By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com
America’s Got Talent (AGT): Season 14 entered the second week of quarterfinals! After surprising eliminations and questionable decisions by America, a new group of acts performed on the Dolby Theatre. Which performers stood out and delivered phenomenal performances? Did any of the judges (Simon Cowell, Julianne Hough, Gabrielle Union, and Howie Mandel) press their buzzers? Read on to find out!
After Terry Crews made his epic entrance onto the Dolby Theatre stage, it was time to get down to business. 13-year-old Charlotte Summers kicked off AGT with the classic James Bond anthem: “Diamonds Are Forever.” When Charlotte sang the song, I almost thought it was Sia singing the Dame Shirley Bassey tune. I was impressed with her voice and she is 100-percent better than Ansley Burns. B+
Opera and danger act Nick & Lindsay returned to AGT for their chance to enter the entertainment industry. The duo transported the audience to a haunted Arizona funeral parlor as Nick badly sang Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire.” The only good thing I got to say is that Lindsay has a fantastic aim as she threw knives using her foot. But I have to agree with Simon and Howie’s buzzers; it was not up to par! F
Singer and Sweden Idol winner Chris Klafford made his live debut on the AGT stage. Tonight, Chris sang an original song about the last few moments he had with his great-grandmother. Chris gave me chills with his vocal range, and haunting lyrics moved me. It was a spectacular performance. A
Dance and contortionist Marina Mazepa was the next act to take over the Dolby Theatre stage. While I appreciate Marina, I was bored by the performance. She needed to be joined by a few other contortionists. It was just boring! D–
65-year-old Robert Finley always made me smile when he performed in the Judges’ Auditions and the Judge Cuts. His original songs are impeccable, and I think they would be instant best sellers on iTunes. This song addressed his AGT experience, and as he sang, Mr. Finley reminded me of the legendary R&B performers such as Sam Moore and the Reverend Al Green. He is truly a superstar in the making. A
The Sentimentalists were this week’s AGT Wild Card act! The duo was selected to return for the ultimate second chance. They dealt with the five senses for this set. While it was an interesting concept, the duo’s execution was not as good as The Clairvoyants. C-
Comedian Ryan Niemiller wanted to perform in the AGT: Season 14 semifinals. He has not let his disability get him down and controlled his narrative. He revealed in his pre-performance package that his high school was the first time he performed and found his destiny. While some of the acts fell due to the pressure, Ryan shined brighter than any of the other acts thanks to his phenomenal jokes. A-
Indian dance troupe V.Unbeatable returned to AGT for their chance to enter the Season 14 Semifinals. The group began their routine with a pre-recorded segment outside of the Dolby Theatre, but then they woke up the audience with their outstanding stunt work. I have a solid feeling that V.Unbeatable will be performing in the Season 14 finale! A+
Howie’s Golden Buzzer, singer-rapper Joseph Allen, had to follow V.Unbeatable’s fantastic performance. Honestly, Joseph did not make me go, “WOW!” I think Joseph might need either the Dunkin’ Save or the Judges Save tomorrow night to advance. C-
Ellie Kemper’s Golden Buzzer act, Light Balance Kids, were the next act to take the AGT stage. The group has to step up to the plate and keep their mentor’s legacy alive. I have to say that V.Unbeatable might have some competition because their choreography, visuals, and storyline were spectacular! A+
Simon Cowell’s Golden Buzzer act violinist Tyler Butler-Figureora was the next act to face the judges. While I respect Tyler’s talent, I would have buzzed him if I was at the dais. He needed a live band and dancers backing him. This was not his best performance. D
The NDLOVU Youth Choir closed out the night. The choir traveled all across the world from South Africa to perform for America’s votes. I got chills from the group’s cover of U2’s “Beautiful Day.” It was the perfect way to end the evening! This was one of the best choral performances in AGT history and I believe they will inspire the world. A+
Tomorrow night, Susan Boyle returns and will headline the AGT results show! Also, Jake’s Take would like to congratulate our friends, Collabro, as it was announced that they will compete on Britain’s Got Talent: The Champions.
