bit screachy near the end, but I can forgive that, too, because the rest was so so good. I think this is going to be a boy-heavy top 12. Kara said that they knew he could sing his butt off, and tonight was about showing his personality. Paula loves the way he loosened up, and said that he nailed it and had fun. Simon said that he sounded good, but thought the song was karaoke and lightweight, with a clumsy performance. Randy says Ricky can really blow, but thought the song was a little self-indulgent.
Tatiana Del Toro (Crazytown) Saving All My Love For You. Where did her accent come from? Seriously? In her interview, she was full latina lady, which I never heard before. So strange. She's a psycho. And, when she began shinging, she was shaving all her love for you. It seemed really weak in the beginning, and though she has power in her voice when she belts, and she really does have a nice voice, I can't handle her. Like her accent, her Sean Connery-esque ennunication was gone by the middle of the song. And, as before, her final run was about 3 or 4 notes too many. Paula said that Tatiana grew an accent, and Tatiana said that she is like Jorge and can only think in Spanish when she's excited. Sure she did. Paula wished that she hadn't repeated the song, but admitted that she can sing. Simon said it's the same song that she has sung twice before, and wondered why she didn't choose a different song. Tatiana said that she couldn't clear any other song in one day, which Simon aptly called rubbish, and he wondered if she would just keep singing the song in different styles if she is sent through. I think that Tatiana is trying to pull the latino community into her fan base by putting on that accent that we have never heard before, and we've certainly heard her talk enough, in distress and otherwise, that I think if it was a natural accent, we'd have heard it before now. Kara and Randy wondered what they were watching, and said it was like being on board the Tatiana ship. She's a whack job. There was an awkward moment with Ryan that I'm not wanting to talk about.
Anoop Desai (22, NC) My Perogative. This song is much much better for him, and showed that he is fun and up beat, and that he has a great set of pipes. Paula was up dancing for him. I like Anoop. He has redeemed himself to me after his first dreadful performance. I think it is his perogative. The crowd went wild. I wonder if they are trying to send a message to the judges - Don't vote for Tatiana! Simon said that he is like an excited dog, and sees that people like him, even if he doesn't have the best voice, but this is the Anoop they liked before. Randy said that he sang this before (in Hollywood?), but that he slayed it this time. Kara said that she was fighting the urge to dance, but thought that it was the best he has ever sounded. Paula called him a showman, and thought he was getting a little nasty (in a good way) in his dance moves. I missed that. Simon wished that he'd heard another song.
So, who is going through? I am hoping for Anoop, Megan, and Ricky. I worry that Tatiana is going to make it though instead of one of them. Can I just make my plea right here? America - if Tatiana gets through, PLEASE, let's make her stay short.
Jasmine is called up first, and she is through. Ok, so I am wrong. Right off the bat. Now, I am hoping for Anoop and Megan. Please.
Ricky is not through.
Megan and Tatiana are pulled up together. Tatiana is crying and clutching Megan dramatically. Paula says it's not over for either one of them, and urges them to continue the dream.
Oh, I am so thrilled right now.
Tatiana is GONE.
Megan is IN.
Poor Megan didn't even get to celebrate properly, as Tatiana threw herself into Megan's arms sobbing, and then dropped to the ground crying in front of the judges. Paula told her that she would be a good singer, and a good actress some day. No, thank you.
I am actually stunned (and happy in the happiest of ways) that they didn't keep her around to ramp up the crazy factor. I'll take Megan's crazy dancing for that, please.
Luckily, I was taping Hell's Kitchen, because American Idol went over.
Jesse is out, but Simon said that she nearly made it, but didn't. That's small comfort. She took the news better than Tatiana did. Von is also out.
It's down to Matt and Anoop. They chose Matt!
AND - They decided to make it a Top 13!!! Anoop is ALSO THROUGH!!!
Are they going to eliminate two people in one week?
This is awesome. I am thrilled.
And next week, Kelly Clarkson is on. Sweet.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
American Idol Results Show - 3.4.09
Bwah-wah!
Randy's shades match his shirt, both orange, and Paula looks to be wearing an old prom dress. Interesting style choices.
I keep forgetting that Kris is in the Top 12. I'm surprised every time I see him sitting on the stools. That's probably a bad thing.
We got a montage of How the Current Group of 12 got to this point, with a lot of high pitched squealing and crying.
The Group Sing is Hot & Cold, by Katy Perry. I think the girls were better than the boys. Thankfully, they let the men sit on a couch, so that poor Scott didn't have to deal with bad Idol Group Choreography, except for a couple sways and one jump up and spin, then sit back down. The girls sounded pretty good together, but the guys didn't jive very well. It was awkward and there was a lot of shoulder shimmying going on. Von's hair looks like he's attempting a faux hawk, but didn't quite have the guts to do it all the way, so it looks like a strange wave on the top of his head. Not good. Just saying.
After a recap of last night, including Von and Taylor being forgettable, Alex's microphone stand kicking, Arianna's general dreadfulness, Kristin's Holly Hobby dress, Taylor's shopping habits, Kendall's earnest country appeal, Nathaniel's weak Meatloaf, Jorge's unexpected voice and tears, Scott recreating the high five moment with Simon, and Lil being downright amazing.
For some padding, Ryan chatted with the contestants. Nathaniel made a plea to get into the Wildcard if he doesn't get through tonight, and Jorge complained about how cold Southern California is (78. That's high summer for Vermont. He would probably just die in the temps we've been having. It was -3 this morning). Taylor admitted she had a couple problems, but was happy. Ju'Not had his first asthma attack during rehearsals and got another shot from his favorite doctor. And it's time to get to the meat...
With no fanfare or fake drama, Lil is through to the Top 12. No surprises. Her hair is ridiculous, as is her Lucille Ball-esque outfit (but add leggings to that! Horrible) but her vocals on her reprise performance are all there. I wonder who let her go on stage looking like that.
Arianna, Taylor, Alex, Kendall, and Scott were told to stand up next. One is through. I'm guessing Scott, because the others were all really bad. I don't agree, but America loves someone who overcomes adversity. Arianna is gone, and so is Taylor. Alex is really funny, but not in the Top 12. It's down to Kendall and Scott. Will it be Country Girl, or The Story? Not suprisingly, it's The Story, and Scott is through.
He sang his encore, and I am reminded that I just don't think he's that good. *sigh.*
Nathaniel and Kristin stood next, and are both out. I hope to see Kristin in the Wildcard.
Von's hair and Felicia were next, and both gone.
Will it be Ju'Not or Jorge? That's a tough one, because they were both pretty great. I think it's safe to say whoever doesn't get through will probably be back for the Wildcard. Jorge is through in the third spot, and I agree. He broke out into some Spanish that I didn't understand. His encore will be later.
Who will be in the Wildcard?
We don't know yet. First, there is a re-introduction to the 9 who are already through. I don't know why that was necessary. In the break, they had them go up the stairs, and then they came down the stairs when Ryan came back from break. What? My attention span is not that short.
8 people will be coming back to sing tomorrow, and 3 will go through.
Now - the Wildcard Group.
Von Smith is first in, and I don't know about that choice, with all the great people up there. Simon wants him to wear a hat. If that hides his idiotic hair, I agree.
Jasmine Murray is the next overrated pick to go into the Wildcard. This angers me. Kara told her that she needs to kill them with her vocals tomorrow, and stay young.
Ricky Braddy is getting another chance, and this one I agree with. I'm rooting for him.
Megan Corkrey will have another chance to dance like a drunk member of the Peanuts, and I am looking forward to her, too.
No no no no no!!! Tatiana is going to darken the stage with her presense again. I can't handle it. She put on the drama and broke into tears like a beauty queen. Go away, psycho. She's got a good voice, but I just. can't. handle. her. You can't tell me that the producers didn't nudge them in this direction. Kristin would have been a much better choice.
A good choice, Matt Giraud is getting a second chance.
I am also happy to see Jesse Langseth coming back. I enjoyed her.
Anoop is also getting another chance. I wish they would stop calling him Anoop Dawg, but other than that, I hope that he does much better.
Sadness that they didn't bring Jamar back.
Jorge sang his encore song at the end, and it was good.
What do you think of tonight's results, and the wildcard choices?
Randy's shades match his shirt, both orange, and Paula looks to be wearing an old prom dress. Interesting style choices.
I keep forgetting that Kris is in the Top 12. I'm surprised every time I see him sitting on the stools. That's probably a bad thing.
We got a montage of How the Current Group of 12 got to this point, with a lot of high pitched squealing and crying.
The Group Sing is Hot & Cold, by Katy Perry. I think the girls were better than the boys. Thankfully, they let the men sit on a couch, so that poor Scott didn't have to deal with bad Idol Group Choreography, except for a couple sways and one jump up and spin, then sit back down. The girls sounded pretty good together, but the guys didn't jive very well. It was awkward and there was a lot of shoulder shimmying going on. Von's hair looks like he's attempting a faux hawk, but didn't quite have the guts to do it all the way, so it looks like a strange wave on the top of his head. Not good. Just saying.
After a recap of last night, including Von and Taylor being forgettable, Alex's microphone stand kicking, Arianna's general dreadfulness, Kristin's Holly Hobby dress, Taylor's shopping habits, Kendall's earnest country appeal, Nathaniel's weak Meatloaf, Jorge's unexpected voice and tears, Scott recreating the high five moment with Simon, and Lil being downright amazing.
For some padding, Ryan chatted with the contestants. Nathaniel made a plea to get into the Wildcard if he doesn't get through tonight, and Jorge complained about how cold Southern California is (78. That's high summer for Vermont. He would probably just die in the temps we've been having. It was -3 this morning). Taylor admitted she had a couple problems, but was happy. Ju'Not had his first asthma attack during rehearsals and got another shot from his favorite doctor. And it's time to get to the meat...
With no fanfare or fake drama, Lil is through to the Top 12. No surprises. Her hair is ridiculous, as is her Lucille Ball-esque outfit (but add leggings to that! Horrible) but her vocals on her reprise performance are all there. I wonder who let her go on stage looking like that.
Arianna, Taylor, Alex, Kendall, and Scott were told to stand up next. One is through. I'm guessing Scott, because the others were all really bad. I don't agree, but America loves someone who overcomes adversity. Arianna is gone, and so is Taylor. Alex is really funny, but not in the Top 12. It's down to Kendall and Scott. Will it be Country Girl, or The Story? Not suprisingly, it's The Story, and Scott is through.
He sang his encore, and I am reminded that I just don't think he's that good. *sigh.*
Nathaniel and Kristin stood next, and are both out. I hope to see Kristin in the Wildcard.
Von's hair and Felicia were next, and both gone.
Will it be Ju'Not or Jorge? That's a tough one, because they were both pretty great. I think it's safe to say whoever doesn't get through will probably be back for the Wildcard. Jorge is through in the third spot, and I agree. He broke out into some Spanish that I didn't understand. His encore will be later.
Who will be in the Wildcard?
We don't know yet. First, there is a re-introduction to the 9 who are already through. I don't know why that was necessary. In the break, they had them go up the stairs, and then they came down the stairs when Ryan came back from break. What? My attention span is not that short.
8 people will be coming back to sing tomorrow, and 3 will go through.
Now - the Wildcard Group.
Von Smith is first in, and I don't know about that choice, with all the great people up there. Simon wants him to wear a hat. If that hides his idiotic hair, I agree.
Jasmine Murray is the next overrated pick to go into the Wildcard. This angers me. Kara told her that she needs to kill them with her vocals tomorrow, and stay young.
Ricky Braddy is getting another chance, and this one I agree with. I'm rooting for him.
Megan Corkrey will have another chance to dance like a drunk member of the Peanuts, and I am looking forward to her, too.
No no no no no!!! Tatiana is going to darken the stage with her presense again. I can't handle it. She put on the drama and broke into tears like a beauty queen. Go away, psycho. She's got a good voice, but I just. can't. handle. her. You can't tell me that the producers didn't nudge them in this direction. Kristin would have been a much better choice.
A good choice, Matt Giraud is getting a second chance.
I am also happy to see Jesse Langseth coming back. I enjoyed her.
Anoop is also getting another chance. I wish they would stop calling him Anoop Dawg, but other than that, I hope that he does much better.
Sadness that they didn't bring Jamar back.
Jorge sang his encore song at the end, and it was good.
What do you think of tonight's results, and the wildcard choices?
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
American Idol - 3.3.09
Von Smith (22, Missouri) You're All I Need to Get By - Marvin Gaye. The song started too low for him. Von should just sing things like this song forever and ever. He was kind of odd on the song. His low notes were too low, and some of his high notes were just slightly off key. He is confident on stage, at least, and some of his notes were good. Not bad, not bad. Randy said dude, it was the way to kick off the show. Kara said he was coming into his own. Paula said that it's hard being first, but he made a memorable first. Simon said he was reminded of Clay Aiken. Kara said he's spicier than Clay. I don't see it, Simon. Not at all.
Taylor Vaifanua (17, Utah) If I Ain't Got You. Some people leave for the strange ennunciation. It was boring, and too low, and off key all over the place. I don't particularly like the original song, and Taylor didn't do it any favors. She was better than some of the girls that went before her, but she's just not good. I'm not even going to mention her horrid dress that looked like she made it in home ec. Kara said she has a voice, but she wanted more of her personality, and wanted to know what it would be like to go shopping with Taylor via song. Paula is perplexed, saying that Taylor sang the song in Hollywood, and wishes that she had tried something different. Simon was confused about Kara's shopping analogy. Simon called it generic and bland, and said that she was unmemorable. Randy was nearly cut off by the bwah-wah music, but managed to get in that he was nothing special.
Alex Wagner-Trugman (19, California) I Guess That's Why They Call it the Blues - Elton John. He gives good interview, and he makes me laugh, but can he sing? He looks very tired, with giant circles under his eyes. The beginning was much better than the end, which got very shrill. The song was not good for his voice at all. He's entertaining, with some very strange stage moves, including knocking down the microphone stand after trying to be cool with it. Paula said he was entertaining. Simon said they had fun watching him, but not listening to him, and mentioned the ridiculous growling. Agreed. Simon said he was like a hamster trying to be a lion. Kind of also agreed. Randy said it was "crazy in a buck wild kind of way," and said "Dude," in a bad way about the vocals, saying he screamed the song. Kara said "at least you do you," and said that you can't pay for that kind of choreography. True enough. Kara asked him to ditch the growling. I would totally agree. I don't know - I root for him, even if he had a kind of horrible performance tonight, because he is entertaining, and not in the Norman Gentle kind of way. Ryan finished the interview section by breaking the microphone stand.
Arianna Afsar (17, California) The Winner Takes it All - ABBA. Sadly, she took a ballad and made it even slower. She added all sorts of unneccessary runs. It's Shatneresque. Arianna, learn something. ABBA was genius. Don't mess with it. Runs are not ok for the sake of runs. That was dreadful, and I am saddened that this was ABBA's first appearance on the Idol Stage. Simon hit it right on the nose and said that it was like a funeral dirge. Ariana said that she tried to make it contemporary. Um, don't. Randy said it just wasn't good. Kara said that they fell in love with a ray of sunshine, and this was dark and depressing, and she needs to be young and touch people. Paula said there were some bright moments to the song, which I didn't hear. Paula also liked riffs, which I totally disagree with, but she also said that sometimes it's better to stick with the melody. Absolutely.
Ju'not Joyner (26, Georgia) Hey There, Delilah - Plain White Tees. He dragged this dang song down, and I hate that. I love this song, and he made it dreary. His ennunciation was awful. He's got a good voice and knows how to use it, and his high notes were natural, but ... I can't get over the unnecessary apostrophe, and the slowness of the song. He had the best performance so far, but still. Randy said yo yo, and appreciated how he pulled back. Kara liked his spin, and called it fluid. Paula wanted to know where Ju'not's son was, and he is with his grandma. Paula liked it. Simon has already forgotten Taylor, but thought that it was much better than it was going to be. Ju'not mentioned a cortisone shot in his butt. What? I think he was my favorite of the night so far, but the others have been awful, so...
Kristen Macnamara (23, California) Give Me One Reason - Tracy Chapman. She's got a great set of pipes on her, but the arrangement was like elevator music version of the song. She has really good stage presence, and though she wore a dress that my daughter might like for her 6th birthday. Kara said that she wanted to see Kristen do something with a little more rock edge. Paula liked her, but didn't like the outfit, and Simon said that she can sing, but isn't sure who Kristen is. Randy said it was karaoke. I disagree. She does, however, look a bit like Charo. Kristen said that she wishes she could afford a stylist.
Nathaniel Marshall (19, Malone, NY) I Would Do Anything for Love - Meatloaf. I can't handle Nathaniel. He has way too many tattoos which don't jive with the rest of his strange bizarre look. He has too many piercings, and his obsession with pointless headbands that look like ribbon. The performance was super cheesy, and he doesn't have the depth of voice to carry off this song. He's certainly proud of himself. Simon said that some people would probably like that, but the majority would think of it as verging on excruciating. He admitted that Nathaniel is fun. Randy wondered about the song choice, and he said that he used to dance around to it with his mom. I. Don't. Care. Randy was confused, and repeatedly said that it was an "Elton John" headband. Um. Olivia Newton, dear. Kara said she wanted to see a different side of him, and right now she just thinks of him as a karioke buddy. Paula loves him, and loved his song choice in Hollywood, but called this song the Boy George version of the song. Oh my God, I'm agreeing with Paula. Ryan had Nathanial go over to be close with the judges, and sit on Simon's lap. What? I'm confused.
Felicia Barton (26, Virginia) No One - Alicia Keys. Is she worthy of the second chance she got? Why do people keep singing Alicia Keys? There are other songs, people. Her sparkly top certainly caught the lights, and I liked her very well in the beginning, but she hit a couple very strange notes in there. She seems to have a really low voice, but has troubles up higher. She was pretty good, but I wish she had chosen something else. Paula called her gift unbelievable. Her son is adorable. Simon agreed with me that the first part of the song was better than the second half, and worried it was copycat. Randy thought she had an amazing voice, and wants her to go with her own thing. Kara said she had a few problems with some notes, but she noticed Felicia tonight. I did, too.
Scott Macintyre (23, Arizona) Mandolin Rain - Bruce Hornsby. I think that Scott is not nearly as good as the hype about him is. He proved how good Bruce Horsby is, and his high notes were bad. I didn't like it at all. Not at all. It was nearly painful for me. Randy said that it wasn't the most perfect vocal, but the good parts were really really great. I disagree. (Can I just say Scott's brother is super attractive in the audience? I wonder if Scott straightened his hair if he would be more attractive.) Kara said that the bum notes didn't matter so much because he has passion. I don't want to listen to his passion, I want to listen to good singing. Paula wants him with his piano. Simon said that Scott is beginning to believe in himself, and he's memorable. The judges all kissed his shoes. He gave Ryan a high five, harkening back to faux pas at the original auditions.
Kendall Beard (24, Texas) This One's For the Girls - Martina McBride. She's like Country Singer Barbie, complete with her bright yellow dress that looked a bit like a fitted sack. Her high notes are bad. I'm sure that country lovers will love her. I do not. She missed many notes. Her low range was pleasant enough. Kara said she has a big personality, and she's really a country girl, but said that she had some issues with the notes. Paula liked her dress, and thought that she was adorable. Simon thinks she chose the right song, but wanted it to end, because it got shrill. Randy thought that the song choice was good, but the vocal performance was not all there. I wouldn't be surprised if she goes on, because of the country thing.
Jorge Nunez (21, Puerto Rico) Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me - Elton John. Dude needs some serious eyebrow maintenance. Vocally, he's not bad. In fact, surprisingly good. He's got some good depth to his voice. He got a standing Paula. She is in love with him, and wants to squeeze him. Simon said "You Heart Him, don't you?" and said that it's ok for him to sing with an accent. Randy said accent or not, it was really really good, and he vindicated himself since Hollywood week. Kara said that Jorge is born to sing, and you can feel it. Jorge started crying with joy, and had a hard time answering Ryan's question in English.
Lil Rounds (24, Tenessee) Being Without You - Mary J Blige. She is dressed like a bumblebee, with an easy-zip bodice. I didn't like her much previously, thinking that she was totally overrated in previous rounds, but she is very comfortable on stage and does a good performance with really good vocals. I don't know about her Something About Mary hair. Simon called it brilliant, but thinks that she should have chosen a different artist who she doesn't sound so much like. Randy said she had her swagger on. Kara said she was a powerhouse, and loves that she's been consistant in her performances. Paula called her first class, and said that she thinks we'll be seeing her for many many lil' rounds. Wonder how long she's been holding that one.
Surprisingly, after a couple weeks of suck, there were many good performances tonight Lil (12), Jorge (11), Kristen (06), Ju'not (05), Felicia (08). Von was ok, but I'm not voting for him.
What did you think?
Taylor Vaifanua (17, Utah) If I Ain't Got You. Some people leave for the strange ennunciation. It was boring, and too low, and off key all over the place. I don't particularly like the original song, and Taylor didn't do it any favors. She was better than some of the girls that went before her, but she's just not good. I'm not even going to mention her horrid dress that looked like she made it in home ec. Kara said she has a voice, but she wanted more of her personality, and wanted to know what it would be like to go shopping with Taylor via song. Paula is perplexed, saying that Taylor sang the song in Hollywood, and wishes that she had tried something different. Simon was confused about Kara's shopping analogy. Simon called it generic and bland, and said that she was unmemorable. Randy was nearly cut off by the bwah-wah music, but managed to get in that he was nothing special.
Alex Wagner-Trugman (19, California) I Guess That's Why They Call it the Blues - Elton John. He gives good interview, and he makes me laugh, but can he sing? He looks very tired, with giant circles under his eyes. The beginning was much better than the end, which got very shrill. The song was not good for his voice at all. He's entertaining, with some very strange stage moves, including knocking down the microphone stand after trying to be cool with it. Paula said he was entertaining. Simon said they had fun watching him, but not listening to him, and mentioned the ridiculous growling. Agreed. Simon said he was like a hamster trying to be a lion. Kind of also agreed. Randy said it was "crazy in a buck wild kind of way," and said "Dude," in a bad way about the vocals, saying he screamed the song. Kara said "at least you do you," and said that you can't pay for that kind of choreography. True enough. Kara asked him to ditch the growling. I would totally agree. I don't know - I root for him, even if he had a kind of horrible performance tonight, because he is entertaining, and not in the Norman Gentle kind of way. Ryan finished the interview section by breaking the microphone stand.
Arianna Afsar (17, California) The Winner Takes it All - ABBA. Sadly, she took a ballad and made it even slower. She added all sorts of unneccessary runs. It's Shatneresque. Arianna, learn something. ABBA was genius. Don't mess with it. Runs are not ok for the sake of runs. That was dreadful, and I am saddened that this was ABBA's first appearance on the Idol Stage. Simon hit it right on the nose and said that it was like a funeral dirge. Ariana said that she tried to make it contemporary. Um, don't. Randy said it just wasn't good. Kara said that they fell in love with a ray of sunshine, and this was dark and depressing, and she needs to be young and touch people. Paula said there were some bright moments to the song, which I didn't hear. Paula also liked riffs, which I totally disagree with, but she also said that sometimes it's better to stick with the melody. Absolutely.
Ju'not Joyner (26, Georgia) Hey There, Delilah - Plain White Tees. He dragged this dang song down, and I hate that. I love this song, and he made it dreary. His ennunciation was awful. He's got a good voice and knows how to use it, and his high notes were natural, but ... I can't get over the unnecessary apostrophe, and the slowness of the song. He had the best performance so far, but still. Randy said yo yo, and appreciated how he pulled back. Kara liked his spin, and called it fluid. Paula wanted to know where Ju'not's son was, and he is with his grandma. Paula liked it. Simon has already forgotten Taylor, but thought that it was much better than it was going to be. Ju'not mentioned a cortisone shot in his butt. What? I think he was my favorite of the night so far, but the others have been awful, so...
Kristen Macnamara (23, California) Give Me One Reason - Tracy Chapman. She's got a great set of pipes on her, but the arrangement was like elevator music version of the song. She has really good stage presence, and though she wore a dress that my daughter might like for her 6th birthday. Kara said that she wanted to see Kristen do something with a little more rock edge. Paula liked her, but didn't like the outfit, and Simon said that she can sing, but isn't sure who Kristen is. Randy said it was karaoke. I disagree. She does, however, look a bit like Charo. Kristen said that she wishes she could afford a stylist.Nathaniel Marshall (19, Malone, NY) I Would Do Anything for Love - Meatloaf. I can't handle Nathaniel. He has way too many tattoos which don't jive with the rest of his strange bizarre look. He has too many piercings, and his obsession with pointless headbands that look like ribbon. The performance was super cheesy, and he doesn't have the depth of voice to carry off this song. He's certainly proud of himself. Simon said that some people would probably like that, but the majority would think of it as verging on excruciating. He admitted that Nathaniel is fun. Randy wondered about the song choice, and he said that he used to dance around to it with his mom. I. Don't. Care. Randy was confused, and repeatedly said that it was an "Elton John" headband. Um. Olivia Newton, dear. Kara said she wanted to see a different side of him, and right now she just thinks of him as a karioke buddy. Paula loves him, and loved his song choice in Hollywood, but called this song the Boy George version of the song. Oh my God, I'm agreeing with Paula. Ryan had Nathanial go over to be close with the judges, and sit on Simon's lap. What? I'm confused.
Felicia Barton (26, Virginia) No One - Alicia Keys. Is she worthy of the second chance she got? Why do people keep singing Alicia Keys? There are other songs, people. Her sparkly top certainly caught the lights, and I liked her very well in the beginning, but she hit a couple very strange notes in there. She seems to have a really low voice, but has troubles up higher. She was pretty good, but I wish she had chosen something else. Paula called her gift unbelievable. Her son is adorable. Simon agreed with me that the first part of the song was better than the second half, and worried it was copycat. Randy thought she had an amazing voice, and wants her to go with her own thing. Kara said she had a few problems with some notes, but she noticed Felicia tonight. I did, too.
Scott Macintyre (23, Arizona) Mandolin Rain - Bruce Hornsby. I think that Scott is not nearly as good as the hype about him is. He proved how good Bruce Horsby is, and his high notes were bad. I didn't like it at all. Not at all. It was nearly painful for me. Randy said that it wasn't the most perfect vocal, but the good parts were really really great. I disagree. (Can I just say Scott's brother is super attractive in the audience? I wonder if Scott straightened his hair if he would be more attractive.) Kara said that the bum notes didn't matter so much because he has passion. I don't want to listen to his passion, I want to listen to good singing. Paula wants him with his piano. Simon said that Scott is beginning to believe in himself, and he's memorable. The judges all kissed his shoes. He gave Ryan a high five, harkening back to faux pas at the original auditions.
Kendall Beard (24, Texas) This One's For the Girls - Martina McBride. She's like Country Singer Barbie, complete with her bright yellow dress that looked a bit like a fitted sack. Her high notes are bad. I'm sure that country lovers will love her. I do not. She missed many notes. Her low range was pleasant enough. Kara said she has a big personality, and she's really a country girl, but said that she had some issues with the notes. Paula liked her dress, and thought that she was adorable. Simon thinks she chose the right song, but wanted it to end, because it got shrill. Randy thought that the song choice was good, but the vocal performance was not all there. I wouldn't be surprised if she goes on, because of the country thing.
Jorge Nunez (21, Puerto Rico) Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me - Elton John. Dude needs some serious eyebrow maintenance. Vocally, he's not bad. In fact, surprisingly good. He's got some good depth to his voice. He got a standing Paula. She is in love with him, and wants to squeeze him. Simon said "You Heart Him, don't you?" and said that it's ok for him to sing with an accent. Randy said accent or not, it was really really good, and he vindicated himself since Hollywood week. Kara said that Jorge is born to sing, and you can feel it. Jorge started crying with joy, and had a hard time answering Ryan's question in English.
Lil Rounds (24, Tenessee) Being Without You - Mary J Blige. She is dressed like a bumblebee, with an easy-zip bodice. I didn't like her much previously, thinking that she was totally overrated in previous rounds, but she is very comfortable on stage and does a good performance with really good vocals. I don't know about her Something About Mary hair. Simon called it brilliant, but thinks that she should have chosen a different artist who she doesn't sound so much like. Randy said she had her swagger on. Kara said she was a powerhouse, and loves that she's been consistant in her performances. Paula called her first class, and said that she thinks we'll be seeing her for many many lil' rounds. Wonder how long she's been holding that one.
Surprisingly, after a couple weeks of suck, there were many good performances tonight Lil (12), Jorge (11), Kristen (06), Ju'not (05), Felicia (08). Von was ok, but I'm not voting for him.
What did you think?
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Amazing Race - 3.1.09
The race tonight starts out in Salzburg, Austria.
Tammy and Victor are much cleaner after the Pit Stop, and they are heading to Bukarest, Romania. They have to take a train to Munich, and then catch a plane to Bukarest, and then they have to get to the Gymnastics studio where Nadia Comanich trained.
They head out right away, and stop at a travel agent to book their flight.
Mike and Mel are out next, followed by Amanda and Kris, and then Luke and Margie. Luke wished that he could communicate with other teams, since he only does sign language. Brad and Victoria headed out next, followed by Cara and Jamie, Jen and Kisha, Mark and Michael, and Christie and Jodi.
First at the airport, Tammy and Victor are able to snag seats on what was a full flight, a different one than the one they had booked ahead of time.
On the train, Kris and Amanda met a nice man who called the travel agency for them, and found out the best flight for them, and they took the chance on running to the flight within 30 minutes. Others on the train got similar help, but Brad and Victoria decided to not book the first flight because it was too close a connection, and booked the flight that was 5 hours later. They decided to go with a different option, with a different connection, once they got to the airport.
Tammy and Victor got the first flight out, almost an hour earlier, but there was something wrong with the plane and they had to turn around. They then missed the next flight.
Mostly everyone else chose the Lufthansa flight which was at 9:30. Victoria and Brad got the flight connecting in Amsterdam, but there was some problem in the connection and they missed their connection.
This is the kind of Amazing Race I like to see - missed flights and luck and airport hi-jinx.
Brad and Victoria ran into a lot of fog in Amsterdam, and ended up getting stuck there until a 9:15 flight the next morning.
Meanwhile, the 9:30 flight arrived in Bukarest, and the teams made their way to the gymnastics studio.
Roadblock
Teams must perform balance beam, parallel bars, and floor exercises properly.
Kris and Amanda were first, and Amanda did a great job on the balance beam. Margie fell off the balance beam, as Amanda did the parallel bars and floor exercise. Nothing Olympic worthy, but a good job, and better than I could do.
Seriously. I am completely incapable of performing a cartwheel. I've tried. A lot. And I end up becoming a human bowling ball. It's not pretty. Someday, I would like to learn properly. Just saying.
The teams who finish the gymnastics have to travel by train to Brasov, Transylvania, and take a taxi to Biserica Niegra.
Margie finally finished the balance beam and Mike donned gymnastics suit to do the balance beam pretty well. They both finished the other tasks well, and were off.
The first train to Brasov is at 6:30 AM, which meant that teams had to spend the night at the train station. And that was sketchy.
The second plane arrived, and they found their way to the Gymnastics studio. Well, except for Tammy and Victor, because Victor seemed to lead them astray.
There was more trouble with this group, except Christie and Jodi seemed to do well. Tammy was focusing on how to catch up, instead of what she was supposed to be doing, and that didn't bode well for them. Kisha had some terrible trouble, and vowed to stick to basketball from this point on.
Tammy has a similar problem to me, in that she cannot do a cartwheel, and Victor was backseat gymnastics-ing something terrible, which was annoying to me. I can only imagine how annoying it would have been to Tammy. They finally got done, and she gave him some nasty looks in the car, and she cried about how she felt that he is domineering (in confessional, of course).
It didn't end up mattering much, because everyone (except for stranded Brad and Victoria) was on the 6:30 AM train.
Cara and Jamie were very sweet and communicated with Luke nicely mostly through writing. No one else seemed to take the time to talk to him, so I'm sure he appreciated it.
It's a mad dash to the Black Church, to a Detour
Gypsy Moves - Load a family's belongings onto a horse drawn cart at a gypsy camp, and then lead the cart to a new camp.
Vampire Remains - Drag a coffin through a trail in the woods, unlock and untangle a series of chains, to show antique frames. They would have to then impale the frames on stakes until they reveal a clue.
Amanda and Kris and Mel and Mike chose the Gypsy Moves, and Mel and Mike were regretting it instantly, since Mel's groin is still bothering him, and the items they had to load were not small. Kris was doing a fantastic job muscling everything up, but they had some troubles with things falling off the cart.
Kisha and Jen also did the Gypsy Moves.
Tammy and Victor and Christie and Jodi went to the Vampire Remains, and again Victor led them astray, off on the wrong path, which was not marked with the Amazing Race colors. Tammy voiced her concern, but Victor ignored her pretty much.
Meanwhile, Jamie and Cara and Margie and Luke got bad cabs that had a terrible time finding the location for Vampire Remains. They finally made it, though, while Tammy and Victor took a scenic hike up the mountain.
Kris and Amanda were the fist to finish the Detour, and headed to the Pit Stop, Vila Panoramic, by taxi. Mel and Mike finished not long after them. But wait! Kris lost their fanny pack, with all of their money, passports, etc. while doing the gypsy thing.
Margie and Luke and Christie and Jodi got to working on their locks first, followed by Jamie and Cara. Margie and Luke got their coffin open first.
(We see Victoria doing a very nice job at the gymnastics, and they headed off to Transylvania)
Tammy and Victor continued on their hike, and Tammy was completely annoyed at Victor. I would be, too.
Luckily, Kris and Amanda found their pack, but not before a very winded Mel and Mike got to the Pit Stop first! Good for them! They won a trip for two to Costa Rica. Amanda and Kris come in second.
Tammy still doesn't think they are right, and Victor told her that they have gone too far to turn back. I think I hate him a little. And her, because she's not being stong enough. He just kept insisting that they needed to keep going, so keep going they did.
(Meanwhile, Victoria and Brad are on the train)
Margie got the clue, and headed to the Pit Stop.
Victor sat down in the woods to have a little cry because I think he decided they were completely lost. He said "You can help make the decisions, too," and she said "I can make the decisions, now that we've walked up the whole mountain?"
Jamie and Cara got their clue on nearly the first frame, it seems.
Kisha and Jen came in 4th at the Pit Stop, followed by Margie and Luke, then Mark and Michael and Christie and Jodi.
Tammy and Victor finally got back to the actual marked trail, and got their coffin to the right area, but then he made the coffin more complicated than it probably was.
Jamie and Cara came in #7 at the Pit Stop.
Actually, Tammy and Victor broke a key off the coffin during the drag, and dug through the underbrush until they found it, and got to the Pit Stop 8th. Phil psyched them out a bit, saying he was "sorry to tell" them that they were second to last.
Tears from Victor, and a vow to do better at communication.
Poor Brad and Victoria dragged their coffin through the woods in the dark, got their clue, and were sadly eliminated, looking very macabre and bloody (thanks to fake blood in the frames!). I liked them a lot, so I am very sad to see them go. I prefer a more Karma-driven Amazing Race.
Tammy and Victor are much cleaner after the Pit Stop, and they are heading to Bukarest, Romania. They have to take a train to Munich, and then catch a plane to Bukarest, and then they have to get to the Gymnastics studio where Nadia Comanich trained.
They head out right away, and stop at a travel agent to book their flight.
Mike and Mel are out next, followed by Amanda and Kris, and then Luke and Margie. Luke wished that he could communicate with other teams, since he only does sign language. Brad and Victoria headed out next, followed by Cara and Jamie, Jen and Kisha, Mark and Michael, and Christie and Jodi.
First at the airport, Tammy and Victor are able to snag seats on what was a full flight, a different one than the one they had booked ahead of time.
On the train, Kris and Amanda met a nice man who called the travel agency for them, and found out the best flight for them, and they took the chance on running to the flight within 30 minutes. Others on the train got similar help, but Brad and Victoria decided to not book the first flight because it was too close a connection, and booked the flight that was 5 hours later. They decided to go with a different option, with a different connection, once they got to the airport.
Tammy and Victor got the first flight out, almost an hour earlier, but there was something wrong with the plane and they had to turn around. They then missed the next flight.
Mostly everyone else chose the Lufthansa flight which was at 9:30. Victoria and Brad got the flight connecting in Amsterdam, but there was some problem in the connection and they missed their connection.
This is the kind of Amazing Race I like to see - missed flights and luck and airport hi-jinx.
Brad and Victoria ran into a lot of fog in Amsterdam, and ended up getting stuck there until a 9:15 flight the next morning.
Meanwhile, the 9:30 flight arrived in Bukarest, and the teams made their way to the gymnastics studio.
Roadblock
Teams must perform balance beam, parallel bars, and floor exercises properly.
Kris and Amanda were first, and Amanda did a great job on the balance beam. Margie fell off the balance beam, as Amanda did the parallel bars and floor exercise. Nothing Olympic worthy, but a good job, and better than I could do.
Seriously. I am completely incapable of performing a cartwheel. I've tried. A lot. And I end up becoming a human bowling ball. It's not pretty. Someday, I would like to learn properly. Just saying.
The teams who finish the gymnastics have to travel by train to Brasov, Transylvania, and take a taxi to Biserica Niegra.
Margie finally finished the balance beam and Mike donned gymnastics suit to do the balance beam pretty well. They both finished the other tasks well, and were off.
The first train to Brasov is at 6:30 AM, which meant that teams had to spend the night at the train station. And that was sketchy.
The second plane arrived, and they found their way to the Gymnastics studio. Well, except for Tammy and Victor, because Victor seemed to lead them astray.
There was more trouble with this group, except Christie and Jodi seemed to do well. Tammy was focusing on how to catch up, instead of what she was supposed to be doing, and that didn't bode well for them. Kisha had some terrible trouble, and vowed to stick to basketball from this point on.
Tammy has a similar problem to me, in that she cannot do a cartwheel, and Victor was backseat gymnastics-ing something terrible, which was annoying to me. I can only imagine how annoying it would have been to Tammy. They finally got done, and she gave him some nasty looks in the car, and she cried about how she felt that he is domineering (in confessional, of course).
It didn't end up mattering much, because everyone (except for stranded Brad and Victoria) was on the 6:30 AM train.
Cara and Jamie were very sweet and communicated with Luke nicely mostly through writing. No one else seemed to take the time to talk to him, so I'm sure he appreciated it.
It's a mad dash to the Black Church, to a Detour
Gypsy Moves - Load a family's belongings onto a horse drawn cart at a gypsy camp, and then lead the cart to a new camp.
Vampire Remains - Drag a coffin through a trail in the woods, unlock and untangle a series of chains, to show antique frames. They would have to then impale the frames on stakes until they reveal a clue.
Amanda and Kris and Mel and Mike chose the Gypsy Moves, and Mel and Mike were regretting it instantly, since Mel's groin is still bothering him, and the items they had to load were not small. Kris was doing a fantastic job muscling everything up, but they had some troubles with things falling off the cart.
Kisha and Jen also did the Gypsy Moves.
Tammy and Victor and Christie and Jodi went to the Vampire Remains, and again Victor led them astray, off on the wrong path, which was not marked with the Amazing Race colors. Tammy voiced her concern, but Victor ignored her pretty much.
Meanwhile, Jamie and Cara and Margie and Luke got bad cabs that had a terrible time finding the location for Vampire Remains. They finally made it, though, while Tammy and Victor took a scenic hike up the mountain.
Kris and Amanda were the fist to finish the Detour, and headed to the Pit Stop, Vila Panoramic, by taxi. Mel and Mike finished not long after them. But wait! Kris lost their fanny pack, with all of their money, passports, etc. while doing the gypsy thing.
Margie and Luke and Christie and Jodi got to working on their locks first, followed by Jamie and Cara. Margie and Luke got their coffin open first.
(We see Victoria doing a very nice job at the gymnastics, and they headed off to Transylvania)
Tammy and Victor continued on their hike, and Tammy was completely annoyed at Victor. I would be, too.
Luckily, Kris and Amanda found their pack, but not before a very winded Mel and Mike got to the Pit Stop first! Good for them! They won a trip for two to Costa Rica. Amanda and Kris come in second.
Tammy still doesn't think they are right, and Victor told her that they have gone too far to turn back. I think I hate him a little. And her, because she's not being stong enough. He just kept insisting that they needed to keep going, so keep going they did.
(Meanwhile, Victoria and Brad are on the train)
Margie got the clue, and headed to the Pit Stop.
Victor sat down in the woods to have a little cry because I think he decided they were completely lost. He said "You can help make the decisions, too," and she said "I can make the decisions, now that we've walked up the whole mountain?"
Jamie and Cara got their clue on nearly the first frame, it seems.
Kisha and Jen came in 4th at the Pit Stop, followed by Margie and Luke, then Mark and Michael and Christie and Jodi.
Tammy and Victor finally got back to the actual marked trail, and got their coffin to the right area, but then he made the coffin more complicated than it probably was.
Jamie and Cara came in #7 at the Pit Stop.
Actually, Tammy and Victor broke a key off the coffin during the drag, and dug through the underbrush until they found it, and got to the Pit Stop 8th. Phil psyched them out a bit, saying he was "sorry to tell" them that they were second to last.
Tears from Victor, and a vow to do better at communication.
Poor Brad and Victoria dragged their coffin through the woods in the dark, got their clue, and were sadly eliminated, looking very macabre and bloody (thanks to fake blood in the frames!). I liked them a lot, so I am very sad to see them go. I prefer a more Karma-driven Amazing Race.
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