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!

You can thank the long July 4th weekend for this very belated recap of the So You Think You Can Dance Top 14 elimination! Sometimes a girl’s just gotta get her fireworks and BBQ on.This is going to be short and sweet - recap and videos below (clips from MJ’s)!

Group number: an energetic “raise the roof” Broadway number to “Brand New Day” from The Wiz by Tyce Diorio. The dancers are a circus painting come to life - a.k.a. the stuff of my nightmares, usually. VIDEO

Unfortunately, we learn that Karla & Vitolio are (again) in the Bottom 3 and must (again) DANCE FOR THEIR LIVES. Randi & Evan are safe, although I thought their fisty-punch-punch Broadway number was underwhelming compared to Karla & Vitolio’s quick-changing Quickstep. C’est la vie. VIDEO

Next up, it’s no real surprise that Janette & Brandon are safe as usual (PS - Janette’s 1970’s Karen Carpenter hairdo needs to be nixed - PIC). When it’s between Kayla & Kupono and Melissa & Ade, you know it can’t be good news since both pairs were very strong Weds night. I thought that viewers probably under-appreciated the classical ballet number by Melissa & Ade but I’m wrong - Kayla & Kupono are the ones in the Bottom 3. Their angsty vampire number just didn’t grab hold of audiences. Kayla showed a slight lack of modesty by tearing up, nodding along and agreeing as Mia Michaels told the pair how great they were and that they didn’t deserve to be in the bottom. Could the judges’ fawning over Kayla 1) be backfiring and making viewers avoid voting for her, and 2) filling Kayla’s ego like a hot air balloon? Hope not! VIDEO

Another surprise comes when Jeanine & Phillip are in the Bottom 3 after their chained-up hip hop routine, which meant that Caitlin & Jason’s weird impregnating alien dance actually got them votes! Wtf! VIDEO

Before the Bottom 3 couples DANCE FOR THEIR LIVES, we see a jaw-dropping, toe-curling Contemporary Ballet number performed by Patricia Hachey and Desmond Richardson from Complexions Contemporary Ballet. They’re doing all kinds of astounding en pointe moves. Ouch and wow! The dance is choreographed by Dwight Rhoden and Desmond Richardson (song: “Caprice in e Minor, Op. 1 No. 3″ by Midori), who I believe choreographed Katee & Will’s gorgeous Pas de Deux last season. VIDEO

Enough stalling, time to DANCE FOR YOUR LIVES, kids! First up is Karla doing her YouTube-famous (VIDEO) contemporary solo to ”Blackbird” by Dionne Farris. Next is my lovely Vitolio flying and kicking to ”Here Comes Goodbye” by Rascal Flatts. Then Kayla does a decent Contemporary solo to ”Stupid” by Sarah McLachlan, and finally Kupono does a contained performance to ”Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole - I felt him, but I think people wanted to see more drama, more movement from him. VIDEO

Finally, we get to see Jeanine & Phillip do their thing. Jeanine delivers the strongest female solo to ”Moonlight Sonato” by Smart Sleep with Classical. She spins and spins like a whirling dervish. And finally, the always fun Chbeeb/Phillip goes nutty and jelly-jointed on us with ”You’ll Find a Way - Switch & Sinden Remix” by Santogold. He is definitely entertaining to watch in his element, but I don’t think he deserves to make it much further on SYTYCD. VIDEO

As Nigel, Mary and Mia deliberate on the male and female to leave, we watch Kelly Clarkson rock to “I Do Not Hook Up.”  Wonky camera angles and all. VIDEO

ELIMINATED: Karla Garcia and Vitolio Jeune. VIDEO

The judges were unanimous and even though it wasn’t a real surprise, it’s a bummer because I liked them both. Sigh!

Ooh la la! The pressure was on in tonight’s episode of So You Think You Can Dance: a lot of the dancers got their own styles or genres that weren’t too much of a stretch AND guest-judging was “love you or hate you” Contemporary choreographer, Mia Michaels. Like everyone else, I couldn’t wait to hear if she still couldn’t stand Brandon Bryant for no reason besides his face “annoys the sh!t” out of her…could he win her over? Let’s find out! Thoughts on tonight’s dances and videos (courtesy of MJ) below:

MY BOTTOM 3: Randi & Evan, Caitlin & Jason and Karla & Vitolio

Janette Manrara & Brandon Bryant - Cha-Cha - Jean-Marc and France Genereux - “Hush Hush; Hush Hush” by The Pussycat Dolls (VIDEO): Can these two do any wrong?? Guess that applies to both couples: Brandon & Janette AND the best ballroom choreographers evs, Jean-Marc & France. The dancers nailed this Cha-Cha and, to use Mary Murphy terminology, they were two spicy sexpots waiting to board the first class coach on THE HOT TAMALE TRAIN - YES THEY WERE - WOO WOOO!! Nigel said it was the best Cha-Cha ever on the show and they were so good that Mia did some furious backpedaling and pretended that she was only an outright bitch to Brandon during auditions because she “saw soooo much potential in him.” It was sort of like those made-for-TV movie moments when the drunken husband slurs, “I’m sorry! I only beat ya cuz I loves ya, baby!” Whatevs, I still think she was out of line with her personal attacks during his auditions (not critiquing his dance technique, but his FACE? Come on.). So far, Brandon definitely has what it takes to win this entire show, BUT can he and Janette win enough fans over? Also, will their egos get the best of them?

Kayla Radomski & Kupono Aweau - Jazz - Sonya Tayeh - “Eyes on Fire” by Blue Foundation (VIDEO): This was a perfect number for “Kaypono” - another bizarre, angsty, ragdolly Sonya number. The pair were moody, broody and sexy vampires and it worked. They were totally into their characters and their movements were so together. They looked ever so loverly (y’know, for a dance about death and bloodsucking immortals) and the judges finally gave my boy Kupono some props for his talent! He reminds me more and more of last season’s resident Hawaiian dancer, Mark Kanemura, with his style and embodiment of characters, but he’s sexier to look at. Love ya, Kupono! Hey producers, BTW, can we get some more shots of Kayla’s teddy bear of a grandpa? I miss him.

Randi Strong-Evans & Evan Kasprzak - Broadway - Joey Dowling - “Rich Man’s Frug” from Sweet Charity (VIDEO): This dance was a little too much like last week’s “Butt Dance” (boy-chasing-girl) at first and I thought the music was all wrong and understated for the choreography. I disagree with the judges and blame the choreographer for this underwhelming number. Evan & Randi had some strong moments, but overall I was not really into the number and Evan did come off looking weirdly feminine in some of his movements. It’s getting really hard to pick “Bottom 3″ couples this week because we’ve got some fantastic dancers this season, but Team Short Stuff is on my list for the week.

Caitlin Kinney & Jason Glover - Pop Jazz - Brian Friedman - “Creator” by Santogold (VIDEO): Caitlin played an alien who destroyed mankind and was trying to impregnate Jason, the last human on Earth. Very Xenu. I am still not in love with this couple, but they both did their best to commit to the ridiculous roles given to them, so props for that. Jason even had a few leaps in the dance that were beautiful and impressed me more than he normally does, but overall it was a very strange number and like Mia, I was way distracted by Caitlin’s outfit - something resembling a vacuum-sealed garbage bag coiled with aluminum foil. FASHION POLICE. Poor Caitlin - another pair for the Bottom 3.

Jeanine Mason & Phillip Chbeeb - Hip Hop - Tabitha and Napoleon - “Love Lockdown” by Kanye West (VIDEO): Wow these fools lucked out by getting another Tabitha & Napoleon number!  No Shane Sparks er anything to possibly screw them up. The dance literally chained Jeanine & Phillip at the ankles to represent their partnership on the show — funny how for me the chain came to symbolize how I’ve been stuck with Phillip on my TV, wonking up dance after dance and sending better dancers home. Sorry Chbeeb lovers, I’m sick of his one-note, over-pouty, fish stank face. Yes he’s a talented hip hop dancer, but even in his own genre, his performance (a.k.a. his character) always sucks and he doesn’t emotionally connect. Unfortunately for me, this dance was a success so I guess he’s safe for another week. SIGH.

Melissa Sandvig & Ade Obayomi - Pas de Duex - Thordal Christensen - Romeo & Juliet (VIDEO): I was glad to see Melissa, our sole ballerina, get to do this dance. I still really root for this couple! Definitely not Ade’s strongest dance, but it was far from a disaster and what these two lack in technique they made up for in emotional connection and chemistry. But I wonder if audiences will vote for a classical ballet number…? I hope they stay safe!

Karla Garcia & Vitolio Jeune - Quickstep - Jean-Marc and France Genereux - “Puttin’ on the Ritz” by Rufus Wainwright (VIDEO): I put these two in my Bottom 3, but honestly thought they did a really excellent job and enjoyed their spunky Quickstep moreso than Melissa & Ade’s Pas de Deux. But Mia was right that sometimes Karla wasn’t fully in her character and had a stunned facial expression that took a little away from their dance and lost some points from me. HOWEVER, I am also really rooting for this couple because Karla & Vitolio were, IMHO, anchored down by weaker partners in the past weeks and this dance alone showed that they have a lot more to offer. Overall it was a fun, quick-changing Quickstep! I mean, Karla’s dress totally transformed in the middle of the number, and that’s gotta be a crowd-pleaser. Will it be enough though?

Tomorrow night we get a performance by “AUUGH KELLY CLARKSON!” and find out which gal and guy are leaving us. Who will they be? Tune in to So You Think You Can Dance at 9pm on FOX!

In the spirit of dance for tonight’s So You Think You Can Dance recap, we at Square Eyes join the world by giving a big R.I.P., “Shhhaa-mon!” and “Heeeee-heee!” to Michael Jackson. Much respect from Kat and I.

But life moves on and for this entry, it’s onto the results and videos from tonight’s elimination (clips from MJ’s):

First of all, the show opened with a group number that actually made sense. A “No noo! Too sexy!!” dance where everyone was copping a feel and that fused Ballroom and Hip Hop dancing to “I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho)” by Pitbull. Thanks to Dmitry Chaplin and Tabitha & Napoleon for a simple storyline that I could follow. I’m still waiting for Mia Michaels to explain last week’s group number. (VIDEO)

Wow, so I guess they filmed this not long after MJ died today because Nigel speaks about Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson’s recent deaths and pays tribute to them. They go to break showing “Thriller” although it just left me wanting to see more than a few seconds - how about instead we fill the hour with Michael Jackson music videos? I digress. (VIDEO)

After commercial we dive right in and learn that (rightfully) Asuka & Vitolio are in the Bottom 3 and must DANCE FOR THEIR LIVES. Likewise, Janette & Brandon, Randi & Evan, Melissa & Ade and Jeanine & Phillip (pout) are all safe. I agree, even though I am not really a Phillip fan - they were much better than Karla & Jonathan and Caitlin & Jason last night. Sorry Jeanine, hopefully next week you can claw your way out from under Chbeeb’s shadow and get some recognition for your skills. (VIDEO)

The remaining 3 couples are up next - 2 will be in danger. Last night I said it should be (love ‘em as I do) Karla & Jonathan and Caitlin & Jason and… I’m RIGHT! That means new couple Kupono & Kayla are safe to run to the pit of “we are the champions” contestants this week. I’m relieved that all of my favorite couples are safe! (VIDEO)

Meanwhile, as our Bottom 3 prep to DANCE FOR THEIR LIVES, we watch a group of pint-sized (and adolescent) tykes called the Rage Boyz Crew do a Hip Hop routine choreographed by Tiffany Burton. Cat squeals a lot over how adorable the leading lil boy is and I agree! Was the dancing phenomenal? No, but they were energetic and entertaining to watch and that’s good enough for me. (VIDEO)

Ok, let’s watch the solos! First up is Asuka who does a rather sloppy-frantic ballroom solo. In general, I feel she’s the weakest of the Bottom 3 gals, and she didn’t redeem herself  tonight. Next is Vitolio, who I thought was fab. I just love his jumps and extensions. So…sinewy. Then it’s Karla with an interesting and compelling Contemporary piece, although her nerves seem to surface because she wobbles on some spins (hey, there’s the standing split move she always does again!). Finally, it’s dimpled-delight Jonathan who has a tough task with salsa-ing solo through his number. Actually, I was pretty impressed and thought he didn’t *just* look like a Ballroom dancer - he mixed things up and did some tumbling too. (VIDEO)

Commercial, yada yada, and our final Bottom couple is up! Caitlin does her usual limber-acrobatics-filled solo, which is no longer as novel to me as in her first audition…but I think she’s better than Asuka. Our last solo of the night comes from golden boy Jason. I don’t remember much of it. A lot of jumps and rolling around on the floor going on. I’m still not on-board with him and think his solo was the weakest. (VIDEO)

Off go the judges to deliberate and we get a performance by The Veronicas singing “Take Me On the Floor”. And this is me fast forwarding. (VIDEO)

ELIMINATED: Asuka Kondoh and Jonathan Platero (VIDEO)

Well, I’m cool with this elimination and - hello! - as I dared to dream last night, we now have Karla and Vitolio as new partners! Fingers crossed that they’ll be a good match and can explode and amaze us next week! They’ve got the potential!

Cat announces that on Monday, FOX will (for the first time everrrr) re-broadcast the American Idol Top 13 episode featuring the music of Michael Jackson. Hmmm, is it a touching tribute or shameless excuse for ad dollars? Discuss.

I’m gonna go listen to the sweet sounds of “I’ll Be There“, close my eyes and shake my head in mourning. Peace y’all.

Herm, tonight’s So You Think You Can Dance felt muted and a little stale… I wasn’t impressed by the opening solos (maybe give them a hair more time to dance, producers?), Nigel was sorta crabby, Mary didn’t scream very much and guest judge Toni Basil wouldn’t stop preaching about “street dancing,” “funk” and “grooving” (Hey Toni, you’re so fine, you’re so fine, but it isn’t 1985 anymore) . What did y’all think? Check my thoughts and see if you agree (videos from MJ’s).

My BOTTOM 3 couples: Karla & Jonathan, Asuka & Vitolio and Caitlin & Jason.

Karla Garcia & Jonathan Platero - Hip Hop - Dave Scott - “By My Side” by Jada Kiss ft. Ne-Yo (VIDEO): Dammit. I know that Karla is part of the America’s Best Dance Crew group The Boogie Bots so this was her chance to show off that she’s a Contemporary dancer who can nail Hip Hop too!  Unfortch, darling as he may be, Jonathan really weighed her down in this number - he’s just too darling and soft for Hip Hop. I agree with cranky ol’ Nigel that they played it too safe and were out of sync toward the end. They really needed to hit is harrrrrd but failed, so it won’t be a surprise if they’re in the bottom tomorrow. Save Karla!

Asuka Kondoh & Vitolio Jeune - Jazz - Mandy Moore - “Heartbreaker” by Pat Benatar (VIDEO): God, as if I needed more reasons to love Vitolio! The interview package won him a million brownie points when it showed his sensitivity and dedication in comforting an overwhelmed Asuka. He is too sweet and erm, well, he deserves a new partner! I thought this “thrash-rock-jazz” dance was okay choreography, but Asuka’s performance felt restrained and bland. I wanted more energy, more performance from her and didn’t see it. Hm, what do we think about a pairing off Vitolio and Jeanine, or Vitolio and Karla? I think all three have a lot of potential, but need to find better partners. Save Vitolio!

Melissa Sandvig & Ade Obayomi - Rumba - Tony Meredith - “Emotion” by Destiny’s Child (VIDEO): This was a very sexy-sexy, slow-mo rumba. I am glad that they continue to put Ade in outfits that completely expose his pecs. Totally solid dance, although it could’ve been a little tighter in some of the turns. Still, I love this couple more and more each week and would love to see them stick around to Final Four. You heard me! We love old ballerinas and smooth, smooth man-chests!

Janette Manrara & Brandon Bryant - Hip Hop - Dave Scott “What a World” by Common (VIDEO): Ah, MUCH better Hip Hop routine! Thank god because I was worried that we’d have a 2-week dry spell of good Hip Hop dances (Shane Sparks, I blame you for last week). Dave Scott and his funny beard came up with a clever “Rock and Roll” v.s. “Hip Hop” dance. Somewhat hard to follow in parts, but there were some awesome and entertaining moments (like the synchronized air guitar bit).  Anyway, my early prediction that Janette and Brandon were going to be a couple to beat still stands! They both have amazing technique, push themselves and work hard. But can they stay up top forever…? Personality and fan base are going to come into play and I’m not sure if the younger voters are that into them.

Kayla Radomski & Kupono Aweau - Viennese Waltz - Jean-Marc and France Genereux - “Sweet Dreams for You” by Jewel (VIDEO): We know I love Kupono and Kayla(’s grandfather), so I really wanted them to mesh well (even though Kupono basically stole the place of Kayla’s partner Max) and they did! Their Waltz was one of the highlights of the night. The choreography told a nice story (he’s dancing with her in her dreams), and it was just ethereal and elegant. I’m so glad they did well and they’re the only couple of the night that Mary put on the “HOT TAMALE TRAIN WOO WOOOO!” Hope they stay out of the Bottom 3.

Randi Strong-Evans & Evan Kasprzak - Contemporary - Mia Michaels - “Koop Island Blues” by Koop ft. Ane Brun (VIDEO): This was “The Butt Dance”. Yes, Mia made an entire dance around the hypnotic powers of Randi’s butt. Hm. It was definitely another well-danced number from the Shorties, so they deserve to be safe. A few things came to my attention: 1) Who else saw Randi’s “Unitard Girl” superhero shirt during rehearsal? Pretty awesome. 2) I love that they made a big deal about Randi’s marriage and being uncomfortable with Evan grabbing her weeks ago. But in last week’s Jive, it was Randi who attacked Evan with repeated, enjoyed grab-assery. And then tonight’s number gave Evan the freedom to let his hands roam, nay, squeeze the bajeezus out of her rear end. Seems like someone wants Mr. Unitard Girl to come to the studio with a shotgun. 3) We have a THIRD WEEK where the dancers in a Contemporary number are wearing silk. Why? WHY? This routine had so many fun costume possibilities since it was actually a Contemporary piece NOT about an angsty couple writhing around and throwing themselves at one another. So why not have more fun with the wardrobe? Ok, rant over!

Caitlin Kinney & Jason Glover - Paso Doble - Jean-Marc and France Genereux - “O Fortuna” from Carmina Burana (VIDEO): I looove Paso Dobles - the passion, the intensity - mmm. Hotness. I also love “O Fortuna” for the same reasons. BUT these dancers didn’t sell this number for me - no, not even while wearing that ridiculous Conan the Barbarian attire. Caitlin and Jason looked like they had trouble keeping up (just like in the Bollywood dance). They don’t have very good chemistry either. It’s too platonic, almost brother/sisterly so there’s an “ick” factor to watching them try to get hot and heavy with one another. I just didn’t buy it.

Jeanine Mason & Phillip Chbeeb - Broadway - Tyce Diorio - “Moses” from Singing in the Rain (VIDEO): Is Phillip still in this competition? He’s really fun to watch doing his own thing, and tonight he was much better than last week, but c’mon! Enough is enough! He’s a weak link and really hasn’t let Jeanine get a chance to shine. I agree with Mary, she is a fantastic dancer and performer, but she’s always overshadowed by Chbeeb’s feedback each week. While the judges are busy panning him, they forget to give Jeanine props for doing well in a new dance style. The best part of their number was when Phillip’s pants rip at the booty (PIC HERE).

Agree? Disagree? Bottom three? We’ll see. Tee hee! Okay, enough. So, tomorrow night’s results show features guest performers The Veronicas and a group number choreographed by Dmitry Chaplin, Tabitha and Napoleon. Tune in to So You Think You Can Dance tomorrow night at 9pm on FOX!

Did the right dude and dudette get cut from the Top 18 on So You Think You Can Dance’s elimination show tonight? Results recap ahead (videos de MJ’s).

The Top 18 open the show with a dramatic, zombie-slouchy Mia Michael’s dance to “Higher Ground” by Stevie Wonder while wearing hot black suits and Maori face paint. What the hell is going on? It’s like the music video for Robert Palmer’s “Addicted to Love,” with the tight ponytails and hulking, bobbing movements. But is it about rock stars, or fame? I am perplexed and intrigued all at once. It’d be nice if we could get some backstage clips to understand what these strange group numbers are about. And to see if Mia and Brandon Bryant still don’t see eye-to-eye. (VIDEO)

Instead we got this fun-but-waste-of-time montage of Lil C’s long-winded critiques. Eh. (VIDEO)

Onto the results. Melissa and Ade are thankfully safe - they’re really growing on me. Caitlin and Jason are in the Bottom 3 after their hokey Hip Hop number and amazingly, Jeanine and Phillip are safe despite their flawed Tango. I tell ya, that Chbeeb owes a lot to his fans who must be voting like mad for him. Caitlin and Jason prep to (get ready for it) DANCE FOR THEIR LIVES. (VIDEO)

Next we have Janette and Brandon who killed their super-speed Disco number last night (the good kinda “kill”). America agrees and the power couple are safe to see another week! Next, cutie patootie couple Karla and Jonathan escape being in the Bottom 3 again (and rightly so) after their emotional Contemporary dance. I’m stoked - now let’s give Karla some Hip Hop to “wow” us with (assuming Jonathan can keep up). That unfortunately puts one of my fave couples, Ashley and Kupono, in the Bottom 3. But not surprising since their Hip Hop routine was sloppy. Like Cat, I’m selfishly happy that I get to watch Kupono do a solo. I could watch him forevs. (VIDEO)

Then Cat gives us a surprise: footage from the Fall SYTYCD 6 auditions (going on now). Older “Broadway Brother” Ryan Kasprzak taps his way back to the audition stage and we find out he makes it to Vegas! C’mon, they’ve gotta let him through right? He’s 29, America loves him, he’s a genius choreographer and has personality to boot. Should we assume he’ll be in the Fall’s Top 20? Yeah. (VIDEO)

“Fun Fun Fun” couple Randi and Evan are safe as are Asuka and Vitolio. Unfortunately, that leads to the shocker that judge’s #1 favorite lady Kayla Radomski and partner Max are in the Bottom 3. That’s a shame - I really liked their Pop Jazz/de-throned princess routine last night. They must DANCE FOR THEIR LIVES. (VIDEO)

We get a lot of strong solos: Caitlin does her usual limber, flowy choreography; Jason is way more interesting to watch in his own genre (Contemporary). His leaps and extensions are wild. Ashley’s next (looking very Ashley Judd, actually - PIC) with a solid solo. Finally, it’s my guy Kupono who still reminds me of fellow Hawaiian dancer, Mark Kanemura, from last season. I like his connection to the music. Save him, judges! (VIDEO)

Finally we get solos from Kayla, who makes lovely leaps which fit her song, “Walking on Air,” but it seems a bit rushed (curse that countdown adding pressure!) and Max who does an impressive, fast-steppin’ jive (take notes, Randi and Evan) to “Footloose”. I’m into it. (VIDEO)

The judges run backstage with their notes and newcomer Kristina Debarge sings “Goodbye”. Fast forward! (VIDEO). Then a crazy-fast footwork professional dancer from India jingle jangles all over the stage and manages to make it look easy. (VIDEO)

ELIMINATED: Ashley Valerio and Maksim “Max” Kapitanniko (VIDEO)

It was not unanimous for the judges (which makes me sooo curious about which judge voted for whom…), but they are two dancers who, while talented, don’t have as much of a following by viewers as some of the others. It’s a shame, but we’ll survive.

This means next week, Kayla and Kupono will pair up. Two of my favorites to watch, but after seeing Kayla sob over Max’s departure I wonder if she feels like Kupono should’ve left instead of her partner! Will it make things awkward for them, or will they knock my socks off with their combined Contemporary stylez? So You Think You Can Dance, you always keep me guessin’! Until next week, dance lovers!