I was so pissed off that Tres Bien! were eliminated last week, that it took me awhile to watch last week’s episode. Actually, I finally watched it Friday night while I was recording this week’s episode. In a nutshell–Ashley Clark is an incredible singer. The Clark’s version of “You’re In My Heart” was goosebump material. Dot Dot Dot–were still raising their game. Light of Doom’s lead singing improved. Sixwire were impeccable as always. But, Denver and the Mile High Orchestra–still a decent band playing lounge music fronted by Wonder White Bread. Which is why I thought Tres Bien’s demise was so untimely–particularly after their energetic performance of the Stones “Get Off of My Cloud” the week before.
Well, you know, Denver and the Mile High Orchestra came into this contest with PEOPLE. They already had a large following in the Contemporary Christian music community, and those people are watching and voting, voting, voting.
This week, the remaining bands sing a song by the band Queen in the first half of the show, then come back in the second half to perform an original. The videos feature the band’s impressions of Los Angeles.
The Clark Brothers - Apparently, the rules allow for band members to come and go. Last week, Dicko told the Clark’s they should invite a few more of their brothers to join to fill out their sound. Instead, the brothers called up a couple of Nashville session musicians to join them this week.
“These Are The Days of Our Lives” by Queen - The added musicians weren’t necessary, but they were a nice touch. Although, I’m drawn to the intensity of the band as a folk/gospel act. When it’s just the three of them, the energy that flows between them is spiritual, passionate, intense. I’m not interested in hearing them molded into a commercial act. The song is a good pick for them. Ashley’s singing and fiddle playing rules. John says, “I’m so happy you got the two other guys…now you can really take your place to the front where you belong.” Dicko says to Ashley, “You were probably the best front man to enter this competition…don’t be such a reluctant rock star–don’t fight it mate, you’ll love it.”
Oh wow it’s the Garnier green room. That explains why it’s such a hideous shade of green. It’s kind of bad that I’m just noticing that, isn’t it?
Light of Doom - And the metal tots live to see another week. Of course. In their video package, one of the tot moms says she wants to make sure the kids don’t grow up too fast. Whoops! Too late for that!
“We Will Rock You” by Queen - The tots start out playing big tom-toms during the introduction, and then scramble back to the stage to launch into a speed-metal version of “We Will Rock You.” It’s pretty much devoid, not only of melody, but of any fun or sense of humor. John thought the vocals were lacking and that the interpretation of the song wasn’t very well thought out. Sheila agrees with John. Dicko thought it was dumb. Whoa, de-pimping the tots!
Sixwire - These guys are the oldest of the surviving band members and they have much at stake in this competition. I think they need this competition more than any of the competitors.
“Fat Bottomed Girls” - Andy sings the song with a sly grin. This song has to be sung with a wink, or it just comes off dumb. Nice instrumental break at the end. These guys are pros. John says they work a song “really really well” and “put some muscle on it.” Sheila says Chuck, the drummer, “is always right in the pocket.” Dicko says he thought they were a bit boring earlier in the competition, but that they’ve learned to bring out their “inner naughty boys.”
The four bands performing two separate sets forces the results to be revealed in the middle of the show. Dominic says, “America has voted, and the final band to make it into our Top 4 tonight is…Denver and the Mile High Orchestra!”
“That means, Dot Dot Dot is leaving us!”
“If you are a fan, then please continue to support them…blah blah blah…” And the band never gets to say goodbye or get words of encouragement from the judges–which sucks. Denver lives to see another week.
Denver and the Mile High Orchestra - Last week the band went on and on about the difficulty of finding songs that fit their Christian values. And this week, they’re all “yakety yak, we’re Christians in LA, yakety yak.” So what? The Clark Brothers, also clearly devout Christians, don’t seem to be having any issues. Or, they don’t feel the need to make a federal case out of their personal beliefs. Or, maybe they just allow the music to tell their story.
“Sleeping on the Sidewalk” by Queen - Queen gets the cheesy wedding band/lounge singer treatment! Sob. Denver tries to put a couple of growls in his vocal delivery, but it’s still Opie-as-front-man. Not buying it.
John thinks Denver is doing great with his vocals, “They get better every week.” Sheila thinks they should add some choreography. Yikes. Dicko criticizes their wardrobe, and leaves it at that. Fun Fact: Denver’s kids are named Boston and London. Seriously.
The second half of the show has the Top 4 singing original songs.
The Clark Brothers - “Homestead” - I’m not in love with their original songs. However, Ashley is a phenomenal singer–that coupled with excellent musicianship that’s vibrant and alive–makes almost everything they perform exciting. John thinks the band has the total package–great songwriting, singing and playing. Dicko thought the execution was excellent as always, but he says, “That was a crap song…those lyrics were country 101.” “Push yourselves.” he says.
Light of Doom - “A Matter of Time” - Hmmmm. I’ll just say that the tots youth and inexperience are really evident in their songwriting attempts. I have no idea what this plodding, melody-free song is about, (I dunno, school sucks? I don’t wanna clean my room?) and I don’t really care. These kids are in over their heads. John says, “I don’t really hear a big hook in this song.” That’s the understatement of the night. Then he adds, “I’m hearing all of your influences, but none of you.” Dicko suggests that they try to write their songs with acoustic guitars. The tots look at him like he has three heads.
Sixwire - “Go On” - Hands down, these guys are the best songwriters of the bunch. They write melodic songs that have commercial appeal, and I imagine Sixwire is the band the label would really like to sign. “Go On” has a giant hook and strong harmonies. And of course, the band delivers their typically pro musicianship. I think these guys will get signed whether they win or not. John says, “The song is a hit, it’s as good as anything on the radio.” Sheila says, “That’s an amazing song…you have to win, I want that song now!” Dicko says, “Really good song, perfect for your market…well done.”
Denver and the Mile High Orchestra - “Big White House” - Wow. That did not suck. Denver and the Boys need to sing their own songs. This is actually pretty good, and Denver finally looks comfortable and commanding as a front man. It’s a real good thing they don’t turn their own songs into cheesy lounge tunes. John said it was nice to hear a song with a “little grease on it.” because they “tend to be a little square.” Sheila says the band is really great, but there was “no hook to the song.” Dicko thought is was “a good album track” and that Denver does “a really good angry lyric.” However, Dicko does not think the song is a hit.
Next week: Top 3, for the “Big Prize”…
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What was the deal with that little psycho Light Of Doom fan who was crying and screaming at the judges? That was one of the most bizarre things I’ve ever seen on TV.
who was eliminated????????? I was at the movies and missed it.
Dot Dot Dot
I can’t believe Light of Doom and the Denver guys outlasted Dot Dot Dot. Too bad.
Granted, I haven’t watched in several weeks due to trips and other stuff. I still think the Friday night slot sucks.
I tried to see if I recognized the drummer of Sixwire, since the article in the CW on the daily thread indicated that he graduated from the same college as me and I used to know a lot of musicians. However, he graduated when I started, so no go on that.
I’m rooting for the Clark Brothers. Then Sixwire. I so hope Light of Doom goes home next. They better not win. The little drummer dude should not use a curling iron. That is all.
PJ - come to LA. I gots tix!!!!!
Clark Bros FTW!!!
The little pretender rockers Light of Doom have got to be the most annoying thing that has come down the pike since mimes. These little pests are still poopin yellow and they pretend to be big , bad , rockers . Give me a break and for petes sake put on your damn shirts YOU LOOK STUPID !!!
Awesome, CarieB. Wish I could!
Cracked me up, cricket.
Me too, PJ! Sorry I missed you in Chi-town last month too!
Carie, we want a recap, of course.
Just sent you a message.
LOL, I still call it Chi-town, too. BUT apparently the hip thing is to now call it “The Chi.”
Carie, I’m going too! Maybe we should try to rendezvous in line!
i have the recap video from the end of the episode available for anyone who would like to see it
http://slimtainment.com/idolblog/968
Enjoy :)
LOD was horrendous last night. I love the Clark Bros. I’m done with Denver. I think that Sixwire had the best night last night.
Love this show. I wish that it’s ratings were better. I guess as far as the bands are concerned, though, they’re reaching millions more than they would have without the show, so it’s all good.
Clark Brothers/Sixwire really great this week and that SHOULD be the finale. Sorry guys, but I think Denver and his MHO just keep getting better and better…however…everytime I see them on tv, I keep getting this incredible urge to send them the name of a really good orthodontist.
Little Ones of Doom really need to go to bed now.
So, I was exhausted while voting last night (WHAT was up with the show starting at 9 instead of 8? add to that me having a cold and it was rough lol), but I voted my little fingers off for The Clark Brothers. I thought they had a really good night, and I kinda like the addition of the bassist and drummer. Don’t get me wrong - I love the three man band too, but the songs sounded good amped up with the extra players. Though I did miss the mandolin on the 2nd song. :(
Sixwire did have a great night. They’ve turned it back on at the right time. Even as much as I want TCB to win, Sixwire might have an edge over them.
I’m pretty much over DMHO and LOD.
And I’m PISSED that Dotx3 did not even get a freaking goodbye speech. I already miss them. :(
I think the judges/show opened up a can of worms at the outset when they allowed Light of Doom into the final group of bands. I mean, we KNOW the voting has nothing to do with the music. Witness the demise of Franklin Bridge.
My biggest fear is that the overwhelming votes LOD and Denver are getting will propel them into the final 3 and one of them to a win.
So Sixwire or the Clarks may go next week, and what a tragedy that would be. Both were superb last night.
I have said early on, and Sheila E. must have been reading my mind, because she also said she wants a CD from Sixwire. I want one NOW.
Their original songs were just fantastic and I am so ready to have them on my car stereo and in my iPod.
I actually lifted my ban on voting and sent quite a few Sixwire’s way last night. It was too easy getting through, though. So……
Ladybug, it’s easy getting through every week. For both The Clark Bros and Sixwire (I know, hee!) I actually hope that both The Clarks and Sixwire get a record deal out of this, regardless of placement on the show.
I think this TOTALLY could happen. They have strong fanbases. Denver seems to have had a base coming in…and it doesn’t hurt that Mandisa and Melinda Doolittle have both written about them on their myspaces (they know them from Christian music circles and Belmont). They’ve asked their fans to vote for them.
I hope the Clark Brothers take it. I’m not a huge fan of Sixwire, but I’d be ok if they took it all–they are good musicians, songwriters and performers and would be worthy winners.
I wrote this on the spoiler thread: “Not sure if people here know how much fan base DMHO actually has. They have at least 5 albums out, including a Christmas album, plus DVDs. They’ve been the house band for the GMA (Gospel Music Association) Dove Awards - Christian music’s award show. A heavy national tour schedule. Their fan club has been sending out emails every week promoting the NGAB show and voting for DMHO … obviously it’s working enough to keep the band around.
I’m just trying to figure out what it would mean to their band concept if they actually won. So far, Dicko’s comments to them have been spot on business wise.”
Hopefully the producers will find a way to massage the votes and keep LOD out of the final three. That would be an awesome finale: Sixwire, Clark Bros. and DMHO. All great musicians, all with a different style that appeals to different demographics. Hard to see how any of them could go wrong as the winner.
I thought the Clark Bros. had the best original of the night, chicken eatin’ lyrics and all. :) Ashley has emerged as a great frontman - I think that’s the best I’ve heard him sing. I loved the addition of the bass and drums tho I did miss that rockin’ mandolin too.
I couldn’t hear the bassist on LOD’s version of We Will Rock You, but it mattered not since they totally mangled the arrangement. The original was a tad better - the guy with the green guitar had some good chops, but still…I wasn’t feeling those lyrics. I agree their time is up.
Sixwire rocked Fat Bottomed Girls, but the original was a snoozefest.
I was eager to hear DMHO’s version of my fave Queen song Sleepin’ On the Sidewalk - Denver should’ve totally ripped that one up! But he only crooned it as usual. He did redeem himself somewhat on the original, but I am still not a convert.
I feel bad for Dot3 and wish them the best. I guess there were time constraints, but could they not have afforded 30 freakin’ seconds for a proper send off? Not cool.
Seems like NGAB would have learned their “Sanjaya” lesson, and not put through a group that will make everyone want to pierce their eardrums. I certainly hope AI’s learned their lesson. If we get another “he who must not be named” I’ll implode!
I still love the Clark Brothers but thought the vocal was not good on the Queen song. Their original was better - nut a little “canned country” for me. I haven’t voted, but I am still a fan.
PJ - didn’t get your message…
Caffiend - sounds like a plan. Email me at carie.1107@gmail.com
Sixwire gets best original from me. The Clark Brothers’ song was good, but too “canned bluegrass” — chicken eatin’ and all.
I liked DMHO’s original — but wish they would show the good looking horn guy on the far right more often — you know the one that looks like a better looking version of Gary Gulman….heh…
Denver may have the support of Mandisa and Melinda’s fan bases but don’t count out the Clark Bros. tons of Carrie Underwood fans are supporting them as well…
Good point, fisch! I’d forgotten about that.
All I know is I voted my little fingers raw. I didn’t count votes, but I know I had to have voted for an hour and a half… had to take a couple of breaks. :)
So I had been, and still am, a huge fan of Clark Brothers BUT, Six Wire stoned me tonight and I spent the better part of the night voting for them. Sadly, I was able to get through very easily. I threw a few votes to the Clark Brothers as well and also it was easy to get in. I hope that isnt a sign for either of them as I think they should be the final two in a heartbeat. That freaking LOD is getting on my nerves.
dingo, I’m thinking not a lot of peeps are voting, so I wouldn’t worry.
carie, sent it through myspace. :)
I like both groups but voted for the Clark Brothers. Why does DMHO need this show if they have made 5 CDs including a Christmas album? They are a professional group.
The show is on twice this week, right? Not sure.
t2 - I know exactly who you mean! I agree he is a cuter, thiner Gary Gulman. I don’t think he’s ever spoken. Just smiles in the background.
Wednesday and then Sunday, word heard, Grammie. I don’t see NGAB in any listings, though, for those nights.
Say goodbye to DMHO, it’s 6, CB and LOD. Why oh why does solid musicianship lose votes and the kids get the nod for the finale? I begin, actually I already have, to wonder if the kid’s folks aren’t speed-dialing their phones into meltdown.
Yeah, you bring up, as several others have, the point that all three adult bands have cut albums. So much for amateur status, which I thought was the initial premise of the show. On just that basis alone, LOD should win, just for spite,
. They won’t, though, rest assured.
So, it’ll be between 6 and CB. I think 6 has the better potential, their originals are better than CB’s, though not by that much. 6 plays on their vocal/harmony strengths, which are the best of all the competitors. Andy certainly learned where the cameras are, and “gazes” right into them. Add, [my subjective view] that they are pleasing to the eyes and energetic, I think the scales tip to 6 in the end.
CB made a smart move to add a rhythm section, {no surprise there, the judges harped on that enough}, the bassist they dug up is damn good, better than 6’s. They don’t have the vocal strength, but they can write well enough, and definately are more instrument-versatile than 6. Is that enough? I don’t think it will be.
I’d like to add a few more thoughts~~~~~~
In general, the judges seem to favor 6 and CB. I think their “influence” on voters is apparent. Shiela is a waffler, first Franklin, then CB, then 6, good grief, make up your mind, girl!!!!!! I think viewers, at least males, LOL, are more interested in her growing cleavage than her opinions. It really wouldn’t surprise me if she gushes over LOD this time around. John seemed to support 6 and CB steadily, if not enthusiastically. Ian seemed enamored of the CB, but steadily gave 6 a thumbs-up. That’s why, IMO, they influence the voters to get 6/CB/ in the finals. LOD is the outside ringer act, after all, who won’t support kids??????? The judges gave some snaps to them, but gave constructive, {could be viewed as negative} criticism of LOD, too. That kills them in the finale.
Their views of DMHO tended to be consistent “white-bread, mainstream, square”. Of course, snaps for great musical arrangements and musicianship, but lukewarm. That puts DMHO on the shelf. Shame, I liked them. I’d buy a ticket to one of their shows. I even am searching for some of their CD’s, I like their style, and arrangements. Just not rock enough for the “flavor” NGAB moved into.
I also noticed the ramping up of stage-theater production. Heavier side-graphics, stage props, etc. Tailored to the specific band/s, including the edit of camera-shots for broadcast. That has to affect the casual viewer/voter. Think of how sparse the first episodes were, and how the later episodes added “flair” and theater.
Yeah, I need a life, LMAO, but I really enjoy the show/s. Thanks for listening!!!!!!!
Thank you!! That has really been bugging me but I didn’t really know how to vocalize it… and you said it so much more succinctly that I would have been able to.
I believe the tapings are Wednesday and Sunday but the broadcasts are this coming Friday and the next.
If it does end up between Light and Denver and either the Clarks or Sixwire, and ALL the votes will go to either LOD or DMHO, then the rightful winner should be Denver. Definitely on their musicianship.
I am hoping this is not the scenario, but we shall see…. My vote is still for Sixwire. Their stuff on YouTube is great. Me wants MORE!
I really have enjoyed this show and am ready for a Round 2 soon!!
Great recap MJ. I have to agree with you about the special intensity and intimacy that comes across when the Clark Brothers were a threesome– it felt young and undiscovered (although they had recorded a CD before) and I think it was what Dicko referred to as magic.
I think we could see another Daughtry-esque shocker this week. DMHO and LOD are totally different and have distinct fans. But 6 and CB could split votes, with CB coming out on top (Carrie fans), thus 6 would go home. A jaw-dropper to be sure. I totally need to avoid all spoilers this week as I won’t get to see the show til Saturday.
I was thinking the same thing only seeing the Clark Brothers voted off. I thought that maybe their vote totals were low & that’s why Dicko suggested they add more members for a more traditional band feel. And I thought maybe Light Of Doom had high vote totals & that’s why the judges were so critical last week. I’m not sure that they would otherwise have been so harsh because who wants to see adults criticize children (& see them cry/pout). But I think the judges just may fear the embarrassment of LOD becoming the “next great American band” and then the show would probably have no chance of a 2nd season. They really need a band like Sixwire to win (although I’d rather see The Clark Brothers win of who’s left). Just a theory…
Yeah, the vote-splitting could be a problem. I voted (for the first time EVER) for the Clark Brothers- I hope they don’t go!
Hopefully it’ll be DMHO or LOD.
Beginning with performance week two, they’ve all had shirts on…so, ummm…I guess they could slip cardigans over their t-shirts too?
That said, this was not a good week for LOD. The arrangement was far too ambitious for the limited time they had on stage–as well as the limited time they had to prepare such a thing–and they did come off as if they were doing a school project. I thought their original was performed better, but the song was hookless.
Sixwire’s style just bores me a little. I’m not a big fan of that country-pop harmony stuff. I suspect they are a bit of a snooze even for that genre. I liked “Fat Bottom Girls” well enough, though cutting out so much of the lyrics sadly neutralized the sassy sting of the song.
So the Clark Brothers called up a few session musicians to sit in with them? I didn’t think they added much; in fact, what I love about the Clark Brothers seemed to have gotten diluted. I’ve liked the Clark Brothers when they’ve displayed that edgy alt-country/alt-gospel/alt-bluegrass side. When their performances have been more mainstream, they strike me as robotic.
Did you guys know that DMHO’s members are like all churchy & stuff? They are churchy churchies who church a lot. In LA! Wackiness. Heh, to be fair, it very well may be that TPTB are the ones shoving DMHO’s religion in our faces. DMHO may not be as religiously smug as they come off.
I want to be there Wednesday and Friday desperatley! HELP!
The Clark Brothers must win! I was gone this weekend - no access to computer - had to sneak votes in while at an important event - so sadddddd! Hope you guys picked up my voting slack!
I have to figure out a way to get from Florida to California!
This was the first week I voted, and my votes went for the Clark Brothers.
Knifeblade, thanks for the info. I must say you write very eloquently and well informed. Thanks for your opinion!
This bothers me. Up until two or three weeks ago, Denver never mentioned their Christianity. I think they tried to let the music tell their story. And then there was a lot of complaints that they were trying to hide their beliefs; people were calling Denver a hypocrite.
And now that they’ve started talking about their Christianity, and how it affects their lives and their performances on this show, people are complaining about that. Make up your mind!
It’s happened too many times to this band so far on this show. First it was, “Dress down!” Then, “Dress up!”. Or how about, “Expand your range. Try different styles.” Followed the next week by “Stick with what you know.” Only to be replaced yet again with “Try different styles.”
Ryander, well put about the criticism of DMHO by the judges. Another case of waffling, ala Sheila. Too bad their faith got embroiled into the show, after all it’s about playing, not praying, sigh. I don’t care if they pray or even who they pray too. They play and do it well, that seems to get sidetracked, as you point out.
Ryander~~~~~
>snipunsnip
Nuts, anyway, couldn’t agree more with ryander about faith issue and the constant do this-don’t do this comments from judges re DMHO. The guys must be taking pointers from Sheila. Let’s get ready to waffle!!!!!!!
My point about the CB adding rhythm is that they finally stay on the beat, they wandered around almost as bad as LOD does. Their new bassist compliments them with some fantastic bottom. I chuckle that Shiela never brought up their going off-beat. After all, she’s a percussionist. As am I, and I’m very sensitive to off-beat playing. I can’t hear out-of tune guitars, unless they are atrocious, but I can feel the beat. Makes me suspect her comment about Tres Bien’s guitar. She’s probably more interested in getting another low-cut gown.
Next network airing is Friday 12/14, the winner of the record contract happens then. As jersey stated, there will likely be an airing on 12/21 also. Word being postulated is that this final airing may well be bringing some eliminated bands back, but with other members from other bands joining, sort of an all-star mix. John and Sheila may grab their instruments and join in.
Anyhoo~~~~wishing all of you the best of the season!!!!!!!!
Waiting on pins and needles for the reports from Caffiend and Carie!
Will they post tonight or tomorrow? If the Clarks make it, I am debating seriously about getting a flight to LA!
It didn’t bother me at all that Denver didn’t discuss his Christianity. In my opinion, his religion has nothing to do with the competition. Once they started yapping on about it, it just seemed like so much pandering for the Christian vote. Maybe they thought the Clark brothers were stealing their thunder on that point.
They come off holier-than-thou. And in my opinion, it’s icky.