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« Rock the Cradle
Episode Recap: Cradle Rocker's Pick
Tonight the contestants chose their own songs, free of their parent’s input. And instead of just talking the talk, the judges stepped in to offer advice. The contestants had some interesting song choices to assert their independence with, but after the craziness I’ve seen, it could have been a lot worse (recall the contortionists and ear-piercing screeches).
Lara Johnston: This girl is just too cute. The wide-eyed Lara giggled as she talked about “Lady Marmalade’s” theme but was all business when she hit the stage. Lara sang the hell out of that song, but as always she could have worked it a bit more—especially for this song. It was almost heartbreaking to watch her receive her mediocre scores, she just looked so sad and so disappointed. I can understand her frustration, she does have one of the best voices in this competition, but unfortunately you’ve got to do more than just stand there and sing.
Crosby Loggins: First of all we need to discuss how adorable Crosby was with the elementary school kids (Yet another reason I have a giant crush on him). To declare his independence Crosby sang “Long Road to Ruin.” Despite busting out the electric guitar Crosby’s version was slightly mellow for a Foo Fighter’s song, but this was easily his best performance and it was nice to see him rock out to something harder. Oh, and the proud look on papa Kenny’s face was too cute (basically I just love the whole Loggins family). Crosby is no doubt the most talented contestant. He can sing, he plays guitar and he doesn’t sugar coat his performances with back flips or taking his shirt off (though I wouldn’t mind if he did). The judges love him too because Crosby got the highest score of the night.
FINALLY! Lil B. Sure! is kicked off and I couldn’t be happier. No more hurting my ears with squeaky, high-pitched performances. No more unattractive face and no more taking the place of more talented people who deserve to be there (cough A’Keiba). We’ll B seeing you!
Jesse Blaze Snider: Oh how I love controlling stage moms. Jesse’s mom was not having one bit of June’s input. Fashion fights aside, Jesse was OK tonight. It’s tough because I love Johnny Cash and didn’t like Jesse’s punked-out version of “Ring of Fire." But, in Jesse’s defense, I don’t like most covers of classic songs and this style suited him (unlike his leather coat/cape getup). I was slightly disappointed though in the lack of energy and on-stage antics. After the flips, the leather and running around on stage I was expecting real fire or something crazy for this song—no such luck.
Lucy Walsh: Lucy showed off her musical talent by playing the piano, singing “Fall for You” by Secondhand Serenade. I was impressed by her musical chops and her performance—sort of. Lucy played well and sang decently, but I just don’t think she’s the best. She sings well, but if I trained with a private vocal coach, I would too. Ballads are definitely her strong suit and she was much better this week than last week. I love her look and attitude, and I want to like her more than I do, but Lucy just doesn’t stand out to me the way Crosby does.
Sadly, Landon got the boot as well. His performance last week was horrible, but I think he’s a pretty good singer. I don’t know if he would have won, but I think he could have lasted a little longer had he not screwed up last week. Oh well, that’s the biz.
Chloe Lattanzi: She chose Korn’s “Freak on a Leash” and rightfully so, this girl creeps me out. Chloe actually won me over at first. The stripped-down version revealed her vulnerability and showcased the song’s emotional lyrics. But, so as not to disappoint, the music picked up and Chloe got weird and dark. The harmonies became eerie, the vocals didn’t fit the rock and the convulsing started. Once again way too dark and not very good. Chloe, now that Lil B. is gone, you’ve got to step it up if you want to stay in this.
So what did you think? Who likes Jesse and Chloe’s covers? Who likes when the kids keep the songs classic (like Lara). Were you happy with who stayed and who had to go? Am I crazy about the Lucy thing (the judges rave but I’m just not that impressed
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Apr 25, 2008 11:35 AM
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I LOVE Crosby. He did so good tonight and I am totally with June and her assessment. Go to the series page at MTV and watch the video of June helping out with clothes. she is so cute when Crosby walks in.
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Apr 25, 2008 1:53 PM
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I'm thinking the "twist" double elimination introduced last week was mostly because this thing is pretty much tanking ratings-wise. Definitely not the next American Idiot, so what better way to finish it off than to accelerated the process?
Crosby seems to me to be the real true talent on this show. Jesse is a "one note" wonder with not much range. And what was up with his mom leaving her seat when they launched into his bit? Lara, while cute as a button, needs a lot of voice lessons to stop being so all over the map at times. And her song choices don't appear to be suiting her style. Lucy finally came through with a great ballad that played to her strengths.
Now about Chloe. She seems to be mostly schtick to me. Like a really dark Fiona Apple crossed with Marilyn Manson. Not my cup o' meat. And I just have to say this, even though it's probably mean as hell. What in God's name does her dad look like??? I look at her mom's obvious beauty, and when I look at her daughter's mug all I see is a hilarious bit from Conan O'Brien's show called "If They Mated". It's freakin' me out, man.
Not that I see Brad Pitt when I look in my mirror, folks. Not at all.
Oh, and what are they paying those screaming, arm-waving "fans" in the front to act like these pseudo-wannabe-stars are the second coming of the Beatles? It's very bizarre to see such spontaneous, undeserved adulation. It just adds to the amateur nature of this show, IMHO.
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Apr 26, 2008 11:39 AM
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Jesse performed a bad cover version of Social Distortions good punk cover of "Ring of Fire." He's like a cartoon rockstar. He has the look, the attitude and everything but in a cartoony way. And he's just not a good singer.
Chloe. How is she still here? I'm starting to think that this is the show (due to it's low ratings) where a vote for the worst type campaign may crown the winner. If she survives the next cut, she'll probably win. What a joke.
Lucy is ok, but Crosby has clearly passed her by and should be the winner, unless Mtv gets "punk'd" and Chloe wins.
Lara will probably get cut next week. Chloe should also go, but if she doesn't, then I think it will be Lucy.
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Apr 27, 2008 10:12 AM
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Jesse Blaze is too cocky. He is a good performer but that doesn't make him a good singer. Jenna James may be a popular porn actress but she will never get an Oscar. Jesse is the Jenna James of Rock the Cradle. If he survives getting voted out this week, I hope that the next competetion will be a rock ballad. Unlike Crosby, Lucy and Lara, Jesse doesn't have the versatility to do anything but his hard rock act.
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Apr 30, 2008 12:27 AM
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