America's Got Talent (AGT) (2010) - August 31, 2010 - Second Semi-Final Show

12 acts. Five (5) will go through.

Live from Hollywood.

Three "X"s and it's game over, though America could still vote them through.

Segment #1

Alice Tan Ridley (Singer)
"I Have Nothing If I Don't Have You"
Piers: It's a bit different from the subway, isn't it. It's very very big year for the singers. It is impossible to know who America will pick. But you were sensational.
Sharon: It's been so long since I've heard that song sung that way. Sensational performance. You look fabulous.
Howie: This contest is about America's feelings. And look at here... You got everyone on their feet.
(Great. I really hope she makes it through.)

Segment #2

HasPop (Dancer)
Piers buzzed just before the end.
Sharon: I really respect the way you tried to come back with a much more sophisticated performance with the film, but somehow it didn't work for me. I appreciate you took a risk.
Howie: I think it's amazing. There's a lot of dancers on this show. The ability to add story, mime and video... You did wow me. She's right. If they love you , you gota vote.
Piers: I like you and the body pop. I wanna see you dance. Not some strange guy behind you trying to hit you. It's all a bit over my head.
(He has an outside chance, if America sees it the same as Howie. The guy is good at what he does. It's strange. I don't know.)

Segment #3

Maestro Alexander Bui (Pianist)
The only instrumentalist left in the competition.
Howie buzzed!
Howie: Here's what I ... At this point in the competition... Your talent is undeniable... I hear Flight of the Bumblebee and Boogie, I don't think it reaches the level...
Piers: You are a cultural ignoramus, Howie. In terms of raising the bar above what we normally see, you've transcended it.
Sharon: The most difficult piece to play, and you played it magnificently. It was exciting, and you know I haven't been excited by you in the past.
Howie: It just wasn't as exciting as what we're going to see (BOO! - Audience) Oh, boo to you!
(That had to be extremely difficult to do. Bumble Boogie, I guess is the name of the piece. The kid is EXCELLENT at it. We'll see.)

Segment #4

Micheal Lipari and Ashleigh Dijon (Aeralists)
Last time we shocked the judges. This time we want to touch their hearts.
Standing Ovation by audience.
Piers: How do you guys think that went. (I feel good about it.) There were no big tricks. I was thinking all the time that you needed it to keep it from being a traditional aerial act, by the end I loved it.
Sharon: I thought the set was beautiful. The music... You two...
Howie: There was for me, despite no stunts, the danger. Because I've seen these aerial acts, and they have a lot of safety harnesses, and SHE picked YOU up, and ... you could have died. You wowed me. I'm a cultural ignroamous, but I loved it.
(Very nice. Judeges (AND America) DO have to remember that each time they see them, they will be seeing a PART of the show. This showed that they could be dramatic, instead of just stunt performers. They are fantastic.)

Segment #5

Michael Grasso (Magician)
Three kidney transplants. Mother - lasted 8 years, sister, and aunt - the one he has now - donated.
Sharon: I honestly don't know what to say. That was absolutely sensational.
Howie: I am such a fan of magic, and I am such a fan of this show... I don't know how it played on TV, but live it was fantastic.
Piers: You're an interesting one. You started out, and thought you'd blown it. Then you came back in the wildcard show, and wowed us. Then tonight... Slowly and surely you've grown ... before our eyes.
(It seemed relatively standard, but how he switched for the girl, I have no clue. It was all right in front of us (well, the live audience. For us, they cut away for a second to the cage "popping". I like magic, too, and this guy has a style... We'll have to see.)

Segment #6

Debra Romer (Singer)
Innocent and vulnerable, but sexy. Look like/sang like a star - you are a star. Ran away from home/
"To Make You Feel My Love"(?)
Howie: You're a lovely young lady. It was nice. It was really nice. And I don't know if it will go.
Piers: I kinda know where Howie's coming from. Did that performance knock me out like Michael Grasso did, or Ashleigh.
Sharon: It's a beautiful song, lyrically. But to show off your vocal range, and all, it's pretty level.
(She's cute as hell, and we know she can sing. She's getting over her shyness on stage. Question is was she strong enoug, and will America remember how far she's come?)

Studio One Young Beast Society (Dance group)
The last dance group in the competition.
Standing Ovation by audience.
Piers: That is what entertaining is about. How good does that feel? That is what you guys get when you put the hours in. You guys, I've watched you from the start. Better, faster, sexy.
Sharon: Every time I see you guys, there's a great urgency with your dance, and I love that. I love that you're mixing your dance with gymnastics.
Howie: You guys are phenomenal. It's electric. If I have one negative, it's your name... Studio One Young Beast Society... It's not catchy. I think it should be Studio Two Young Beast Society.
(At this level, they ARE good, but will America vote a dance group through? We'll see.)

Segment #7

Jeremy van Schoonhoven (Extreme balancing bike-rider)
fell twice, but made the major trick, injured.
Sharon: Are you crazy? Does your mother know that you do this? The first accident that you had, what happened. (cut head, stitches in elbow, hip's really bad - using his bike to keep him up). You deserve every vote. I'm asking America to vote for Jeremy.
Howie: Sharon sounds like she's doing a telethon for Jeremy. Here's this poor kid, just out of the hosptial, and can't even afford a seat for his bike...
Piers: It takes a certain kind of nutcase to jump off that on a bike. I wouldn't do it with my feet, let alone on a bike. There's something about you.
(The guy was injured. Those two falls in the show were because it wasn't straight, and he couldn't hold the handlbars tight enough. He did the trick he got injured (and nearly killed, as one of the judges said) successfully - Dropping from 20 feet up to small landing areas, then back to stage. Is it enough? We'll see.)

Segment #8

Nathanial Kenyon (Singer)
"Can't Keep My Eyes Off Of You"
Piers buzzed.
Howie: The audience likes you. You have the package to be a popstar. The women love you. It's not as exciting as some of the others. You're not there yet... You're getting nervous.... America will decide.
Piers: America loves you... However, tonight has been an incredible night, and thinking do you deserve to move on, and I didn't think so... Too many missed notes.
Sharon: Luckily for you, he doesn't have to decide. America has to decide. You've come a long way. I think the young girls are going to love you.
(This is the guy with the "Rob Thomas" voice. He's been stronger, or it may have been the song choice. I didn't really hear as many missed notes with him as with others, but Piers did. If the girls vote him through, then he'll make it. Otherwise...)

Segment #9

Murray (Magician)
Made a locomotive disappear.
Piers: I was a little bit bored by the chat tonight. A little stilted. I'm going to be very honest. On performances tonight, the other guy did better.
Sharon: I think you're both equally as good. I pay a fortune to go see David Copperfield. And I've not seen anything like that, before.
Howie: I kinda of agree with Piers, it's the presentation. And... what that sound... It's the train leaving the building. (Laughs all round.)
(There was a pause between the covering of the train, and when he pulled the curtain. He filled it with his story, but you KNOW that's when the train was moved. Copperfield did pretty much the same thing 20 years ago with a jet liner. It's all misdirection, and with that big of an item, it's presentation, getting people prepared to be amazed. I don't think he did it, tonight. He's damn good, but like Piers said... The other guy was better.)

Segment #10

Jackie Evancho (11yo Opera Singer)
(She's been on the news and entertainment shows - She has a CD out, but no record deal.)
Standing Ovation by everyone.
Sharon: I know you must realize how blessed you are to be born with this amazing gift. I hope you realize that your life will never be the same again. You're voice will take you all over the world.
Howie: It is real. And you are like an angel from another planet. I've never witnessed something like this or heard something like this.
Piers: Jackie, this is why we do these shows. Tonight we have four or five acts I'm sure can be stars, but we have in you... a superstar.
Standing O by everyone again, as we go to commercial.
(The kid is already a bona-fide star. She doesn't really NEED to win, and America may see that. That may go against her for this competition.

Segment #11

Fighting Gravity (Amazing blacklight "dance" group)
They quit school to do this.
Standing Ovation by all, again.
Howie: What a night. You are one of my favorite acts, if not my favorite act. Nobody could follow Jackie but you guys.
Piers: You came within about one foot of me buzzing you, when you shot that ball at my head. Howie put your up to that, didn't he? I think Howie said it all. it's always original. The American public has got to vote for an act like you.
Sharon: Your act is so cool. It's for all age groups. You guys are winners. You really are.
(These guys were my favorites from the beginning. I hope they do make it through.)

My choices: Alice Tan Ridley, Michael Lipari and Ashleigh Dijon, Michael Grasso, Jackie Evancho, Fighting Gravity

This is one of the best years ever for this show. However, that means that a lot of good acts have been and will dropped.

I've said it a LOT of times since I started doing this. I am SURE that many of these acts will get to go on and be stars in Vegas or elsewhere, like the group that DIDN'T win from last year but headline a Vegas show... Like many others. They've had their chance at this show, and gotten exposure, now. This show helped, Even Debra, from tonight, said she's seldom played anything but restaurants and coffee houses, but now she's being asked to do concerts. Keep that up, you promoters, and other acts who need someone to open the show for you. These people are GOOD, as are many who haven't made it through. Look back through the list of those who didn't make it. Look back through the years of AGT that I've been doing this, and see those who didn't make it through. There's a LOT of talent out there gone to waste if you were NOT paying attention!

Tomorrow night: Cast of Les Rez and Jason Derulo and the results.
Cya then ;-)

America's Got Talent (AGT) (2010) - August 25, 2010 - Semi-Final 1 Results

Live from Hollywood

12 Semi-Finalists... Five (5) acts going through to the Top 10.

Anna and Patryk
Christina and Ali
Antonio Restivo
Future Funk
Taylor Mathews
Conner Doran
Dan Sperry
Kristina Young
ArcAttack
Michael Grimm
AscenDance
Prince Poppycock

My choices were: Anna and Patryk, Antonio Restivo, ArcAttack, Michael Grimm, Prince Poppycock
I saw Poppycock on a couple of news shows (one NBC Nightly, I believe).

Guests, tonight: Jimmy Fallon, Recycled Percussion (from last year), and Kylie Minogue.

--

Segment #1

Nick: You guys are being really hard on the acts. Someone got three "X"s.
Piers: This is what I call the business end of the competition. And that is serious. If people don't perform to the level we think they should, they're going to get buzzed.

The first group: ArcAttack, Dan Sperry, Future Funk, and Kristina Young
Howie; (Could you call it?) I think it's ArcAttack or Future Funk.
America has voted. The act going into the top-10 and moving one step closer to the million dollars and the headline show in Las Vegas is: No One. No one is moving on.
(Wow! I thought ArcAttack or Future Funk like Howie... Leaning toward ArcAttack. I'm shocked! And this is the first time they've brought a group out and said no one (or everyone) is going through.)

Segment #2

Orville Lounge (post show party)

Recycled Percussion performs - I'm sure these guys are playing in Vegas.
They are VERY cool. See the video from the show, if they have it.
They have their own show at MGM Grand in Las Vegas. I KNEW it! ;-)

Segment #3

Jimmy Fallon performs. Imitates comedians and does a damn good job of it.

The next group out: AscenDance and Anna & Patryk
The act going through to the top 10 is: Anna & Patryk
(Hmmm... Thought it might be both of them.)

Segment #4

Kylie Minogue performs an American debut.

Segment #5

The next group: Michael Grimm, Taylor Mathews, Prince Poppycock.
(I think they're all in.)
Howie: (Are you surprised to see them all live up here, together.) I'm very surprised. My favorites are standing before me. Unless you're going to trick us again.
America has voted. The act going into the top 10: (Wow... This is a strange night.) All Three are moving on.

Three acts left. Judges choose.
The acts: Antonio Restivo, Christina and Ali, and Conner Doran.
The judges pick from two.
Based on your votes. America has voted. The act leaving the competition and going home is: Antonio Restivo (OMG! You are KIDDING me!)
(I can't believe that.)

Two acts left. Judges decide. Conner Doran and Christina and Ali.

Segment #6

Piers: I'll be honest. I think Antionio was very unlucky to be put out. He would have been my choice. Conner, I've watched you grow with every round. You've got confidence and become a bit of a showman. Christina and Ali, I don't think we've ever had anyone with your story. Good voices, not great, and great personalities... make me lean toward you, Christina and Ali.
Howie: I kind of embrace the variety. And for that reason, Conner.
Sharon: Conner, you are an amazing young man. Seeing you grow as a person, means more to me than seeing your act. Christina and Ali, I wish you had done somethying different. Do I break two hearts or 1. I'm going to go with Christina and Ali.

--

So the acts going into the Top 10 are:
Anna and Patryk, Michael Grimm, Taylor Mathews, Prince Poppycock, and Christina and Ali.

Cya Next Week. ;-)

Anerica's Got Talent (AGT) (2010) - August 24, 2010 - First Semi-Final Show

12 acts. Five (5) will go through.
They weren't mentioned slow enough for me to enter them, so, as they happen...

Live from Hollywood.

Three "X"s and it's game over.

Sharon: Most crucial thing... Acts have to really focus on what they're doing and on being a star. If they don't show us, how will we know.

Segment #1

Anny and Patryk - 12yo Ballroom Dancers
To Lady Gaga - Paparazi
Standing Ovation from crowd
Piers: Sharon said she wanted to see acts behaving like stars, tonight, and you just did it. This is the serious business part of the show.
Sharon: As usual perfection. You never let us down. Seeing you last week, this week... How many days have you had to turn this dance around? (about a week).
Howie: I'm glad I can inspire you. I apologize ... It WAS perfection. I wasn't creeped out this week. There was no inappropriate touching. I'm the father of two little girls, and there wasn't any inappropriate touching. You did great.
(These kids are excellent. I think I said it before, but, they make some of those on Dancing with the Stars look more like dunces. ;-) )

Segment #2

Christina and Ali - Sister singers, both with Cystic Fibrosa
Performing When You Believe (There Will Be Miracles) by Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey
Sharon: You made it. I think that your performance has got stronger since the last time I saw you.
Howie: I agree with Sharon. That being said, at this level in the competition, the others are doing things so spectacular... Hopefully it was good enough to get you back.
Piers: It wasn't great. But every time I try to buzz you, your big eyes look back at me, and you hit the big note, and I can't.
(I like them a lot, but it seemed off a bit. We'll see.)

Segment #3

Antonio Restivo (Magician/Illusionist who uses flame)
Howie: It's a very Vegasy... I'm gonna be honest, you make me laugh. Here you have the fire all over, your very angry, you have the girls tie you up, force you into that ... and you escape... and with all that going on, youo entertain us.
Piers: We've had loads of magic acts that haven't made it because they're too small. Where are the big acts? I think it's you, Antonio.
Sharon: I wonder what it's like at your house when you barbeque?
(He does bigger and bigger tricks, all with fire. This was VERY "Vegas". I think it took a tad too long to set up (once he was in the sarcophagus), but... He's got a great chance.)

Segment #4

Future Funk - Hip-hop Dancers (8 and 10, I think)
Piers buzzed. just before the lights went out,a nd they use LEDs (tail end of the dance).
Piers: I realize I haven't got the full support of the room here... Here's the deal. We are now at a very important stage. And if it was America's Got Cute Dancers, you two would win. I think you are going to be great in the future, but for now...
Sharon: It's been such a while since we saw you, I actually forgot how young you were. What you do is fantastic. I think you're going to have your own sitcom.
Howie: Cuteness. This is America. America may vote you through just on your cuteness. But I don't know if you'll think it's so cute when you're 36. But you are adorable.
(Yeah, they are. That's the big thing they have going for them, right now. The older one can breakdance/spin on his head like crazy. The young one's getting there, but for the most part, is just cute. If America votes "cuteness" they're in.)

Segment #5

Taylor Mathews - Singer
Perfoming piano and "Show Me What I'm Looking For" by Carolina Liar
Sharon: I really enjoyed that performance. Thank you. I think that you're very natural.
Howie: My feeling at this level is you have to wow us. I don't think you did something tonight that people will be talking about, tomorrow. You have to wow us.
Piers: Do you feel under pressure. I didn't not enjoy your performance. I went back and watched your audition. You were having fun, smiling. And tonight, it was very serious. You've got to learn to relax.
(Not sure I liked the song-choice, but he didn't do badly. I thought he was flat in a few places. But adding piano into his act, and not "hiding" behind a guitar for the latter part (just a mic)... he's growing, and seems to be getting more comfortable, even if he is nervous. He's got a chance, though.)

Segment #6

Conner Doran - Kite Dancer
Piers buzzed
Piers: When I was watching it today, it's funny. It's all about song choice. It wasn't moving that much. I do like you, and I have enjoyed some of your acts.
Howie: I love about what you do. It's very etherial, when you have that classical, instrumental music. I agree with him. I don't know that it goes with pop music.
Sharon: I loved your music choice. It was nice to shake it up a bit and use more pop music. I adore you.
(His act doesn't change all that much. And I think they're right. The song choice was off a bit.)

Dan Sperry - Magician (strange persona)
Nick was a "volunteer"
Piers buzzed.
Piers: It was one of the most pathetic tricks I've ever seen. It was one of the worst fake arms I've ever seen.
Sharon: The thing I liked best was the robot lady.
Howie: You know that I'm this close to being a fan of yours, you know... Because of the floss thing. But I loved the character - like from a Tim Burton movie. To up your game, we've got to know who YOU are.
(The robot lady was in the way, he was in the way, things took a bit too long. And he wasn't as "intense" as he was last time. Howie's got it. So, IF he makes it through, he's got to stay in that weird "Tim Burton-esque" character. I don't think he will, though.)

Segment #7

Kristina Young - Singer
Buzzed off. (Strange song choice)
Sharon: I buzzed you because that version of Poker Face. Nobody can come close to that. Even though you tried to change the arrangement.
Howie: I apologize. You don't have the same advantage as the other people because you just came last week from YouTube. I don't know if it's the song-choice...
Piers: Keep trying. Keep taking risks. Don't give up.
(Yeah... Bad song choice, I think.)

Moving to another studio, because the next act is so dangerous.

Segment #8

ArcAttack (Electric Musicians)
Performs

And now everyone goes back to the main studio

Segment #9

Judging
Howie: Yeah, you do stun the judges. My worry is what you do doesn't really play on television. I don't know if the people are going to vote.
Piers: What Howie said is right to a certain extent. I think we've had a fair average semi-final. I think you're one of the best, and you'll be back.
Sharon: You are a very weird group... Geeks, kooks, etc. I think you need to have more performance art.
(It looks great. I wish I were there. I do think it doesn't translate well to TV. The sound comes from the lightning. That's so cool...)

Michael Grimm - singer
Got food poisoning, so couldn't reherse. Throat looked very red. Had a bout of strep throat.
Performed "You Can Leave Your Hat On"
Piers: If that's how you sing when you're ill, you need to get sick more often. What I like, you don't change. You know exactly what you are, are comfortable in your own skin.
Sharon: Tonight you enganged. I've always loved your voice. My problem has been your performance.
Howie: I have been waiting all night, and I think the audience has been, waiting for a moment. And you're it.
(He did very well. I think he's in.)

Segmennt #10

AscenDance - Rock-Wall Dancers
Piers buzzed
Sharon: You know I adore your originality. But I must say tonight I didn't like your music. Everything was perfect, but it didn't have that spark.
Howie: I think it was the tempo. With the upbeat music, you don't get that.
Piers: For the first time, I found it boring. Music wasn't as good. Performance was disjointed. And I wasn't feeling it tonight.
(Seemed a little slow. I think they had, as one judge said, more "dangerous" look to them before. They stretched from the wall more, and were in more synch. The second time, they added two people, and they do some of the "stunts", but not as intricately as the main performers, and I think they're a distraction, too. I think either the wall needs to be bigger, or they need to go back to two people, almost. We'll see.)

Segment #11

Last contestant - Prince Poppycock (Operatic singer)
(It's just so strange to see him out of makeup.)
Operatic and last part of Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody
Standing Ovation - Crowd and Judges
Howie: I think he said it best when he said "Nothing really matters, but you".
Piers: I didn't think anyone could out-camp Freddie Mercury. You're crackers.
Sharon: I think you are the male, Lady Gaga.
(Interesting take. Few have tried to do this operatically. He really camped it up. I liked it. We already know he can sing opera. Now he proved he can do certain pop songs, too.)

--

My choices: Anna and Patryk, Antonio Restivo, ArcAttack, Michael Grimm, Prince Poppycock

Results show tomorrow, with Jimmy Fallon, Recycled Percussion (from last year), and Kylie Minogue.
Cya then! ;-)

America's Got Talent (AGT) 2010 Acts

Got an email from Jon Huang that said,
"Hope all is well. I thought that you might like this. We just used
Future Funk in our music video. The kids were adorable."



I'm glad that some of the acts are "winning" even if they don't win. (Yeah, I know. They went through, so still have a chance. But even BEFORE they've won, they've "won".) ;-)

BDBS

America's Got Talent (AGT) (2010) - August 18, 2010 - Wildcard Results (#6)

Only four (4) will make it through to the semi-finals from the following 12 acts:

Kruit Dance Acadamy (Pier's choice)
Rudi Macaggi (Sharon's choice)
CJ Dippa (Howie's choice)
RNG (Sharon's choice)
Harmonica Pierre (Piers' pick)
Michael Grasso (Sharon's pick)
Hot Shot Tap Dancers (Howie's pick)
Doogie Horner (Piers' choice)
Conner Doran (Howie's choice)
Anna and Patryk (Pier's pick)
Michael Lipari and Ashleigh Dejon (Sharon's choice)
Swing Shift Sideshow (Howie's choice)

My choices from the group, again, were: Kruit Dance Acadamy, Michael Grasso, Anna and Patryk, and Michael Lipari and Ashleigh Dejon, though there are others I wouldn't mind being in.

Remember, the first three through are chosen by America. The 4th though is voted by the Judges, based on America's 4th and 5th place acts.

Performing tonight: LeAnn Rhymes and Criss Angel

Segment #1

First group: Kruti Dance Acacamy, Michael Grasso, Swing Shift Side Show, Rudi Macaggi
America has voted. The act going through to the semi-finals, and moving one step closer to the million dollars and the headline show is: Micheal Grasso
Now he's through and against three other magicians. He's just in awe.
Sharon: My advice would be to keep doing what you're doing and keep stepping it up. Bigger is better.

Segment #2

Orville Lounge (After Show party)

Criss Angel performs Houdini's Upside-down straight-jacket escape (in under one minute) and Metamorphais.

Segment #3

Next group: The Hot Shot Tap Dancers, RNG, Anna and Patryk
The act going through to the semi-finals is: Anna and Patryk
Patryk thanked Piers for brining them back for the second chance. Anna we pretty emotional.

Next group: CJ Dippa and Conner Doran
The act going through to the semi-finals is: Conner Doran
Howie: (Can Conner top his performance from last night.) I know. That's the only thing that worries me. You brought two kites last night. You'll have to do even more.

Segment #4

LeAnn Rhymes performs Swingin' in a bikini

Segment #5

Next group: Doogie Horner, Michael Lipari and Ashleigh Dejon, Harmonica Pierre
Before the judges can choose, we have to get down to two acts.
The act leaving the competition and going home is: Doogie Horner

Segment #6

Between Michael Lipari and Ashleigh Dejon and Harmonica Pierre
Piers: Who do I want to put through: Sharon's pick or my pick? No, forget that. You guys, last night, surprised me. When you did that last night, that took it to a whole new place. That said, how many times has a 70yo Belgian Harmonica player played Lady Gaga.
Sharon: It's really hard. For me. it's all about my pick. I love them, they're edgy, exciting. And that's my choice.
Howie: First of all I want to apologize for last night. You didn't deserve a buzz. I stooped to my collegue's level. My gut is who would win this. Will you go see the greatest harmonica player, or will you go see a sexy, edgy act. My gut says Michael and Ashley.

So, I was off a bit, but I think the right ones were chosen.

--

So, the acts going through from this and the prior results shows:

Results #1 - Nathaniel Kenyon, Fighting Gravity, Christina & Ali, Future Funk
Results #2 - AscenDance, Alice Tan Ridley, Michael Grimm, Antonio Restivo
Results #3 - Haspop, Young Beast Society, Debra Romer, and Jeremy vanSchoonholden(?)
Results #4 - Murray, Taylor Mathews, Prince Poppycock, and ArcAttack
Results #5 - Michael Bui, Dan Sperry, Jackie Evancho, and Kristina Young (YooTube people)
Results #6 - Michael Grasso, Anna and Patryk, Conner Doran, and Michael Lipari and Ashleigh Dejon

Semi-Finals begin next week with 12 of the 24 acts left. It's gonna be a good show!

Cya, then!

Videos:
All AGT Videos
Full Episodes (Season 5)
Season Five highlights

America's Got Talent (AGT) (2010) - August 17, 2010 - Special Wildcard Show

Live from Hollywood

Each judge picks four (4) of their favorite acts for a second chance.

Segment #1

Judges' Intro

Acts CAN be "X"ed. Three "X", performance is over, but America can vote them through.

Kruit Dance Acadamy (Pier's choice) Bollywood Dancers
Piers: I think my decision has been completely vindicated. As America has now seen, you have talent.
Sharon: As one half-wit, very exotic, very beautiful. As America is getting more used to Indians, you may have the Kruti Dance competing with Riverdance.
Howie: At this time in our competition, is what you do WOW. I don't know that America will see it that way. I don't know if you rise to this level.
(They have a great look, great choreography. I'm a bit like Howie, though... Headlining a show? We'll see.)

Segment #2

Rudi Macaggi (Sharon's choice) Balancing, tumbling, danger act
Blindfolded, does a backflip to catch his feet in a loop rope above his head.
As he did it, Piers buzzed him.
Sharon: Rudi. Obviously your technique is magnificent, and your timing to do that trick, but I think you took too long to do one trick. I think you should have done two tricks.
Howie: I think your last stunt was more spectacular, though I didn't see it.
Piers: The trouble is last time, you could potentially lose your head, and it would go rolling off the stage. And this time, you said you could break your neck.
They told him his last one was too scary, so this was more "slick", and he has missed it. Last time he missed, got eight stitches in his head.
(Rudi's good at what he does. He's a performer. The last trick WAS better, but this one just didn't seem quite as difficult. Again, we'll see.)

Segment #3

CJ Dippa (Howie's choice) 12yo Rapper, dancer, writes own raps
Piers buzzed just before he started dancing.
Howie: How do you think you did, CJ. (Thought he missed a couple of things.) I think you have an amazing future, and I think someone needs to take you, and mentor you.
Piers: I think it's very big of you to admit that. The fact you've dealt with that in such a mature way, I applaud you for that. I think it was a bit gimmicky. You were trying to be someone else. Be yourself.
Sharon: I think that Kissing Booth is the title of the song. I think it's really really catching. Rap is meant to be larger than life. I like the bike, I love the way you look. Keep at it.
Feel's like he needs to get his own light up on stage like he used to. (AGT may be pushing the dancing, etc.)
(The kid is 12 and writes his own raps. And he's good at that. I think AGT is interfering, though they will say that acts can choose to do their suggestions or not. The kid is 12. He may not KNOW what is best for him, yet. But he will.)

Segment #4

RNG (Sharon's choice) Young hip-hop dance group (5 girls)
Piers buzzed as song changed.
They added Howie's criticism from their last performance at the end, and one of the girls had "daggers in her eyes" looking at Howie.
Sharon: I'm happy I brought them back. I thought the performance was really really strong. I loved the choregraphy. You had great attitude.
Howie: My job here is to be incredibly honest. You are phenominal. You have a perspective here in this competition. You said no tricks, no stunts, pure dance. You've gotta ramp up. I'm not gonna choose tonight. America is.
Piers: I don't start with saying your phenominal, because I don't think you were. I thought it was a bit disorganized. I don't agree with Sharon about the choreography. Sharon: You've buzzed everybody else's acts but yours, tonight. Piers: That's because only mine have come through. The only thing is I thought was the attitude reminded me of Sharon.
(They're good. They do have attitude. But it appeared to me to be waving their arms around and stomping around in unison. I really doubt they'll make it through.)

Segment #5

Harmonica Pierre (Piers' pick) Harmonica player
(Piers said he was the best harmonica technician he'd ever seen)
Alehandro by Lady Gaga (Howie buzzed before he even started - didn't count)
Howie: I didn't buzz you. I was just trying to... I'll tell you why I'm angry. Piers has buzzed every act that's not his own. I said to Sharon, let's buzz him before he even starts, so as not to throw you off. And you said Ok, then you (Sharon) dissed me! (Asked piers what he thought, and Piers had glowing reports.) (back to Howie's judging) It's consistent. I don't know that America will choose you. It's not my choice. You're a wonderful man, and fantastic at what you do.
Sharon: I loved it, however, are you a finalist in this contest. Are you an act that will fill arenas? I don't know. (Piers: That's not the criteria.) Sharon: You've had your time. LADILALLALALALAAALLAL (over Piers' protests about criteria)
(Funny Piers can use that criteria - well, he did last year... hasn't said it that way this year that I recall - and no one else can. He's an excellent Harmonica player. I think Howie's looking at it correctly.)

Segment #6

Michael Grasso (Sharon's pick) Magician
Audience liked (Standing Ovation)
Sharon: Thank you for not disappointing me. Your timing was perfect.
Howie: That performance tonight is the first that was worthy of this level.
Piers: You haven't just performed a brilliant magic trick, but you've performed a miracle... You've proven that Sharon does know something about talent. There are some great magicians in the show, and I think you've just thrown it wide open.
(Nice. He may just make it through.)

Hot Shot Tap Dancers (Howie's pick) Stompers/Tappers
Piers buzzed in the middle. (They do seem to be off the music a bit.)
Howie: I wanted you... I brought you back. You kinda listened to me, and stayed off the story, but it was just tapping. You started off spectacular, then I got a little bored.
Piers: I agree with Howie. It was boring. Look, I like you as individuals. You've got great chemistry and that carries over. But you did get out of step at times. You need to think about the choreography.
Sharon: I love you all, but there's something missing, and tonight, I think I saw it. You dance as a team. One of you has to come forward and do something different than the others. I think that's what's failing.
(I'm glad that Howie and Piers noted the timing problem. They usually gloss over stuff like that (well, Piers doens't, but...) Last time they spent too much time with the story. They DID start off great, but then it was four people tap-dancing, and not very much in unison.)

Segment #7

Doogie Horner (Piers' choice) Comedian
(Piers' least and most favorite)
Piers: We've been on a bit of a journey with you. We enjoyed the humor, we enjoyed the comedy. That's why I was surprised Howie didn't bring you back. (Howie: That's a lie... I said lets bring Doogie back, and you said you can't, I already have.)
Sharon: That's a true story he just told. Yes, you are a very weird little man, but you're funny.
Howie: You applied the number one rule of comedy. You are in the moment. Welcome back Doogie.
(He was great, I thought, when he was talking about the other acts. Then he brought his "fans" from New York, and they were booing him ("Doogie Sucks" T-shirts). My wife didn't think he was funny at all. So... We're split on him. I don't know about him making it through, though.)

Segment #8

Conner Doran (Howie's choice) Kite dancer (Epileptic, keeps being told he can't do things.)
Standing O from audience and Howie
Howie: Says nothing. Gestures at the standing o. Need I say more.
Piers: How does it feel after dooing that? (Amazing) I watched the interview before you performed, and you said it brings out the normal kid in you. Truth is you bring out the normal kid in all of is. Good job, Howie. And welcome back, Conner.
Sharon: Always amazes me the way you interpret the music. It was beautifully executed, Conner.
(The kid is EXCELLENT at what he does. He does get the audience into it. The music is always inspirational. At this point, he's got my vote.)

Segment #9

Anna and Patryk (Pier's pick) 12yo Ballroom Dancers
Standing O from Audience
Piers: For me, that was your best performance tonight. Patryk, I thought you were the boss tonight... A little mini-John Travolta. I don't know why you didn't get through before.
Sharon: Your coordination, your timing, it was really right tonight. I feel like I'm watching a couple of 25yos, not 12yos.
Howie: I agree with everything my partners are saying. And the art of ballroom dancing is about being seductive. And seeing 12yos dancing is a bit creepy. (Piers protested... Howie said "The perfect party at Pier's house are 12yos dancing to harmonica music.)
(I don't know that BR Dancing is supposed to be "seductive", but "graceful", and these two are.)

Segment #10

Michael Lipari and Ashleigh Dejon (Sharon's choice) Aerialists
Tonight - Full release and catch
Well, there was, what appeared to be a drop, and everyone thought it was bad, but they came back out of it.
Sharon: Michael, Ashleight, you tricked me. How seductive was that. Very sexy, very clever. I thought it was edgy.
Howie: You got our blood flowing. It was WOW. It's amazing, and I don't know what your relationship is, but she's very clingy.
Piers: I'm very glad you're not dead. I argued with Sharon about bringing you back, we already have a lot of magic acts, but that was brillient.
(They are "pretty". And it was something that made everyone think she had fallen (all the judges were definitely worried), then they "rose again" and all was well. I think no one noticed the heartbeat music playing, and that no stage people were rushing to the stage, which is why they were "frozen. I think they'll make it through.)

Segment #11

Last Act
Swing Shift Sideshow (Howie's choice) Traditional Sideshow Act
Piers buzzed, Sharon buzzed
Howie: This is what's going on inside my head. You either hated it or loved it. I loved it. It was interesting seeing you again.
Piers: Howie thinks that two 12yos ballroom dancing is creepy, then he brings back you three. And I know you'll take that as a compliment. To me, it is utterly revolting. It is revolting.
Sharon: I appreciate it as an art form, like the old Victorian sideshows, but it's not my thing. I've never seen a woman swallow a sword before, it's always been men, so... I appreciate it as an art form.

My choices: Kruit Dance Acadamy, Michael Grasso, Anna and Patryk, and Michael Lipari and Ashleigh Dejon.

Results show, tomorrow: LeAnn Rhymes and Criss Angel
Semi-Finals show next week
Live national tour: Starting in October, 25 cities, hosted by Jerry Springer, which is what everyone is vying for.

Cya tomorrow.

America's Got Talent (AGT) (2010) - YouTube Special Results (#5)

Top 12 YouTube acts. Only four (4) will go through. Three by America's vote. One (from 4 & 5 of America's vote) by the judges.

From the following 12 acts:
PLUtonic
Dylan Plummber
Pup
Cam Hodges
Ryan Rodriguez
Austin Anderson
Booker Forte
Pizza Patt
Kristina Young
Maestro Alexander Bui
Dan Sperry
Jackie Evancho

Segment #1

First group: Pup, Austin Anserson, Pizza Patt, Maestro Michael Bui
Sharon: I have no idea who will be put though
America has voted. The act going through to the semi-finals is: Maestro Alexander Bui
Piers was not surprised... A dog whose act didn't work, a guy that chucks pizzas in the air, and unfunny comic, and a classical pianist. He suggested Michael stick to classical, not follow Sharon's suggestion to do "pop" She argued she did not say to do pop. (She said to do more pop classical - meaning those songs that people know... I understood her. Piers didn't want to! LOL)

Segment #2

Orville loungs

Started right here on this show. Quick Change (David and Danya)
They do seem to be a one-trick pony. I've never seen them to anything but what we just saw... Differnt song, different clothes, but the same act. Amazing, none-the-less.

Segment #3

Fourth most popular video of all time
Justin Laipply - Evolution of Dance (short version)

Next group: Dylan Plummer, Dan Sperry, Booker Forte
America has voted. The second act going into the semi-finals is: Dan Sperry
(He's definitely got his persona on. Chris said he reminds her of Marilyn Manson. Bet it's just the stage persona. LOL)

Segment #4

Tonight is his prime-time debut.
Lin Yu Chun, singing "I Will Always Love You"

Next group: Ryan Rodriguez and Jackie Evancho
And the act going though (is there any doubt?) to the semi-finals is: Jackie Evancho
(Mentioned on a news program. Her videos have gone viral, now, and she's already scheduled to perform at Carnegie Hall.)
Howie: Can't tell you how exciting this is. He keeps being asked if it's really her. He has her sing some notes. No act is allowed to lip-sync.

Of the final three acts, two of them are #4 and #5 of America's votes. The other will be sent home.

Segment #5

Next group: PLUtonic, Cam Hodges, and Kristina Young are left.
And the act going home and not making it through is: PLUtonic
Both give reasons they should be put through to the judges.

Segment #6

Between Cam Hodges and Kristina Young (judge's choice)
Howie: Who do I want? Like Sharon always says, I want everyone to go through, but I can't. I'm proud of both of you. I have to go with my gut. My gut tells me the bigger star and the one with the most potential: Cam.
Sharon: You're so new, I don't think you know your best performance, yet. Kristina (because she's very pliable
Piers: What I have to do now is take a bet on one of you, on which could rise to the top. I'm going to go with the act that I think... I suspect... can do better than last night. And that act is Kristina.

Cam said "It was a great experience. I'm not done, so..."
Kristina: "I'm going to go backstage and cry for days..."

This week - those going through are: Michael Bui, Dan Sperry, Jackie Evancho, and Kristina Young.

--

Next week: Another special - The Wildcard show. The judges give a second chance to their favorites. (Those shown too quickly to type were a good group. Should be a great show.)

America's Got Talent (AGT) (2010) - August 10, 2010 (YouTube Special - Live #5)

(Guess I was wrong last week, thinking it would be the 12 and the ONE act from YouTube.)

Top YouTube act (voted by America), along with 11 others, selected by the judges. Only four (4) will make it through. They could be "X"ed off, but we can still vote for them.

Segment #1

Piers: Won't be lenient with the "X".
Sharon: They've agreed to audition to the whole of America. (A bit frightened for them.)
Howie: First time ever on stage for some. Howie was scared the first time, and that was a small stage, small club.

PLUtonic (College Acappella Group) Tacoma, WA
Bunch of geeky computer science guys that get together and sing.
Start off with slow harmonies, then go into Hip-Hop, back to harmonies.
Piers: If Bill Gates ever formed a band, this is what it would look like. I liked it.
Sharon: Very confident. A lot of fun. But I hate acappella groups.
Howie: Regardless of whether you like Acappella or not, you are talented. I think people would go see something like this.
(Pretty good, I thought.)

Segment #2

Dylan Plummber (Jump-Rope Acrobatics) Cinncinati, OH
Joined jump-rope team in 1st grade and loves it still.
Sharon: I think he did mighty fine. Very quick feet you've got. You should be proud of yourself. What you do is very technical.
Howie: I will agree. You had a couple of misses there (in the beginning). It's really good what you do. I believe you need time to perfect it. To be at this point in the competition and to move on is hard. You need a bit more time to correct it.
Piers: I'm surprised. 12yo, you've pretty talented. I was expecting to be bored, but I wasn't.
(He did a pretty damn good job. I don't know that it will be something that could be an act on a Vegas stage, but as a side-act...)

Segment #3

Pup - (A guy and his dog - Dog plays accordian while Ed plays guitar and sings)
Piers buzzed
The accordian didn't work and almost fell off. He tried, but it didn't work.
Howie: You don't see things like this.
Piers: (You "X"ed Pup. How dare you.) For 10 seconds it was brilliant, but when he broke from the strap...
Sharon: Before it started, the little horsy thing (where the accordian was) fell over. It should have been bolted down. He should perform again, because of technical glitches.
(Novelty act for sure, but would have been nice to see it work.)

Segment #4

Cam Hodges (Guitarist/Singer) Washington
Piers: Singing at home is one thing. Singing live to millions of Americans is something different.
Piers: There were parts of it that reminded me of James Blunt. I think you did yourself proud tonight.
Sharon: Do you write? (Yes) Very strong voice. You were very confident. I enjoyed it very much.
Howie: When I saw the video, I thought you sounded like John Mayer. But when you hit the high note, you made it something else. I think you have a shot at this.
(very Rob Thomas-y voice. He did a good job, no matter what Piers said.)

Segment #5

Ryan Rodriguez (Dancer) Santa Cruz, CA
Martial-Arts Dancing
Piers buzzed
Sharon: Have you ever been on a stage before (not to this caliber). You have a great talent when you're dancing. (Piers interrupted - It's not dancing, is it. Sharon shut him up.) What you need is a group of people with you. You need to get some other movers and shakers with you.
Howie: When I saw it on YouTube, it's all "cutty". And then you came and you're doing it. You're probably... You're good at it, but I don't know what it is.
Piers: It's hard to work out what we've just seen. Are you a tumbler? It seemed more stunt-type, but not dancing. For Vegas, it has to be dramatic. But to me, it was a bit boring.
("Chaotic", as Piers said in the intro) was right, but he was interesting to see what he'd do next.)

Segment #6

Austin Anderson (Comedian - Auto Mechanic) Omaha, NE
Been doing standup for years.
Sharon: He's a regular guy. So everyone can relate to him.
Likes making people laugh.
Piers buzzed.
Howie: This is hard, wasn't it? This is tough. The thing about it. I think you have stage-presence. When I saw you on YouTube, you were doing stuff about being married, so it was relatable. This time, you stuck to on subject: Facebook. I think you are a funny guy, but you made a mistake in the choice of material.
Piers: I just don't think you were funny. With respect, you pooped on your own party, tonight.
Sharon: I think Howie was right. It was your choice of material. You are a fine comic, but it was the wrong material.
(Was humorous, but not funny. He might be with other material. We'll see. I doubt it.)

Booker Forte (Hip-Hop Dancer) Virgina Beach, VA
Piers buzzed.
Piers: Nice job. It's the problem. You're very limited, quite safe.
Sharon: Very well executed. But I have seen all the moves before. You're great-looking, you have good attitude when you move.
Howie: The point of tonight is we want to find that one gem. You've gotta explode. You've been watching Usher... I saw some Haspop in there. I didn't see anything of your own... special in there, tonight.
(Looked a little slow and calculated, where other hip-hop dancers seems a bit more frenetic. Nice job, but, as they said, "safe".)


Segment #7

Pizza Patt (Pizza Tosser) Columbus, OH
Piers buzzed (Didn't think he should be here at all.)
Sharon: I think that this is a new form of juggling.
Howie: The truth is the fire makes it different, but we've seen it in every pizzaria...
Piers: I don't see the point of it. Had you come off and made me a marguarita... As it is, I saw a grown man, lying on the floor and chucking pizzas in the air. It's not an act.
(They hold the Pizza Tossing championships in Vegas, don't they, Piers? LOL. That said, I don't think he could sustain a regular act in Vegas.)

Segment #8

Kristina Young (Singer) South Dakota
Howie: You look beautiful and you really upped it from YouTube. It's hard to do a Carrie Underwood song. Whether it's good enough for America votes you through
Piers: You don't have a good enough voice to make it through. I watched you, and I didn't not enjoy it.
Sharon: I thought it was a very good performance. Your voice is very loud... a very strong voice. I don't know whether that song was right for you. You didn't have the luxery of everyone else on this show to grow with it, but good job.
(I thought she did a good job. She missed a couple of notes, but...)

Segment #9

Maestro Alexander Bui (16yo Piano Player) New Jersey
Sharon buzzed. (What?)
Sharon: I think he's a magnificent pianist. It was boring to me. I think if you'd have chosen some classical pop music, more relatable... But it was boring to me.
Howie: The ability is amazing, especially at your age.
Piers: Let us clarify. You don't think this is the right place for him to perform, but this is a talent show... Let's just clarify. We don't want everyone to come on and do pop music.
(The song was not recognizable, but he played it very well, I'm sure. Given the choice of others, he may make it in.)

Segment #10

Dan Sperry (Magician)
Dark side of magic. The neighborhood weirdo. Been doing magic since he was 5.
Will do something that will leave America speechless.
He ate a Lifesaver mint, close to Howie, then took dental floss, appeared to saw it into his neck (skin), and pop it out with a mint on it. As he left the area, he tossed the dental floss at Howie. Howie jumped up and was across the stage faster than we've ever seen him move. Sharon started laughing, as did Piers. Dan up on stage, just looked devilishly innocent (with blood coming from his eyes).
Howie: I thought you were great, then you came over here. I'm stuck in a Tim Burton Movie.
Piers: You are hereby charged with the attempted murder of Howie Mandell, with dental floss and a mint.
Sharon: Laughing too much to say anything.
(Ok... Gross, but how'd he do that? And the judges' reactions... LOL - Bet he'll make it.)

Segment #11

Jackie Evancho (10yo operatic singer)
All others were brought in by the judges based on the acts and videos.
Jackie won the most votes of all the YouTube performers.
Standing ovation by crowd and judges.
Howie: We were going to this show and we all thought it was scary. we were looking for that one star and one moment. YOU are that one moment and one star.
Piers: You are only 10 years old. That is one of the most extraordinary performances I've seen on AGT. I know what's going to happen here. We're going to wake up tomorrow, and America's going to be going crazy for the little 10yo girl with the voice of an angel.
Sharon: It's amazing. I've never seen anything like it.
For winning the YouTube vote, she and her family are going to Orlando.
One more time for Jackie Evancho - Another standing ovation.

My choices: Cam Hodges, Kristina Young, Dan Sperry, Jackie Evancho

Lin You Chung, Quick Change, and another, tomorrow. (The three top acts in Viral Videos.)

Cya then! ;-)

America's Got Talent (AGT) (2010) - August 04, 2010 (Results #4)

Live from Hollywood

The acts from which 3 will be chosen by Ameria, and the fourth by the judges (4th and 5th by America's votes)
Da Maniacs
Nu Covenant
Anna and Patryk
Lindsey Stirling
Doogie Horner
Rudi Macaggi
Taylor Mathews
Mary Ellen|
ArcAttack
Prince Poppycock
Murray
Striker's All-Stars

Segment #1

First group: Doogie Horner, Mary Ellen, Murray
GOTTA be Murray out of this group.
America has voted. The act going into the semi-finals and moving one step closer to $1M and a headline show in Vegas is: Murray.
Piers: I think Murray has taken his act to a stage where we can seriously see you a contender. I think it's ironic that the first time Doogie makes me laugh, America sends him home.

Orville Lounge (after show, last night)

Segment #2

Contestants hung out with Will Ferril and Mark Walburg. They walked a red carpet to see a sneak preview of "The Other Guys"

Taio Cruz performs "Dynamite"

Segment #3

The next group to come out: Taylor Mathews, Da Maniacs, Lindsey Stirling
Shaorn: It's a really, really tough line-up.
America has voted: The second act going to the semi-finals is: Taylor Mathews (the audience was chanting before Nick said his name)
Howie: Number one I'm looking foward to seeing more. I was right. I said I'll bet you'll make it through.

The next group to come out: Striker's All Stars, Nu Convenant, Prince Poppycock
Piers: I think looking at the acts in front of us: Stikers, I think Nu Covenant: I don't think last night was your best performance. Prince: Where I come from, we have real princes... But they don't dress like you, and they're not called Poppycock. But they can't sing like you, either. I think besides the dress and theatrics that go with it, you have the best voice in the competition.
America has voted. And the act going to the semi-finals is: Prince Poppycock

Segment #4

Bret Michaels performs "Every Rose Has It's Thorn"

Segnent #5

Next group: Rudi Macaggi, ArcAttack, Anna and Patryk
Oh, man... ALL THREE!
And the act going home is: Rudi Macaggi
Experience has been wonderful... It's been great... Thank you America's Got Talent
Anna said, whatever your decision, even if we don't make it through, we're not going to stop doing what we love.

Segment #6

Piers: I want to put all three through, but I can't. ArcAttack, I've got a feeling we've seen your best. Anna/Patryk, I've seen you grow, each round. I'm going with my gut feeling, Anna and Patryk
Howie: First of all you're both fantastic. Anna/Patryk, you are technically great. In a ballroom dance contest you'd win as children. I have to go with ArcAttack.
Sharon: Both equally talented. You know I've been a fan of yours (Anna and Patryk) from the beginning. ArcAttack - I wasn't a fan in the beginning, but after seeing you work the crowd, and what you did last night, I am a fan. I don't understand it, but...
I've made my decisions: ArcAttack

So, the acts going through from this and the prior results shows:

Results #1 - Nathaniel Kenyon, Fighting Gravity, Christina & Ali, Future Funk
Results #2 - AscenDance, Alice Tan Ridley, Michael Grimm, Antonio Restivo
Results #3 - Haspop, Young Beast Society, Debra Romer, and Jeremy vanSchoonholden(?)
Results #4 - Murray, Taylor Mathews, Prince Poppycock, and ArcAttack

Next week, the #1 act from YouTube will perform with the top 12 for the $1M and Las Vegas.

Cya then!

All AGT Videos
Full Episodes (Season 5)
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America's Got Talent (AGT) (2010) - August 03, 2010 (Live #4)

Live from Hollywood.

The final 12 acts from Vegas perform tonight. Four will move on - Three by America's Vote and from the 4th and 5th of America's vote, the fourth to move on will be chosen by the judges.

Segment #1

Da Maniacs (Dance group)
A bunch of heavy guys. Started in Half-time shows.
Tonight - Tribute to two era's of music.
Nothing like seeing 12 "belushis" doing Soul Man as a Blues Brothers
To "Can't Touch This" my MC Hammer. (Piers buzzed when the song started.)
Piers: I do like you. You are very entertaining in a strange manner. There's a reason dancers are not your size. There's a TV show for you guys, it's called "The Biggest Loser".
Sharon: We are not true professional dancers is the way we all know. But you bring comedy and dance, and are entertaining. You make me smile.
Howie: But to stand out in this competition, you have to be very good or very bad. I think you're in the middle, somewhere. I don't think you can win.
Group spokesperson: "We are very humbled to be here. ... There's room for everybody, if you just open your minds."
(I thought they did a good job. But they're first out. We'll see.)

Segment #2

Nu Covenant (Four church gospel singers)
"To Late to Apologize"
Piers buzed. Sharon buzzed.
(Harmonies don't seem quite there.)
Sharon: You look incredible, you move well together, but the haromies weren't there tonight. Just wasn't happening vocally for me.
Howie: I know this is live tv... The weight of that we could see. Sometimes nerve can do that to you. I think that this was not your moment.
Piers: I think what we've discovered is that pop songs are not your thing. I think gospel is it for you - It's what you're comfortable with. I hope that America will feel sorry for you like I do, and give you a chance.)
(I wrote the "harmonies" thing before Sharon said a thing. Judges were saying they were "flat". I don't think so, but the harmonies were NOT "on". I think they're out.)

Segment #3

Anna and Patryk (Kid Ballroom Dancers)
Been dancing together for four years.
Howie: Way to bring it. There's no way to deny it. You two are amazing technicians at what you do. If this were a dance show, you two would win it. But it's not. America's got to decide.
Piers: I do know world-class talent when I see it. And I could see you in Vegas tomorrow. 12yo. The choreography, the chemistry. People can see you enjoy working together.
Sharon: We've seen you do the cha-cha, the tango, and now the jive. You could do unbelievable business in Vegas. (Howie: Who do you agree with, me or Piers.) Piers.
(Those kids are DAMN good - I think better than any of the Dancing with the Stars duos. And, since they've shown us three different styles, and done GREAT at all of them, I think they COULD play Vegas - Sorry Howie.)

Segment #4

Lindsey Stirling (Hip-Hop Violinist - Plays and Dances)
Mormon. Wants to show that you don't have to compromize your values, but still can have fun.
Piers buzzed.
Piers: I love you and your look, the choreography was great. To do what you do you have to be a world-class violinist. There were times it sounds good, and times it sounds like a bunch a rats being strangled.
Sharon: You're here because you're unique, and we loved you in the auditions. I think the problem is with you, you need to be in a group. You need a singer, dancers, etc.
Howie: You have to realize that to get to this point, you're already a winner. I hate I've got to say this, but Piers was right. There were notes missing, when you were being thrown around, right? (Yeah, but I gave it my all.)
(Very interesting. I could see her doing this in Vegas, but I think Sharon's right. She needs a bit more. She's good, but something's missing. She's NOT a soloist.)

Segment #5

Doogie Horner (Stand-up Comedy)
Sharon: You know that you did make Mr Piers Morgan laugh. You made me laugh. it was very silly, but I liked it.
Howie: I say it all the time. This is the hardest contest for comedians. I think it was great. It really was.
Piers: This is a very uncomfortable moment for me. I was determined tonight to find you as funny as a smack in the chops. There's something about your delivery, and it finally got to me. I have to say this: Doogie... You're funny!
(Doogie has a t-shirt on: Pier's Morgan Fan Club, under his dress shirt).
(He didn't berate the audience. He said he wasn't going to compromise his jokes by using cheap tricks to get people excited, and the first thing that happened was indoor fireworks, applause sign, etc. (Ironic comedy.) I don't know if he could do a full Vegas show, but it was pretty good tonight, if you were WATCHING. Listening, and it seemed a bit flat. We'll see.)

Segment #6

Rudi Macaggi (3rd generation circus act)
(One of the most dangerous acts we've had on this show.)
Balances over a running circular saw head-down on two stacks of blocks. Then he yells, tosses the blocks and lands on his hands, face 2-3 inches from the blade.
Howie: I was looking the other way. You said if you're faint of heart and sensitive, and I am. But I was looking at their faces, and you're still alive.
Piers: Rudi - I've never seen anything like that in my life. That was the most extraordinary dangerous exciting things I've ever seen on this show.
Sharon: It was like watching a horror movie. You bring danger. True circus people are a dying breed. I just loved it.
(Reminds me of some of the old circus acts we used to see on TV with added danger. He's Vegas, that's for sure.)

Taylor Mathews (singer)
"I'm Not Moving"(?) ("The Man that Can't Be Moved"(?))
Standing Ovation from Audience
Piers: Tell me how you think you did. (From the sound of it, It hink I did pretty good.) I think there were moments in that song - not perfect - when I saw a real potential pop-star.
Sharon: I can't wait to see you again, to see how far you've come along. it was a bit shaky at times. But I loved it.
Howie: I think this particular performance was your rockiest, but America loves you. I will bet you'll be back.
(Nice song. There were a few spots, but that's typical of even major acts when they perform live. I think he did a great job.)

Segment #7

Mary Ellen (strange singer - Yodelled first audition)
Went over on audition and next time. Told that 90 seconds and they'll pull the plug.
Piers buzzed.
(One of those so bad she's good - Nick pulled the plug)
Howie: You're truly a trend-setter (has a wig like her's on). I love you. You're really unique.
Sharon: You don't seem happy tonight. (I have a virus.) I could tell there was something not right. (Howie: You could tell there's something not right? I couldn't tell.)
Piers: Looking at Howie, the only reason you're here is because of Howie. Maybe you could do us all a favor, and sneeze all over him.
(Oh, Gawd! I hope she doesn't make it over some of the others. She reminds me of Mrs. Miller in the 60s/70s. Look HER up! LOL)

Segment #8

ArcAttack (Electric performers)
(Plays music with lightning from Tesla Coils and chain-mail suits)
"Iron Man"
They had to build a stage outside, just so they can perform, it's so dangerous.
Will come inside and see what the judges think after the break.

Segment #9

Howie: You know what? I don't think TV does you justice. People don't realize that the notes are coming out of the electricity.
Piers: I must say that being outside watching you perform, it's one of the most exciting things I've seen. Very Vegas.
The spark works like a speaker.
Sharon: The audience was very into it, so were were. I MUST say though, that next time you do Iron Man, I know a singer...
(VERY Vegas!)

Prince Poppycock (Costumed and made up singer - operatic)
Not very self-confident - works in a metal shop - until he puts on the Poppycock makeup.
Piers: I think you're becoming my guilty pleasure. I like the real you, and I like Poppycock. I'll tell you one thing... You can sing, you have great stage presence...
Sharon: Every time I see you, you get more and more theatrical. It's great to see an opera singer that's not fat and stuffy. I hope you come back. Because if you don't I don't know what I will do.
Howie: The whole look is fabulous. It's Liza Manelli and a clown. The question is will middle-America go for this.
(Poppycock is very flamboyant, but the guy can flat-out SING! I think he'll get through. Seemed strange to start with, but now we've heard a bit of the story... I like him.)

Segment #10

Murray (magician)
Family is a railroad family. He's the first person in the family to break away from that and do tricks.
Glass box. Girl inside. Piers' sport-coat. Cover. Can see all around, above and below curtain. He pulls the curtain, and there's a tiger. The girl is behind Howie, and scares him to death! LOL
Howie: That is Vegas.
Sharon: Every time I see you you take it up a notch.
Piers: Thank you. I saw the tiger with no jacket, and I thought I lost the jacket. The kind of magician we're looking for is one that gets bigger and bigger, and at this stage, they have to wow us, and THAT is what I'm talking about.
(Nice. One trick tonight, but it was a good one!)

Segment #11

Striker's All-Stars (Dancers - Hip-hop/Stepping/Acrobatic)
Howie: You are incredibly talented, but we are in the last round. Last time you were more acrobatic. You stepped it down.
Piers: You are a good dance group. I've counted 7 or 8 that should go through, but there will only be four.
Sharon: It's so unfortunate that you are on tonight with everyone that's gone before. But you did your best, but with tigers and (Howie: Mary Ellen)...
(They did a good job, but like Howie noted, the group from last week stepped it up... They moved very well, but I didn't see the WOW.)

My votes: Anna and Patryk, Prince Poppycock, Taylor Mathews, ArcAttack (and I hate that only four can go through - secondary: Rudi and Murray)

Result show tomorrow.
Taio Cruz and Bret Michaels tomorrow night.

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