Head to Head

Aubrey Burnley gave a winning performance during this year’s Patriot Idol competition. She sung from the soul during her preliminary audition and captivated the audience.

The judges thought so too, complementing her control of a ‘surprising’ voice that never failed to entertain. It was clear, even in the preliminary round, she would make it to the finals.

One thing the judges didn’t like during the week were performers who accompanied their singing with instruments. Six of the 23 contestants used an instrument - mainly a guitar - and in each case the judges said they thought the performance would have been better without it. The judges believed an instrument detracted from their singing and overall ability.

Although the judges appeared fair and knowledgeable, sometimes their criticism was a little harsh. During the preliminaries the judges told some singers they chose the wrong song  — a song too much of a challenge for their ability — and suggested they “try something different.”

Although I agreed most of the time with the judges, I believe two specific singers were overlooked either as a finalist or as one of the top three performers. David Wilson made the top 10, on the judge’s list, but not mine.

Wilson played a medley on his guitar illustrating that many songs can be played with only four chords. The audience loved it and thought it was hilarious, but the judges weren’t extremely impressed with his singing skills.

Kori Konon had a strong voice and a good control performance. A judge even praised her having the “whole package.” When she sang “Beautiful,” that same judge remarked “when you sing that song you make me feel beautiful.” And yet Konon did not make it to the top three.

As for the venue - areas of the new  University Center - had its advantages and disadvantages. Preliminary rounds were held in the Sports Café, which was not a conducive environment. Two of the audition times were during lunchtime and people were being loud and it was hard to hear the background music, and sometimes, the singer.

The café seems like a good place since it is a high traffic area for students and giving the judges an opportunity to view audience reaction. The center’s ballroom where the finals were conducted gave the competition a more professional feel.

The audience was one of the best parts of the competition especially when the music excited them and they cheered for their favorites.