It’s crunch time on Australian Idol, with only three young hopefuls remaining. Tonight we’ll see one of them leave the comp, paving the way for the final two to sing for the ultimate title at the Opera House. You’d think all of that would have inspired some outstanding performances, but did it?
Natalie Gauci was first up, singing the viewer’s choice of “Ray of Light.” I agree with Kyle – this is the worst thing I’ve seen Natalie do. Personally I’ve never liked the song, and it did Natalie no favours. If nothing else, it proved that Natalie can’t sing anything. Thankfully, this wasn’t her only song of the night. Pink’s “Nobody Knows” was a much better choice, and I really enjoyed it.
I was really excited when I heard the home viewer had picked “You Give Me Something” for Carl Riseley, but I didn’t think this worked at all. Vocally it wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t great either. I thought his version of “For Once in My Life” was better, but it still wasn’t up to the standard I’d expect at this stage of the competition. I like Carl a lot, but I’m wondering whether he peaked too early.
I was beginning to despair that the viewers’ choices would unintentionally sabotage all of the Idols, when Matt Corby appeared. Evermore’s “It’s Too Late” was the perfect song for him, forcing him to step out of the introspective space he’s inhabited for the last few weeks and really perform. In my eyes, this was the performance of the night. He closed the show with a soaring rendition of “Across the Universe.” It didn’t quite have the “Idol Moment” I think he was aiming for, but it came pretty close.
I honestly have no idea who will go tonight. If the punters vote on performance alone, Carl should be shown the door but we all know more comes into play than that. His status in the bottom two last week will only inspire more Carl fans to pick up the phone. I feel Matt and Natalie have been our most consistent performers and deserve places at the Opera House, but will it happen? You’ll have to watch tonight’s elimination show to find out!
Last night Australian Idol bid a fond farewell to likeable Central Coast lad, Marty Simpson. A regular in the bottom three throughout the competition, he showed his resilience to make it to the top four.
In his farewell speech Marty thanked everyone involved with the show, particularly Idol HQ House Manager Sam for his breakfast smoothies.
I know many who read this blog are happy to see the back of Marty, but I’m not one of them. Throughout the competition he’s taken every criticism under his belt, and used them to improve his performances. I love the rich easy tone of his voice, and I’m going to miss it on the Idol stage.
Next week the remaining three contestants will sing songs chosen by the voting public. I love this theme as you never know quite what you’re going to get. It should be fun!
Glitz and glamour was the order of the day, as our Australian Idol top four performed the swing stylings of big band. Some felt right at home with the standards, while other struggled.
Carl Riseley has become the show’s resident swing king, and he did a pretty decent job within his comfort zone. My biggest problem with Carl when he performs in this style is that he shows little originality. While I’m a big Michael Bublé fan, I don’t really like his take on “Me and Mrs Jones.” Just like Michael’s, Carl’s version showed none of the sexiness of the original. The song is about sex more than romance, and both singers seem to miss that point. However, I do think it was vocally stronger than his second performance, “Just Kiss Me.” Those lyrics are just frenetic, and I don’t think he was in the pocket for much of it. However, he’s become a real showman and it was an entertaining effort. I agree with the judges: this was meant to be Carl’s night and he really needed to do more than anyone else to wow us.
Marty Simpson was always going to find tonight more difficult than any of the other Idols, and it showed. He was very clever, choosing modern songs he already connected with and giving them a big band reworking. The arrangements were really very good, but his stage manner showed he wasn’t confident in them. It’s a shame. I thought “American Baby” sounded great, but I would have loved a little more fire from “Light My Fire.”
Matt Corby came next, with some average efforts. He too looked a little uncomfortable, but there was no denying his vocal abilities. First up was Michael Bublé’s take on James Taylor’s “How Sweet It Is,” and then the more traditional big band song “Beyond the Sea.” Overall I was a bit bored by it. The emotional connection I’m used to from Matt was missing, and his performances suffered for it.
Natalie Gauci was last night’s real surprise package. She came out with a stunning rendition of “Orange Coloured Sky” and backed it up with “How High the Moon.” Either performance could have earned her a touchdown, but Mark waited until the end to give it to her, her third touchdown in a row. Natalie’s definitely peaking right now, and I think she deserves to be at the Opera House more than anyone else.
I think either Marty or Carl’s number may be up this week. Marty’s performances were probably the weakest, but he’s got a really strong fan base who must realise he’s more vulnerable this week than he’s ever been. Carl should have shone here, and he didn’t. He did better than Matt, but the teenagers aren’t going to let Mr Corby go just yet.
Who’s the most influential artist to come out of Australian Idol? Is it Shannon Noll, whose skills saw him working with some of America’s best songwriters on his new album? What about Anthony Callea, who’s earning rave reviews for his work in musical theatre? Well, if you believe this year’s Australian Idol finalists, the one that’s made the greatest impact is Bobby Flynn.
He may not have set the charts alight or packed out an entertainment centre, but last year’s seventh place-getter inspired more Idols this year than any other.
That Bobby could do so much during his relatively short time in the competition is a testimony to his talent. It’s something I was lucky enough to witness for myself last night at Lizotte’s. This intimate little venue in Kincumber is a world away from the massive Idol stage, but that’s a very good thing.
Bobby was ably supported by Canadian singer/songwriter Brian Campean. I can’t decide whether Brian was a genius or a madman. He could be both. His soaring voice was reminiscent of Jeff Buckley’s, and his guitar skills were incredible. But his unconventional melodies and lyrics struggled to connect with the crowd, who seemed more intent in gossiping amongst themselves. It’s a shame, as there was a lot to enjoy in his unique performance.
The chatter died down once Bobby took the stage. His original songs draw you in, with their ethereal melodies and his haunting vocals. I didn’t know most of these songs, but it allowed me to focus on their beautiful words. He’s not conventionally handsome, but his natural charisma casts a spell on his adoring audience. Watching him is indeed magical.
Songwriting is Bobby’s first love, but he’s not afraid to pepper his set with the cover versions Idol fans voted for. I was delighted to hear his evocative cover of The Church’s “Under the Milky Way” and his show-stopping rendition of “Superfreak.”
I caught up with Bobby after the show and was impressed by his gentle nature and his willingness to spend time with his fans. This was his third sold-out show at Lizotte’s, and he’s already making plans to return. I personally can’t wait.
After a tumultuous week, Tarisai Vushe is the latest contestant to leave Australian Idol.
This week Tarisai hit back at accusations from public that she was “fake.” Following another technically superb but unemotional performance, Mark and Dicko agreed that she wasn’t showing her true self.
A visibly rattled Tarisai continued the confrontation after the show by swearing at Mark, slamming a door in Dicko’s face, and telling the media the pair had sabotaged her chances in the competition.
But I can’t help thinking the only person who sabotaged Tarisai was Tarisai. For every person that appreciates what you do, there’ll be others who don’t. Part of being a star is dealing with this negativity in a constructive way rather than throwing a tantrum.
After the judges said their goodbyes and wished her luck, Tarisai replied, “Thanks, even though I don’t mean it.”
I think Tarisai needs a serious attitude readjustment if she’s going to get anywhere in this business.
Natalie Gauci and Marty Simpson joined Tarisai in the bottom three. Natalie was a big surprise considering her touchdown-worthy performance, but I guess someone has to be there.
Next week we can look forward to big band night, which is always one of my favourites. While Carl’s a natural here, it’s going to take the remaining contestants out of their comfort zones. Expect some real surprises!
Last night was all about Australian music on Channel Ten, and Australian Idol was no exception. The final five honoured our country’s great music by performing some classic hits and new Aussie tunes.
Judge Mark Holden stepped out from behind the desk this week to mentor the Idols in the studio. All the aspiring singers said they benefited from Mark’s experience.
Matt Corby kicked off the night with a cover of Thirsty Merc’s “20 Good Reasons.” This should have been a good song for Matt, at least if you believe the rumours about his recent split with his girlfriend. However, I didn’t really feel this performance. It was competent, but I think he needs to take it to the next level if he’s going to live up to the hype and be there at the Opera House.
While Matt’s performance was lacklustre, Natalie Gauci’s was sensational. When I heard she was performing “Boys in Town” I was pretty excited, and she didn’t let me down. This is such a strong, gutsy song, and she really delivered it. I was actually a little choked up when she finished! She’s showing more of herself every week, and I’m really enjoying watching her.
I was a bit more nervous when I heard Marty Simpson was taking on the Powderfinger smash, “These Days.” I was so sure he’d tackle a bluesier John Butler Trio song, and wasn’t sure whether he had the depth to pull off this rock ballad. I’m proud to say, he did. Marty’s another competitor who’s showing enormous growth when it counts.
Tarisai Vushe took on The Veronicas’ “When It All Falls Apart,” but she’ll probably be remembered for her tantrum rather than her singing performance. Like many on the Idol forums, Mark and Dicko again commented that they felt little real emotion in her performance. So is she fake? There’s no question that she sang the song well, hitting all the notes just right. But I still feel a wall between her and the audience when she sings. She does seem to hold a lot of herself back, which may be fakery or it may just be nerves. I will say that outbursts like this will endear her to no one.
Carl Riseley closed the show with his cover of Little River Band’s “Reminiscing.” It was a perfect song choice, and despite his sore throat hampering his vocals Carl pulled it off. It’s funny, isn’t it? Technically this probably wasn’t as good as what Tarisai did. But he’s just so likeable that it’s easier to forgive any flaws.
So tonight we’ll say farewell to one more. My money’s on Tarisai to go. There’s a lot of negative publicity out there, and at the end of the day this really is a popularity contest.
And then there were five. Last night we said goodbye to Australian Idol nice guy Daniel Mifsud.
“It’s been such an amazing time,” he said after the verdict. “I’ve learned so much.”
I don’t think anything last night came as a surprise to anyone. While Daniel started out as an early favourite, he’s been let down by some dodgy song choices. Not that making the top six is anything to sneeze at.
Natalie, Matt, and Carl all earned touchdowns for their awesome performances, so it makes sense that Marty and Tarisai joined Daniel in the bottom three.
I wonder whether the unique announcement technique, where all the Idols stood on the stage, was used to add some interest to the fairly predictable proceedings.
Next week the Idols will celebrate the ARIAs by singing homegrown hits. It’s a nice broad theme that should result in some fantastic performances. If Marty doesn’t break out some John Butler Trio I’ll be shocked and amazed.
The Idols have faced harsh criticism over their song choices in recent weeks, so it must have been a relief to hand the control over to the judges. At least for half the night. Last night our Australian Idols sang a song picked by the judges, and another of their own choice. It proved to be a winning combination, with three touchdowns and some stellar performances.
Tarisai Vushe was first to perform Marcia’s choice of “Can’t Get Enough Of Your Love.” It should have been a perfect song for her, and I suppose it was, but I still feel a wall between Tarisai and the audience when she performs. It felt a bit pageanty and fake to me, although I did enjoy seeing a lighter side of her. It was only a matter of time before Tarisai brought out some Whitney, and she did so with “I Believe in You and Me.” Vocally this was superb, and I felt like she connected with this one a lot more. Having said that though, Tarisai seems interchangeable with so many other diva singers. There’s nothing new here, and I’m getting a bit bored with it.
Marty Simpson had a stellar night. I really think he just keeps getting better and better. He clearly relished the opportunity to sing reggae, first with Marcia’s choice of “No Woman No Cry,” and then with his own selection, “Last Kiss.” The second song was my favourite, and in my opinion it was worth a touchdown. But we all know if you don’t do big notes and deliver a big performance, you don’t get those. Marty’s really not a “performer,” but when you have your guitar I don’t think you really need to be. I’d much rather watch someone with their instrument than see someone dancing around a stage.
In my opinion, Daniel Mifsud was the weakest link last night. While Mark chose a beautiful song in Sting’s “Fragile,” I think it also let him down. He delivered it beautifully, but it was a bit boring. “From The Sea” was a great song choice, but not for Daniel to deliver. Sadly it exposed all his vocal weaknesses, and his strong physical presence wasn’t enough to save it. I cringed every time he aimed for the falsetto.
Wasn’t Carl Riseley the surprise package? It’s almost as if now that Ben McKenzie has gone, he’s realised how wide-open this competition is. He’s definitely playing to win, and that’s exciting to watch. I was prepared to laugh all the way through “It’s Not Unusual” but I actually found myself enjoying it! It was a well-deserved touchdown. I can’t say that I liked “Jealous Guy” as much, but I think that was mostly because I hated the arrangement. Vocally he was strong though, and he sang it with real conviction. Carl’s come such a long way from the vocally weak, stiff trumpet player we first encountered.
Matt Corby showed his courage, taking on Mark’s challenge of “Music of the Night.” I have really conflicting thoughts about this performance. On the negative side, I thought it had a lot of vocal flaws. He has such a lovely lower register, but when he switched to the higher notes in his “natural” voice they were really jarring. It was almost like he was singing in two completely different voices, and that didn’t work at all. However, I really appreciate him taking this on. It was a massive risk, and while I don’t think it paid off completely it was great that he challenged himself. Still, I don’t think that makes it worth a touchdown. But this was only one song on a night where the Idols had two chances. His cover of “Transatlantacism” was brilliant, and made up for any weaknesses he showed earlier. I must admit, I’m an old fogie and I’d never heard the song but Matt performed it with so much conviction I didn’t need it to be familiar. Great stuff.
I had mixed feelings about Natalie Gauci last night. She took a song I love, “Nothing Compares 2 U,” and ruined it in my opinion. It felt overblown and like just another diva number rather than the quirky heartfelt tune it is. But everyone else loved it, so what do I know. Then she took “Umbrella,” a song I despise with a burning fiery passion, and made it brilliant. It was another well-deserved touchdown and a great way to end the show.
Based on all that, I’m picking Daniel to go. Then again, I’ve been doing that for weeks and it still hasn’t happened. And no one thought Ben would leave last week, but he did. At this point, anything could happen.
Whether you’re an Idol fan or not, Friday night’s Australian Idol “Doin’ It For the Kids” concert should be worth watching.
Not only will the final six Idol finalists perform, we’ll also see performances from top entertainers The Rogue Traders, Darren Hayes, Katie Noonan, The Noll Brothers, and Vanessa Amorosi. Past Australian Idol graduates Damien Leith, Shannon Noll, and the Young Divas will also donate their time for this charity event.
Ronald McDonald House and Telstra Care Flight will share the night’s profits.
You can watch all the action from the comfort of your lounge room on Friday night. The two-hour special will air on Network Ten from 7.30 pm.
But if you want to get a little closer to the action, there’s still time to bid on some of the hottest seats around. If you’ve got a spare couple of thousand lying around, you could sit in the very chairs usually reserved for Dicko, Marcia, Mark, and Kyle. You can’t sit much closer to the stage than that! All proceeds raised by the auctions will also benefit the children’s charities. But be quick: these auctions close at 4 pm today.
As a writer I try my best to stay relatively unbiased. But I’ve got to tell you, I’m reeling from last night’s Australian Idol announcement. It was a verdict show that no one predicted, with competition favourites Matt Corby and Ben McKenzie standing in the bottom two. The thought that either of them would leave so early was unfathomable but, as we all know, one had to go. And that person was Ben McKenzie.
The cheerful teen took the news in his stride, insisting we haven’t seen the last of him.
“I’m so happy with where I’ve come, it’s been so amazing, it’s great, it’s so big,” he said. “It’s not over for me, I’m not done.”
Ben announced his plans to shoot a movie in January, a creative endeavour which will include some of his original songs.
I can’t help thinking Australian Idol will be a much poorer competition without Ben McKenzie. He was my favourite, pure and simple, and I looked forward to his performances every week. He was consistently good, and often he was absolutely magical.
Maybe I’m wrong though. Maybe Ben’s shock exit will reaffirm to the remaining finalists that no one is safe and they’ll deliver some amazing performances. Whatever happens, I’m really sorry to see Ben go and I’m appalled at the voting public that they let it happen.
