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AGT Top 48: Week Two’s Commentary and Rankings

Another 12 down. While there were some definite train wrecks tonight, I had a hard time deciding on who I think is going to move on. It seemed like there was going to be a full-on brawl between Howard and Howie after Big Barry’s act! Who were your favorites? Be sure to vote in the poll for tonight, and, as usual, if you want to skip my commentary and go straight to the power rankings, just scroll down a bit.

LionDanceMe: did not remember very well. Definitely different. I didn’t get that “on the edge of my seat” danger feeling, but it was fun to watch for the most part. Howard was right, the audience probably didn’t realize how dangerous it was, because I sure didn’t. I was pleased that they didn’t mess up. It definitely will get old fast. The act needs something new added to it if they want to really progress in the competition. I think Sharon’s martial art/lion act could be interesting. The group leader said that they stepped it up by not falling, but that doesn’t really mean they stepped it up moves-wise.

Turf: This guy had me in awe from the beginning. It’s one of those acts that leaves you just thinking “wait…what just happened?” I loved watching him in the audition stage, and Las Vegas, and I felt the same way tonight. I’ll admit, part of me was a little sick after watching it, but it’s incredible. I have never seen anyone do what Turf does. There wasn’t a lot of extra stuff, beyond the music and lights. Howie was right — there was so much emotion behind what he does, and you can tell he wants to win. I will be very surprised if he doesn’t advance tonight. Actually, I’d be disappointed in America if he doesn’t. He truly is a human Gumbi, and blew away the rest of the acts from tonight.

The All Ways: I really don’t remember these guys. And I’m kind of glad I didn’t. I really, really can’t stand the lead singers voice. The whole act just kind of seemed like noise to me, it didn’t rub me the right way. The lead singer didn’t seem to enunciate the lyrics very well. Maybe it was a bad song choice. They definitely look like rockers, but they didn’t bring the feeling I usually associate with legendary rock bands. It reminded me more of a talent show performance.

Hawley Magic: This was a great magic act during the initial stages of the competition. After the fail-of-a-magic act from last week, I was really crossing my fingers for Hawley Magic. Tonight’s act was an incredible illusion, if you ask me. I’m still trying to wrap my mind around it. I really liked them, but who knows what America will think. It was a little bit slow, but a good illusion can’t be rushed, right? They do seem a bit old school, but that didn’t bother me really. Maybe I’m old school myself. I’d like to see them through, but, unfortunately, I don’t think they rank among the top four acts of the night.

LCD – Lisa Clark Dancers: Can I be honest? I wasn’t looking forward to this act. I’m not a huge fan of the dance groups on the show. I’ll be fair though, they are talented. . One thing I don’t like about dancers is when there is a complete disconnect between their faces and the dance, but they seemed to be enjoying themselves. At that, there really wasn’t any wow moment to the dance. It was a little too cutesy, and compared to some of the other dancers in the competition (Turf, namely), they were definitely sub-par. The girl who spoke for the group felt like they were very unique, but I don’t really think so. I’ve seen similar moves by other groups. They won’t be going on.

Aurora Light Painters: I did not enjoy this act, I really thought I was going too, but it was boring. There wasn’t anything about it that left me wanting more. Yes, it is very different, and not a typical act, but it wasn’t very impressive ! They should have done something a lot more exciting, because I’m pretty sure this act sealed their fate: They will be going home. There’s nothing else I really have to say, but I think they should have thought the act through a little bit more.

Danielle Stallings: There are quite a few young singers in this season, aren’t there? She hit some hard notes, but overall, she isn’t my favorite. I’m going to disagree with the judges, I didn’t find her to be that memorable. But I wasn’t a big fan of Edon and he went through, so it might happen with her as well. She seems like a very sweet girl though. She was one of the better acts tonight. But was she good enough to get through? We’ll see.

Donovan & Rebecca: This duo does what the judges ask of everyone, but few seem to actually do: bring something new to every act. Donovan and Rebecca have been my favorite from the beginning. What they do is beautiful. It’s dangerous. It’s flawless. I can’t take my eyes off of the screen when they are performing. During a night where amazing acts were sparse, they shined once again, and I can’t wait to see what they do next.

Big Barry: I was surprised when he made it past his audition, and even more surprised when he got past Las Vegas. Now, if he gets past tonight. He doesn’t even sound like he is singing (it sounds more like moans and strains), and I felt like his act was more tall, attractive women dancing around him. This was a joke, and I’m appalled that other more talented singers (um, how about Mary Joyner?) didn’t get through, and he did. Maybe the judges felt there needed to be some comedic relief. It should have been pinned as a comedy act. Howie is full of it. I just wanted him to stop talking, because everything coming out of his mouth was ridiculous. I feel bad for the guy, as Howard and Sharon were a bit ruthless, but if he gets through, I’m done with this show (well, not really. But it would be tempting!)

Tom Cotter: This guy has really had a tough time breaking into the comedy scene, and he deserves some credit for not giving up. Most people would. He was on fire tonight, one joke after another. His jokes were well crafted and he did a good job executing them. The crowd seemed to eat it up, and I think he will definitely go on tonight, and straight to the finals. He’s got a great story, and isn’t that half of what makes an America’s Got Talent star?

Ben Blaque: The act inspired by Hunger Games…okay, I’m kidding. But that is the first thing I thought when I saw Ben Blaque. It might me very nervous when he said he didn’t have all the bugs worked out from his act. His assistant has got to trust him a lot, that’s some scary stuff he’s doing, especially since it is all new to his act! His bow shooter (I know, there is probably a more official name for it), sure was heavy duty. I was holding my breath during the last shot of the act. I would love to see what else he can do; I just hope no one dies if he moves on!

Tim Hockenberry: If someone could win on story alone, he’d be one of the final contenders. But since this is a talent competition…maybe he won’t be. Just kidding. He is so powerful, and one of the best, if not THE best, singers in the competition this year. I love the gritty quality to his voice. He sings with so much emotion, I had chills during the whole act. I actually agree with Howie  this time, he could be the winner of this competition. It’s weird, I agree with Howie for once, and totally thought Howard was off his rocker.

So here are the power rankings for tonight. These are who I think America will send on, not necessarily who I want to go through. I actually wouldn’t send Tom Cotter through, just because I’m not a huge fan of comedy, and I’d send Ben Blaque through. But as it stands, I don’t think it will go that way. The results show will be interesting though, as I don’t think it’s going to be completely clear cut who is going to move one.

The Four I Think Will Go On: 

1. Turf

2. Tim Hockenberry

3. Donovan and Rebecca

4. Tom Cotter

I Wish You’d Go Through, But I’m Not Sure If You Will: 

5. Ben Blaque

6. Hawley Magic

Okay, but Not Good Enough:

7. Danielle Stallings

8. Lisa Clark Dancers

9. LionDanceMe

Please, They Are Going Home:

10.  The All Ways

11. Aurora Light Painters

12.  Big Barry

July 10, 2012 I Written By

Katie Clark is a journalism student at Brigham Young University in her senior year. She is originally from Littleton, Colorado, and hopes to move back there after graduation. Reality television is her favorite to watch, and has enjoyed writing about America's Got Talent and A Chance to Dance. She is a stay-at-home-mom who enjoys writing (especially blogs), cooking and sewing (while spending far too much time on Pinterest finding inspiration) and being outside with her husband and son.

America’s Got Talent Seven 7: Vegas Week

This week there are three days of America’s Got Talent at 8:00pm on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

At the top of Vegas Week the judges have separated the acts into two primary groups:
Judges Favorites: are the acts that the judges believe have the best chance to succeed on the live shows
Standbys: are the acts the judges are unsure about and will see them if there are slots available after the Judges Favorites have gone through

Anyone whose name is not found under the two groups mentioned above they would not perform in Vegas and would be going straight home that day. The catch is with that though is that some acts that do not have a chance to prove their worth at all while there will be some others that were given a free pass to the Live Shows in New York. The acts that we will definitely see in the Live Shows include:
William Close: Earth Harp
Olate Dogs: Dog Act
David “the Bullet” Smith: Human Cannonball

While the Judges Favorites are performing the Standbys are required to sit in the audience and watch what happens. What I found to be interesting is that people are crumbling left and right. I am not used to seeing that for America’s Got Talent, but a major part of that could be how the show is being edited to evoke maximum drama within a one-hour show.

On Wednesday / Thursday I will post who made the Top 48 Acts (well now 45 since 3 acts got a free pass to New York) that are moving on to the Live Shows in New York, I will also attempt to breakdown who came from which group / category so we can see how they all panned out.
Read more..

June 26, 2012 I Written By

America’s Got Talent Season 7 – San Francisco Auditions: Power Rankings

And here are my thoughts about the acts from the San Francisco auditions!

David Garibaldi and his CMYK: Performance Art
I always did love seeing art done on stage. And add dancing to it is interesting, but I am not entirely convinced that this could be fleshed out into a full Vegas show. I mean there have been other types of performance artists that have come through the show… But none really lasted all that long.
Final Verdict: going to have to see what he brings to Vegas… So the jury’s out.

Cristin Sandu: Balancing
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We have seen a variety of circus acts come through the America’s Got Talent stage… Balancing and Juggling being the two popular ones. How is this going to stand out? I don’t know… But I think all of these circus-related acts should come together for a variety performance show.
Final Verdict: depending on how he steps it up will determine his progression on the show.

Lisa Clark Dancers: Dance Troupe
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I have to agree with Howard, when it comes to dance groups I am not exactly enthralled as I used to be, they have to bring something different to the stage. But I disagree with Howie in the sense that you don’t have to necessarily need to have a specific trick or move to stand out above the rest… Take a look at the various dance troupes that have come onstage at Dancing with the Stars. I like this group, and as long as they continue to push their boundaries and be more encompassing of all the various genres I think they have the chance to win Howie and America over.
Final Verdict: will probably pass the Vegas round, might be short of the Top Ten though.

Magician & Concert Pianist (I need names):
This seeing a person cut in half is nothing new… Seeing that same person play piano convincingly, is… But how could they top what they just showed during auditions? I mean there’s was one magician that I really liked back in Season 5 and he was having trouble coming up with bigger tricks to stay on the show.
Final Verdict: I am not convinced of this act’s staying power beyond Vegas

Mika Grigorio(sp?): Vocalist
The one thing that semi annoys me about there being vocalists on AGT is that there are other singing competitions out there (The Voice, American Idol, Duets, etc) so why here? Unless she doesn’t fit the age limit. Beyond that, she has a pleasant voice, and it needs a bit of polish. America has a tendency to really like the vocalists… But I personally would rather see more variety than vanilla.
Final Verdict: she has the potential, depending on what she does next.

Mike Price: Juggler
I felt bad when he dropped the pins… But when I saw how well he recovered and continued with the trick I was impressed. Tis boy has got some grit to him and I like that, but as I mentioned with the balancing act earlier his progression on this show will determine how long he will last on it.
Final Verdict: depending on how he steps it up will determine his progression on the show.

Dave Burleigh: Impressionist
He’s funny and has some good impressions in the bag. He needs to really build his comedic base and I agree with Howard be a bit edgier to really catch the audience attention. If he could pull off some female impressions that would be great. Though, I don’t know how well a one man impressionist act will do… Though looking at Terry Fator it can be done if he does a whole conversation of impressions. What I found to be interesting is that looking at his website he also is a comedian and has a band… hmm.
Final Verdict: the guy has got some potential in him, he could pass the Vegas round.

Luiz Meneghin: Opera Singer
We have seen our share of opera singers (Neal E Boyd, Paul Potts from BGT, Prince Poppycock) so I don’t know what he could possibly add to the stock. With operatic voices reaching their peak a few years ago, he really needs to bring someone big to the table if he wants to have any chance of some staying power. He has a good voice and some room for growth and potential… So I don’t know.
Final Verdict: skeptical, he could pass Vegas week… But beyond that I don’t know.

Granny G: Rapper
This is what I am talking about! It’s a novelty FTP be sure, but it’s a darn good novelty. As long as she has some really good material ready for when she needs to perform it, she’ll have some legs on this show… Much like Grandma Lee the stand up comedian.
Final Verdict: as long as she brings out original material, this old girl’s going to be around for quite some time. Possibly eve Top Ten

Broom and Dust Pan Concert (I didn’t catch a name)
Umm, I have no idea how to comment on this. I’ll admit that using everyday tools as instruments is mildly fun and interesting to watch… but I saw something like this in Blue Man Group, and that was an interesting show. So other than a passing thought… what else could he bring to the table?
Final Verdict: Most likely not going to pass Vegas

Tim Hockenberry: Vocalist
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I really like this guy, he has amazing vocals and a good roughness that he has under control. I really wish I could see him on The Voice though, he could really get himself trained a little more… but still. He reminds me of a lot of the other singers that have come through just minus the extremes in his story (Michael Grimm, Eli Mattson). America tends to go for good old fashioned “vanilla” and he can be that.
Final Verdict: I definitely see him going as far as the Top Ten, will he though?

Funk Beyond Control: Dance Troupe
What else is there to say about a dance troupe that hasn’t already been said? They have some good tricks and dance moves… but can they keep an audience attention for long? Not only that… what makes then unique and stand out from the crowd?
Final Verdict: Depending on how they could raise the bar, I’m not entirely convinced on the staying potential

Emily A Band (Is the name correct?): Band
We only got a snippet of this act and I wasn’t nearly as impressed as the judges seem to be.
Final Verdict: Unless there is more to them, I’m thinking they aren’t going to pass Vegas.

Martial Arts Flying Studio: Performance Art
I always did like the lion dance, but I’m afraid that between the lion dance and the dragon dance, they might not have more up their sleeves. Still I’m curious to see more… so here’s to seeing more.
Final Verdict: May pass the Vegas round, but need to see more.

Turf: Extreme HipHop Contortionist
OMG, this guy is so incredibly smooth and the contortion doesn’t hurt either. But I have the distinct feeling that he was dancing then contortioning (is that even a word?) then dancing then controtioning… it was very 1-2-1-2-1-2… I would really like to see him actually melt the two together. Heck, I’d love to see how he’d fair on a show like So You Think You Can Dance, because he has a lot more smoothness to his hiphop that you don’t always see.
Final Verdict: He has a lot of potential, but a one-man dance show is kind of difficult. I see him going thru Vegas, but beyond that? Dunno

May 16, 2012 I Written By