As I learned last year, the contestants almost invariably sound better live. This year, that absolutely held true, making the unbearable ones from TV actually quite pleasant. In fact, I will say that I was blown away by Casey James, someone who I absolutely hated on TV. The absolute star, however.... Lee Dewyze.
I look forward to next year's tour already. In fact, if I was able to make any of the other dates near me for this tour, I'd consider going again. So much fun.
My camera actually cooperated with me! I was able to get a somewhat absurd number of photos, and two pretty good videos.
All photos can be seen on Flickr (they were too big to be uploaded here): http://www.flickr.com/photos/noday16/sets/72157624467098086/
Lee Dewyze singing "Use Somebody" by the Kings of Leon:
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kce_KVwfMEs?wmode=transparent]
The top 10 singing "It's My Life" by Bon Jovi & "My Life Would Suck Without You" by Kelly Clarkson:
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D861t6iyM30?wmode=transparent]