In This Section
|
« The Next Great American Band
Episode Recap: Top 5 Perform
A long, long week has taken its toll on me. The long weeks usually mean that I can’t sit at work with my iPod on listening to my favorite (and some not so favorite) songs to get me through the day. So naturally I was looking forward to this week’s American Band to get my musical fix.
Apart from his hits, I didn’t know Rod Stewart before the 80s. I don’t think I ever listened to him growing up, but I’ve learned to enjoy a lot of his 80’s hits through my collection of tunes. And the one thing you really can’t forget about Rod Stewart is that voice of his. Very unique and very recognizable. So I was looking forward to hearing what these bands would pick.
I honestly thought Dot Dot Dot would pick “Do You Think I’m Sexy?” but when I think back, I can’t picture Adam singing that. I think musically though it would have been an awesome choice. But “Young Turks” was a better call. Just like Sheila, I thought it was a little fast on the tempo, but also probably their best performance to date.
Denver took the classic “Baby Jane” and worked it well. The performance was very solid with that nice sax solo in there. While I liked it, I absolutely didn’t see them push their limits like the judges thought they did. To me, these guys and Sixwire haven’t progressed from the beginning of the show. They are both talented bands, but both could get better my fixing little flaws here and there.
And as I write that, of course I know that Sixwire changed it up a bit this week by going full blown electric on us. I thought it was their best performance yet which is funny because it seems to be the furthest away from their sound too. Though, not to far because I could certainly hear some Eagles in there and when they were soloing I thought I heard some good old .38 Special. It’s kind of funny how everyone made such a big deal about the bass solo. I don’t like bass solos as a rule, but this wasn’t bad. Maybe in a weird spot, but not bad.
“You’re In My Heart” was another good choice for The Clark Brothers. What an intriguing arrangement, wouldn’t you say? Now, I certainly wasn’t crying like Sheila (oh c’mon Sheila, it wasn’t that good) but it was unique and that’s one thing I like in my music. Earth shattering? No. But certainly one of the Top 5 performances of the whole season.
Finally, Light of Doom hang around for one more week and chose “Infatuation”, This is the only one of the night that I wasn’t thrilled with. I’m kind of in the middle though. There were points where I thought the kids were creative. But there were points where I just thought they tried too hard to mix the catchy cords with the metal riffs. At times, it sounded like they were fighting whether to go more metal or more pop.
Too bad for Tres Bien. Personally, I don’t think these guys will make it big as Dicko said. Their time was three or four years ago when bands like The Strokes were at their peak. That retro power-pop sound just doesn’t have the same radio impact now as it did before. Now maybe they should just hire Timbaland to do one of their tracks and I’d take it all back.
Two interesting things to note;
I didn’t know the bands were allowed to bring other people in to play with them. Apparently, neither did any member of The Clark Brothers who seemed genuinely shocked when Dicko pointed this out. I bet you someone goes back and reads a contract again and finds out they really aren’t allowed to do that. If they are, then let’s start bringing in celebrities. Can you picture Denver up there playing a song next week and saying ‘give it up for our friend Mr. Tom Jones! Or Dot Dot Dot paying Nick Taylor from Duran Duran to come up on stage and play with them. That would be awesome!
And, Dominic didn’t say who the covers would be from next week. Dicko had to be joking when he told Denver it was Pussycat Dolls week, right? I mean, that’s a bit of a stretch. Though Light of Doom singing ‘Loosen up my buttons, baby” would be priceless.
My vote goes to The Clark Brothers this week. Clearly I don’t represent the views of America as I haven’t yet got one right on who’s going home. So instead, I think it’s time for me to switch it up and finally predict a winner. Here it folks…The Clark Brothers have to be the favorites at this point in the show but they aren’t going to win. Dot Dot Dot is. It’s funny how far I’ve come around with them. I don’t think they are the best band up there, but they are the band that will sell the most records a year from now and since the public votes, those record buyers will make them the champs. Stamp it in ink. It’s a done deal! (I sound so certain of myself for always being wrong, don’t I?)
Until next week, friends.
Why don't you head on over to our Online Video Guide and check some clips from Rod Stewart or The Pussycat Dolls while you're at it.
|
TVGuide Links:
|
|
|
|
Nov 30, 2007 10:43 PM
|
Every once in a great while, I see a performance (it can be any medium - dance, music, acting) with such purity and naked honesty that it makes me cry. The Clark Brothers' "You're In My Heart" did that to me tonight. I didn't cry because they were so good (although I thought they were amazing). I cried because Ashley's vocal performance was so heartfelt and so honest that it truly touched my heart.
I watched TNGAB for the first time last week because I'm a big Rolling Stones fan, and I was curious about the way the bands would cover the Stones catalog. Their "Gimme Shelter" showcased them as musicians, and technically speaking, was a better performance than this week. But tonight was truly something special. As a result, TNGAB went from just another reality show to a something I really care about.
I am rooting big time for The Clark Brothers. I dialed in as many votes as I could until my cell battery died  But beyond this show, I think I'll be a fan for life.
|
|
Dec 1, 2007 3:29 AM
|
I don't know why, but I was really surprised that Tres Bien went home this week. They're not my favorite, but I thought they had a great week last week compared to DDD and Denver. I enjoyed Denver, but thought the Stone's genre suited Tres Bien much better.
I pray you are wrong about Dot Dot Dot winning this competition. They are mediocre at best. I have seen improvement, but they don't feel genuine to me like The Clark Brothers. Ashley and company were fantastic tonight, just as they are every week. They are so true to themselves and have such talent and charisma. I would be very happy if they won the competition.
But I'd also be happy to see Sixwire take the title. I guess I'm one of those "housewives" Dicko talks about because I just love this band. They sound so great together; you can tell they gelled as a band a long time ago because, to me, their performances sound effortless. If it comes down to Sixwire and The Clark Brothers in the final, I don't know what I'm going to do!
I enjoy Denver and the MHO, but I really don't seen them as a group that would sound as good on a CD as they sound live. I think you need to see them in concert to really experience their sound in full force. So I don't see them making it to the final. But great job getting this far!
Lastly, Light of Doom is definitely improving. I don't think they're ready for a record deal yet, but this show is certainly going to help them grow towards something great in the future. If they manage to stay together, that is. Because when you're their age, five years seems like and eternity! But I wish them all the best as they mature as musicians and performers.
Overall, it was a fun show and I can't wait to see it next week. Unfortunately, we've got tickets to see Blue Man Group next Friday, so I'll be able to tape and watch the show, but won't be able to vote. So, please cast some extra votes for the Clark Brothers and Sixwire for me!!!
|
|
Dec 1, 2007 7:22 AM
|
Nice write up Dave. I am in disbelief that you would say Dot Dot Dot takes the title. I am not surprised at Tres Bien going home tonight, they wouldn't sell records in today's market. I would love to see the cartoon. The lead guy would look just like Scooby Dos friend. I say Light of Doom goes home next week. I have this fear they will all be drug addicted and in rehab after 10 years in the business. Even better how about featured on an E! special of child stars gone wrong. I hope I am way wrong, but I don't think these kids are ready to be in the spotlight.
I love The Clark Brothers and Sixwire. Dickos interesting comment about adding or changing band members was said at an awkward time. I don't think they should be able to. How can it be a true competition if bands keep changing members. I hope The Clark brothers remain a trio.
Sixwire reminds me so much of the Eagles, but better looking. I love the Eagles and any adult contemporary band. And lets face it I think that is who is watching this show. All the teens are at the mall on a Friday night. The 21-30 crowd is at the bar.
|
|
Dec 1, 2007 10:05 AM
|
|
pisces228 - I've listened to bit of two CD's of Denver and you are absolutely right - they lose the energy on the CD. Both are remarkably different than what you see on the show. But what surprised me the most is that they are a Christian band. Not subtle either - like full blown. Nothing wrong with that but I just wasn't expecting it when I first listened.
|
|
Dec 1, 2007 10:09 AM
|
Dominic did say who the next cover band would be. At the very very end of the show, just before the credits roled, Dominic said they would be covering Queen songs.
My favorite band is the Clark Brothers as well and like you I don't think they are going to win, just for the mere fact that any person or group I support in a competition reality show never wins. And I have fear that Light of Doom and Dot Dot Dot will be the final 2. Can't wait for next week.
|
|
Dec 1, 2007 10:24 AM
|
belle18244 - thank you for mentioning Queen. I went back and looked at the tape and I didn't have sound at that point - which explains why I didn't think he said anything!
Queen is the best artist for Light of Doom yet!
|
|
Dec 1, 2007 11:12 AM
|
Dot Dot Dot - I like them and I liked this song. I do wish Adam would slow down and let his voice shine like he did for those two seconds during the song.
Denver and the Mile High Orchestra - It sounded like they turned Denver's microphone up some this week. He was still overshadowed by the great band.
Sixwire - While Hot Legs is one of my least favorite songs, they still did a fantastic job. I would have preferred hearing Forever Young, but I suppose the comments would have been rough on them for that one!
The Clark Brothers - I thought Ashley's vocals were a bit off, but the emotion he portrays with his voice made up for that. The three of them feel the music so deeply they almost become the music. It's fascinating to see.
The Light of Doom - A great groan shook our house when they were called. I just can not like these little fellows. The parental screaming for them during the announcement was annoying too. I sense some serious stage parent problems. I love kids. I usually love kid acts. This bunch leaves me cold.
I was sorry to see Tres Bien! go, they were very entertaining and interesting to watch.
Hopefully next week Light of Doom will head off back to school, but I'm afraid it will be Dot Dot Dot.
|
|
Dec 1, 2007 11:30 AM
|
Dot Dot Dot - I like them and I liked this song. I do wish Adam would slow down and let his voice shine like he did for those two seconds during the song.
Denver and the Mile High Orchestra - It sounded like they turned Denver's microphone up some this week. He was still overshadowed by the great band.
Sixwire - While Hot Legs is one of my least favorite songs, they still did a fantastic job. I would have preferred hearing Forever Young, but I suppose the comments would have been rough on them for that one!
The Clark Brothers - I thought Ashley's vocals were a bit off, but the emotion he portrays with his voice made up for that. The three of them feel the music so deeply they almost become the music. It's fascinating to see.
The Light of Doom - A great groan shook our house when they were called. I just can not like these little fellows. The parental screaming for them during the announcement was annoying too. I sense some serious stage parent problems. I love kids. I usually love kid acts. This bunch leaves me cold.
I was sorry to see Tres Bien! go, they were very entertaining and interesting to watch.
Hopefully next week Light of Doom will head off back to school, but I'm afraid it will be Dot Dot Dot.
|
|
Dec 1, 2007 11:30 AM
|
|
I think all of the bands did a good job picking songs, but DDD could also have chosen Passion. I picked Tres Bien as one of my dark horses to go, but I really thought it should have been Denver and MHO. I STILL think they need to be the next to go. While they did an ok job, Denver is just bland. And I'm sorry, I am so sick and tired of people wearing their "faith" on their sleeve that way. They're songs about love, life, passion, heartache, and yes, lust. But there are so many songs by him, I just found their comments annoying. Besides, the last time I checked, none of his songs urged anyone to go out and harm themselves or somebody else. Sheesh. I can't believe Sheila E. First, she looked terrible. Second, she cried over that? The Clark Bros did the first verse, skipped the next 3, did the chorus, skipped the next verse and did an instrumental, then skipped all the rest of the lyrics and sang the chorus again. They had the shortest performance, and basically just sang the chorus twice. They didn't even do a very good job with the first verse, he was singing it too softly. Look over the lyrics. What he should have done is sang the first verse, the chorus, did an instrumental, sung the verse immediately after the chorus, and then sang the chorus again. That, to me, would have made it a better performance and made the way he sang it actually mean something more than just, hey, let's sing the chorus with as much feeling as possible and hope the saps fall for it. Sixwire took Rod's honky tonkiest song and did it proud. I thought LoD did ok, not their best but not their worst. As for Tres Bien, I think what Sheila E is looking for is not for them to be turned into a Saturday Morning cartoon ala The Beatles and Jackson 5, but more like the old Bay City Rollers or the Monkees. I could totally see it, although the short guy needs to go, he just doesn't fit and if they did get a show, he'd probably be the butt of too many jokes. Ok, so I'm sticking with Denver going this week with the dark horse LoD. I think both band's days are numbered though. I think DDD, 6Wire and Clark Bros have the largest fan base, but I am just guessing here.
|
|
Dec 1, 2007 4:38 PM
|
|
I completely forgot the show was on last night.I was home too!I usually vote for Sixwire and The Clark Brothers.From what I've read,I missed two very strong performances by them.I didn't vote this week either,I hope they are both safe next week.
|
|
Dec 1, 2007 4:46 PM
|
Well Darclyte,I must be a major sap because I absolutely loved the Clark Brothers rendition of "You're In My Heart". I stand by my prediction that they will win this competition.
I was surprised that Light of Doom stuck around while Tres Bien were sent home and I didn't like their "Infatuation". I voted for them to go home last week and I'm staying for that next week.
Sixwire did a phenomenal job on "Hot Legs". I was surprised because that is one of the more dated songs in Stewarts collection IMO but they updated it and gave it a nice new feeling.
I know I was in the room, but I just can't even remember Denver's song except I do remember that his voice did seem to be lost in the shuffle. Strange because I haven't agreed with that assessment in the past and I understand that others felt that he was miked higher this week so whatever.
I thought Dot, Dot, Dot was just OK this time around. I definitely would not be happy if they won in the end and I just can't see it happening. Not when the Clark Brothers keep bringing newer, fresher, more heartfelt and intricate pieces to the table. I've never agreed with Dicko when he says they need more members and hope that they don't bring anyone else on board even if they are able.
I am SOOOO excited about Queen next week, they and Aerosmith are my all time favorites. Gee, maybe Light of Doom shouldn't go home as they should have a great time with Queen, but nah, I really don't think they could handle the greatness that is Queen. Oh Freddie, I miss you so...
|
|
Dec 1, 2007 7:55 PM
|
A bit late, but here I go. First off I must say to the blogger that it's too bad not be familiar with Rod Stewart before the 80's. Those were some of his best songs.
I love Dot, Dot, Dot and would love it if they took the title but I don't think they will. I thought Young Turks was a bit fast and not their best number, but the charisma that Adam exudes suits me to a tee. I absolutely love him and this group.
Denver sang Baby Jane, not one of Rod's biggest hits and they were good. Better than last week, but I have to agree with Dicko. If Denver and the group think that Rod's lyrics are too sexy or risque for them, then what type of music will we be hearing from them?? They go down a notch in my book for that alone.
Sixwire rocked it up and finally did what for me was a great number, although Hot Legs is not my favorite song either. I like the rock side of them better than the folk rock side.
The Clark Brothers sang You're In My Heart beautifully, but we didn't hear too much of the song. One verse and two renditions of the chorus doth not a song make. As beautiful as they sang it there's still something missing for me.
Light of Doom went last for the second time in two or three weeks. I thought that they would be gone rather than Tres Bien. I'm bummed that Tres Bien will no longer be with us. Win or lose, they were an entertaining band and I will miss them. I hope they can make some kind of career for themselves even if, as John said, they play in crappy clubs. If they come to L.A, I'll go to one of those crappy clubs to see them.
Time for the Tykes of Doom to go. They have years to hone in their skills and be successful. Let the big guys play. Sadly, I think they will win.
I hope it's not Dot Dot Dot who goes.
For the person who said they pray that Dot Dot Dot doesn't win, let me suggest that it's not the most important thing in life if they do. Personally, I'd rather pray for world peace.
Peace out.
|
|
Dec 2, 2007 1:53 PM
|
I think Adam did sing it a little to fast ,but all in all it was good and The Clark brothers need to go and sixwire and Light of Doom.
Who want to see 3 guys with guitars playing when all their singing sounds the same.Go DDD
|
|
Dec 3, 2007 11:11 AM
|
"Tykes of Doom"!!!! LOL 
|
|
Dec 3, 2007 11:12 AM
|
|
|
