American Idol Season 4 - The Showstoppers Reviews

• Tomorrow's Stars Today or just marketing schmootz?

  
  By A1FXPZ5K1C1NBY on 2005-05-26
  The AI phenomenon leaves me deeply, deeply conflicted. What's bad is that it's by nature a multi-week karaoke competition in which contestants are scolded for singing anything too far from the mainstream (just ask Nadia). The show is more interested in who'll move more units at at Best Buy and Wal-Mart than in developing the next Dylan, Lennon (unless it's Julian), or Kurt Cobain. On the other hand, I prefer a good pop vocal to most (all?) Bob Dylan, and I really like a few of the singers on this disc.
  
  As I type this, there is less than an hour before we find out whether gorgeous, sweet Carrie can edge out gruff, hairy Bo to be this year's champ. I will be watching "Lost" because 1) the TV schedulers are sadists and 2) finishing second hardly hurt Clay Aiken's career. Here's my song-by-song, person-by-person review after having watched faithfully all season. In order of how they finished:
  
  1. (or 2) Carrie Underwood, "Independence Day": Much better here than last night's rendition. Carrie showed she could handle rock (great job on Heart's "Alone") but the AI machine will likely try and mold her as the next Faith or Shania. Carrie seems genuinely sweet and looked truly sad when most of the others were voted off. She also was visibly more nervous as the show wore on. She's a sweetie with a great voice and I hope she enjoys much success.
  
  2. (or 1) Bo Bice, "I Don't Want To Be." Bo slammed several songs out of the park this year and is the clear favorite of EVERY SECRETARY IN MY OFFICE (except my own, who's a guy). His "Spinning Wheel" and "Vehicle" were better, but including a newer song on the CD makes sense. Now the bad news. The show's clear bias towards him was ridiculous: he was always first or second in those Ford commercials, and if I had a dollar for each time Randy drooled about AI finally having a "real" rocker I could retire. But Bo showed real class the week Seacrest asked him to pick a group to stand with (one "safe", one "endangered") and he stood in the middle. (See Scott and Constantine, below, for the WRONG way to handle the situation.)
  
  3. Vonzell Solomon, "Best of My Love." When "The Vonz" (Seacrest and his nicknames; but "Scotty the Body"?) took on this Emotions scorcher, Simon correctly called it her first memorable performance. Vonzell was inconsistent but at her best was absolute dynamite (this song, "Don't Leave Me This Way", and "Chain of Fools"). Personally, I preferred Nadia. And I don't know what was up with the crying the week she beat out...
  
  4. Anthony Federov, "Every Time You Go Away." I was so glad this kid made the top four. I think he was the best pure singer on the show this year, but the producers didn't want to risk the show being seen as a Clay Aiken factory. To me, "A-Fed" seemed to care as much about pop music as he did about being a star, and his continued enthusiasm in the face of lukewarm reviews from Randy, Paula and (gosh) Simon showed it. He did go overboard with the adult-pop ballads, but consider: those songs are harder to sing than rock, and if you screw up there's no grinding guitars to hide behind. I hope the AI machine lets Anthony make a CD. He really deserves the chance. And what was with Paula unprofessionally crying and hugging Constantine's family the week Anthony outlasted him in the dreaded Bottom Two? Paula, what message did that convey to Anthony and his family? Not cool. Nice moment: Ryan calling Anthony "a class act" after he was voted out.
  
  5. Scott Savol, "Against All Odds." To look at him, you'd never guess this guy could do really good impressions of Luther Vandross and Freddie Jackson. The Phil Collins warhorse used here had special meaning to Scott, but do the rest of us need another version of it? I REALLY hated how Scott and Constantine, unlike Bo, took Seacrest's bait and stood with Bo and Carrie, leaving Anthony and Vonzell (who ended up outlasting both of 'em) on the other side like a couple of losers. The next week, he actually thought he was "safe" sitting with Anthony while Vonzell was left standing and they hadn't got to Bo and Carrie yet [if you don't watch, AI ritually tortures the kids like this before revealing who's eliminated each week]. I also think Scott screwed his partners over in the early going when they everybody audition in groups of three. Whew. Yet, he managed to outlast...
  
  6. Constantine Maroulis, "My Funny Valentine." I also cringed at this guy's mugging for the camera and that damn "call me" hand signal every week when they showed his vote-in phone numbers. That said, his version of this true classic is brilliant. I missed the week he did it on the air (I think it was--ugh---"Broadway Week"), but "Yo, dog, I gotta give you props. This was da bomb!" Constantine also did a fantastic job on "I Can't Make You Love Me" that deserves release someday.
  
  7. Anwar Robinson, "A House Is Not a Home." Can someone be too nice? Somehow I never warmed up to Anwar. Neither did RandyPaulaSimon, who kept noting his "technical" skills but seemed to want more emotional punch in his performances. I hope that was the reason for his fairly early exit, and not his non-rumor-squelching song choices by Dionne Warwick and Chaka Khan. This Dionne/Bacharach-David classic was among Anwar's best.
  
  8. Nadia Turner, "You Don't Have To Say You Love Me." I absolutely loved Nadia, and this Dusty Springfield song was her most, well, showstopping performance. The ex-cheerleader with the wild 'do deserved to go much farther than this. The judges' faulting her for a fine job on an obscure song (Crystal Gayle's "When I Dream") exposes AI's biggest flaw--familiarity over innovation. Sigh.
  
  9. Nikko Smith, "Part-Time Lover". Nice Stevie Wonder imitation by the son of pro baseball player Ozzie Smith. Nikko made the top twelve when Mario Vazquez abruptly quit. By finishing in the Top Ten he gets to tour. Still, I didn't find him as good as...
  
  10. Jessica Sierra, "Total Eclipse of the Heart." This spectacular version of a spectacular song seemed to guarantee local (to me; she's from Tampa) talent Jessica a long run on the show. But the next week she was gone. Snotty Simon hurt her chances by comparing her unfavorably to Carrie.
  
  11. Mikalah Gordon, "God Bless the Child." Not the strongest singer but oy, such a personality! Nothing this side of Mary Roach was funnier than her warning Simon that he had to take her to her prom if she didn't make it through to the top 24. Mikalah may be my favorite all-around performer in the group, even though she's been dissed by the message boards, Billboard, and even Amazon. Like Anthony, she showed a real love of pop music. A mike disaster screwed her up on "Son of a Preacher Man", but she really shined on songs ranging from "Somewhere" to "Young Hearts Run Free" to this slow-burning classic most associated with Billie Holiday. By a 17-year-old! The fade is screwed up though (not Mikalah's fault). The youngest of the top 12, Mikalah was not helped by the three judges alternately advising her to be "sassy and fun" yet "adult and mature". Then they criticized her lack of a consistent style! I hope this girl makes it big. I definitely hope she gets to make a record.
  
  12. Lindsay Cardinale, "Knock On Wood." Odd choice, since this is the song Simon said would make thousands of viewers turn the volume down and then Lindsay was eliminated. I think Lindsay sings it very well; my problem with it was that it was "Sixties Week" but she did the (1979) Amii Stewart disco version rather than the Eddie Floyd original. Well, that and the awful job by the AI band.
  
  As for the "ensemble" version of "When You Tell Me That You Love Me", it seems that the leads of the "bottom four" were erased to allow the "top eight" more lines. This may have been done because only eight were left to perform it when its choice as a single was announced on the air. Officially, all 12 are credited as "background vocalists". Still, I wish they'd kept all 12 leads on the released version.
  
  How many of these people will become stars? How many will get to have hit songs? And how many, given a choice, would kick Simon Cowell right in the Well, we're out of time. Bo or Carrie? Carrie or Bo? Still a half-hour to go...
  
  P.S.: guess there will be an office full of pissed-off secretaries tomorrow. Congratulations to Carrie! (Bo will be fine, trust me. Both are set to have CDs out by September or October.)
  
  
  

• Superb

  
  By A2ZK6TN9X2L606 on 2005-05-19
  First let me say some of the reviewers don't seem to be American Idol fans. If you're not, this CD isn't supposed to be for you, so who gives a rip what you think of it? You can give your snooty, artsy critiques on it but it's not for you, it's for fans of these singers.
  
  In regards to some of these reviews being "a little mixed up"..I agree, but make sure yours isn't before you say that. It's Jessica Sierra, not Jessica Turner. I also agree with the reviewers who say the music (as opposed to the vocals) screws this thing up worse than it should. As for why certain better songs were not selected for certain singers, I think they picked for themselves but I don't know. Keeping in mind that we are ALL biased in who we like and don't like and that it ALWAYS clouds our reviews, here is my take.
  
  1. Carrie-Independence Day: 8.5/10. Very excellent but I am sick of hearing her sing this. She's done it at least twice on the show. Like everyone else, I think she should have done "Alone" but perhaps they couldn't get the rights to do it for the CD.
  
  2. Bo-I Don't Wanna Be: 9/10. This is way too new for Bo to do, but he rocks out with it. Better by far than Gavin DeGraw.
  
  3. Vonzell-The Best of My Love: 7/10. Unfortunately, thanks again to the music and not the singing, this is the most karaoke track on the CD. Vonzell sounds great though.
  
  4. Anwar-A House is Not a Home: 10/10. THIS kind of performance is what we needed to see and hear from Anwar on the show.
  
  5. Nadia-You Don't Have to Say You Love Me: 8/10. This band sucks. She is drowned out way too much and I think she should have done "The Power of Love" instead.
  
  6. Nikko-Part Time Lover: 9.9/10. Stevie Wonder he ain't but he rules with this song.
  
  7. Constantine-My Funny Valentine: 8/10. Can't tell if he's trying to be serious or tongue-in-cheek and again, I didn't like this particular song choice but I like him.
  
  8. Jessica SIERRA-Total Eclipse of the Heart: 10/10. She is much improved from the show on this.
  
  9. Anthony-Everytime You Go Away: 9/10. Sounds identical musically to Paul Young's version but Anthony puts his vocal signature on it.
  
  10. Scott-Against All Odds: 10/10. My favorite contestant so this is obvious. No, it doesn't sound like he has a lot of range, but the Phil Collins original version doesn't have a great deal of range, either, though a bit more than this. Several songs here sound nearly identical to the original, which is not a bad thing, and this is one of them.
  
  11. Lindsey-Knock on Wood: 8/10. Another case of someone being drowned out too much by the music, and this is the second most karaoke sounding song on the CD. I do love me some Lindsey though.
  
  12. Barfbag, aka Mikalah-God Bless The Child. -2/10. God bless the technology that allows one to skip over a track on a CD because this is absolutely putrid.
  
  13. Ensemble-When You Tell Me That You Love Me. 10/10. This sounds much better than when they did it on the show.
  
  

• Everyone loves a winner

  
  By A1IU7S4HCK1XK0 on 2005-06-02
  The AI phenom has me puzzled--and captivated. Last year, I couldn't have cared less. This year, we were GLUED to our seats, turning off the phone during performance night. Are the American Idol singers the best the country has to offer? Ha, no indeed. But the reason (I think) we love them so, is that they are US. You can pull your headphones off your Karaoke machine, head for Cleveland and end up in Hollywood braving the slings and arrows of Simon and get a huge record deal, concert tour and legions of fans. The drama and accessibility of the American Idol idea, plus this year's improved format made for some real-life excitement. And really, there was budding talent here, talent that with polish and experience, could make the singers on this album go places. So, what's to like here?
  
  
  
  1. The IDOL Carrie Underwood, "Independence Day" This big, if somewhat easy song shows Carrie at her true best and her roots. I preferred her stunning rendition of Heart's "When Can I Get You Alone" but "Independence Day" is her anthem. If she learns to emote her lyrics in future, Nashville and American won't be able to get enough of her.
  
  2. Bo Bice, "I Don't Want To Be." I heard the original a few days after I listened to Bo's version. He really made the words work, the song was better in his hands. A pro. He won't suffer having "lost" the AI contest, and this is truly one of his best from the contest. "Vehicle" was mushy in the final (was it that orchestra and the arrangement??) "I Don't Want to Be" is over all one of his three or four best performances. Good choice here.
  
  3. Vonzell Solomon, "Best of My Love." Believe it or not, a weak, wavery voice that tires (she's right to stop talking on performance day.) But a performer of great appeal, nonetheless. Madonna has a weak voice, and so what, who cares? With the right music, show backup and training to preserve her instrument, this gal has it all, and she looks like a sweetheart. What's not to like? This was one of her best as well.
  
  4. Anthony Federov, "Every Time You Go Away." Local favorite here, another weak voice except in the high range. This simple song makes the best of his pure tenor and hides the drop in the low register. His boyish good looks are made for the teen magazines. There's a singer for every age group and Anthony has his fans.
  
  5. Scott Savol, "Against All Odds." He does what he does well. Local clubs and concert venues will sell this guy out--he speaks to his constituents--city kids. I found him a surprise. Not particularly likeable, but brave and with an understanding of his niche that will serve him well years to come.
  
  6. Constantine Maroulis, "My Funny Valentine." I would have preferred the silly Partridge Family song, but this guy won me over with his fun attitude. Too much mugging for the camera got him canned. He did great in the final consolation snippet. Again another teen magazine idol. Wish he'd wised up sooner.
  
  7. Anwar Robinson, "A House Is Not a Home." Easily the best voice of the year. A music teacher, too. But his intellectual approach to music limited his appeal, as did his weak low range. Yeah, it's possible to belt out a high note if you've got pipes, but breath control and muscle control are needed for the full range. So go get it, Anwar. His beautiful looks and fine highs made me want more, but he has a way to go. I hope he does go there. The audience was right to eliminate him when they did; singing is not an intellectual exercise. But I missed him when he left the show. I was hoping "Moon River" would be on here, but "House" was just as good a choice to listen to.
  
  The rest are good choices of the early elimination rounds, Mikalah (whose quirky, husky voice puzzled me), Nadia, who has performance and acting ability more than vocal prowess, and Nikko Smith, who has potential and originality. If you, as I do, miss the Fourth Season of American Idol now that it's finished, this will bring back fond memories. A delightful, varied album, worth listening to.
  
  

• Actually 4 & 1/2 stars! :)

  
  By ATSWIYN2BJDVP on 2005-05-20
  I am a big fan of American Idol, and I have watched the show since season one. I think everyone sounded good on this cd, except for Mikalah (nice personality, but a boring voice) and Lindsey (cute to look at, but a TERRIBLE voice). It is a relief that this season has been SO MUCH BETTER than season three. I would be happy to spend my hard-earned dollars on individual cd's from the likes of Bo, Carrie, Constantine, Nadine, Anwar, Vonzell, Nikko, and I might even spend some dough on a cd from Jessica, Scott and Anthony. After the disaster of season three (except for Diana DeGarmo and George Huff), the producers of American Idol may have regained some respect for the show. I can't wait until the individual cd's come out to see how successful everyone will be on the Billboard charts.
  
  Oh, and one footnote... I really like both idol finalists this year (Carrie and Bo), but I do hope that Carrie wins; I love the sound of her voice.
  
  In my opinion though, Bo and Carrie both win this year, as this is the first year where the two finalists are equally talented.
  
  Season 1: I liked Kelly Clarkson and Tamyra Gray, and Kelly won.
  Season 2: I liked Clay Aiken and Kimberly Caldwell, and Clay came in second!
  Season 3: I liked George Huff and Diana DeGarmo, and Diana came in second.
  Season 4: I have liked Carrie since her first audition. I also like Bo and Constantine. I think the rock influence has been a plus for American Idol, as it has breathed some life back into the show.
  
  Anyway, we'll see who wins this year.....
  
  

• Anwar gives stongest performance

  
  By A3S0OBTC94753C on 2005-05-18
  Several other good ones' Bo, Nadia, Vonzell and by far that was Scot's best vocals all season, but Anwar's voice and musical skills, just outstanding. He's the reason to buy the CD. Can't wait until he has his own CD out. WOW, that will be something!
  
  
• Anwar Robinson makes this cd worth the purchase price.
  By A3FDSWHRWS34HR on 2005-05-17
  I gave this cd a five-star review because there are a number of very good performances on the cd. Anwar Robinson has undoubtedly turned in the best performance on this cd with "A House Is Not A Home". He has taken the song, added his own style to it, caressed it with his beautiful voice and turned it into an Anwar Robinson song. Other performances of mention are by Nadia Turner, Jessica Sierra and Nikko Smith. Anthony Federov's is very good also, but a real surprise for me is the performance by Scott Savol. His performance is very pleasant to listen to as well. The rest of the group give performances which will likely please their fan base. All in all, the performances by Anwar, Nadia, Anthony, Scott, Jessica and Nikko make this cd one of the better American Idol cd's.
  
  
• Great but not really
  By A6E9INH9E2SC0 on 2005-05-20
  First things first. I have been watching American Idol and this show really mesmerizes me everytime. I get so excited whenever i watch each episode since nobody can really tell which contestant will be eliminated every week. My favorites from among the ten are (in no particular order): constantine, bo bice, anthony, and Vonzell. Honestly, these talents are the most unique and most talented in this batch. Carrie has been a consistent favorite, i just don't know why . . but you know, her talent and singing voice is very, very common. Here in the Philippines, whenver you watch a singing competition, 8 out of 10 contestants would simply sound like her, not that they're imitating Carrie (she's not popular here, anyway). Simply put it, she's not of distinct quality and talent at all. And you could have seen her perform "If you dont know me by now." Gosh! I wonder why America still voted for her. If i am to rank the contestants - - Bo Bice, Vonzell, Constantine, Anthony/Carrie .. . When i found out that this season's American Idol has released an album, i quickly opened Amazon.con to check on the songs included. I was soooooooooo disappointed . . . the song selections are not worth my collection. Needless to say, i decided not to buy . . .
  
  
• Fun but only a few shine!
  By AGZ5KXEEIDM8Y on 2005-05-17
  Die hard fans of this season's AI competition will undoubtedly love this mixed bag of well known tunes. For the most part, the performances range from pleasant to easily forgetable and all but a few of the well produced tracks will stay with you for more than the duration of the play time. Bo's treatment of "I Don't Want to Be" and Carrie's rendition of 'Independence Day' were particulary lack luster and disappointing; hard to imagine after all the hype given these two favorites by the judges this year. But one gem of a performance can be found in Anwar Robinson's treatment of the classic "A House is Not a Home," the only truly memorable selection of the lot; and boy is it! Each week Anwar was described by the judges as the best singer in the competition and his amazing vocal prowess and versatily really shine through in this breathaking rendition...bluesy, sexy, sultry,...UNforgetable!!! I'd buy the CD for this track alone! Hopefully we'll be hearing more from the very talented Mr. Robinson in the future. Make it soon, Anwar! Your fans are waiting!
  
  
• Showstoppers CD Review
  By AEFGO3PC95QA4 on 2005-05-17
  Overall all of the performances are good. Anwar Robinson's performance of "A House is Not a Home" is simply outstanding! It is heartfelt, soulful and sultry. It is definitely worth purchasing.
  
  
• Anwar Heart And Soul
  By A3NRYVYNJKC2GN on 2005-05-17
  
  If you're in love, had a fight with your lover, or wandering what it would be like to be in love. Anwar Robinson has captured the essence of love, from his heart and soul with this song, A House Is Not A Home.
  His vocals are clear and hypnotic. I love his rendition of the song. I can't wait until he has a CD on the market.
  
  
  
• More Constantine!!!
  By AWSX4IU9BNZS9 on 2005-05-17
  I enjoyed this CD and it is definitely worth the money for anyone who follows Idol! My only complaint is that it's too short! My favorite is Constantine and believe he was voted off too soon! He has the most appeal and showmanship! Also like Carrie, a good old-fashioned country girl! Enjoy!
  
  
• 5 STARS FOR CONSTANTINE MAROULIS
  By A2MITYZYD83IE5 on 2005-05-17
  Dear A.I.
  
  My A.I. Season 4 CD seems to be missing a few tracks...namely
  
  "Bohemian Rhapsody"
  "I Can't Make You Love Me"
  "I Think I Love You" and
  "Kiss From a Rose"
  
  Can you fix that?
  Thanks and Peace,
  KAT
  
  
  
• A lot of tallent!
  By ATLM6LTMHMNN9 on 2005-05-20
  AMERICAN IDOL SEASON 4 ~ THE SHOWSTOPPERS
  REVIEW
  
  American Idol, Season 4, has been filled with immense talent and star-potential. Not to mention some unexpected twists! This CD starts off with Carrie Underwood's Independence Day, an excellent, country-flared rendition, in which Carrie shows off her strong set of pipes, and winner potential. Next is Bo Bice's rendition of the Gavin DeGraw song I Don't Wanna Be, on which he does an energetic and fun job! He definitely has a star quality that so many people lack. 3rd is Vonzell's version of the classic Best of My Love. Vonzell always adds fun and energy to her performances and this one is no exception. Honestly, I am not a huge fan of Anwar Robinson, whose rendition of A House is not a Home leaves a lot to be desired in my opinion. Nadia Turner's You Don't Have To Say You Love Me is in one word Brilliant! This song shows why she had a run at the idol title! I am not a fan of Nikko's rendition of Part-Time Lover, on which the vocals cannot be given anything higher than a five out of ten, as judge Randy Jackson would say "it was just aiight man." My Funny Valentine by the inarguably good performer Constantine Maroulis is top-notch, and possibly my favorite track on the album, on the song Constantine really shows his versatility and talent, and why he was wrongly eliminated earlier in the competition. Jessica's `Total Eclipse of the Heart' is very dramatic and overly produced, but has the ability to give someone chills. Her voice is very pure and powerful, a definite favorite of mine on the CD! Anthony Fedorov's Every Time You Go Away proves that he has far more potential than Season 2's Runner-up Clay Aiken, his voice is fun and pure! This is probably the most fun track on the CD! What can I say about Scott Savol? He is just another Marvin Gaye wannabe. His version of Against All Odds isn't too bad, but it just falls flat in parts, he definitely didn't deserve to make it all the way to 5th place (or into the top 12 for that matter!) Lindsey Cardinale, the first to be eliminated from the top 12, does her best with Knock On Wood - and how good is her rendition? It shows off Lindsey's deep vocals in a fun and energetic way. This is one of those tracks that you either love or hate - and personally, I love it. Mikalah Gordon, a personal favorite of mine, sings God Bless the Child in a moving and beautiful way! As Mikalah might say it's "FABULOUS!" And finally, When You Tell Me that You Love Me, the group song, just reinforces the talent of Bo, Carrie and Constantine, while several other contestants are left in the dust - however, it's a great song!
  
  1. Independence Day - Carrie Underwood 9.7 #5
  2. I Don't Want to Be - Bo Bice 9.8 #3
  3. Best of My Love - Vonzell Solomon 9.7 #6
  4. House Is Not a Home - Anwar Robinson 8.4 #10
  5. You Don't Have to Say You Love Me - Nadia Turner 9.9 #1
  6. Part-Time Lover - Nikko Smith 7.8 #12
  7. My Funny Valentine - Constantine Maroulis 9.8 #4
  8. Total Eclipse of the Heart - Jessica Sierra 9.9 #2
  9. Everytime You Go Away - Anthony Fedorov 9.0 #8
  10. Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now) - Scott Savol 6.5 #13
  11. Knock on Wood - Lindsey Cardinale 8.0 #11
  12. God Bless the Child - Mikalah Gordon 8.8 #9
  13. When You Tell Me That You Love Me 9.3 #7
  
  
  
• Buy if you're a Nadia, Constantine, Bo, or Anwar fan....
  By A33ENNP5CQJYPX on 2005-05-23
  Carrie Underwood - "Independence Day" Three days before the finale, and an English (dated 5-22-05) paper is declaring that Carrie Underwood is already the winner of AI4. Telepathic, I guess. Anyway I guess it's just a coincidence that her song leads off this disc, and it's okay if you're into that country sort of thing. I don't get all of Carrie's appeal, she has the stage presence of one of the Lennon Sisters on the Lawrence Welk Show, and her vocals on the disc aren't as strong as they seemed on the show. But diehard Carrie-addicts will be happy with "Independence Day". I would just as soon hear Martina McBride sing it. 7/10
  
  Bo Bice rocks with the best of Southern rockers, and his version of "I Don't Want To Be" sounds just as good on this as it did the night he performed it. He does this sort of music justice, but I would still like to hear him sing a "real" 70's dance song. When Bo puts out a solo CD, I'm going to buy it. 9/10
  
  Vonzell Solomon's rendition of "Best of My Love" is good, not great. Her vocals are good, but this isn't my favorite style of music so I think that sort of clouds my opinion. 7/10
  
  Anthony Federov attempts to sing Darryl Hall's "Everytime You Go Away". It's okay, but I still prefer Darryl Hall singing this one. I'm not sure that Anthony will be able to sustain a career outside of Idol. 6/10
  
  Nadia Turner's version of "You Don't Have To Say You Love Me" may be the jewel of this CD, along with Constantine's "Funny Valentine". Why on earth did this fantastic vocalist have to leave so soon? Her voice is strong and beautiful on this track, and it's one that I play over and over again. She even knows how to move when she's onstage, she has the looks, and the talent. I hope she gets the chance to record more. I'd definitely buy it! 10/10
  
  Constantine Maroulis' "My Funny Valentine" is sweet, sexy, and definitely swoon-worthy. I have no idea why Idol let this guy leave so soon, and I bet they're kicking themselves right now. Anyone who has heard his performances from "Rent" can vouch for the fact that this guy has the pipes to sing, and he can sing with the best of them. "My Funny Valentine" showcases Maroulis' versatility, which was inarguably the best of all of this year's cast. This man can sing any type of music, and can do a great job with it. This is another song that I hit the "repeat" button on the CD player and listen to over and over again. My only complaint is the last note of the song, it's "higher" than the rest of the song and sort of startles you when you first hear it. The producers of this song should have had Constantine record it again. When this guy releases his first solo project, I'll be first in line to purchase it. 9.7/10 (.3 of a point off for that last note.)
  
  Jessica Sierra - "Total Eclipse of the Heart". Jessica has a great voice, I only wish I liked this particular song. She does a good job vocally, and she's another one that left this show too soon. I think her vocals and versatility are greater than Carrie's, but the folks at AI apparently didn't agree. If you like this song, you will like Jessica's rendition of it. 8/10
  
  Scott Savol - "Against All Odds". I've never been able to listen to it all the way through.3/10
  
  Nikko Smith - "Part-Time Lover" I like Nikko, he's Ozzie's son, I'm a Cardinals fan, so he scores big with me for that alone. He does a decent job with this song, but it's nothing original. It sounds just like Stevie Wonder's version. I think "Georgia On My Mind" would have been a better song choice for this collection. 7/10
  
  Anwar Robinson - "A House Is Not a Home" WOW!!! I was surprised by this one. I wasn't a huge Anwar fan when he was on Idol, he was likeable, but I didn't care for his song choices, and I thought his vocals were a bit shaky at times. That problem doesn't exist with this recording. Anwar's voice is strong and clear, and this is one of the better performances on this disc. 9/10
  
  Lindsey Cardinale - "Knock on Wood". It's cute, but forgettable. Her vocals aren't particularly strong, but the track is lisentable. I think this song shows why she left the competition early after the Top 12 were selected. 5/10
  
  Mikalah Gordon - "God Bless the Child" The only thing I can compare this vocal to would be fingernails on a chalkboard. This is worse than Scott's song, and her thank-yous in the liner notes are as difficult to read as this song is to listen to. I'm thinking of making my kids listen to it as a form of punishment when they misbehave. At least they didn't use her rendition of "Somewhere". 2/10
  
  "When You Tell Me That You Love Me"...I find it strange that Carrie and Bo get a lot of the solo parts on this song, and the other songs from the American Red Cross CD, and that they were recorded a couple of months ago. It's hard to tell the difference between the vocals of the ladies, but the guys are definitely distinguishable. It's easy to listen to, and gives you something to look forward to after fast forwarding through Mikalah's song. 7/10
  
  A great effort for some, Nadia, Constantine, Bo, and Anwar. Good for a few others, Nikko, Carrie, Jessica, and Vonzell. Somewhat forgettable for Anthony and Lindsey. Particularly painful if you listen to Scott and Mikalah.
  
  
• I can't get enough of American Idol!
  By A263IOD054W67H on 2005-05-26
  I've been watching American Idol every season and have NEVER missed an epidode. All the contestants and winners are talented, and I have all the CDs from Kelly Clarkson, Justin Guarini, Ruben Studdard, Clay Aiken, Fantasia, and others. These singers are the creme de la creme of the finest of pop music. After all, they were selected by three very stern judges as well as the fickle American public. You have to get this CD to experience it. It is awesome.
  
  
• Seek and destroy.
  By A1B9ISLYYCHIVE on 2005-08-02
  Hoo boy. If there's one thing The Curmudgeon hates, it's reality television. And if there's one thing The Curmudgeon REALLY hates, it's these insipid talent shows.
  
  Honestly, who looks at this record and thinks, "I MUST own this"? I just don't get it. Oh, wait - I know who buys it - The Scum. That's what this easy listening, non-challenging garbage is aimed at - The Scum. The morons who love everything that's popular, will buy anything that they don't have to think about, adore everything that's put into their stupid empty heads.
  
  This isn't aimed at this particular "album", more the whole pop-idol/american idol/you'reanidiot idol thing. It's wretched, it's cheap TV and it's clogging MTV etc with sub-standard mawkish rubbish. And if YOU bought it, it's YOUR fault, and you can go to Hell.
  
  The_Curmudgeon_Hates_You@yahoo.co.uk
  
  
• Here's to you, Mr. Robinson.....
  By A19XXF0X77MH37 on 2005-05-17
  Thank you to Anwar Robinson who is the bright light of this compilation. The highlights include Anwar Robinson's breathtaking "A House is Not A Home," and Nadia Turner's "You Don't Have To Say You Love Me," and Vonzell Solomon's "Best of My Love." It's worth buying based on these tracks alone. The lowlights range from worse-than-the-original recordings (Bo Bice's attempt at Gavin McGraw), literal impersonations (Carrie Underwood's note-for-note emulation of Martina McBride), and train wrecks (Mikalah Gordon's God Bless This Child). Where talent is shaky and originality runs thin, hopefuls like Anwar Robinson, Nadia Turner, and Vonzell Solomon set themselves apart from the rest and rescue this cd from shifting into idle.
  
  
• a music/AI fan who is disappointed
  By A2RFVG8P7RRYJI on 2005-05-18
  This year's AI talent was quite spectacular...much much better than last year. HOWEVER....what is with this cd's choice of songs?
  These are NOT good songs...they're all very average, i would say....let me list the ppl who are good and deserve better songs:
  Carrie-sure, kind of fun song but it should have been "Bless the Broken Road"
  Anwar- what....the song that beats all is "What a Wonderful World"
  Vonzell- definately the Whitney Houston song that she sang...which catapulted her from avg singer to a new level
  Anthony-WHAT....this song sucks....he should have sung "I Surrender"...he is much better than this
  Nikko- should hv sung "Georgia on My Mind"
  Scott- surprisingly, he sounds very strong on this recording
  
  anyway...just an average compilation of songs....could hv sung songs which showcased their talent more
  
  
• Crossroads for Stardom
  By A3OUA3K55Y2BV on 2005-05-22
  While the prodigious Nadia Turner mellowed down on her sweet and sultry version of "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me", Carrie Underwood was busy regurgitating Martina's signature "Independence Day". Which does not hold a candle to the original version. You might find yourself clapping along to Vonzell Solomon's "Best of My Love", which captured just the right notions necessary to liven you up. Constantine Maroulis delivered a haunting rendition of "My Funny Valentine." Even ebullient Mikalah Gordon scored with her "God Bless the Child", which leaves you with a warm euphoria. Anwar Robinson maintained equipoise rather ironcially with a hypnotic, do derring selection, which helped to balance out the non impressive numbers, such as Lindsey Cardinale's "Knock on Wood." Scott Savol's "Against All Odds" took the song to a different dimension, provided life and experience from someone who had lived it. It definately changed my views of him as a vocalist. "Part Time Lover" seems pretty ideal for Nikko's fast paced vocal style. He definately pulled through on that song. Perhaps the most dissapointing outcome was with Anthony Federov's "Everytime you go away", which could put a baby to sleep. The Ensemble, being the last song on the CD, is quite humble, yet it sinks in after a while.
  
  In Depth Perception
  
  1. Carrie Underwood - Independence Day - Upon Listen you will immediately notice the undeniable similarity between her version and Martina's. It is nice throughout the song, she hits the notes, but struggles to keep a smooth pitch. 7/10
  
  2. Bo Bice - I Don't Wanna Be - After hearing Gavin DeGraw's version, i would have to say I prefer Bo's. This song is relatively consistant in vocal strength, but the song is tired. My suggestion would be to dump this track, Bo. 7/10
  
  3. Vonzell Solomon - The Best of My Love - The twisted revival of this song teems with liveliness. With such a roaring personage, there is no denying that Vonzell possesses just the right spirit to conquer this song. 9/10
  
  4. Anwar Robinson - A House is not a Home - Personally, this song is a favorite of mine. The lyrics are soul riveting. I do feel that Anwar missed the target a little bit, the vocals were a little forced, and his emotions were missconveyed. I will ,however, give him credit for a balanced tune. 7/10
  
  5. Nadia Turner - You Don't have to Say you Love Me - It is egregious that Miss Turner has beyond mastered this piece. Her vocals beam with flawless identity. In my opinion, the most impressive number on the album. 10/10
  
  6. Nikko Smith - Part Time Lover - Starting off with a pumpish old time beat, the song leaks into a very impressive vocal force. As the song continues, Nikko never loses power this power. The song was sung just the way it was supposed to be sung. 9/10
  
  7. Constantine Maroulis - My Funny Valentine - Spurring with mixed emotions you may find yourself perplexed when you hear a familiar voice. Maroulis found the passion in this song and redefined it. You'll hear a haunting rendition of this classic, and you won't believe your ears. 10/10
  
  8. Jessica Sierra - Total Eclipse of the Heart - The familiar beat gives you an immediate understanding of what you are listening to, you hope for something original. Once Jessica sings, the song regains its stamina , and you find just what you expected. I'm glad it was revived, I can now sing the lyrics again casually. Unarguably the most impressive performance from Jessica, she will be remembered for this. 9/10
  
  9. Anthony Federov - Everytime you Go Away - Starting off with a dull sounding beat, you want to go to the next track already, lets assume you listen furthur. You hear a voice lacking immediate strength. Perhaps the song builds in reason... but the repetitive lyrics are nothing if not cheesy. The song is soporific. 6/10
  
  10. Scott Savol - Against All Odds - During the show, I was not impressed at all with Scott's vocals. I do have to say, after re-evaluating him, he does have a great recording voice. He sung this song well, with experience, passion, and control. One of my favorite songs on the CD. 9/10
  
  11. Lindsey Cardinale - Knock on Wood - Starting off with a wretched missbeat, Cardinale fails to nail the appropriate notes at the appropriate times. Her voice just seems to be all over the place. Although she tries to copy the original, unlike Carrie, she can't. 5/10
  
  12. Mikalah Gordon - God Bless the Child - Beginning strongly, I had high hopes. Through the song, Mikalah begins to butcher the golden points of the song. I do like that she at least puts herself into it. I have to say I am guilty of listening to this more times then it really deserves. 7/10
  
  13. Ensemble - When You Tell Me that you Love Me - Using semi flawless correction, what is not to like about a perfect song. My only slight reservation is that it only outlines a few of the contestants voices, the rest are hidden within the backround music and the other singers. 9/10
  
  
  
• Terrific CD By The Season Four American Idol Finalists
  By A2BB3JDNXPUZGX on 2005-08-09
  This is one great CD with all twelve singers from American Idol Season Four doing a great job. Lindsey Cardinale and Mikalah Gordon surprise with their excellent vocals. The Ensemble performance of "When You Tell Me That You Love Me" clearly displays what excellent vocalists all twelve singers are.
  
  Highly Recommended!!!!!!!!!
  
  Also Recommend:
  "Blue Skies" - Diana DeGarmo
  "Measure Of A Man" - Clay Aiken
  
  
• Carrie Underwood Rocks!
  By A1DF8GWWF737NW on 2005-05-17
  I think that this cd is the best yet from the american idol season cd's. all of the artists did an amazing job on their song but in my opinion Carrie Underwood has the best voice on the cd she is such an awesome singing voice. If you buy this cd you will most likely be pleased. It is worth the money that you will be spending.
  
  
• Anwar Robinson at the top
  By A252WOKDNOHFWZ on 2005-05-18
  This was one of the best American Idol cd's. Anwar Robinson was by far the best followed by Bo Bice and Nadia Turner. Great job, it's a lot of fun to listen to.
  
  
• Mikalah & Nikko own the album
  By A3Q1FM01P15Q5F on 2005-05-18
  I think this is the weirdest collection of reviews... some of you seem to have it a little mixed up.
  
  The best person on this CD is Nikko Smith! I loved his song and he can do Stevie really well. I totally enjoyed it.
  
  And whether you people like her or not, the next best song was MIKALAH GORDON's God Bless the Child. If you would open your minds and not remember her awful Taylor Dayne rendition, you'd be able to acknowledge her on this song.
  
  The album loses a star for stupid Bo Bice who did a really awful Gavin Degraw impression. Come ON, Bo. That song just came out. What are you thinking?
  
  Also for Carrie "Deer In Headlights" Underwood. I generally like her, but what is with this hick song?? It's like country bumpkin infused with random false patriotism. Weird!
  
  I like Anthony Federov and I like his song. Lindsey Cardinale and Nadia Turner were also good. Scott Savol was fine, but his range annoyed me because he seems to have none.
  
  Vonzell (AS ALWAYS) is very good and very fun. I love her... I hope she wins the whole thing.
  
  Jessica Turner's Total Eclipse of the Heart was a little weird, but not "bad." Constantine chose a song that I couldn't stand when he did it on the show, so I really am not impressed. Not gonna lie: I always turn it off halfway through.
  
  Lastly... and I like Anwar, I do... but... this album was supposed to be "Showstoppers." When he did A House Is Not A Home, if the show stopped it would have been because it sucked, not because it was hot. What is he thinking?? You can't be Tamyra! No one yet has been able to own that song. That's Tamyra's song! He should have done "What A Wonderful World".
  
  So, eh. It's only got 4 stars for the few people who are worth the buy. Some people are real disappointments.
  
  
• Here come the showstoppers!!
  By A3FBGZ4E6KGIW2 on 2005-05-29
  I am a huge fan of AI. I think this is one of the best seasons so far. There was a lot of newly found talent this time around. Instead of writing about what songs would have been better for the Idols to sing on this particular CD, I'm going to rate the songs that are here with my unbiased opinion (I do have my favorites, of course..but unbiased is the way to go)
  
  1. Independence Day - Carrie Underwood=I think she did great on this song. Carrie can really belt it out, I'm not surprised that she won this season. 10/10
  
  2. I Don't Want to Be - Bo Bice=Good song choice. Bo is an excellent rocker. 9/10
  
  3. Best of My Love - Vonzell Solomon=I think Vonzell was holding back a little with her vocals at the beginning, but she really brought it home on this one overall. I like the song choice and I love her voice. 9.5/10
  
  4. A House Is Not A Home - Anwar Robinson=Anwar's voice is smooth and very consistent. This song is no exception. 9/10
  
  5. You Don't Have To Say You Love Me- Nadia Turner=This was another good song choice. She went home too early. 9/10
  
  6. Part-Time Lover- Nikko Smith=This is one of my favorite tracks on here. It's the perfect song for him, his vocals are wonderful. He also left too early. 10/10
  
  7. My Funny Valentine- Constantine Maroulis=As much as I love to hear Constantine rock out, this was still a nice song for him to sing. I like the softer side of him as well. He certainly got cheated. 9/10
  
  8. Total Eclipse Of The Heart- Jessica Sierra=This was another good choice, I love the song. Jessica has a powerful voice that I think was overlooked a lot of times. 9/10
  
  9. Everytime You Go Away- Anthony Fedorov=I think this wasn't a very good choice for Anthony, it didn't showcase his talent enough. He can really sing, I've heard it on other selections from the show. 8/10
  
  10. Against All Odds (Take A Look At Me Now)- Scott Savol=I was never a fan of his, but I do think this was a good choice for him. It's hard to take on a Phil Collins song, but he did fairly well. 8/10
  
  11. Knock on Wood - Lindsey Cardinale=Her vocals were too drown out here. This wasn't a very good choice of tune, I think a slow song would have done her more justice. 7/10
  
  12. God Bless the Child - Mikalah Gordon=I was surprised here. I never like Mikalah's voice on the show, but this is good. It's a good choice, her notes sound smoother. Much improvement. 9/10
  
  13. When You Tell Me That You Love Me - American Idol Finalists - Season 4 - I do agree that some of the individual vocals were lost in the background, but altogether, they blend well. This is one of the best group songs they did this season, in my opinion. 8/10
  
  Overall, I think each track is pretty listenable, despite the flaws that I have noted here. If you are a fan of American Idol, I wouldn't miss this one. If you aren't, you may be interested, but I think in a lot of cases, probably not.
  
  -A review from someone that has actually heard the CD all the way through
  
  
  
• awsome season
  By A3QW77D9A3QHGZ on 2005-05-30
  first i have to say that this is by far the best season where i think everyone (with the exception of mikalah) in the top 12 could get a record deal!!!! way to go america! we finally got it right this year.
  not sure what the correct song order it is so i'll do it in the order in which they left
  
  Carrie(Independence Day) - amazing job! she definatly deserved to win even though i wanted a boy to win this year but she was without doubt the best singer. should've sang "Could've Been" or "Alone" 10/10
  
  Bo(I Don't Wanna Be) - he did awsome also, and he really surprised me by making it this far because i thought he was gonna go like the first week in the top 24 but wow!!! he still should have done either "Spinning Wheel", "I'll Be" or "Vehicle" 10/10
  
  Vonzell(The Best of my Love) - no idea why she did this song even though it was the start of amazing performances from her. she also surprised me by making it as far as she did but she deserved to also. should've done "Let's Hear it for the Boy" or "I Have Nothing" 8/10
  
  Anthony(Every Time You Go Away) - another surprise because after he was still on the show after "The Way You Look Tonight" and "Climb Every Mountain" i was very mad because he was the worst, but..... after this song (which by the way was unbelievable), he deserved to be in the top four because he kepted getting better and better. definately pure. sang the absolute right song! 10/10
  
  Scott(Against All Odds) - without doubt my favorite because he's the big white guy who you would never expect to make it in singing, but he is really good. he was very caring and seemed like one of the nicest people you could ever meet. i liked "Everlasting Love" more but this was the best choice for him on the CD 10/10
  
  Constantine(My Funny Valentine) - definately the greatest performer and he was very fun to watch and i was shocked when he left, but this season was just so hard to choose. anyway, he did a great job with this song even though it was a bit boring but all i care about is that he sings it very well. should've sang "Bohemian Rhapsody" or "I Can't Make You Love Me" 9/10
  
  Anwar(A House is Not a Home) - definatly the nicest person you've ever met! his voice was very tender and pure and his big notes just blow people away. this was not my favorite song by him but was still home. he kind of deserved to go home at that time but definatly not after that song!! i thought that was his best perfomance without a doubt! should've sang either "What's Going On" "What a Wonderful World" or "September"
  9/10
  
  Nadia(You Don't Have to Say You Love Me) - fun, enjoyable, good singer, left at the right time, didn't really care for her that much like the other contestants. it's not like i didn't like her because i did but i just wasn't that excited when she came up to sing like the other ones. right choice of song and she did very well with it 9.5/10
  
  Nikko(Part Time Lover) - first off, SOOOO glad he came back on the show even though mario was better but i didn't really notice that mario was supposed to be singing when nikko was. i didn't really notice how good he was until i heard his songs more than just on the night he sang them. picked a good song but should've sang "Can We Talk" or "Incomplete" 10/10
  
  Jessica(Total Elclipse of the Heart) - SHOCKED when she left in just the 3RD WEEK!!!! she was so much better than everyone else besides bo and carrie. anyway she did amazing with this song and shouldn't have sung anything else 10/10
  
  Mikalah(God Bless the Child) - terrible, no idea how she even made the top 24 let alone hollywood, has no singing ability, sounds the same and is too cocky and she acts all confident around the judges which made her worse in the top 12 because they for some reason gave her compliments in the top 24. don't care what she sang because she sounds the same in all songs and she sounds bad in all of them 0/10
  
  Lindsay(Knock on Wood) - she derserved to be in the top 12 and should've stayed for atleast one more week but mikalah somhow once again seemed to slip like 1 or 2 more votes than her to stay alive but she was the weakest of the other 10 even though she was good. should've sang "Don't Wanna Miss a Thing" she did amazing on that song 6.5/10
  
  Ensemble(When You Tell Me That You Love Me) - i absolutely love this song and it was the right choice to win because the top 12 did superb with it, they especially caught the emotion in the performance 10/10
  
  overall good CD great season, good luck to the other seasons trying to keep up with this one
  
  
• Nice but a bit patchy.
  By A15YK7U6N3W1WO on 2005-06-01
  Overall, it is a fairly listenable album, but it is a bit patchy in terms of the standard and quality of singing, recording and genre of songs chosen.
  
  1. Carrie - Good but does not particularly excite.
  
  2. Bo - Good, but he definitely has done much better, like Time a Bottle, Vehicle, Whipping Post, For the Love of Money and especially, the a cappella In a Dream.
  
  3. Vonz - Good but forgettable, vocally. Her covers of Whitney are more memorable vocally.
  
  4. Anwar - Fairly good, but I wished he had done Moon River instead, which was spectacular.
  
  5. Nadia - Good, loved it but it does seem a little dated and out of place .
  
  6. Nikko - Fairly good, but somehow lacks the pacing and energy level of Phil Collins.
  
  7. Constantine - Fairly good, but the vocal seems uneven at parts. If only he could have done Bohemian Raphsody. That was spectacular.
  
  8. Jessica - Excellent and totally memorable. Definitely one of the better tracks. As good as, if not better than, Bonnie Tyler. Good job.
  
  9. Anthony - Great job, with soaring vocals that are better than the original. One of the better tracks for sure.
  
  10. Scott - Fairly good, but slightly sluggish and lacks the angst that Phil Collins had, that made the song touching. Didn't feel it.
  
  11. Lindsey - Huh? Weak link, I'm afraid. She's capable of better.
  
  12. Mikalah - Sigh, the songs sits uncomfortably in the album, and so does the vocals. She's also capable of better.
  
  13. Ensemble - It was awright but needs the individual brilliance to lift it from just choral mass singing.
  
  Perhaps the producers may want to wait a bit to include the best of those still in the competition. As is, the best is sorely missed. Overeall, still worth it as a keepsake.
  
  
• Carrie and Scott Rule!
  By AROAVGME5MRBB on 2005-05-18
  I think these two totally make the album so worth while! The only down fall is that Bo and Constantine unfortunately have to be on the album also. I think they ruin it. Other than them the album is totally worth buying! GO CARRIE!!!
  
  
• Good Overall performance, bad song choices
  By A200VVKUD0MBHO on 2005-05-18
  I enjoyed the vocal performances and arrangements on this CD, however i was very disappointed by the choice of songs- these were hardly the showstoppers. What about Carrie's unbelievable rendition of "Alone"- that was definitely more showstopping than "Independence Day". The song chosen for Constantine is also terrible- his "Bohemian Rhapsody" was a million times better. Bo is trying too hard to imitate Gavin DeGraw, Jessica Sierra sounds like the amateur that she is. Surprisingly good is Lindsey Cardinale, who makes it clear on this CD that she was booted way prematurely from AI. The best vocals on the CD (and the show) are Carrie and Vonzell.
  
  
• AI4 is the best season of all
  By AJ5N6XNC1N0IF on 2005-05-18
  I was so thrilled to see the American Idol season 4 cd on my nightstand after school yesterday. I have been very excited with all the amazing talent this year. Although I disagree with some song choices, they are still good alturnatives. This is what I think of each song...
  
  Carrie Underwood "Independence Day" - 10/10
  Bo Bice "I Don't Want To Be - 6/10
  Vonzell Solomon "Best Of My Love" - 10/10
  Anthony Fedorov "Everytime You Go Away" - 10/10
  Nadia Turner "You Don't Have To Say You Love Me" - 7/10
  Constantine Maroulis "My Funny Valentine" - 4/10
  Jessica Sierra "Total Eclipse of the Heart" - 10/10
  Scott Savol "Against All Odds (Take A Look At Me Now)" - 9/10
  Nikko Smith "Part-Time Lover" - 9/10
  Anwar Robinson "A House Is Not A Home" - 8/10
  Lindsey Cardinale "Knock On Wood" - 8/10
  Mikalah Gordon "God Bless The Child" - 8/10
  Ensemble "When You Tell Me That You Love Me" - 10/10
  
  I absolutely loved the songs by Carrie, Anthony, Vonzell and Jessica. I don't care for Bo, but he did an okay job. I'm not crazy about Nadia, but she did good. Scott impressed me, nice job. Nikko really surprised me. I don't care for him, but he did good. I love Anwar, but I wasn't crazy about the song choice. "What A Wonderful World" would have been a better choice. I love Lindsey and Mikalah and I though they did okay, but they deserved better arrangements. The song I am most disappointed about is Constantine's song. "My Funny Valentine" is a very weird song and he could do better, like "Bohemian Rhapsody" or "Kiss From A Rose". The only person who can pull off "My Funny Valentine" is season 3's John Stevens. I love Con, but he deserved a better song.
  
  Jessica's haunting rendition of "Total Eclipse of the Heart" is probably my favorite on the album. Over all, I'd give American Idol Season 4 - The Showstoppers a 5 out of 5 for a amazing job well done!
  
  
  
• Hmm
  By A1KZ0RDJZQSY4O on 2005-05-19
  My honest impression of this CD--the vocals for pretty much everyone are strong, but the music is pretty awful. Like others have mentioned, I don't get some of these song choices...particularly Nikko's, Mikailah's, and to a lesser extent Constantine's and Anthony's. And Nadia's best song, to me, was "The Power of Love, " but "You Don't Have To Say You Love Me" is second best...so not really disappointing. But the biggest problem I have with this CD is that--and I don't know if this is an issue for anyone else, but I work with music so it really is noticeable to me and bugs me--the tracks sound so "fake." And they do for pretty much all the seasons when these CDs come out, but these tracks really just ruin the excitement I had about this CD being out and the quality of the songs and vocals. They, more or less, sound like karaoke tracks, to me, not like professional productions you'd expect on a real studio CD or radio releases. That really bothers me with this season more than any other, because there were so many good singers in this season and/or better songs performed this season. So what you end up with are great vocals mixed with lackluster sounds, so there's a cancelling-out effect for me. I just don't think I could listen to this CD many more times, despite the good vocals. To me, this is less bothersome in the first tracks--Carrie's and Bo's--and tolerable in "When You Tell Me That You Love Me" and maybe Constantine's song. These songs on this CD, despite the fact that the vocals are better here, just sounded better, total package-wise, when performed on the show...with some exceptions, of course, probably most notably in the performers who went home the quickest. I downloaded some of these performances from sites that take the live versions from the show and put them online, and I honestly would rather--and probably will--continue listening to those over and over again than play (or buy, if that's what you're trying to decide whether or not to do) this CD. I would actually like to give, maybe, 2 & 1/2 stars to this, but I'll go ahead and give it that extra 1/2.
  
  

• American Idol Season 5 Encores
• American Idol Season 3: Greatest Soul Classics
• American Idol Greatest Moments
• American Idol Season 2: All Time Classic American Love Songs
• American Idol - The Best of Seasons 1 - 4