The Voice 3: Knockout Rounds Part 1

It's the BATTLE ROUNDS sequel. Haha. I seriously don't understand why they have to pair them yet again because I rather have ALL of them perform at once and then have their coach decide which ones to take to the live shows. For drama? Because conflict is good TV? But still.

That said, the editing in this episode was amazing. It was quick and to the point, which was better than how they did the Battle Rounds, which took SO long to finish no?

Anyway, here's the recap!

Movie Review: Argo

Gone Baby Gone and The Town displayed Ben Affleck's skill as a director. In Argo, he took it a step further and proved that his previous films were no flukes as this was an extremely well crafted film in almost every respect. The script was razor sharp, the editing was great, the period recreation was flawless and the acting performances were precise and realistic. I was also impressed at how they made me feel concerned for its characters with a well measured tension that kept me on the edge of my seat. With a seamless balance of heart, suspense, humor, and history, Argo created an entertaining yet absorbing experience that made it one of the finest films of the year. Argo F*ck Yourself! Ha.

American Idol 12: Make Dreams Come True [PROMO]

Fantastic promo! Again, this one features the new judges, Keith Urban, Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey, with returning judge Randy Jackson and the always dependable host, Ryan Seacrest. American Idol returns with a two-night premiere starting Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2013.

I love that they are actually promoting the show in this way. It actually reminds me of those promos they did with all the American Idol winners two years ago. They should keep doing this. You see, while I enjoy watching the other reality singing shows like The Voice and The X Factor, there's something about these shows that leave me cold. After those shows are done, that's it. But here, we often forget how invested we get with American Idol that we basically spend half of a year highly invested in the long term survival and possibly a lifetime career of a boy or girl we've NEVER met. We want to see dreams come true, and this show captures it amazingly well. Seriously. I'm SO ready for January! THIS IS.. AMERICAN IDOL!

American Idol 12: Who Will Stand Out? [PROMO]

After the American Idol 12 promo where it features the reigning American Idol, Phillip Phillips, here's another one which sort of introduces the new judges - Keith Urban, Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj.

Yes, this promo was slightly about the judges, but I didn't feel like it emphasized them as the main "stars" of the show, which I like. American Idol shouldn't be about the judges unlike the other two shows, so yes, I approve this one. Oh, and I also like Ryan Seacrest's line "THE SHOW THAT STARTED IT ALL". Haha. Burn!

American Idol 12: It Starts With A Dream [PROMO]

I know. I know. I posted this already a couple of days ago, but I've decided to put up a separate posts for every promo that American Idol releases from here on out. I'm seriously loving how balanced these promos are from the new set of judges, but still maintaining the focus on the actual purpose of the show - to discover a talent.

This particular promo has this celebratory feel to it. It appeals to people who want to see an ordinary person with great talent fulfill a dream. Say what you want, but American Idol has one thing the other reality singing shows - The Voice and X Factor US - don't: CHART SUCCESS. So, while I'm not the biggest Phillip Phillips fan, I take massive PRIDE in any and all American Idol alums' success! And yes, this is a great example of the image of fulfilling dreams that the show has promoted since it started.

X Factor US 2: Ranking The Top 16

Every competition I blog here, I always like to take a moment and really dig deep into some of these contestants - just like last season where I totally sucked. Haha. Talent, vocal ability, personality, and other artistic qualities that make a contestant a contender shed light onto where exactly we - as an addicted audience - stand at this point in the competition.

This year will be very tough for predictions across the board.  Sure, we know some real frontrunners, but we know very little else. Usually I’m able to predict the finalist in the weakest position right away, but because of this years level of talent it has become extremely difficult to do so; even if a few of the contestants are obviously weaker than the others.

So yeah, I’ll do what I do in every singing competition I blog here: an in-depth analysis of each of the finalists and where they stand in the competition. What have they done right? What have they done wrong? Are they smart? Are they idiots? Which one of the girls is most likely to put out on a first date? You know, the usual questions..

Here's how I rank the Top 16

American Idol Season 12 Promos Are Out!!

Again, that was fast no? In a few months, we're back in finding the next American Idol with an almost brand new and drama filled judges panel. Let the catfight begin?

I like both promos. The first one with Phillip Phillips appeals to people who want to see an ordinary person with great talent fulfill a dream. Plus, it has one thing the other reality singing shows - The Voice and X Factor US - don't: CHART SUCCESS. I may not be the biggest Phillip fan, but I take massive PRIDE in any and all American Idol alums' success! This is a great example of the image of fulfilling dreams that the show has promoted since it started.

The second one is cute, which features the new judges, Ryan Seacrest and the cockroach. Haha. I also like Ryan Seacrest's line "THE SHOW THAT STARTED IT ALL". Burn!

The Voice 3: Battle Rounds Part 6

 .. and we're finally done with the Battle Rounds! Oh wait, we still have 20 more head-to-head battles in the next round? Oh joy.

Arrgh. They are still not done with the gimmicks no? Next week will be the KNOCKOUT, but here's my question: Why are they always battling each other head-to-head instead of as a team? Wouldn't it be better to have all 10 perform and then just pick the best 5? And do they keep on going against each other of their own team? Isn't it more interesting to compete with the other teams instead?

Also, I noticed that while I like the addition of the STEAL, tonight proved why it's still flawed. There needs to be some way that the show can make steals after ALL the battles are over. I don't know how they would do that, but it doesn't seem fair to contestants who perform in the last few battles when there are no steals left and a coach wants to or would have stolen them. Not good.

As for you Ms. Christina Aguilera, building a team filled with a similar style of artist is only going to lead to your team's downfall. That is all.

Enough of the ranting, here's the recap!

X Factor US 2: Top 16 Revealed

I posted a spoiler of X Factor US Season 2 Top 16 a week ago and except for one, it didn't really change. So yeah, this is indeed a pretty strong group. I wouldn't say this bunch are the greatest singers - let's leave that with The Voice - but most of them has that certain X Factor no?

Without further ado, I present you the Top 16:

Movie Trailer: Iron Man 3

I know. I know. July of last year, I promised to take this segment of this blog seriously and more updated than usual. I'm trying and I'll start with the newly released trailer of the highly anticipated Marvel's Iron Man 3.

Yes, this trailer got me seriously intrigued. Who knew? The vibe on this - based on the trailer alone, of course - is quite the contrast from it's predecessor. The snark is gone, and it suddenly seems very dark and serious, which I honestly didn't see coming. Check it out.

Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Ben Kingsley, Guy Pearce

Release Date: May 3, 2013

The Voice 3: Battle Rounds Part 5

We're almost done with the Battle Rounds! Yay! And yes, that's all I have to say about this episode, because I still find this segment incredibly lackluster. Let's fastforward to the live shows already!

Recap after the jump!

Music Video: Jump In - Jessica Sanchez and Apl.de.Ap

I didn't know Jessica Sanchez even had the time to record and shoot a music video for another advertisement - apparently, for SMART Communications - in the Philippines. Here's her new music video Jump In with Black Eyed Peas member Apl.de.Ap, who's also a Filipino.

Not bad. I think the tune is light, young and should appeal to her age group. It's not the greatest song, but Jessica gives life to it. I also like the glossy production of the music video. To be honest, I'm actually hoping for her upcoming album to sound slightly like this with a bit of an edge and some R&B mixed into it. Oh, and can we have details of her record already? Enjoy!

Music Video: Don't Fail Me Now - Melanie Amaro

.. and I thought they're pushing for another single for Melanie Amaro, X Factor US Season 1 Winner, instead of this? I digress. Here is her debut single, Don't Fail Me Now, which will be part of her still untitled album to come out December 4, 2012.

I admit, I didn't like the song that much - it sounded mediocre compared to the materials given to other X Factor US alums: Marcus Canty, Rachel Crow and Chris Rene - but this song is quite a grower despite the auto-tuning. She looks lovely in this music video, but other than that, there's really nothing remarkable to say about it. While she may have a pretty impressive voice, it's ironic that I don't see any X Factor in her. Sue me.

Movie Review: Looper

Let me just cut right to the chase, Looper was awesome! In an era where most Hollywood movies are a sequel of an adaptation of a remake - it's silly, I know. Haha - it's pretty refreshing to watch something original and something else to hold our imaginations. Looper was a breath of fresh air! It combined heart-stopping action, interesting premise and deep emotional conflicts, then wrapped them in a tight, perfectly edited and directed package, and kicked you with them in the face. Haha. Every shot, every angle, every sequence of this movie was stellar. Every plot twist, every line off their script was just genius. The script and pacing was done so well that everything was explained in a perfect amount of detail. True, it was a little complex than usual, but it was NEVER confusing. Plus, the performances were pitch perfect. Possibly one of the craftiest and satisfying films this year by leaps and bounds! Enough said.

Movie Review: Ted

Ted was raunchy and crude, but absolutely hysterical. Clearly, the film is defiantly NOT for kids or those who are easily offended because the humor here was offensive, racist, derogatory, and vulgar. However, there's something about it that's oddly charming. Yes, the plot - other than a talking teddy bear - wasn't breathtakingly original, but I find the chemistry of the characters palpable and the consistent laughs made this possibly one of the best comedy films this year. Mark Wahlberg was surprisingly solid with perfect comedic timing and Mila Kunis also had a couple of funny moments - though she didn't really bring anything useful other than her innate hotness. Haha. Again, Ted can be a total crowd pleaser and if you're one of those people who aren't offended by such humor, this is seriously the movie to watch.

Album Cover: The World From The Side Of The Moon - Phillip Phillips

Look at the official album cover of Phillip Phillips. His first debut record will be released on November 19. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the album was produced by Gregg Wattenberg (Train, O.A.R) with Phillips writing or co-writing the majority of the songs. Of course,the track list will include his platinum-certified current hit single Home.

Yes, I like the title of the album - better than the usual self titled debut albums of past winners - as it gives a certain mood to the record and sounds like it could be a little introspective. The cover is decent although there's a bit of a disconnect from the title. It actually reminds me of Lee Dewyze's Sweet Serendipity single cover. Nonetheless, I'm interested in how the album sounds and how much it wound up being built around Home.

This gives me an idea! In the next coming days, I will try to make a post about American Idol Winners' debut album covers. That would be interesting no?

The Voice 3: Battle Rounds Part 4

.. and things are getting more predictable on this show. The way they edit the pre-performance package, you'd easily know who will advance to the next round - of course, with a few exceptions. I don't know. To me, the Blind Auditions and Live Shows are The Voice's strongest rounds. Can we finish this already? Sure, there are some decent singing, but still.

Anyway, here's a recap of the episode.

The Voice 3: Battle Rounds Part 3

Yawn. I really don't like this part of the series. Can't we just go straight to the live shows? Too much gimmick.  One thing I SERIOUSLY don't like about the Battle Rounds is that they make the singers to get obnoxious with the oversinging. STOP!

Anyway, let's get on with the show.

Idol/Glee News: Jessica Sanchez Is Officially Part Of Glee

I'm not sure if I should post this as Glee News or Idol News. Haha. I love how two worlds will soon be colliding in my blog. Haha.

According to Michael Ausiello of TVLine, Jessica Sanchez has been cast for a recurring role on Glee this season:

It’s a done deal: Jessica Sanchez, whose monster pipes and near-perfect pitch carried her all the way to a second-place finish on Season 11 of American Idol, has closed a deal to recur on Glee, TVLine has learned exclusively.

There are no details on what role Glee executive producer Ryan Murphy might have in store for the 16-year-old California native or when she will first appear on screen. (Might she be the much-buzzed-about new love interest for Finn?!)

To me, this is another opportunity for Jessica to diversify her career and pick up more fans. I think this is a great opportunity for her and she will fit in quite nicely on Glee. Plus, with big voiced divas like Amber Riley leaving the show, that choir room in McKinley needs some vocal prowess no?

Movie Review: Pitch Perfect

Pitch Perfect, to me, was a surprisingly brilliant musical film and actually a breath of fresh air that's above the heap of some lifeless and senseless college comedies.Yes, the plot wasn't ridiculously original, but it has a clever and witty scriptwriting, an amusing cast - Rebel Wilson was flat out hilarious - and an undeniable infectious sense of fun. Of course, the musical number were absolutely delightful and quite spectacular. This is actually a stellar Glee / The Sing-Off love child. A stylish, fun and bouncy film that handles everything, despite its predictability, in a way that was suprising yet completely fulfilling. You know how I know Pitch Perfect was a thoroughly entertaining film? I couldn’t stop smiling for five minutes straight, and towards the end of it all, I had to reach down and lift my jaw off the floor. More often than not, this lives up to its own title.

X Factor US 2: Top 16 Spoiler

A few week ago, X Factor US taped the Judges Homes episode and, yes, the spoilers are out! Of course, this is not 100% accurate but whatever. This specific episode will be aired next, but why not give everyone a good heads up already? Haha.

Anyway, read at your own risk!! I warned you. If you want to be spoiled.. read on! If not.. go away!

X Factor US 2: Judges Home Part 2

I thought this episode just further proved that X Factor US has an interesting batch this year. Again, most of them aren't the best vocalists EVER, but this is X Factor not The Voice. Also, the slowing down and rearranging mid tempo pop song in it's minor key were pretty interesting.

If only LA Reid would stop from b*tching about Over 25 and their "ability" to be marketable outside the competition, then I would've enjoyed this episode more. Why would you include this age bracket then if you don't think they'll be even remotely viable? Weird.

Enough of that. Here's the recap! 

X Factor US 2: Judges Homes Part 1

Ok. I'm legitimately excited with this season of X Factor US. I think the acts this season are fairly strong and we saw glimpses of those in this episode. Sure, most of them aren't INCREDIBLE singers, but this is X Factor, not THE VOICE. I mean, just look at what X Factor UK produced in a span of 5 years. They have Cher Lloyd, One Direction, Olly Murs and yes, even the vocally talented Leona Lewis.

Personally, I like what I've heard so far and it's actually interesting how the ones who I thought would do well, sounded more nervous in their performances and the people who I thought would suck did quite well.

Anyway, here we go!

Music Premiere: Catch My Breath - Kelly Clarkson

Check out Kelly Clarkson's new single, Catch My Breath, which is her official lead single off her very first hits compilation, Greatest Hits - Chapter 1, due out November 16, 2012.

Hmm. The opening verse is great, it's strong lyrically and she sounds stellar as usual, but I somehow find the chorus a bit underwhelming. It lacks that catchy hook, which most of her singles have. Still, it's pretty much the typical Kelly Clarkson song. To be honest, I actually don't understand why they cut short the Stronger era when the album seriously has some STRONG tracks in there and release a Greatest Hits record. Enjoy!

Listen to the song after the jump!

The Voice 3: Battle Rounds Part 2

Uneventful episode, although I seriously enjoyed one gorgeous duet in particular. That's it. Haha. Oh, and I find it funny how the show implements the save to add some excitement and suspense to the battle rounds, but then use the pre-commercial previews to blatantly reveal whether or not a contestant gets stolen. Smart! Haha.

Here we go.

The Voice 3: Battle Rounds Part 1

Hmm. Battle Rounds or the start of the decline of The Voice's ratings - based on their two previous seasons. Haha. And the best way to make things interesting? Add a STEAL. Judges/Mentors can now steal a singer who got eliminated from the Battle Rounds - a nice touch as I hated how they pitted the good singers against each other.

Now, as for the narrative of this whole episode: The one whose weaknesses are focused on in the rehearsals wins. Haha. To be honest, I agreed, more or less, with all the judge decisions tonight, even including the people who got stolen. So, there's that.

Let's get on with the Battle Rounds!

X Factor Philippines: Grand Finals

Well. We're here. It's the Finale night. The night OF the finale, rather. And this means that all of the angst, anger, grief, sarcastic remarks are all being dusted off and will be applied to the contestant tonight. Haha.

The night was mostly uneventful, but that's not shocking by any means. I mean, the show's momentum and buzz got lost when the good singers  got eliminated early in the competition. But then again, what do I know. 

So, I’m going to structure the review a bit differently tonight as I will go round by round and offer my opinions before calling a winner for that round and then at the end of it all, I'll give my final prediction for tomorrow's announcement.

Here we go!

X Factor Philippines Wrap-Up: 15 Best Performances

Today is X Factor Philippines Finale and yes, it was quite the season. And just like the other things that I blog here, I like to always end my "writing season" with a list of the Top 15 performances of the season. It didn't take me a long time to carve down a long list of songs into my final Top 15 - just because there aren't that many -  but whatever. I'll post my Top 15 and discuss why I think the performance deserves to be remembered.

So, without further ado..

Here are the TOP 15 Best Live Performances of X Factor Philippines Season 1:

Movie Review: Taken 2

In 2008, Taken, a no nonsense, kick the crap out of everyone who gets in your way action movie was released and became a surprise critical and box-office hit for a seemingly generic action flick. I thought it was one of the best action films I've seen in recent memory, but I figured that there's no justification that existed in the original story to merit a sequel. Yes, the action sequences here were very well shot, it maintained the fight choreography that was bone crushingly good, it's still brutal and stylish and Liam Neeson, yet again, managed to perfectly portray his role as THE Bryan Mills. However, I felt like the set up seemed a little force and ironically, too convenient that I almost didn't feel the danger. Plus, the villain has no character whatsoever. No, Taken 2 wasn't offensively bad - it's actually a good action film on it's own and a fairly enjoyable throwaway - but compared to the original, this one was a little underwhelming.

X Factor US 2: Boot Camp Part 2

.. and I thought I was watching The Voice's Battle Round. Haha.

Last season, this part of the competition was awful - so I was pretty skeptical - but this was actually a pretty entertaining episode. I honestly could've used two hours of this instead of one. I like that they didn't eliminate one person in the duet directly after the performance like The Voice.

Anyway, let's get on with the recap no?

Music Premiere: Skyfall - Adele

Check out the new James Bond theme song Skyfall sung by the possibly the biggest artist today, Adele. The movie is due to premiere on October 23, 2012 in the United States.

This song has that classic James Bond sound that's rousing, anthemic and lush. I like how they incorporated the James Bond trademark of the slow building crescendo that transitions to the bridge with the accompanying orchestra. The verses are lovely and the final seconds of the song is gorgeous. Of course, Adele sounds impeccable. This woman can do no wrong no?

Listen to the song after the jump!

X Factor US 2: Boot Camp Part 1

To be honest, I didn't really know how to cover Boot Camp as they just play people in snippets and whatnot. But I will try my best to recap everyone as much as possible.

Overall, I enjoyed the episode. There were less drama and more singing - though not exactly good singing. Haha. As for the editing, it's a shame that the show are really setting up some of these people with terrible edits. Some got clean edits, but the others, not so much. Oh, and Britney Spears was absolutely spot on. She's turning out to be a legit judge.

Let's get on with the recap.

Glee Season 4: The Break Up Preview (Episode 4)

Check out a preview of Glee's next episode entitled, The Break Up. Yes, they went there. Ha!

Aside from the fact that The Break Up has the best set of songs in recent memory, I think that this episode will be just as good. I've had my heart ripped out of my stomach and torn into a million pieces by just watching the preview. Ok, that's a little melodramatic, but you know what I mean. Genuinely interested for whats to come in this episode. Glee Season 4 is turning out to be a good season after all.

Movie Review: Hotel Transylvania

Hotel Transylvania may not be the best animated film ever, but it's quite entertaining. Visually, the film was stunning. The colors were vibrant, I found the animation to be really crisp and had a certain vivid visual style. I also like the character designs, which actually reminded me of Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs. I'd like to think that, somehow, the good visuals compensated for the film's shortcomings because the success of it's humor were erratic and the story was very predictable. I have no problems with a formulaic flicks because if done right it can easily lead to an enjoyable film. However, for a genre that had set the bar ridiculously high, I'm not so sure if it can even be at par. But I digress.

Music Premiere: Red - Taylor Swift

That's right, another Taylor Swift single! Apparently, during the four weeks preceding the debut of her new album, Red, one track will be released digitally on iTunes as promo single. This week, she released her second promotional single entitled Red - same title as her album.

I must say, Red is possibly my favorite track off her upcoming record. We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together was catchy as heck, Begin Again was lovely, but this one has that replay value and stays in your head like a little earworm. The reverb electro effect, which almost seems like a vocal stutter, is a nice surprise and the bridge is particularly excellent. It also has an interesting blend of genres. It's clearly pop, but just as country as everything on country radio right now with the fiddle somewhere in there and some more banjo buried under the guitar solo. Not a BIG fan of Taylor Swift, but I can't get this out of repeat. Like, never. Haha.

Listen to the song after the jump!

Music Premiere: Locked Out Of Heaven - Bruno Mars

Check out Bruno Mars' lead single, Locked Out Of Heaven, off his sophomore album Unorthodox Jukebox set to be released on December 10, 2012.

At first listen, I admit that I was disappointed as the melody seemed weak for a Bruno Mars song, but it certainly has that retentive prowess - meaning, the song's a grower. I find the production really nice, it's original and non-generic. I definitely didn't expect this sound and I was bopping with the tune from the start to finish. Not as grandiose as Just The Way You Are or Grenade, but it evokes a vintage atmosphere that is typical Bruno Mars.

Listen to the song after the jump!

Movie Review: The Perks Of Being A Wallflower

It was shocking as to how much I adored this movie. The storyline was rich and simple yet emotionally powerful. The writing was brilliant and I find the soundtrack ridiculously awesome. Moreover, the characters were lovable, charming and painfully authentic. Thanks to the spectacular acting performances of Logan Lerman, who just blew me away, Emma Watson and Ezra Miller. All of them including the supporting cast did a masterful job with their roles. Clearly, I cannot praise this film enough as words cannot do justice for how good the film was. Simply put, the most earnest and emotional coming-of-age film I have ever seen, and yes, possibly one of the best movies this year. Enough said.

The Voice 3: Blind Auditions Part 8

.. and I thought we're done with the Blind Auditions! Haha. I'm exhausted after 8 episodes of this. To me, 16 people each judge is a little much to deal with. Heck, I don't even remember most of them and that's me who blogs about everything. Haha.

Oh, one more thing. All of these "different" artists in The Voice are starting to sound the same. It was interesting when we heard Dia Frampton, Xenia and even Lindsey Pavao in the past two seasons. But now, the "quirky" voices are dime a dozen and I'm beginning to miss the divas and the rockers. 

Anyway, let's go on with the blind auditions, shall we?

Glee Music 4: The Break Up (Episode 4)

Truth be told, I've never been more pleased with any Glee song set since Journey to Regionals. Possibly the strongest combination of songs the show had in a very long time. Not a dud in the bunch. When Glee does something right, it's freaking right!

Barely Breathing

While nothing spectacular, their cover of this Duncan Sheik tune is still quite nice. Blaine and Finn sounds good together and I like that it's a duet. It's just a little faster than I think it should be, but that's nitpicking already. 7.5/10

Don't Speak

Something about this isn't really working for me - maybe the amped up vocals of some drowning out the others and the uneven harmonies - but this still sounded way better than I expected. Never been a fan of this song to begin with, so whatever. 7/10

Give Your Heart A Break

A lot better than their first duet, A Change Would Do Good, as I feel Rachel and Brody's vocal chemistry here. The piano arrangement is lovely and the harmonies are great. Of course, Rachel sounds flawless, but I think Brody holds her own in this song as well. Good job. 8/10

Mine

STUNNING! Not entirely fan of this Taylor Swift song, but Santana turned it around for me. The acoustic arrangement is fantastic, she sounds sublime and I feel her in this song. Oh, and that bridge, awesome. Possibly one of my favorite Santana solos EVER. 9.5/10

Teenage Dream (Acoustic Version)

This song will kill us all! Haha. Yes, I adore Glee's original version of this Katy Perry song as an introduction to Blaine's character in Season 2, but I love this one WAY better. The piano arrangement serves well with Blaine's melancholic delivery of the words. I really appreciate the emotional depth he gives to it. It broke me and I died. 10/10

The Scientist

Admittedly, I was worried that this will be the biggest mess with all four couples singing in this Coldplay ditty - I love this song, mind you! - but I find it rather lovely. Everyone sounds amazing and the harmonies are gorgeous. I like that every single one has a different sound and it makes their cover surprsingly interesting. Plus, Brittany and Kurt sound exquisite in this song. 10/10

X Factor Philippines: Who Will Win?

We’ve reached the end of the road! Next week will be the Finale and we will watch Daddy's Home, Gabriel Maturan and KZ Tandingan face each other off in a quasi-epic head to head to head! Haha.

But the BIG question is, who will win the first season of X Factor Philippines?  I want to know what DAM NATION readers think. So yes, there's a poll that will run the whole week until October 7, 2012 at 5:00PM.