MasterClassLady's review of Houston

[Rereader]

masterclasslady.com/2008/08/24/american-idol-season-7-tour-in-houston-texas-on-august-24th-2008/#comments

Uploaded by: Stefernie2

Performed by: Jason Castro

Over The Rainbow: ca.youtube.com/watch?v=lJDjgHa_L4I

I am very anxious to hear Jason’s performance deep in the heart of his homestate of Texas. And, according to Rereader, Jason added some melodic surprises in this song! Whoopee! Let’s see what we have here!

Nice focused “oos” that are followed by “ahs” during the intro. It’s always a good idea for the singer to change vowels when he hums the melodic section of a song - it adds heightened nuance and, depending on the song, intensity to the performance. In this case, the open “ah” sound moved nicely into the first word, “Oh”. Very smooth beginning, Jason!

And he is really trying to connect his phrases more efficiently, trying very hard to hang onto those vowels as long as possible. He adds some new melodic ideas to this song - a note or two extra - here and there. Good for him! So proud of him!

He is still spreading that “ee” vowel though - oh well, it will come in time. But, man, that head voice sounded gorgeous, didn’t it? Really transparent and centered. And listen to the applause after this section of the song - well-deserved indeed

I wish the audio had been a bit better in this video, but, at least we have a video, so special thanks to Stefernie2.

A great performance, Jason. Bravo!

Daydream ca.youtube.com/watch?v=-R8nlLiRta4

Jason sounds like he totally owns the Toyota Center stage in Houston. His voice sounds energized and animated and he delivers this wonderful song with a renewed sense of poise and confidence.

This song performance is so musical and the forward momentum, that is so important in establishing the fluidity of the melodic line, is omni-present and constant.

He encounters a little problem with his upper register when he sings the word “way” - he needs to think of “eh” and sustain his voice on that pure vowel, while making sure that his mouth stays nice and round and the jaw relaxed.

However, he quickly moves past this technical glitch and continues the song with consummate style and sustance.

I always love watching him during the instrumental segment - the way he acknowledges the crowd with that genuine and shy demeanor. No wonder the fans love him so.

And he ends with a beautiful display of his head voice - gorgeous!

Great showcase, Jason. Congrats form MCL!

I think she liked it....

[hannab]

He did such a good job! I know she wants him to connect his phrases, and he has improved on that, but I like his unique sound and hope he doesn't completely get rid of his own style. Somehow the disconnects just seem to fit his voice and interpretation in some of the songs.

[borntorun]

I love that article!!!

#LOVE#

[asmcqu01]

Yay! However I agree that I hope he doesn't get rid of that fantastic phrasing he has...thats a part of him that makes him so unique!! I just love it!

[altrock4u]

I agree, I hope Jason keeps his phrasing as is. I think it is what makes Jason's music Jason. It makes him instantly recognizable. I really happen to love Jason's phrasing.

Jason smooth clear voice has such a wonderful tone that is so warm and inviting.

I could listen to Jason sing all day. Oh wait I do!

;D

[Rereader]

Well, a good vocal coach wants to make sure that a singer doesn't HAVE to break up his phrases; then he has a choice. It's always better to know how to do something--choice is good!

[grizabella]

Rereader: thanks for sharing this artice with us. You gotta love those "melodic surprises"

[angelmarie]

I was at that show! he was amazing! i like the article...but i dont get what they're talkin about with the way he says his vowels...i guess i dont hear it.