Review: Jason Castro's Performance as One of American Idol's Top 8, April 8
This week's theme was inspirational songs, and Jason Castro very appropriately chose Israel Kamakawiwo Ole's version of Somewhere Over the Rainbow. This was a brilliant song choice for Jason. This version of the song has a laid back, island feel to it, and I could see Jason sitting under a cabana on the beach, performing this song. The song also fits the theme well - as Jason said in his interview, changing the world is what this week is all about. Somewhere Over the Rainbow is the essence of this sentiment. Our country is in a bit of a crisis at the moment...but Somewhere Over The Rainbow we'll see better times.
This isn't to say that this song choice didn't do anything for Jason. He stayed within his niche, but still branched out, making use of the ukulele instead of the guitar, showing that he is a well-rounded artist. Vocally, he performed quite well this week. He came across as passionate about the song, very sincere, and broke into a very nice, natural sounding falsetto.
The judges seemed to agree that this was a strong performance. Randy said that Jason Castro is back this week, and that his performance was the "hottest" of the night. I definitely second that opinion. Simon furthered the sentiment by saying that it was his third time hearing this version of the song, and thought it was fantastic.
If Jason had anything to worry about in previous weeks, I think he can rest easy now. He proved himself a worthy competitor tonight and I expect to see him stick around for weeks to come.
Published by Andrea Caruso
I'm 30 years old, married 5 years, mom of a two year old girl. I'm a graduate of the University of Central Florida (Liberal Studies w/ concentrations in Computer Science, Art, and Psychology) and Full Sail U... View profile
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6 Comments
Post a CommentI am not a sweet young thing. I am not particularly swayed by Jason's looks; not a huge fan of dreadlocks. But I am a big fan of Jason Castro. His subtle, understated style is a wonderful contrast to much of the bombastic oversinging that regularly plagues this show, and I thought the little miracle he came up with this week will probably go down as my favorite performance of the season. The boy was on the ropes, being counted out by the judges and most of the media, and he ruled the night with this sweet, haunting rendition that I usually associate, in AI terms, with Kat McPhee screeching at me as she lies on the floor. This was wonderful.
Another Hallelujah! Another big hit! I would definitely buy his first album. I hope he includes his past songs because I've already memorized all of them. He has become an inspiration.
Jason is one of the few on the show that is a TRUE musician. Yes, a lot of people can sing well but like a few of the others Jason plays an instrument. What is so impressive to me is that Jason has only been singing and playing guitar for 2 years. I play guitar and can say from experience that is take natural talent to be that good in such a short amount of time. Jason bring something else to the table on American Idol. He's different, he's talented, he's attractive, he doesn't have to TRY and be unique, and he's a true musician!
I disagree with whoever said the young girls are keeping Jason Castro in the competition. I'm a grandmother and I absolutely think he is the best, most sincere, humble, charming and fantastic singer to come along in a while. I love his voice and his laid back style and I also think his dreds suit him and look good on him. Think again about who's supporting this young talent.
Well, I'm not a young girl and I sure do like him.
Of all the contestants he comes off as the most genuine, he knows who he is and he does not see the need to be flashy nor pompous. He is a breath of fresh air not just in American Idol but in the whole music and television industry. He is up against people who have been performing and singing all their lives, while he has had only two years of guitar playing and singing and almost zero experience and yet he is holding his own and giving a good fight.
He may not have classical training nor the widest range, but he connects with the audience and makes each song a pleasant listening experience. Music should be enjoyed, it should touch hearts, lives. And that's what Jason Castro provides.
He is a wonderful young man whose beauty is beyond physicality. He is a great role model and well most definitely make a fine American Idol..
This was the first performance by Jason that I liked. Until now, I thought he belonged in a little coffee house doing his thing -- which isn't bad, but I couldn't imagine him winning. If his eyes weren't so pretty, I don't think all the young girls would vote for him and I think they've been keeping him in.