Tonight is The Next Great American Band’s final performance show, and I’m gonna savor it, ‘case this show ain’t coming back next year. I think FOX thought they could command Friday nights with the magic of the 19 production team, but that thinking was, alas, a lot of hubris. Perhaps this experience has been a little humbling. No, everything you touch DOES NOT turn to gold, 19. But in the meantime, a really entertaining show was mishandled by the network, and it’s gone forever after next week. Dang.
Dominic starts the show by announcing that, “After an amazing 2 million votes, only 3 bands will take the stage…for the last time.” By the way, this is the first time they’ve announced vote totals. I’m guessing prior weeks have been pretty pathetic.
There are four bands waiting, Denver and the Mile High Orchestra, The Clark Brothers, Light of Doom and Sixwire. Only 3 bands will get to perform. Each of the top 3 will play 3 songs: One picked by the judges, one picked by the producers and one picked by the bands.
The first band up is…Denver and the Mile High Orchestra.
Sheila picked the judges song for DMHO. She chose “September” by Earth, Wind and Fire. She says, “I think the audience is going to enjoy them doing that song everyone is familiar with…let’s see if the band can do it justice.”
The band sounds fantastic. The guys are great musicians. But, as usual, Denver delivers a really bland performance, and his falsetto is thin. I’ve been watching this band through the competition, and Denver has yet to convince me that he has the charisma and chops to front a big band.
John says, “I think that you guys are an incredibly impressive live act and you do great cover songs but I’m just worried about how it’s going to turn out when you have to make a record…I’m not feeling it…you guys are great, but I’m just not seeing it translate into an album.”
Sheila says, “Every one in Earth Wind and Fire are my personal friends, and I think that they would be proud of the job that you just did. I think that you guys did great and I really like the fact that I didn’t know that other members of the band had sung and I think you should utilize all these other gifts…”
Dicko says, “Well Sheila is well aware that whenever I see you guys do disco, I got the collywobbles. As it is her birthday, she thinks she can torture me, I’ll give her this one. You all are always impressive, I’ve got to side with John…you would make a great record as a souvenir for a terrific live show, I don’t know how it’s gonna go on its own in the big bad record industry.”
Next up…The Clark Brothers
John picked the song, “I went with “Change the World” which was actually made popular by Eric Clapton. I really love this band, my money is on them to actually do something interesting with it.”
If you’ve heard Eric Clapton’s version, you know his is arranged as a mid-tempo ballad, sweet with layers of vocals and bright guitar embellishments. The Clarks strip it down, and turn it into a raw plea for social consciousness. Ashley’s vocals are as powerful as ever, and the guys play their asses off, as usual. Fantastic.
John says, “That was a really unique, original interpretation of that song, and you guys hammered it. It was great. The lyrics in that song are very very deep and I think what you added at the end added depth to the original lyrics.” Ashley says, “I was so nervous, man….” John says, “You got to stop being nervous, man, cause you’re a star, right?”
Sheila says, “I think you guys just have to let your hair down and just be who you are It’s ok, you shouldn’t be afraid. You have a natural gift and we really appreciate your musicianship and when you can take a song like that and make it your own, it’s awesome.”
Dicko says, “That song is a laid back, almost solemn song but you breathe so much fire into that performance that I thought you were going to set the sprinklers off. I’m a cynical old hack, but when I see you guys play, I’m a believer, I really am.”
After the break, it’s down to Sixwire and Light of Doom…
Sixwire, Sixwire, Sixwire…
Dominic says breathlessly, “These two are so close to winning, they can’t stand it! Let’s go back to our green room.”
Sixwire, Sixwire, Sixwire…
“Americer,” says Dominic in his Kiwi accent, “Has voted and the final band who will be playing for your votes is…”
SIXWIRE!!!
Awww, buh bye metal tots! They’re good musicians, for their age. Come back when you’ve grown up a bit, boys. There’s lots of hugging all around. Dominic says, “We’re really going to miss these guys, lets go to the judges!”
Unlike last week, the tots get a send off from the judges. Well, Ok, just from Sheila, but it’s better than nothing.
Sheila says, “I just want to tell you guys that I’m so proud of you…of what you’ve accomplished in all these weeks. Use this experience, go out and learn some more, do your homework, listen to your parents, and go make a record.”
It’s the end of the rode for Light of Doom.
Sidenote: The dude who put LOD together is calling shenanigans on last week’s show. He thinks the boys were set up to fail (OMG that NEVER happens on Idol!11! /sarcasm) and you can read all about it over at Vote for the Worst. VFTW had backed the boys during their run on the show.
Sixwire takes the stage.
Dicko picked their song, “We decided on “Reeling in the Years” by Steely Dan. I think this song…you’ve got to work it as a band, you’ve got to work it with a swing. There are some tricky harmonies, and there is a very tricky double guitar solo. We want to look out for those sort of things.”
I’m not sure the band’s ability to copy perfectly Steely Dan’s intricate harmonies and tasty licks is a measuring stick for success here. Of course they reproduce the bits flawlessly. Because, as they’ve demonstrated throughout this competition, they are effing pros. They finally make it a Sixwire song, sorta, when they change up the arrangement a bit at the end. They satisfy Dicko’s checklist, but unfortunately sound like a tribute band.
John says, “You know, I’m one of those anti-progressive rock types. I’m not a fan of Steely Dan, but you guys really welded a set right on to that song and its really really great.” Huh? I have no idea what he’s talking about.
Sheila says, “That was a great song for you guys to do because of all the elements that are in that song, the vocal harmonies, that great memorable guitar line that you guys nailed. The pocket was there. The drummer, he’s awesome, I love him. It was incredible.”
Dicko says, “What can I say. The fact is, I saw Steely Dan play this year. I love the band. They didn’t play that. This was my selfish indulgence, you turned a judge into a fan. Fantastic, guys.”
After the break, it’s the producer’s song choice.
Denver and the Mile High Orchestra - “Vehicle” by the Ides of March - Ok, taking Denver seriously singing, “I’m the friendly stranger, in a black sedan, won’t you hop inside my car…” is well, just, uhhmm…NO. The band is good, Denver, not so much. The faux snarls and growls don’t help.
John says, “It’s a really really exciting live performance…you always bring the energy to the stage.”
Sheila says, “You guys were PO-WER-FULLL!” She loves these guys.
Dicko says, “I want to start by saying something nice. Denver, you look really sharp tonight…you are growing into a really engaging performer, I couldn’t take my eyes of you.’
‘I’ve got to ask you this question. If I was the guy who was going to be making your record, what would you say to me, about the sort of record you want to make?”
Denver answers, “I would say that this band is a group of guys that is very passionate, we want to be able to give a message of hope and love to everyone around us. I think that when this band plays, there’s joy, and that’s what people see all the time. I think a lot of people in America want to feel good about themselves. I think that we can do that.”
Errr. That’s nice. The sentiment does not sell records though. The band will be alright. They’ll probably sign with a Christian label, and do very well.
The Clark Brothers - “Amazed” by Lonestar - I think the producers probably wanted to showcase the brothers performing something conventional. The performance was simple and lovely. Ashley’s vocals were beautiful. But, I’ll say it again, this sort of conventional country pop is NOT what I want to hear them sing. Guys, let me know when you release the gospel album, k?
John says, “I think every woman in America wants you right now. I feel like a giddy little girl. Ha ha, no. That was really really amazing, you showed a lot of confidence in your performance and that’s the most important thing…it was a beautiful version of that song.”
Sheila says, “What you guys just did was simply fantastic. It was very passionate. I could listen to you again all night long. ”
Dicko says, “For me, it was the wrong sort of song for you. Somebody got you mixed up with Sixwire.”
People start booing. “Yeah, get on with it you peasants!” Hee! I love Dicko.
He continues, “I think you feed off a certain energy…and you feed off your brothers and take it someplace else. That sort of boxed country is not what you’re about. You’re better than that.”
Sixwire - “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight” by England Dan and John Ford Coley. Eww. What a lame song to get saddled with. They do the best they can with little. They slow it up a bit to make it more romantic. Andy brings some passion to his vocal. The harmonies are nice. They definitely improve the song.
John says, “That was really well done, but it was just bordering a little bit on smooth jazz for me. I was expecting Sting to come out and play a lute there for a second…You did pull it off pretty well.”
Sheila says, “I think the approach you guys had for this song was great cause it lets us experience your acoustic abilities and versatility. I thought it was great.”
Dicko says, “You’ve already got one fantastic performance in the bag tonight. I’m sure in your minds, the stools and the ambiance felt like the greatest Sixwire unplugged concert ever. But to me, it felt like an old boy band that forgot to break up.” The band cracks up.
Next round, the bands reprise their favorite song from the series.
Before each performance, we’re subjected to we see video clips of sentimental messages from the wives and family. Eep.
Denver and the Mile High Orchestra - “The Way You Move Me” - Am I filled with joy yet? Not quite. The orchestra plays their hearts out, and Denver gives it as much oomph as a whiter-than-white boy can, but it’s still all too much Branson lounge act for me.
John says, “It’s a really well-written song, for you guys. Denver, you are really on top of these guys, and you’re leading them. That’s what you need to do.”
Sheila says, “I just want to say that hearing you guys play on stage every week, if I was youth in America, I would be inspired to want to play an instrument. To me, that’s what it’s about…and you guys inspire us.”
Dicko says, “Denver, Not only does he sing well, not only does he scrub up well, but he dances as well! Well done…that song is great. It’s so good, that it sounds like an old standard. You never shortchange the audience…don’t let the industry shortchange you. Whatever you are going into next, be clear in your mind what it is you want, and how you’re going to get there.”
The Clark Brothers - “This Little Light of Mine” - This was their audition song, and the very moment that the Clarks totally flipped me out. Passionate, intense, soulful. This? Fills me with Joy. Oh please, please make a record filled with music like this rather than watered-down country pop.
John says, “I don’t think anyone deserves to win this contest more than you guys.” Enough said…
Sheila says, “You guys have let the light of God shine through you every single week and that’s why you’re still here.”
Dicko says, “I’ve travelled backwards and forwards to Australia every week to do this show. Sometimes that’s been tough. One thing’s made it all right every week and that’s when I see you guys take the stage. Magical.” Ashley looks like he’s about to cry. I think the Clark Brothers deserve to take it all.
Sixwire - “Good to be Back” - A good pick. The song shows off the band’s songwriting skills and tight harmonies. Sixwire is radio ready right now. Though, interestingly, Nigel Lythgoe said in a recent interview, that he thought “their time had passed.” Nigel seems more interested in signing the young Clark Brothers. I guess I should not be surprised.
John says, “I love that song, and you guys wrote it which makes it even more impressive. Great stuff.”
Sheila says, “That was the song that you played for us in Vegas and that’s what got you through to the Top 12, and it’s still a fantastic song.”
Dicko says, “Fantastic way to sign off with what I’d regard as your statement song–a song that says a lot about you and your potential. The other statement it’s making is you’re real contenders. Well done, boys.”
Next week is the finale. The winner will be announced and Sheila E and John and the Goo Goo Dolls will be performing.
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I have the recap video available till mj gets the videos online for you all
http://slimtainment.com/idolblog/988
Voting!
All I can say is Sixwire sure ain’t gonna need no ProTools in the recording studio. Tight vocals - impressive!!
I love the last 3 bands! Clark Brothers are getting my votes but I love all three.
Was it just me of were all three bands a little off? All three singers sounded a little flat, and poor Ashley looked so nervous…
But all in all, it was a good show, and I am glad for the three bands that made it.
I didn’t get to watch the show this week, but here are the bands’ performances from the show:
Denver and the Mile High Orchestra
Clark Brothers
Sixwire
I loved the show last night. I thought all the bands did well. I want a cd from the Clarks and Sixwire so I split my votes. LOL, probably hurt both since I couldn’t make up my mind.
I’ll readily admit, I practiced my fast-forwarding throughout the season of this show. I did not fast forward through the finale though. All three bands were completely awesome. There is no possible way I could really guess who will win (unlike American Idol…heh), but here’s my rundown of how it would end up in my head.
Clark Brothers for third. Go ahead, throw things and get it out of your system now. I think they need to dial back the overwrought blue grass a bit. Their first and third songs sounded a lot a like–I just think they should be more careful where they apply the Clark Brothers Experience. Their second song was spectacular and they sure are cute in a country boy sorta way.
DMHO for second. I think they had the most solid three song set. Denver’s vocals were spot-on and his answer to the “record” question could not have been better — plus they showed the cute horn player on the right just a little more than usual…
Sixwire for the win. Although Reznik and I share our boredom with Steely Dan, they did a great job with the song. Their second song was good enough, but Dan Fogerty guys?!?! Jeesh — way to box these guys in producers. Here’s why Sixwire should win. “Good to Be Back” is a smash number one hit out of the box (and Nigel is gonna make a lot of money off of it unfortunately). Sixwire has the original stuff to make it. Plus they were smart enough to play the song three times, so half of America already thinks it’s a hit.
“Was it just me of were all three bands a little off?”
Sounded like that to me, too. The only highlight for me was The Clark Brother’s “Little Light of Mine/Faith”. The rest were either meh or just plain bad, IMO. And Denver’s “Vechicle” was just soooooooo weak, vocally, it was nowhere near Bo’s performance on AI4 or the original version by Ides of March. I wish the LOD kids luck, their age and lack of experience made them unfortunate fodder for this show, but are actually quite talented for their age, just not ready for a national competition quite yet. Give them another few years, though, bet they will be on the Ozzfest tour.
Loved Sixwire last night. I’ve been impressed with this band since the start and I think they deserve to win. Their original last night was perfect for the moment - a celebration really. They had me smiling and bopping. I agree that this song has the potential to be a real hit - both on the country charts and the pop charts.
I don’t think the Clarks have the same strength, although I really love their arrangements and passion. I got teary during “Amazed” too. I was surprised Sheila didn’t.
Either way is okay with me. I don’t think DMHO has the same marketability, and while they’ve grownn on me, I really don’t want to see them win. I actually winced when Denver starting singing “Vehicle,” thinking of Bo and how he totally owned this one.
Great series. I’m gonna miss is. But fear not peeps… American Idol starts one month from today. One month, can you stand it?
The Clark Brothers mesmerized me with the second song– I honestly think they can be commercial as long as they sing songs that are melodic, pure, and intense. Sixwire has the best originals at this point (and are definitely deserving of a record deal), but with the help of a label/management, I think the Clark Brothers can work with other song-writers and hone their skill. If you consider all their performances throughout the competition, like what John said, they are most deserving to win the title.
Overall, all of the Top 3 bands were fantastic. Spot on, America!
As it stands now, I am going with The Clark Bros. for the win. Their original was mind blowing and seeing the mandolinist rock it like that is what makes me love the Clark Bros.
Denver has greatly improved his delivery and anything lacking is more than made up for by that killer band. I would love to hear their original on the radio…outstanding!!!
Sixwire was solid as usual and even though I hated the slow song, the original defines who they are - bluesy rockin’ country. They’re well on their way.
Best of luck to Light of Doom - they represented the metal genre well. I look forward to more metal again next year, hopefully from more seasoned musicians (that is, if there indeed is a 2nd season.)
I wonder if whoever wins this show will guest on idol. It might be smart from 19’s perspective since ratings were low for NGAB and a great performance on idol might give any record by the Clarks or Sixwire a boost. I’m not sure an idol appearance would help Denver, if they were to win.
Also, a good result from an idol appearance might encourage another shot for this show, but not on a Friday night!
Jersey, great idea!
I tried to be objective last night. I think with the exception of Franklin Bridge, I was happy with the top 3. Denver has grown on me, just not as much commercial potential as the others. I really think it will be a photo finish between Sixwire and the Clarks, with my vote to the CLarks. Listening to Lonestar and the Clarks sing Amazed, the Clark’s version is not as twangy, more passionate and Ashley is better to look at! I loved it! Austin’s vocals were great too!
Terrific finale, in my view. I enjoyed nearly every performance with a few glaring exceptions.
One was the Clark Bros. version of the Clapton song. Honestly, if they had not identified the song beforehand, I would not have had a clue it was “Change the World.” They sure did make it their song, because there was not an iota of the original in there, for me, at least.
The other was Denver’s version of “Vehicle.” Oh MY did that song need a strong, growly vocal! As with nearly every song DMHO does, the vocal is generally the weakest aspect. Big band music like that mostly bores me anyway, but I thought that performance was just flat out painful.
Otherwise, a most entertaining evening. Sixwire was terrific and and know I repeat myself endlessly, but I do want a CD from them. They are fun and relaxing to watch.
The Clarks may win and they certainly are a talented lot. I don’t have much fun watching them, though, despite their clear eye-candy aspect. They just push so hard, it gives me a headache. I keep waiting for the entire group to explode a la the drummers in “Spinal Tap”. Poof! Too hot! Too intense. “Amazed” was quite beautiful, though, especially the harmonies.
My pick has always been Sixwire and felt they have been consistently the strongest group throughout the competition.
I will add that this is what these types of shows should be about. Idol, to me, has gotten very far away from this whole basic level sheer entertainment. They have become too big and too corporate.
My vote goes for another Next Great American Band show, and soon, please!
seems like The Clark Brothers may have been in Minnesota performing a few years ago, but I could be totally off. I really love them. I like all three contenders. Thanks for the links, elshaddai.
I totally agree. One of the great things about NGAB was how new and fresh it felt!
I agree as well. NGAB was about the performers - not the judges, not the hosts, and not a plethora of guest mentors and performers. The show was tightly produced with not an ounce to spare. An appearance by the winner on Idol is a great idea. I hope they do it again too… maybe in the summer right after Idol ends. I think that would increase viewership from people (like me) who usually suffer an Idol withdrawal come June.
I’m right there with you. I felt like DMHO (damn I hate that acronym)’s Vehicle was really flat - Denver didn’t put any passion behind his lyrics, took the sexiness of the song right out. I did think he did an amazing job on their original (all three bands did great with their last song).
You know what? I’ll miss it, too. When it first started, I was quite skeptical, and frankly pissed that this show was airing when the RockStar serie was not. I have to admit - I was pleasantly surprised. I enjoyed the variety of songs they sang on the show. I also enjoyed that we had experienced musicians on the show. Big plus for me.
I thought Ashley’s voice was a bit monotone on the Clapton song, but the other two blew me away. Can’t wait to go to the taping tomorrow. Caffiend, thanks for all the tips. See you there.
CBFTW!!!
I really thought last night that the Clarks’ version of Amazed was way off. Richie McDonald of Lonestar owns that song and there is no way anyone else can come close to his execution of it. I have loved that song from the first time I heard it on country radio.
BTW, Clash of the Choirs will be on NBC 4 nights next week in case anyone here is up for it. I think I will pass on that reality show.
Who is in charge? Somebody needs to pay for the fiasco. They let The Clark Brothers destroy one of my favorite songs and show disrespect to Eric Clapton. Then they let them wimp-out on “Amazed” by Lonestar. And… the other song was a big mess that I didn’t want to watch either.
Six Wire was off somehow. I guess they were good enough, but I’m really questioning in my mind if I will go to see them if they come to my town… and I go to a lot of concerts for no reason whatsoever.
I like big bands. Mile High would be okay if they would bring Ed Kowalczyk from Live in there to show a singer how to convey the lyrics and resonate the voice.
If you believe VFTW, Ricky Minor is responsible for arranging the songs for the bands, and what led to LOD’s downfall. Of course the Clarks and Sixwire are adults and have experience, so I doubt they could be forced into anything, but who knows. I agree, “Change the World” was pretty twisted, but I didn’t hate “Amazed.”
caffiend and carie: how soon will you post?
Eric Clapton didn’t write “Change the World” and in any case, I don’t think The Clark Brothers, or any performer is obligated to show “respect” to the artist who made the song a hit.
The Clark Brothers arrangement was vastly different than Clapton’s. I like Clapton’s version, but I also liked the Clark’s.
Sixwire is radio ready. The problem with the Clarks is that they aren’t great songwriters. They’ll either have to pair up with seasoned writers, or use other people’s songs. Whatever they do, I hope they keep their passion and intensity intact.
I have to agree with all of you. You are ALL spot on with your observations, IMO.
I thought 6 should win, but they don’t. LOD out, expected, but earlier that I previously thought. DMHO out, for all reasons described.
At least I was on with predicts about Sheila and Goo-Goo getting onstage or playing for the finale, which I should have realized would be next week. Missed that call, sort of. And hit with some of an all-star flavor with some bands returning with guest-spots from other band players.
Talk about white-bread MOR, can we say Shiela???????? Totally flat and singular “you guys are great” across the board the full show. At least John and Dicko had some constructive points. She didn’t gush, but I was on, sort of, that she would get the spot for LOD’s send-off.
All bands stumbled, either technically, or with their arrangements of the songs they were given to play. Not bad, but not excellent. It does sort of seem “set-up”, doesn’t it? Expected that each band nails their originals, after all, they have had the time to polish their tunes, not rush an arrangement of genres and artists they likely wouldn’t cover otherwise. Again, not bad, but not excellent. I’d go with solid, fairly strong, using their strengths to carry the covers through.
The best original was 6’s, followed by CB. I think CB is staying too formula with how they run their covers, I can’t see myself listening to them over a full album of the same-old style. Presuming they stay with their rather forced manner of building and forcing lyrics and intensity. Dumb they dropped the rhythm section, they were tighter and more solid with bass and drums.
Naturally, DMHO’s covers were chosen with horn and reed sections in mind. No-brainer there, right? HHmmmmm, “set-up”??
Tightest vocal/harmony stays with 6. Vocal intensity goes to CB. Tightest arrangements goes between 6 and DMHO. Best stage presence, well, that’s a tie of all three. Slight nod to 6 there, but not by much.
I wish CB well, actually I wish all of the three groups well, they all deserve some opportunity. My money was on 6, but I’d buy a ticket to any of the group’s shows.
Thanks for listening!!!!!!!!! Happy Holidays!!!!!!
I have enjoyed Sixwire from the very first note! And the Clark Bros. have had some inspired moments this season.
I apologize if this has been discussed elsewhere, and I did post this info in the finale spoiler thread, but last week I discovered that Sixwire’s music is available in a few places for download.
Sixwire’s original CD is available at iTunes.
Also, at Sixwire.com, you can download (99 cents each) 7 new tunes, including “Good To Be Back”, which they have done several times on the show.
Just watched the final performances on tivo…goes fast when you FF through the commercials, comments, and fillers.
I still think DMHO is a talented group of musicians, but how well the musicians did sort of showed Denver’s lack of vocal umph. “Vehicle” illustrated this the most.
I liked Sixwire this week, but then again, I liked the particular songs they did. I think if they are going to take another run at the big-time, they will have to choose their material very carefully. They need very memorable, very hook-y songs, or they will sound dull as dirt.
The Clark Brothers, with the proper handling, could be huge. I loved “Amazed,” and I don’t even like that song. I also enjoyed the take on “Change the World.” And “This Little Light of Mine” showed that exact tenor of alt-gospel that they completely bring to life. As long as they are allowed to bring that passion and fire to their material, I think they will connect with a large audience. If they try too hard to fit into some mainstream idea of a country act, they will be forgetable.
I know the winner spoiler is in, but I haven’t looked at it yet. CBFTW!