The Next Great American Band: Take The Bridge To The Finals
By Matt C.
November 5, 2007
Another week, another exciting episode of American Band! I have to say, I am so disappointed that this show is not getting the ratings it deserves. At this rate, I don't even know if it will stay on for a whole season! I think the problem lies in it's Friday night timeslot. I even know for myself this night is an issue. I always TiVo the program and watch it Sunday evening. Had the Fox Execs put this gem into another timeslot, I think there would be a much stronger audience. How about Monday night? Anyways, this isn't something I can change, so let's bring our attention back to the show.
I can't say I'm surprised at all at the two bands that were eliminated this week. The Likes Of You and The Hatch were both good bands, but they were the most strikingly generic. Neither band had found a real niche for themselves, and in a competition where you have twelve strong bands who all play something a little different, being safe isn't an option. Take a look at Light Of Doom or Dot Dot Dot: If you don't play well, your chances of staying in are stronger because at least you will be remembered. Contestants who apply for the second season of "Band", or even for "American Idol", should remember this.
Here is how I rank the top ten going into the second round of cuts:
Franklin Bridge
Current Ranking: 1 - Previous Ranking: 2
These guys are so wickedly talented. They always switch it up, and are so unique as a band these days. Do they run the risk of falling between genres? Sure. However, it doesn't matter, because if one band will, or should, become a success after this show, it will be these guys. They rock.
Sixwire
Current Ranking: 2 - Previous Ranking: 4
This band is really trying something different, and it's really appealing. The group has got their skills down tight, and the country market is a very strong fanbase, so expect this group to be around for a while.
Tres Bien
Current Ranking: 3 - Previous Ranking: 1
The sixties rock is totally cool with me. Some people call the music dated, but in fact, retro is what's in right now. Look at Amy Winehouse and Joss Stone, throwbacks are hot now, and this band is capitalizing on it. Expect this group around for a while.
The Clark Brothers
Current Ranking: 4 - Previous Ranking: 2
Besides the fact that this group is strong and connected, they have that female vote. Three cute boys from a small town who can play? That's a winning combo. I wouldn't be surprised to see these guys in the final three, and I believe that they will continue to improve because they're young and determined.
Light of Doom
Current Ranking: 5 - Previous Ranking: 6
Isn't it so funny that even though they are thirteen years old, they have ex-members of the band? They want to be taken seriously, and I appreciate that. They're certainly improving, and I think it may have something to do with the facts that they're keeping their shirts on. At least I no longer think of them as a total joke, but do they deserve to win? I'm not sure.
Cliff Wagner and the Old #7
Current Ranking: 6 - Previous Ranking: 5
They're great, but bluegrass is not a chart-topper. Especially since Sixwire is playing a country twang, I don't see Cliff being as successful as he deserves.
Denver And The Mile High Orchestra
Current Ranking: 7 - Previous Ranking: 10
These guys can listen to some criticism, and know how to improve. However, they still strike me as unprofessional... I think it has more to do with the genre than the band, and I'm still looking for some real popping music. I haven't seen it from these guys yet.
Dot Dot Dot
Current Ranking: 8 - Previous Ranking: 11
Like Denver, this group is getting better. In the end though, I don't know if these guys can improve enough to compete with any of the seven teams who have ranked above them. These guys need a fan base to give them the chance to improve. Do they have it? I'm not sure. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rocket
Current Ranking: 9 - Previous Ranking: 9
I wish these chicks could rock it out better. A note to Lauren, take the professional singing lessons. They write good music, and they have potential, but if the lead singer stays stubborn on not seeking out professional help, then she will have to be satisfied on being eliminated.
The Muggs
Current Ranking: 10 - Previous Ranking: 8
Overall, they are the most disappointing for me. In the auditions, they were one of my favorites, but they have receded into sap. I wish them all the best.
The Hatch
Eliminated Week 3
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The Likes of You
Eliminated Week 3
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I am under the impression that two teams will be going home this week, so I expect to see the end of Rocket and The Muggs. However, I don't want them to go home. In fact, I don't want anyone to go home!! Readers, tell your friends to watch this show, because it truly is a real masterpiece. See you next week!
Matthew C. is a Reality TVv junkie who probably listens to too much P!nk and Jo Dee Messina for his own good. You probably haven't heard of the latter, but you should google her now. If you want to throw something at him after reading what he wrote, too bad, because he wont tell you because he wont tell you where he lives. If you want to e-mail him with either gripes or praise, e-mail him at matthewchisling@hotmail.com.
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