Tonight’s Top 16 dance-off on So You Think You Can Dance was a mixed bag, baby. Maybe I’m getting cynical on account of the bloggin’, but I wasn’t on the same page as the judges, who seemed to be WOWed and uhhh-mazed by everything. Also, the Top 12 from Season 5 were in the house (saw a lot of Jeanine Mason, Melissa Sandvig, Ade Obayomi, Evan Kasprzak and adorable Kupono Aweau). Unfortunately, they didn’t perform, so we just saw them grin and wave at the camera every chance they got. Videos of the dances (from MJ) and my thoughts ahead:

MY BOTTOM 3 COUPLES: Ellenore Scott & Ryan Di Lello, Channing Cooke & Victor Smalley, and Mollee Gray & Nathan Trasoras

Karen Hauer & Kevin Hunte – Hustle by Maria Torres - “Come to Me” by France Joli (VIDEO): Oh fellaaaas, Karen wants everyone to know that she is DIVORCING from her husband (remember they auditioned together?). Smart move, girl. You don’t wanna be tied down during your national debut.  They Hustle which just reminds me of disco and do alright. Kevin was still the weak link of the pair. Judges love them (as do I), but probably give them more props than necessary.

Ashleigh Di Lello & Jakob Karr – Jazz by Mandy Moore - “Relax” by Frankie Goes to Hollywood (VIDEO): Ah, the “cane dance”. Okay, in the words of Tim Gunn, I was “woeful and a bit perplexed” about this dance. The judges were jumping up and down over it (suddenly really fawning over Ashleigh), and I like Mandy’s work, but c’monnnnn, this was just a ridonkulous excuse to use a prop (a cane) to try and get…props. I mean, much like last week’s Hip Hop tennis match, this was contrived and even less relevant to the performance (at least the tennis rackets were tied to the story last week). What was the cane symbolizing? Why was it there? A little backstory could’ve done wonders for me beyond Mandy’s “How can I challenge the crap out of my dancers AND get the judges’ attention - oh look! Aunt Bessie left her cane behind! *inspiration strikes*” The dance was supposed to be a trio of “Jakob, Ashleigh and the cane”. It was more like Jakob & the cane… oh and Ashleigh. She hardly engaged with it. I must admit that both of them (Jakob & Ashleigh, not the cane) looked pretty hot (or hawt) in the androgynous, 80’s glam style. Some of the movements were reminiscent of last season’s Wade Robson “robber” dance between Janette Manrara & Brandon Bryant (VIDEO). Be sure to re-watch THAT - tres genius.

Pauline Mata & Peter Sabasino - Quickstep by JT & Tomas - “Hey Baby! (Shake Those Hula Hips)” by Big Kahuna & the Copa Cat Pack (VIDEO): Aw, these two are a cute, smiley, dimpled couple but would they survive the “Dance of Death”? Well, thanks to clever choreography and a simple storyline (Peter’s a soldier who falls for Miss Hawaiian Hula Honey Pauline), these darlings skate by despite weak technical delivery. Adam, who was extra rambly tonight, makes a weird comment that the choreographers made use of Pauline’s “natural ethnicity” by putting her in the role of a hula girl. Hm. Isn’t she Filipina, not Hawaiian? I could be wrong, but Adam was sorta bugging tonight. Tick tock, tick tock - keep your feedback concise and leave unnecessary racial and ethnic comments out of it when possible please, Mr. Shankman.

Kathryn McCormick & Legacy Perez – Broadway by Andy Blankenbuehler - “I Wanna Be Like You” by Swingin’ Fireballs (VIDEO): The judges did pick up on the same distraction I did here - Kathryn’s performance was very corny. She could have brought a lot more to her taken-for-granted housewife character - some sass, some ferocity - but no. She played it with a sort of permanent, “Awww, you scamp! Why I oughta…” smirk. I really liked Legacy’s back somersault into a headstand as he fell back into the easy chair though. Judges are in lurve with him.

Channing Cooke & Victor Smalley – Contemporary by Stacey Tookey - “Be Be Your Love (Live at KCRW)” by Rachael Yamagata (VIDEO): Thank god that Nigel had the sense to give Channing & Victor a dose of reality. It should’ve been an INCREDIBLE performance: they’re both very strong Contemporary dancers, this Rachael Yamagata song is (to quote Adam) uhhh-mazing and it dealt with that classic Contemporary theme of a “toxic” couple who push and pull and “yes!” and “nooo!”… but there was a real lack of chemistry and performance. Channing’s been a real disappointment to me since her audition. She’s very guarded and I prefer my dancers to wear their hearts on their sleeves. If this was their “comfort zone”, that’s not a good sign - it was a very generic dance and I wasn’t…inspired, yknow?

Ellenore Scott & Ryan Di Lello – Hip Hop by Lil C – “Lost Boyz Anthem” by J-Squad (VIDEO): Loquacious Lil C (hear that judges?? His name is LIL C, not “Little C”) kind of gave these two a stinker of a number. They were supposed to be robbers/burglars, but they were both dressed in white snowboarding garb, so what was that about? I found Ellenore way more convincing here and thought she deserved more kudos from the judges. There were times when they weren’t synchronized, and it became pretty boring…but I blame the choreography and the obnoxious music which consisted of something like “*siren wail* *keyboard tinking* *beeping*” on repeat. I wouldn’t want to see Ellenore go home though - she has a lot of offer to this competition.

Mollee Gray & Nathan Trasoras – Salsa by Gustavo Vargas - “Quimbara” by Celia Cruz and Johnny Pacheco (VIDEO): Whoa, JANK-O-RAMA. That was pretty damn awful, and y’all know I love me some Nathan. He is getting a little bit too stupid-frat-boy-cocky and needs to reel it in. Dear Nathan, I wanna be your #1 fan, so try to take this piece of advice to heart: HUMILITY. Yes, you’re effin gorgeous (erm, except tonight, when your hairstyle made you look like a 57-year-old uncle), but you have a lot to learn and Jakob is a much stronger Contemporary dancer. If you really want to win, then come back down to earth and win us over with that eager, “I just love to express myself through dance” attitude. The judges won’t shut up about these two being the “dream team” (I dunno about that), but this Salsa was a total NIGHTMARE (see what I did there?). Out of synch, Nathan was doing these exaggerated, bent limb movements, Mollee was a hot (still immature) mess, the shimmying was Jack nasty *sigh*. Can you tell I’m disappointed?

Noelle Marsh & Russell Ferguson – Afro Jazz by Sean Cheesman - “Frog Dance” by Mickey Hart and Planet Drum (VIDEO): Woohoo, last dance of the night! It’s the first time SYTYCD US featured Afro Jazz. I think it was a success. For me, Russell was the star here in the role as the frog. Those leaps! Lordy, lordy! Noelle did great in the really fast-paced part, but I felt she faltered in a few spots in comparison to her partner. It had the judges (afro) jazzed up though - I think we’ll be seeing more of Sean Cheesman in the future. Oh, and Adam made another semi-awkward racial comment when he said sarcastically, “When I think ‘African Princess’, the first person I think of is Noelle!” Get it? Cuz she’s white? Har har har hmmm… :-/

Am I being a Scrooge or was tonight pretty uneven? Do you agree with the judges? I feel like they’re trying too hard to pimp out certain dancers even when they aren’t that strong. So far I’m tiptoeing onto Team Karen Hauer, but will America agree with me? So many questions!

Tomorrow night, we find out the guy and gal who will be eliminated on So You Think You Can Dance. See you then and fill out the poll on your way out: WHICH TOP 16 COUPLE GAVE THE BEST PERFORMANCE?

Thanks for nuthin’, World Series. Because the game prevents a So You Think You Can Dance results show from airing, tonight’s episode crammed the Top 18 performances in and the judges (not viewers) chose the couple to eliminate. Did they make the right choice? Two tappers (Bianca Revels and Phillip Attmore) out in the blink of an eye. Recap of the Top 18 and videos of tonight’s dances (from MJ)…NOW:

Noelle Marsh & Russell Ferguson – Hip Hop by Jamal Sims - “Move Shake Drop Remix” by DJ Laz, Flo Rida and Casley (VIDEO): This was Noelle’s first week performing after her bum knee injury last week. While neither dancer did a bad job, the piece itself was a scrambly mess. It was a “tennis hip hop” dance and I thought the props and costumes were contrived and well, lame-o. It was watching like two yuppie squares try to Hip Hop - ick. Noelle hit the moves, but her performance was a little forced and hokey. The judges weren’t so impressed either.

Ashleigh Di Lello & Jakob Karr – Viennese Waltz by Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin - “At Last” by Etta James (VIDEO): Ashleigh needs to cut her hair. Anyway, this was a sweet number - it was about a newly married couple having their First Dance as husband and wife. Sweaty Jakob got to score two kisses with equally sweaty Ashleigh - hope her hubby Ryan wasn’t threatened *wink, smirk*. It was nice to see Ashleigh more subdued because sometimes homegirl’s pulling all kinds of overly exaggerated “OOOO!” faces or “Ha-cha-CHA!” growls after her moves. She just needs to scale back and be more genuine in her performances.

Bianca Revels & Victor Smalley – Broadway by Tyce Diorio - “Maybe God Is Tryin’ to Tell You Something” from The Color Purple soundtrack (VIDEO): Y’know, now that I know the outcome of the show; that Bianca was eliminated, I am a bit peeved. I thought she carried this routine and I’m now realizing that I’ll miss her exuberant personality from the show. I agree with the judges that Victor was all kiiiinds of pent up in this number and he didn’t TAKE. IT. TO. CHURCH. He’s such a gorgeous dancer, I hope he shapes up and can be more committed in his performances. I disagree with Nigel that Bianca also needed to give more. I thought her performance was way better than Victor’s.

Mollee Gray & Nathan Trasoras – Bollywood by Nakul Dev Mahajan - “Azeem O Shaan Shahenshah” Jodhaa Akbar (soundtrack) (VIDEO): It’s the teenybopper couple! Nathan is still a cutie and Mollee is still acting like she’s 5 years old. I don’t get why the judges think she’s suddenly matured into a woman, because I don’t see it. Though he’s young, I think Nathan could soar with a partner who has more emotional depth. Mollee, with her lisp and her cornball giddiness, just ain’t gonna cut it. Needless to say, I tune her out during their performances. Nathan had a really really strong opening to the dance and I MAY have swooned a little during his go-on-forever “hopping pirouettes”. Give him a new partner please!

Channing Cooke & Phillip Attmore – Samba by Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin - “Maracatu Funk” by The Samba Squad (VIDEO): This was not good. I don’t get it: Channing was obnoxiously bubbly during her audition, but since making the Top 20 (or Top 36 even) she just seems hard, rough, angry, dour - I dunno. What happened to that shining personality? This whole Samba pretty much stank. It was shaky, their lifts were “whooOOOAAA” wobbly, the technique was astrosh…yeah, no. And I agree that Phillip should’ve gone home.

Karen Hauer & Kevin Hunte – Hip Hop by Tabitha & Napoleon - “Ice Cream Paint Job” by Dorrough (VIDEO): Karen’s a flirty J-Lo look-alike who’s switchin’ her hips into an auto shop to work her feminine wiles on Kevin the car mechanic. This was waaay better than the Noelle & Russell tennis number. It was hard hitting, it was entertaining, it was borderline raunchy. I tell ya, Karen is winning me over, but like I said last week - I would like to see her soften up and get raw and emotional, like in a Contemporary number. If she can pull that off, then I’ll root for her 100%. Poor Kevin, he gets overshadowed by her all the time. He better step it up!

Kathryn McCormick & Legacy Perez – Contemporary by Stacey Tookey - “2 Steps Away” by Patti LaBelle (VIDEO): Okay, so this was a lovely number and yet I couldn’t help but feel like I’d seen it before…hmmm… This Contemporary dance was about Kathryn fighting “the Fear” (a.k.a. Legacy). Yeah, it was EXTREMELY reminiscent of last season’s powerful Mia Michael’s “Addiction” dance performed by Kayla Radomski & Kupono Aweau (VID). Though Legacy had some great tricks and it was nice to watch, I kept thinking back to Mia’s addiction piece and how strong it was and how raw Kayla & Kupono were in comparison. Watch it again!

Pauline Mata & Peter Sabasino – Jazz by Wade Robson - “Little Green Bag” by George Baker Selection (VIDEO): Oops, I missed this number. It looks interesting - typical Wade stuff. I’m glad they were safe. I think little Pauline is adorable.

Ellenore Scott & Ryan Di Lello – Argentine Tango by Miriam Larici & Leonardo Barrionuevo - “Violent Tango” by Astor Piazzolla (VIDEO): Nigel is right - I had a hard time appreciating the complexity of this number, but apparently Ellenore & Ryan SMASHED IT. And Ellenore did so with her dress caught on her heel for a large portion of the number. Kudos, kudos.

The judges call the Bottom 3 couples: Noelle & Russell, Channing & Phillip and Bianca & Victor. The Bottom 4 dancers are Noelle, Bianca, Phillip and Victor. They must all DANCE FOR THEIR LIVES before the judges eliminate two dancers. Unfortunately, the tappers have a tough time making a strong impression, although Bianca puts more pizzazz into it than Phillip, imo. It’s clear to me that Victor’s strong Contemporary solo bested Phillip, but the gals are neck-in-neck for me…  VIDEO

ELIMINATED: Bianca Revels and Phillip Attmore. Awww, booo, so much for this HISTORICAL Top 20 with 3 Tap dancers that the judges boasted so much about. It’s only the second week and 2 out of 3 of the tappers are gone. Like I said, I’m bummed that Bianca is out because she was a lot of fun, but Phillip has bored me from the beginning. I will, however, admit that I got a little verklempt when he mentioned his dad’s recent passing and how moved he was that some of the Top 18 went to the funeral. Why, he even got Miss Cat Deeley crying! Very sad, but the show goes on.

Next week on So You Think You Can Dance, our Top14 perform and viewers can finally have a say in who’s eliminated.

Have I ever told you how much I LOVE Ellen DeGeneres?

Here she is doing a big ole choreographed dance number with Season 5’s cast of So You Think You Can Dance on the season premiere of The Ellen DeGeneres Show:

The song is “Calle Ocho” by Pitbull, in case you were wondering.

You’ll recognize all your SYTYCD faves in the mix: Melissa Sandvig, Ade Obayomi, Kayla Radomski, Brandon Bryant, Jason Glover, Evan Kasprzak, Randi Strong-Evans, Kupono Aweau, Janette Manrara, and last season’s winner, Jeanine Mason!

And Ellen!  This lady’s got some moves, I must say.  Well done!

[Source: Perez]

Hey Dance fans! Seems I just stopped the late-night So You Think You Can Dance recaps and yet here we are, a month later, about to do it all over again for the new Fall season of SYTYCD (Season 6, y’all)! It all starts next Wednesday, September 9th, on FOX!

To whhhhet our appetites for next week’s premiere, Nigel Lythgoe hosted a delightful filler episode of his Best 16 Routines from all 5 seasons (rerun-style, no one returned to re-perform them). Check the vids below (by MJ) and enjoy!

SEASON 1 ROUTINES

Destini Rogers & Jamile McGee - Hip Hop by Shane Sparks (“Shake” by Ying Yang Twins feat. Pitbull) – VIDEO
Melody Lacayanga & Nick Lazzarini - Chicago - Jazz by Tyce DiOrio (“All That Jazz” by Ute Lemper) – VIDEO

SEASON 2 ROUTINES

Heidi Groskreutz & Benji Schwimmer - Mambo by Alex Da Silva (“Black Mambo” by Angel & The Mambokats) – VIDEO
Allison Holker & Ivan Koumaev - Contemporary by Tyce DiOrio (”Why” by Annie Lennox) – VIDEO
Heidi & Travis Wall - Bench Routine - Contemporary by Mia Michaels (“Calling You” by Celine Dion) – VIDEO

SEASON 3 ROUTINES

Jaimie Goodwin & Hok Konishi - The Hummingbird and the Flower - Jazz by Wade Robson (“The Chairman’s Waltz” from Memoirs of a Geisha soundtrack) – VIDEO
Sabra Johnson & Neil Haskell - The Boardroom Battle - Contemporary by Mandy Moore (“Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by The Eurythmics) – VIDEO
Lacey Schwimmer & Danny Tidwell - Samba by Dmitry Chaplin (“Hip Hip Chin Chin” by Club Des Blugas) – VIDEO
Lauren Gottlieb & Pasha Kovalev - Transformers - Hip Hop by Shane Sparks (“Fuego” by Pitbull) – VIDEO

SEASON 4 ROUTINES

Courtney Galiano & Mark Kanemura - Jazz by Sonya Tayeh (“The Garden” by Mirah) – VIDEO
Chelsie Hightower & Mark - Hip Hop by Tabitha and Napoleon (“Bleeding Love” by Leona Lewis) – VIDEO
Katee Shean & Joshua Allen - Contemporary by Mia Michaels (“Hometown Glory” by Adele) – VIDEO

SEASON 5 ROUTINES

Janette Manrara & Brandon Bryant - Disco by Doriana Sanchez (“Loving is Really My Game” by Brainstorm) – VIDEO
Kayla Radomski & Kupono Aweau - Addiction - Contemporary by Mia Michaels (“Gravity” by Sara Bareilles) – VIDEO
Jeanine Manrara & Jason Glover - Contemporary by Travis Wall (“If It Kills Me (The Casa Nova Sessions)” by Jason Mraz) – VIDEO
Melissa Sandvig & Ade Obayomi - Breast Cancer Routine - Contemporary by Tyce DiOrio (“This Woman’s Work” by Maxwell) – VIDEO

Wahooo! I’m ready to recap if you’re all ready to gather ’round your tellies and watch with me. Who needs sleep when there’s dance, dance, DANCE to be had? Do you care that they’re moving one of the best Summer shows to dreary ol’ Fall? Guess we’ll see how it plays out next week on the new So You Think You Can Dance season!

I am at peace, readers. Ommm (nom, nom, nom)…

Yes, all is right in my little world of So You Think You Can Dance. It’s amazing, really. Apparently I’ve wanted sarcastic, dedicated, chunkily-proportioned underdog: JEANINE MASON to win this deflated season for some time and now that she has? I’m satisfied.

Sure, runner-up Brandon Bryant “deserved” it - he’s an absolute powerhouse, but I haven’t connected with him in the heart parts, and it seems that counts for a lot among us viewers.

Tonight we revisited this season’s “memorable dances” whilst whittling the Top 4 down to the sole possessor of the “America’s Favorite Dancer” title and the $250,000 smackeroon prize.

Miss the finale or want to re-watch the dances? Video’s below, y’all (by MJ)!

TOP 20 GROUP NUMBER (Reprise): “A Brand New Day” from The Wiz - Broadway by Tyce DiOrio. VIDEO

On the judging panel tonight? Uh, basically every single SYTYCD judge evs: Lil C, Mia Michaels, Tyce DiOrio, Debbie Allen, Adam Shankman, Mary Murphy and Nigel Lythgoe himself.

ADAM SHANKMAN’S PICK: Couple Resolves Fight Before Beddy Bye - Hip Hop by Tabitha & Napoleon - “Mad” by Ne-Yo - featuring Jeanine Mason & Phillip  Chbeeb. VIDEO

NIGEL LYTHGOE’S PICK: Hot, Kicky Argentine Tango by Miriam Larici & Leonardo Barrionuevo - “Libertango” from Forever Tango - featuring Janette Manrara & Brandon Bryant. VIDEO

DEBBIE ALLEN’S PICK: Vitolio’s Sad, Flowy Waltz by Louis Van Amstel - “Dreams are More Precious” by Enya - featuring Asuka Kondoh & Vitolio Jeune. VIDEO

MARY MURPHY’S PICK: Childhood Friends Get It On/Necklace Contemporary by Travis Wall - “If It Kills Me” by Jason Mraz - featuring Jeanine & Jason Glover. VIDEO

MIA MICHAELS’ PICK: Kayla’s Pink Fringe Samba by Louis Van Amstel - “Jum Bah Day” by House of Gypsies - featuring Kayla Radomski & Max Kapitanniko. VIDEO

KHERINGTON PAYNE in Fame: Season 4’s blonde sweetheart, Kherington, gives the Top 4 a sneak peek at her new film: a revamp of the classic Fame. Plug, plug. VIDEO

DEBBIE’S 2ND PICK: Top 16 Group Ballroom and Hip Hop by Dmitry Chaplin and Tabitha & Napoleon - “I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho)” by Pit Bull. VIDEO

TALIA FOWLER JAZZ: Choreographed by Sonya Tayeh - “Shot You Down” by Audio Bullies - featuring Talia Fowler, a ballerina and winner of the second season of So You Think You Can Dance Australia. VIDEO

LIL C’s PICK: Bollywood by Nakul Dev Mahajan - “Jai Ho” from Slumdog Millionaire - featuring Caitlin Kinney & Jason. VIDEO

FIRST ELIMINATION: Kayla Radomski gets cut. She is undoubtedly a gorgeous dancer. Especially loved her in the “Addiction” dance (coming up below), and she was almost consistently amazing as a performer in each number. I will miss her sweet, sobbing grandpa most of all. VIDEO

ADAM’S 2nd PICK: The Butt Dance - Contemporary by Mia Michaels - “Koop Island Blues” by Koop ft. Ane Brun - featuring Randi Strong-Evans & Evan Kasprzak. VIDEO

MARY’S 2nd PICK: Matrix Paso Doble by Louis Van Amstel - “Tetsujin” from The Matrix Revolutions - featuring Jeanine & Brandon. VIDEO

SECOND ELIMINATION: Evan Kasprzak gets the cut. Thank you, jeebus. VIDEO

NIGEL’S 2nd PICK: Addiction dance - Contemporary by Mia Michaels - “Gravity” by Sara Bareilles - featuring Kayla & Kupono Aweau. (Side note: I effin’ love Kupono’s performance in this number). VIDEO

RAGE BOYZ CREW: Cute lil boys do Hip Hop by Tiffany Burton - “Feel It” by Colby O’Donis & Mauli - . VIDEO

TYCE DIORIO’S PICK: Fastest Disco Number Ever by Doriana Sanchez - “Loving Is Really My Game” by Brainstorm - featuring Janette & Brandon. VIDEO

MIA’S 2nd PICK: Breast Cancer dance - Contemporary by Tyce DiOrio - “This Woman’s Work” by Maxwell - featuring Melissa Sandvig & Ade Obayomi. VIDEO

TOP 8 GROUP DANCE (Reprise): Broadway by Mia Michaels - “One” from A Chorus Line - SURPRISE!!! All of the judges (except Lil C) come out from behind the mirrors at the end in tuxes and do a few jazzy steps. Adorable! VIDEO

WINNER RESULTS: It’s down to Jeanine and Brandon…who has been voted as the winner by America? Iiiiiiiit’s… JEANINE MASON!! VIDEO

My final thoughts:

1) I’m fine - even happy - with the outcome. How about you? Do you agree that Jeanine should win?
2) Is this terrible encouragement to stage mothers across the world to force their children to take up things like dance, even when they’re miserable like Mama Mason did to Jeanine? Something to think about.
3) Why wasn’t Janette in the Top 4 again? She’s a HOT TAMALE, YES SHE IS!
4) Congratulations, Jeanine, for sneaking by and swiping that crown!

Wondering where you’ll get your next dance fix from? Never fear! Season 3 of MTV’s America’s Best Dance Crew premieres this Sunday, and in just one month, So You Think You Can Dance will be back with its 6th Season (September 9th on FOX)!

Buy a ticket for the Hot Tamale Train and join me then, won’t you? Until that time comes though, I’m gonna enjoy the month of extra sleep on Wednesday and Thursday nights when I won’t be recapping! This is me, *jazz handsing* off-stage. Erin out!

What the WHAT? America is always stanking things up! I’m okay with who went home tonight on So You Think You Can Dance (Randi “unitard girl” Strong-Evans and my Hawaiian honey, Kupono Aweau), but I’m very disappointed that Melissa & Ade were in the bottom! Haters. More ranting below and of course, videos from tonight’s show (by MJ):

GROUP DANCE: (song: “So Much Betta by Janet Jackson) - The gang do some dramatic pop jazzy dance which is filled with pan-Asian stereotypes: red lanterns, conical hats, geisha-style hair/make-up/attire, dragon ladies, ninjas. I found myself wondering, “Where are the firecrackers and Lion dancers? Why isn’t Mr. Miyagi there teaching Crane kicks to Mulan?” Ugh. It was aight and featured Melissa in her ballerina glory as some…high-ranking geisha princess? I couldn’t follow the story, I was too busy placing bets that Sonya Tayeh choreographed it. But I was wrong and I guess the Asian stereotypes in the dance are supposed to be ok because Wade & Amanda Robson did it and she has some sort of Asian background. *GONG!* VIDEO

Cat is having one of those “off” nights cuz her hair is a hot, tangled mess, she looks tired, and someone dressed her in an ill-fitting, deflated discoball. Remember her bob hairstyle last week? That was good. Tonight? Not so much. Anyway, Cat announces that last season of SYTYCD received 4 Emmy nominations for the Choreography category, and one for Make-up. Watching clips from last season served as a reminder that this season’s dancers may be technically skilled, but the personalities on the majority of em? Like watching paint dry. VIDEO

It gets worse! Nigel is gone to receive an honorary doctorate in England, so it’s just Mary and Debbie tonight. Hm. Not the same. It ain’t sh!t without that Brit.

Ok, who’s in the bottom? Tonight the two guys and two gals with the lowest number of votes must DANCE FOR THEIR LIVES. Oh wait a tick. No they don’t because America’s already decided who’s leaving. I must amend the name for these elimination solos…It’s more like they DANCE FOR NO REASON beyond being asked to by the show. *shrug* I miss the DANCING FOR THEIR LIVES. Anyway, we start with the Top 5 ladies and learn that Randi and Melissa are in the girls’ Bottom 2. Actually, come to think of it, America may have gotten this right. I like old-ass Melissa but I wasn’t into her Broadway number last night and thought her solo was too slow-lo. I agree Randi deserves to be there. VIDEO

Then, more plugs for the fall Season 6. Some girl named Mollee from Utah moved her whole family to Cali just so she could have more dance opportunities. Her audition is scrambled and flawed, imo. But she’s bubbly like Kellie Pickler so I assume  they let her through to Vegas. VIDEO

Now it’s the Top 5 dudes on stage. We learn that Kupono is in the bottom (sadly, I agree), but then Evan is SAFE?? Wtf. That puts poor Ade in the Bottom and I’m piiiiiissed. Dear Evan’s fanbase: you’re clearly massive, but you’re wrong! Evan is not interesting and is a far cry from Ade’s skill level, especially in considering who deserves to stay til the end. Lame! VIDEO

SOLO DANCES: Wait, did the dancers always re-do the exact same solo from the previous night in past seasons? That’s stupid! So we have to watch them do the exact same solo! Rerun! We can’t ask them to create one more 1-minute number when they DANCE FOR NO REASON? (Hm, I guess that answers my question - why should they waste energy to come up with dance if it won’t win them votes…).

Randi’s solo - “Dream” by Priscilla Ahn - Like last night, I’m not too wowed by it. I’m also still bothered by the fact that it’s the exact same dance as last night. Where’s the entertainment in it? VIDEO

Kupono’s solo - “Marina Gasolina” by Bonde Do Rola - He was a bit stronger than last night, and his outfit is equally ridiculous. However, his pants are so low, I can see his male mons veneris and it’s very distracting. VIDEO

Melissa’s solo - “Gabriel” by Lamb - Yup, still slow ballet and boring. She needs to be more creative (like last week) to get the fans behind her. There was a flirty moment at the end between Melissa and Cat - what was that about? Get a room, ladies! VIDEO

Ade’s solo - “Unchained Melody” by Righteous Brothers. Mary and Debbie are in love with him (me too!) and the crowd goes wild for his solo. So why is he in the Bottom 2 again?? VIDEO

The Black Eyed Peas perform “I’ve Got a Feeling” and there are enough wacko things going on that I started laughing out loud at my screen: will.i.am’s continual, almost-self-conscious smoothing of his crooked haircut, Fergie’s usual butterface and twirling a feathered baton for no reason, ugs & androgynous background dancers and creepy Taboo wearing a red leather Michael Jackson jacket. Then confetti explodes from the ceiling. Sure, why not. VIDEO

ELIMINATED: Randi Strong-Evans and Kupono Aweau. Randi, I will not miss your stockiness and unitards. But I’m bummed that I *just* realized you sorta look like Jennifer Aniston. Kupono, I will miss you and even your too-frequent *tilt head up* “WOOOO!”s, but I don’t really ever want to see your pubic area again. Pull up yo pants. VIDEO

Next week Mia Michaels will be a guest judge AND so will talk-show host Ellen DeGeneres (WTF?). I’m confused. And then next Thursday is the 100th episode of So You Think You Can Dance, so it’ll be a big deal and Katie Holmes will dance a tribute to Judy Garland. I’m kinda cringing, just in case of suckage.

What’s up, Dance fans? Below are videos (from MJ) and quickie recaps of tonight’s Top 10 performance show on So You Think You Can Dance! As is the story of my life lately, I’ve been a smidge bizzay to give my full-on catty commentary (but I tried my best por vous, readers).

The winds are a’changin! New couples, new voting style. The dancers got paired with a new partner tonight and each duo did one dance together. Also, each of the Top 10 dancers performed a solo, and then there was a male group dance and a female group dance. The esteemed Debbie Allen joined in as the third judge.

BOTTOM DANCERS: Randi, Kupono and Evan

Girls’ Group Dance - Bollywood by Nakul Dev Mahanjan - “Dhonlna” from Pyar Ke Geet soundtrack (VIDEO): That was cute. The gals are called “The Bollywood Bombshells” - I thought it could’ve used more *pow!* personally, but their dance was typical Bollywood lady-dance delightful and told some sort of story like, “We’re getting water from the river, now we’re carrying it on our heads, now we’re wearing freakin’ creepy masks on the back of our heads…” - you know, THAT kinda story. The judges loved it and threw in gross puns like “Nakul, you’re ‘cool’!” (Nigel) and “BollyWOW!” (Mary). Debbie is too cool for puns and just thinks they’re the best Top 5 ladies evs.

Kayla Radomski & Evan Kasprzak - Viennese Waltz by Tony Meredith and Melanie LaPatin - “Kiss From A Rose” by Seal (VIDEO): So much for Team Short Stuff (Evan & Randi) - more like Team Tall Girl and Short Guy. I thought the number was blah - the song’s tempo rushed the choreography so they didn’t get a chance to sloooow and flooow their movements. Kayla looked pretty as usual, but it would’ve been better if we had a chance to absorb what was happening. Evan was able to do the lifts, but he lacked presence in this dance for me.

Brandon Bryant’s Solo - “Your Eyes” by Jeffrey Gains (VIDEO): The song stank (how could you beat the Peter Gabriel version? Honestly.), BUT I admit I loooove watching Brandon’s solos. So much power in that mighty lil body! Objectively, he’s definitely the strongest dancer of this season.

Janette Manrara & Ade Obayomi - Hip Hop by Tabitha & Napoleon - “Love Sex and Magic” by Ciara feat. Justin Timberlake (VIDEO): Another wonky height difference. Team Tall Guy and Short Girl. Suddenly, Ade looks monstrously huge and tall next to tiny little Janette. A really fun hip hop number to watch (c’mon, it’s about him hypnotizing her with his hair pik o’ FUNK). Both are good dancers with high energy (and seem to genuinely like each other). I think they could’ve been more together, but maybe that’s part of the height difference coming into play. Who cares though? The judges were gaga over it - pure entertainment from skilled dancers.

Randi Strong-Evan’s Solo - “Dream” by Priscilla Ahn (VIDEO): Eh. A typical contemporary number. She does dance a little “heavy” as Mia Michaels mentioned a few weeks ago. A little frantic, too.

Kupono Aweau’s Solo - “Marina Gasolina” by Bonde Do Rola (VIDEO): Now I loves me some Kupono, but I thought this could’ve been stronger. He could’ve matched the music a little more and his tore-up top was sorta zombie-ridiculous. I think me dear Kupono may be in trouble…

Jeanine Mason & Jason Glover - Contemporary by Travis Walls - “If It Kills Me” by Jason Mraz (VIDEO): These two are already friends, so they’re excited to work together. Also, everyone’s stoked to see Season 2 runner-up Travis Wall come to choreograph. I know I’m not a big Jason fan, but I admit: the dance is sexxxcellent! It has a story (childhood friends who fall in love), matches the music perfectly, is uber-passionate, plays with a prop (necklace), and Jason gets to make-out with another girl at the end. Jeanine & Jason both really get to shine now that 1) they’re with a partner who can keep up (sorry, Chbeeb, truth hurts), and 2) they have real chemistry with one another (sorry, Caitlin, truth hurts). The judges are in looove with it and give them a standing ovation. They’re all nostalgic about Travis’ growth, Mary’s crying and HOT TAMALE TRAIN screaming, etc, etc.

Melissa Sandvig’s Solo - “Gabriel” by Lamb (VIDEO): It’s a little slow and not as strong as her solo last week, but still a pretty number with a bunch of pointe work going on. I did say, “Go on with your bad self, old-ass ballerina!” at some point(e) (haha!) — it was tongue-in-cheek, of course. I know she ain’t that old, so save the hate mail!

Evan Kasprzak’s Solo - “Zing went the Strings of my Heart” by Rufus Wainwright (VIDEO): A nice “aw shucks” Broadway-style solo from Evan. He’s so much more enjoyable in his own element…

Kayla Radomski’s Solo - “Rock Your Soul” by Elisa (VIDEO): Annoyingly repetitive song. If you compare Kayla to Randi there’s no doubt that Kayla’s contemporary style solo is much better - her lines are indeed gorgeous. She just lacks personality (compared to say, Melissa or Janette or Jeanine).

Randi Strong-Evans & Kupono Aweau - Paso Doble by Tony Meredith and Melanie LaPatin - “Dies Irae” by Karl Jenkins (VIDEO): Uh did Kupono almost drop Randi at the end? Sadly, Kupono’s not quite strong enough. I could tell they both gave their best, so it was too bad they didn’t quite deliver. Also, I’ve always thought that Randi should consider getting hair extensions or some color, but after seeing her in the long, brown wig, I’m not sure if that helped her look. It was okay to watch, but the judges were really down on them, so these two are in troubs!

Ade Obayomi’s Solo - ”Unchained Melody” by Righteous Brothers (VIDEO): Ade, you’re so effin’ cute. I mean it was a weird music choice for the fast speed he was dancing, and he rehashed the same flying backflip from last week (his “signature move” perhaps?), but I heart this guy!

Jeanine Mason’s Solo - “Violento (Up Mix)” by Bailongo! (VIDEO): Wasn’t this the song that Jeanine & Phillip did their disasterous Tango to? Well this was much better than that. Jeanine must feel like the old ball and chain is off (that’s you, Chbeeb) cuz she’s gaining a lot of momentum. Strong solo despite weird bandage-y outfit.

Jason Glover’s Solo - “Train Fare Home” by Muddy Waters (VIDEO): Hm, Jason was quirky, for once. What is going on? Will it hurt him or help him? Still not as strong as Brandon or Ade, but he’s right smack-dab in the middle of the ranks.

Melissa Sandvig & Brandon Bryant - Broadway by Tyce Diorio - “Aquarius” from Hair New Broadway cast (VIDEO): Lol, Cat after the dance, “I…smell…patchuli…” So I liked the number okay, but wasn’t as in love with it as the judges. It was sorta scattered, but they’re both good dancers and Melissa was able to keep up with Brandon. I’m not sure if the audience will love it that much either. I hope they’re both safe!

Janette Manrara’s Solo - “This is Miami” by Saunder (VIDEO): Hm, words to describe…salsa-y, sexy, flingy, fun, cheeky.

Guys’ Group Dance - African by Jeff Paige - “Balant Funk” by Ayanda Clarke & Shawn Kelly (VIDEO): Wow, that went on forever and I (like Cat) got tired just watching them. I’m winded. Five, shirtless, shweaty guys? The ladies went wild. They had way more energy than the girls’ group dance, that’s for sure.

So tomorrow night, the judges hand their POWAH over to America and voters are only choosing the best DANCER (not couple). Who is in the bottom and who’s on top? Find out tomorrow on So You Think You Can Dance!

Who wants to take a field trip to the So You Think You Can Dance rumor mill?? If you’re interested in this week’s new couples and the genres they’ll dance (courtesy of SYTYCDism), follow me. If you don’t want spoilers, STOP reading!

- Each couple performs one dance together
- There’ll be TWO group numbers: the guys dance in African style and the ladies have Bollywood

NEW COUPLE PAIRINGS

Kayla Radomski & Evan Kasprzak (Waltz) - Oh dear. The judges’ beloved Kayla getting matched with one of the weaker (albeit likable) guys? And with the dreaded, yawn-inducing waltz? Wonder how that’ll go over with viewers…

Janette Manrara & Ade Obayomi (Hip Hop) - Tabitha & Napoleon - Janette & Ade should be a strong couple together and Tabitha & Napoleon’s numbers are usually a crowd favorite. It’ll be interesting to see if Janette’s lucky run can continue without Brandon.

Jeanine Mason & Jason Glover (Contemporary) - Travis Wall - Travis (Season 2 runner-up) of the famed Mia Michaels “Bench Dance” (VIDEO) will help these two out. Both Jeanine & Jason have shown they can do Contemporary, so let’s hope that they have better chemistry than Caitlin & Jason had.

Melissa Sandvig & Brandon Bryant (Broadway) - Tyce Diorio - Hm, like her as I do, I’m not sure if Melissa can hang with Brandon. Now don’t call me an ageist! I’m just saying she isn’t as strong as Janette or even Kayla, and Brandon is craaaazy strong. I hope she proves me wrong - go on girl!

Randi Strong-Evans & Kupono Aweau (Paso Doble) - This is an odd couple. Kupono is so tall and lithe and Randi is stocky and punchy. Will their styles match up?

What do you think? It’s going to be interesting for sure - tune in to So You Think You Can Dance this Wednesday at 8pm on FOX!

Woohoo! I’m happy with tonight’s So You Think You Can Dance elimination - the judges made the right choice and came up with an “everybody wins” compromise. More ahead and videos (by MJ) from tonight’s episode:

GROUP DANCE: Tabitha & Napoleon choreographed this Hip Hop routine to “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes. True to the song title, everyone was dressed as soldiers (originally I thought their military jackets were inspired as a Michael Jackson tribute - PIC - maybe they were…more on this next). It was entertaining and you can’t beat the awesome White Stripes jam, but the group wasn’t fully together in spots. VIDEO

So the BAD news (you’ll get the pun in a sec): The totally tubular Michael Jackson dance special they were planning (dances of all styles to M.J.’s music) was not approved by Sony or the Jackson family estate.  Nigel says they couldn’t get the songs cleared. *sad trombone*

But onto worse news: who’s getting cut tonight? First, we find out that Caitlin and Jason are in the Bottom 3 and better-than-sliced-bread couple Janette and Brandon are safe. Totally agree. I haven’t been on the Caitlin-Jason train at all. Both lovely dancers, I’m sure, but just blaaaaah together.  VIDEO

Next we find out that Team Short Stuff, Randi and Evan, are SAFE (despite Evan’s weak performance last night) and Jeanine and Phillip are in the Bottom. I sort agree with that, too. Not so much that Jeanine deserved to be in the bottom, but c’MON. It’s time Phillip go home! I wished both of these couples were in the bottom and wasn’t looking forward to find out if Kayla and Kupono or Melissa and Ade were in trouble (I like both couples!). VIDEO

Well, it was a lose-lose: Melissa and Ade are in the Bottom 3 for the first time this season. Booooo–butttt, I’m happy that Kayla and Kupono are safe. It’s a close call because both couples had one strong number and one weaker number last night. For Melissa and Ade, their Disco number was hot hot hot and their Waltz was aiiight. Kayla and Kupono’s Contemporary addiction dance was kick-you-in-the-gut powerful, but their Broadway number was “ehh”. I think the audience got it right. VIDEO

To kill time, we’re teased with clips from the current SYTYCD Season 6 auditions. We see a snippet of a “whimsical” dancer form Boston named Teddy who makes it to Vegas. Is he THAT whimsical? I dunno, it just looked like a badly dressed guy dancing Contemporary *shrug* He also had that “meth-head”, picked-at, scabby face, so that turned me off a lil bit. Just me? Do you love Teddy already? VIDEO

SOLO DANCES: Time for our Bottom 3 couples to DANCE FOR THEIR LIVES! Caitlin (song: “Stand By Me” by Playing for Change) definitely does not brang it for me. She just coquettishly flits around stage without much power or passion. Jason (song: “Calm Touching” by Evaline) impresses me more in his solos and this was the case again tonight. He had some great, unique movement, lots of wound-up-then-explode twirls and spins. Jeanine (song: “Baby’s Romance” by Chris Garneau) is wearing some distracting golden dress and her jubblies are about to pop out. Her solo is weaker than last week’s and it seemed she has trouble finding her center in spins. Then, curse him as I do, Phillip really amazes me in his pop-locking solo. He is DEFINITELY so fun to watch in his own style, but you know what? They NEVER dance in his exact style on this show, and he hasn’t been that great in any other genre, so let’s just send him home please (excellent choice of music though - “The Diva Dance” from The Fifth Element). VIDEO

Our last DANCES FOR THEIR LIVES are Melissa and Ade. It’s our first time seeing them do a longer solo and I’m excited and nervous. These two deserve to survive, but what if the judges keep a more popular dancer (a.k.a. Chbeeb)? Melissa (song: “Kashira” by Kodo) does her ballet thang and it WORKS. She does the strongest female solo of the night (and I’m not into ballet). I worried about Ade (song: “Windowdipper” by Jib Kidder) until he did this INCREDIBLE backflip. He got SO much air it was absoutely amazing - and some really energetic moves in his solo - everyone gave him a standing ovation. I pray the judges keep him. VIDEO

As the judges leave to choose their Bottom Guy and Girl, DJ David Guetta and Kelly Rowland perform “When Love Takes Over”. Fast forward for me. VIDEO

ELIMINATED: Caitlin Kinney and Phillip Chbeeb. VIDEO

I can’t believe it! I really thought the judges were clinging on to Phillip so he could be in the Top 10 Tour, but looks like they worked things out with the producers: 1) Phillip goes because it’s HIS time, but 2) he and Caitlin still get to join the tour!  Everybody wins. For the first time all season, Phillip almost makes me cry with his farewell speech about his difficult journey from a poor background. You’re alright by me, Chbeeb (even moreso now that you’re gone though).

Next week we have some big change-ups! The So You Think You Can Dance couples must pair-up with new partners and the judges relinquish control of who gets eliminated to AMERICA. *gag* Will our “Top Dancers” still be as strong with weaker partners, and will overshadowed dancers gain some momentum with a new partner? Who do you want to see join forces? How about Kayla and Ade (KAdeyla?) or Brandon and Jeanine? The girls are much stronger than the guys at this point so there’ll be more than one person who’ll be downgrading partners. I can’t wait to see what happns!

Hey y’all, check out the videos (from MJ) and brief reviews for last night’s Top 12 performances on So You Think You Can Dance below! No long recap of each couple because I wasn’t able to watch it yet!

Each couple danced TWO numbers (yay!) and the guest judge was Tyce D’Orio (ehhhh…).

RUMORED BOTTOM COUPLES: Phillip & Jeanine, Caitlin & Jason and Randi & Evan

Melissa Sandvig & Ade Obayomi - Disco (Doriana Sanchez) - “Move On Up” by Destination (VIDEO): Melissa slips/falls during the routine, but recovers and judges loved it, especially their crazy, strong lifts.

Melissa & Ade 2nd Dance - Waltz (Ron Montez) - “Natural Woman” by Mary J. Blige (VIDEO): Very pretty, but the judges think the technique and “rise and fall” could definitely be improved upon. Still sounds like Melissa & Ade belong in the top.

Kayla Radomski & Kupono Aweau - Contemporary (Mia Michaels) - “Gravity” by Sarah Bareilles (VIDEO): A powerful dance about addiction that the judges really enjoyed because Kaypono are both very dedicated “actors” as well as dancers. They also still love Kayla something fierce.

Kayla & Kupono 2nd Dance - Broadway (Joey Dowling) - “The Dance at the Gym” from West Side Story The New Broadway Cast (VIDEO): Ok hold that thought about Kaypono being good actors because they didn’t “bring it” for their characters in this number. The judges were lukewarm and said they needed to dig deeper. Uh ohs!

Caitlin Kinney & Jason Glover - Foxtrot (Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin) - “Minnie the Moocher” by Big Bad Voodoo Daddy (VIDEO): Judges liked it and thought they were both smooooooth. Will it be enough to save these two from the Bottom 3 though?

Caitlin& Jason 2nd Dance - Jazz (Mandy Moore) - “Show Me Heaven” by Maria McKee (VIDEO): A better performance, but their chemistry is still so-so according to Nigel (I agree!). If either of them survives elimination this week, it could be interesting to see if next week’s partner switch-up helps.

Jeanine Mason & Phillip Chbeeb - Russian Folk Dance (Youri Nelzine & Lilia Babenko) - “Kalinka” by Barynya (VIDEO): Very mixed reviews. It wasn’t an overall success like the Bollywood numbers have been in their efforts to add international dance styles. Nigel said it was “folky”, y’know for a Russian Folk Dance…Jeanine is still the stronger dancer between the two.

Jeanine & Phillip 2nd Dance - Jive (Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin) - “Stuff Like That There” by Bette Midler (VIDEO): A really fun number. The judges love Jeanine so she’s finally getting her moment to shine, away from Phillip. They’re not counting him out yet (even though his dance technique continues to be “blah”) - theories are that they’re just trying to keep him on long enough to at least make the SYTYCD Top 10 tour. Shame, shame FOX (but ok, it makes sense).

Randi Strong-Evans & Evan Kasprzak - Hip Hop (Tabitha & Napoleon) - “Halo” by Beyonce (VIDEO): Team Short Stuff managed to do really well for being out of their comfort zone. They are a couple who find out that they’re pregs (”babies havin’ babies”). The judges seem to place these two in the middle of the competition. Definitely not pimping them as much as couples like Janette & Brandon.

Randi & Evan - Samba (Pasha & Anya) - “Ritmo De Bom Bom” by Jubaba (VIDEO): They’re a cute, wee couple, but didn’t bring enough spicy-spice for this Samba. *sad trombone*

Janette Manrara & Brandon Bryant - Argentine Tango (Leonardo Barrionuevo & Miriam Larici) - “Libertango” from Forever Tango original Broadway cast (VIDEO): Wow! A standing ovation from the judges! What can’t this couple do? Their tango wins raves from Nigel. Next week everyone gets a new partner though, so what happens if it’s like, Brandon with a weaker female dancer like Caitlin (if she escapes elimination)? Will his lucky streak continue?

Janette & Brandon 2nd Dance - Pop Jazz (Wade Robson) - “Ruby Blue” by Roisin Murphy (VIDEO): Un yeah, it’s in the bag for these two to make it to the Finals. Another perfectly executed dance number. These two are unstoppable, but I still don’t know if they’re as likeable as like…last season’s Katee & Joshua. Either way, they DO deserve to make it to the end. The bigger question is Who else is close enough in talent to join them?

Tonight’s the Top 12 elimination show and Kelly Rowland and David Guetta will sing “When Love Takes Over.” Things’ll shake up next week when the couples get scrambled!

Who do you think were the bottom couples and who should go home? Watch So You Think You Can Dance tonight to find out if you’re right!